If you love hiking, you’ve come to the right island. Kauaʻi, though smaller than Big Island, Maui, and Oʻahu, has age on its side. Nearly 5 million years of erosion has sculpted some of the most dramatic, wild terrain in all the islands.
Headlined by a handful of protected state parks, the Garden Island offers trails to all ability levels. You don’t have to hike far to appreciate the picturesque, jagged nature of the Nāpali Coast’s mountains or the sheer size of Waimea Canyon; but those that do don their backpacking gear will be rewarded with epic camping, from red rock canyons to remote beaches.
Table of contents
- Hiking and safety tips
- 5 easy hikes
- 5 intermediate hikes
- 5 advanced hikes
Below, we’ve made a list of some of our favorite hikes on Kauaʻi, broken down by intensity. Through these suggestions, you will be introduced to the island’s top hiking areas, including Kōkeʻe State Park, the Nāpali Coast Wilderness Area, the Wailua River, and Waimea Canyon State Park.
Related guides: Most people coming to Hawaiʻi visit multiple islands to make the most of the long trip needed to get here. If this is you and you are into hiking, we highly recommend our hiking series for the other islands.
Hiking and Safety Tips
Before setting off on any hike, hard or easy, one should evaluate their fitness and consider the length and elevation of the trail. The ratings here are only for generalized purposes and each person should factor in their own abilities. Bring plenty of water, wear sun protection, and be ready with rain gear, as conditions can change quickly. Be respectful of residents by not trespassing or parking illegally. Don’t leave valuables in your car.
5 Easy Hikes
You don’t have to go way off the grid to experience nature in Kauaʻi. These beginner-friendly hikes are appropriate for all abilities and showcase its variety of terrain.
- Mahaʻulepu Heritage Trail (4 miles)
- Canyon Trail to Waipoʻo Falls (3.5 miles)
- Hoʻopiʻi Falls Trail (2 miles)
- Kuilau Ridge Trail (3.5 miles)
- Wai Koa Loop Trail (5 miles)
Mahaʻulepu Heritage Trail (4 miles)
Description: Just steps from Poʻipū is the Mahaʻulepu Heritage Trail, a 2-mile coastal path that should probably get more credit than it does. Mellow and relaxed, the trail offers constant views of the ocean, the chance to scramble coastal lava rock and explore small beach coves, and plenty of scenic stopping points for a picnic. Perfect in the cool, calm energy of the mornings as a half-day stroll (bring sun protection). It’s two miles each way; simply turn around sooner for an abridged version.
Directions: The trailhead starts in Poʻipū at the far east side, at Shipwreck’s Beach, and continues northeast.
Local grinds: Grab picnic rations from the Kukuiula Market in Poʻipū. It has a large selection of local products, including coffee, fresh fruit bowls, and grab-and-go creations.
View from the Mahaʻulepu Heritage Trail on Kauaʻi. Image credit: Gary Eyring on Flickr.
Canyon Trail to Waipoʻo Falls (3.5 miles)
Description: This classic hike in Kōkeʻe State Park showcases views of Waimea Canyon and an exploration of one of its postcard perfect waterfalls, Waipoʻo Falls. Check out several vantage points of the canyon and arrive at the top of Waipoʻo Falls, where you can relax beside the stream that eventually flows over and forms the falls. There are smaller waterfalls you can swim in and small pools to see nearby as well, depending on the time of year.
Directions: Follow directions to the Waimea Canyon Trail, which leads to the Waipoʻo Falls Trail.
Local grinds: Waimea Canyon is remote, about 30 minutes from the nearest town, so stop at the Ishihara Market on your way to the hike for rations. After, head back down into Waimea to the Shrimp Station, the Saddle Room, or Chicken in a Barrel BBQ for a proper meal.
The Waipoʻo Falls as seen from a lookout along the canyon road. This hike described above ends at the top of the falls. Image: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson
Hoʻopiʻi Falls Trail (2 miles)
Description: If you’re looking for a shaded, jungle-dominated hike that follows a river and leads to a cascading waterfall, the Hoʻopiʻi Falls Trail is a great option for families and friends alike. You’ll have to be mindful of your steps, as the trail can be wet and slippery, but it’s relatively flat and short. It’s a great introduction to the Hawaiian rainforest and a fun area to explore.
Directions: The trailhead is marked on the map.
Local grinds: Head into Kapaʻa and check out Pono Market. It specializes in local dishes and plate lunches, including poke, kalua pork, barbecue, and more.
Kuilau Ridge Trail (3.5 miles)
Description: The Kuilau Ridge Trail is another venture into Kauaʻi’s rainforest, full of tall albizia trees, ferns, vines, wild ginger, and other tropical plants. The trail winds its way up the ridge, ending with panoramic views of the mountains and forest below.
Directions: Follow directions to the Kuilau Ridge trailhead.
Local grinds: Cruise down into Kapaʻa and try out one of the food trucks that are typically parked in the lots on the north side of town.
The Kuilau Ridge Trail is a family-friendly hike with great views. Image: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)
Wai Koa Loop Trail (5 miles)
Description: Called “majestic” thanks to its combination of mahogany forest, waterfall, and swimming hole with stone dam, this well maintained trail with many places to stop and sit is a great hike for beginners and less-confident walkers.
Directions: Follow directions to the Wai Koa Loop trailhead near Kīlauea town.
Local grinds: Head into Kīlauea Town and try the Kīlauea Fish Market, Kīlauea Bakery & Pizza, or Palate Wine Bar.
5 Intermediate Hikes
These hikes require more physical fitness, but reward those who put out the extra effort.
- Sleeping Giant Trail (3 miles)
- Alakai Swamp Trail (7 miles)
- Okolehao Trail (2.5 miles)
- Kalalau Trail to Hanakāpīʻai (8 miles)
- Awaʻawapuhi Trail (6 miles)
Sleeping Giant Trail (3 miles)
Description: Also known as the Nounou East Trail, the name of the hike comes from the shape of the mountain, and this is one of three trails that explore its slopes. The trail climbs nearly a 1,000 feet across diverse terrain, first through shaded ironwood and guava forests and ultimately to views from the ridgeline overlooking Wailua, Kapaʻa, and the east coast.
Directions: This trail is popular. Simply follow the directions to the trailhead in Wailua.
Local grinds: After the hike, head into Kapaʻa for a beer and burger at Street Burger.
Alakai Swamp Trail (7 miles)
Description: The Alakai Swamp Trail in Kōkeʻe State Park passes through the Alakai Swamp, a wet mountain forest that is considered one of the wettest places on the planet. Though the mileage is long and the hike can be intense in rain and wet conditions, a boardwalk is constructed for parts of the trail, making passage easier and less intimidating. It’s an out and back hike, so it’s easy to turn back whenever you are ready.
Directions: Follow directions to the Alakai Swamp Trailhead.
Local grinds: You can stop and try one of the many restaurants in Waimea (see the local grinds section of other hikes here for specific recommendations), but if you can wait, head back up to Līhuʻe and try the town’s favorite noodle dish, saimin, at Hamura Saimin.
The Alakai Swamp is located on the top of an old shield volcano. It is among the wettest places on the planet, as the trade winds hit the mountain and dump their water. Expect cool and misty weather at the swamp, and enjoy it for the haunting atmosphere that is unique to this trail. Image credit: Keppet on Flickr.
Okolehao Trail (2.5 miles)
Description: This butt-burner climbs about 900 feet in a little less than a mile, which makes it challenging. But take your time – it’s not that far, and once you’re up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of the north shore and Hanalei Bay. This is a great morning activity for anyone staying up north.
Directions: Follow directions to the Okolehao trailhead.
Local grinds: After the short but steep climb, you’ll crave refreshment. Head into nearby Hanalei for some shave ice (try Wishing Well or Jojo’s), or a beer at Tahiti Nui.
You can get a good (and muddy!) feel for this trail by watching the following video by Hannah, Richard, and Paul from Wild and Growing:
Kalalau Trail to Hanakāpīʻai (8 miles)
Description: Simply put, this is one of the most iconic hikes in all of Hawaiʻi. Experience the beauty of the Nāpali Coast as you follow the ups and downs of the Kalalau Trail. After 2 miles, you’ll arrive at Hanakāpīʻai Beach and can turn off for an additional two-mile climb up to 300-foot tall Hanakāpīʻai Falls. The trails can be slippery and the climbs challenging, but they are well traveled.
Directions: The trailhead for the Kalalau Trail is at Keʻe Beach in Hāʻena State Park. Parking restrictions have recently changed. Be sure to make a reservation, or consider taking the new north shore shuttle to the trailhead.
Local grinds: The town of Hanalei is the closet hub. Post hike, we recommend checking out Hanalei Taro & Juice for a refreshing local smoothie and plate lunch.
Hanakāpīʻai Beach on the Kalalau trail to Hanakāpīʻai Falls. Image credit: Sam Grover on Flickr.
Awaʻawapuhi Trail (6 miles)
Description: The Awaʻawapuhi Trail in Kōkeʻe State Park takes you through dryland forests to the sharp, jagged ridges of the Nāpali Coast, offering breathtaking views of the coastline from the tall cliffs.
Directions: Follow directions to the Awaʻawapuhi trailhead.
Local grinds: After the hike, head down into Waimea and try out the pineapple sausage at Porky’s. It was ranked as one of the country’s top 100 restaurants in 2017, 2018, and 2019.
5 Difficult Hikes
Looking for an adventure? These hikes will take you into Kauaʻi’s backcountry, where endurance and experience are required, and beauty is found in abundance.
- Kalalau Trail to Kalalau Beach (22 miles)
- Kukui Trail (2.5 miles)
- Honopu Ridge Trail (5 miles)
- Nu’alolo Trail (8 miles)
- Makaleha Trail (3 miles)
Kalalau Trail to Kalalau Beach (22 miles)
Description: Instead of heading to Hanakāpīʻai Falls (see Intermediate Hikes), stay on the Kalalau Trail for another 9 miles (11 total) and arrive at Kalalau Beach, a backcountry campsite. You’ll need an overnight camping permit, which can be competitive to obtain – but absolutely worth the trouble for any serious backpacker. The trail is for experienced hikers only, with consistent ups and downs and wet, slippery terrain.
Directions: The trailhead for the Kalalau Trail is at Keʻe Beach in Hāʻena State Park. Parking restrictions have recently changed. Be sure to make a reservation, or consider taking the new north shore shuttle to the trailhead.
Local grinds: This hike is 22 miles roundtrip, and you’ll spend at least one night camping at Kalalau Beach (we recommend two). There are no services in the backcountry, so you’ll need to bring all your food and a water filter with you. Do not attempt this hike unless you are a strong hiker, have learned to backpack, and are properly outfitted.
The views of the Kauaʻi coastline from along the Kalalau trail are out of this world. Image credit: K E V I N, source.
Why you should go: Hike or backpack to the remote, pristine white sands of Kalalau Beach.
Kukui Trail (2.5 miles)
Description: Don’t be fooled by the length of the trail. The Kukui Trail descends 2,000 feet down into Waimea Canyon, from the rim down to the river. Going down is easy, and wandering the trails at the bottom introduces you to another world – but coming back up demands good fitness, as you’ll climb all 2,000 feet in 2.5 miles. Excellent canyon views are found along the entire trail, and tranquility is found at the bottom, beside the river.
Directions: Follow directions to the Kukui trailhead at Waimea Canyon.
Local grinds: Stop in Waimea at the Ishihara Market for rations before the hike, and visit one of the many restaurants after to celebrate, including Shrimp Station, the Saddle Room, or Chicken in a Barrel BBQ.
Honopu Ridge Trail (5 miles)
Description: This trail is rather difficult due to the fact that it is no longer maintained by park officials. Hikers should be prepared for overgrown conditions (wear long pants) and carry a map or GPS for navigation. Those who tackle it will be rewarded with wonderful ocean views overlooking the Honopu Valley and the Nāpali Coast in a very wild part of Kauaʻi.
Directions: Follow directions to the Honopu trailhead.
Local grinds: After the hike, celebrate with a few beers at Kauaʻi Island Brewing Company in Port Allen.
Nu’alolo Trail (8 miles)
Description: The Nuʻalolo Trail goes through the Kuʻia Natural Reserve near Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe. It features views of the Nāpali Coast and its valleys, the ocean, Niʻihau, and Lehua Crater once you reach the two-mile mark, and if it’s dry, you can head all the way out to Lolo Vista (be careful here if it’s been raining). This trail can also be combined with others in the area, such as the Nuʻalolo Cliff Trail and the Awaʻawapuhi Trail.
Directions: Follow directions to the Nuʻalolo Trailhead.
Local grinds: Too hungry to make it down to Waimea? Stop into the Kōkeʻe Lodge restaurant, located nearby the trailhead, for a beer and burger or kalua pork plate.
Makaleha Trail (3 miles)
Description: The Makaleha Trailhead winds its way up the Makaleha River, with many river crossings, scrambles, and rock hopping required. It’s typically muddy, wet, and slippery, and requires extreme care and endurance, as well as proper river/water shoes. But the journey is fun and interesting, following the river through the jungle and exploring bamboo forests, ending at the cascading, tiered Makaleha Falls and its swimming hole.
Directions: Follow directions to the Makaleha Trailhead.
Local grinds: This trailhead is just minutes from Kapaʻa, where you can refresh with your feet in the sand at the Lava Lava Beach Club.
