The Remote Beauty of the Na Pali Coast

Considered by many to be the most beautiful coastline in the world, the Na Pali Coast is a 17-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the island of Kauai. Due to its unique and preserved beauty, the Na Pali Coast has served as the backdrop for many Hollywood movies, including Jurassic Park, the recent King Kong and South Pacific.

Numerous small beaches, sea caves and high waterfalls add to the beauty and uniqueness of the Na Pali landscape. The coast was formed over millions of years as wind and water erosion formed the coast’s 4,000-foot cliffs, lush valleys, sea caves and cascading waterfalls. Na Pali translates to the word “cliffs” in Hawaiian. The sea cliffs, which begin at Ke'e Beach and continue around the north and west portions of Kauai, end at Polihale Beach and extend upwards to form a series of "hanging" and traditional valleys and cliffs. A "hanging" valley is one that ends abruptly at a sea cliff rather than gently stretching out into the ocean. These valleys were formed when the ocean's waves cut away at the lava rock quicker than the interior streams could carve out the valley floor.

Although the Na Pali Coastline is accessible only by boat, it is believed to be the first area of Kauai to be settled by the ancient Hawaiians. Over hundreds of years, Polynesians, and eventually the Tahitians, migrated to Na Pali by canoe, bringing influences that became the basis of Hawaiian culture. The isolation of the coast helped protect the ancient Hawaiians from invasion, while its waterfalls and valleys provided the fresh water and fertile ground that helped the settlers establish thriving fishing and farming villages in the area.

Summer is considered to be the best time to visit the Na Pali Coast by boat, as sea conditions are generally milder. During the winter months, excursions are held only when favorable ocean conditions allow. Because the area is often shrouded in clouds in the afternoon, the best viewing is usually in the early morning.

Currently, there are more than 20 companies on Kauai that offer boat excursions to the Na Pali Coast. These excursions are offered in the morning or afternoon and generally last from four to five hours. Many of the tours include a stop at a reef, where one can watch the area’s exotic sea life, as well as snorkeling or scuba diving. Often, the captains and crews of these voyages will share their knowledge of the area’s history and legends.

It is also possible to drive to the beginning or end of the Na Pali Coast and then walk along the coast, as the entire coastline is accessible by foot via numerous hiking trails, where ruins of ancient Hawaiian villages can be seen and heiau (ancient temples) are being discovered. The Kalalau Trail is one of the more strenuous trails. Traversing s five valleys and ending at Kalalau Beach , the trail was originally built in the late 1800s, and portions of it were rebuilt in the 1930s. In good conditions, it will take most backpackers a full day to hike the 11-mile trail.

To drive to the Na Pali Coast, take Highway 560 from the north and Highway 50 from the south. This will bring you to beginning and end of the coast. Also, Highway 55 and 550 run along the top of Na Pali and provide great views down the cliffs and valleys.

Like this article? Add it to your favorite social bookmarks.