Hanakapiai Falls
Hanakapiai Falls
5
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Jennpaz8
Denver, CO92 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We booked a 9 am shuttle and in hindsight, we should have given ourselves an extra hour. We are pretty fit and from Colorado so used to hiking in elevation. By the time we started it was a bit after 9:30 so when we arrived at the beach it was already 10:35. After a snack and bathroom break it was already 11. We were told the last shuttle left at 5 & were warned that it could fill up. The sign from the beach told us to expect an additional 4 hours to hike to the falls. We started and by 11:50 had made it to the first stream crossing, however, in thinking through the anticipated hours ahead of us, we got nervous that we wouldn't make it back in time for the shuttle as once we returned to the beach, we'd likely have another hour ahead of us. We now think we made a mistake because in looking at the map upon our return we were almost halfway to the falls and less than an hour in. While it definitely got muddier the further we went and the streams had very strong currents and slippery rocks, we regret our decision to turn around. In catching our shuttle, the driver told us their was a "sweeper" that came around at 6 for any stragglers. The hike is definitely not for the novice or weary. The inclines are steep and the mud makes slipping undeniable. We saw many people with a simple water bottle on their way to the beach and I would highly recommend a Camelback or a backpack with several bottles. Unlike other reviewers, we found the trail greatly shaded with sunny areas not a long distance. Regardless, sunblock and snacks are also recommended. We decided to cross the streams by taking off our shoes and socks, which resulted in us covered in mud since our shoes were tied to our packs. I think that was right as otherwise we would have chafed the rest of the way. Next time we'll bring hiking sandals for these crossings. While we saw others in sandals on the trail, the amount for the of rocks and overall terrain, I would recommend great tread shoes. And be prepared for them to be caked in mud. The hike is absolutely spectacular and next time we will make it to the falls.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
evacek
6 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
This an amazing yet difficult trail. It really makes you work for it's awesomeness with the combo of slippery mud/rocks, up & down elev changes, near continuous cliff/ravine edges & rock scrambling as you get nearer to the waterfall. We've done a lot of trails around the U.S. & don't shy away from challenge. But I would highly recommend having good fitness, solid ankles/knees, proper shoes/supplies & not be in a hurry. Took us 6-7hrs with stops. We made it back in time for the shuttle but not by much. The day before we went the trail was closed because the main river crossing got too high. We lucked out today but were wary of that potential. Grab some walking sticks left by others at the trail entrance. They saved us from falling at least 4-5 times. The trail is also more like 10 miles, so plan your time accordingly as it's very slow going. In summary, this is a definite must-do trail, but respect it & know what you're getting into.
Written February 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gregg
New Palestine, IN7 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
We did this hike on Saturday, July 9th and made sure to get an early start. We didn't get a parking pass for the state park, but did manage to get a shuttle pass for the first shuttle of the day (6:30 AM). You'll need one or the other and they se out fast. Passes can be purchased at gohaena.com 30 days in advance.
As for the hike, the last 1/2 mile before the waterfall was probably the most difficult but definitely manageable. You will get muddy on this hike....so wear good hiking shoes that can handle it. There are 5 stream crossings, 3 of which you might be able to do without getting in the water (stepping on rocks). But the water was super refreshing, so we chose to get in.
Don't underestimate how much water to take with you. They recommend a minimum of 2 liters per person, and you'll want every bit of that. Take some snacks, too. There isn't anywhere to refill along the way, and you can't drink the water from the creek or waterfall. We did, however, take a swim at the falls and it was great.
I wouldn't recommend this for completely inexperienced hikers or really young kids. If you go early enough, you'll probably have the falls and the trails nearly to yourself.
As for the hike, the last 1/2 mile before the waterfall was probably the most difficult but definitely manageable. You will get muddy on this hike....so wear good hiking shoes that can handle it. There are 5 stream crossings, 3 of which you might be able to do without getting in the water (stepping on rocks). But the water was super refreshing, so we chose to get in.
Don't underestimate how much water to take with you. They recommend a minimum of 2 liters per person, and you'll want every bit of that. Take some snacks, too. There isn't anywhere to refill along the way, and you can't drink the water from the creek or waterfall. We did, however, take a swim at the falls and it was great.
I wouldn't recommend this for completely inexperienced hikers or really young kids. If you go early enough, you'll probably have the falls and the trails nearly to yourself.
Written July 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara S
11 contributions
Sep 2021
Hiked up the four miles on the difficult trail with a group of friends. All of us are distance runners and in shape and it was not always easy going but the falls and pool below were well worth the effort. One in a lifetime experience!
Written September 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
floridaherbie
Marco Island, FL221 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
If you want to drive to the parking lot at the trailhead to Hanakapi beach and falls (also the starting point to the much longer Kalalau trail) you have to book for a reservation months ahead. Otherwise there is a shuttle from Hanalei ($35 per person) every 20 min. The trail is nothing for Sissies, it goes up and down around the cliffs of the Napali coast for 2 miles, then crossing the Hanakapi stream, jumping from boulder to boulder and after a short rest with some snacks, we went the last 1.8 miles to the Hanakapi Falls. That part was very muddy and slippery with three more stream crossings but the falls were worth the effort. Good trecking shoes are a must even though we saw people with slippers! On the way you will have excellent views to the cliffs of Napali coast and the surf of the Pacific. Together with the Waimea Canyon certainly the highlights in Kauai.
Written December 10, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Veronica
Laredo, TX5 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
I did this hike with my husband and two friends at about 0700am and ended at 3:30pm. We got there and just our luck, it started to rain. We decided to continue the hike and wanted to see the falls. The views are stunning and unmatched, however, the hike is extremely dangerous. There was tons of mud, it was slippery, and the stones on the floor were slippery as well. I'm lucky that neither of us fell, thank God. The edges are so narrow and with the rain it became extra slippery. If you make a wrong move, you will surely fall. Once we got to the falls, it continued to rain and a large stone fell onto the falls/floor, luckily no one was hurt. Tons of puddles everywhere which made it disgusting and the puddles are unavoidable. Finishing the hike was the happiest feeling because at one point I thought we would be stranded on that mountain. It was raining so much that there were so many new waterfalls that were created with the rain. The crossings became difficult and the conditions were awful for any hike, let alone a beginner/novice hiker. I would not recommend this hike simply because it is dangerous and not worth risking your life. If you decide to trek this area, take tons of water, take small snacks, and do not go into the beach- for your safety.
Written October 27, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
P K
6 contributions
May 2022
We found this hike to be an incredible experience. But a few warnings, make sure you have a parking permit or a shuttle ride or both (from gohaena.com). And make sure you have plenty of time for this hike, at least six or seven hours, depending on how long you want to spend at the falls. We are both experienced hikers and were surprised at how long this hike took. Also, bring at least two liters of water per person and snacks.
It was well worth the trip, we would highly recommend this hike, it was the highlight of our Kauai visit.
It was well worth the trip, we would highly recommend this hike, it was the highlight of our Kauai visit.
Written June 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Laura L
Hudson, NH1,265 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
SUPER FUN to jump in and swim after a great and muddy hike to the falls! We were surprised that not many people braved the water, but it was very misty from the giant fall, so May people were cooled off from that. We were able to swim right up to the falls.
I recommend wearing Teva’s or similar good sandals in the water as it’ll help with navigating the rocks.
I recommend wearing Teva’s or similar good sandals in the water as it’ll help with navigating the rocks.
Written October 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lina W
Kerrville, TX8 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
Absolutely beautiful hike! My husband is 52 and I am 46. Our mission was to make it to the falls and we made it! We are not athletes but prepared the best we could by taking hikes back home in Texas. It took us 8 hours exactly from the trailhead (roundtrip). Keep in mind we stopped for numerous photo ops, walked on the beach (after the falls) and changes of shoes along the way. We took our time to the falls, enjoying the scenery. Many experienced hikers and younger individuals zoomed right by.
For novice hikers, preparation is the key. Pack some snacks, light lunch. We had about 5 liters of water and that was perfect for us. My trekking poles and hiking boots were my best friend. It was worth it to me to change out of my boots to sandals for water crossing. Walking through the water instead of crossing rocks and boulders were easier. I am short, my husband is 6ft and has a longer stride. It was easier for him to walk on the rocks.
Beware of low hanging branches!!!
We hit our head multiple times because we were watching our footing.
As listed in other reviews, the heat and sun on the way back is ridiculous. So yes, water water water. The hike back in the heat can take its toll on you. We packed some electrolyte gels to help get us through.
The entire hike was absolutely amazing. From the coastal view, greenery, all the water crossings, falls, bamboo...all of it.
It was a tough hike. Would we do it again? Absolutely!
For novice hikers, preparation is the key. Pack some snacks, light lunch. We had about 5 liters of water and that was perfect for us. My trekking poles and hiking boots were my best friend. It was worth it to me to change out of my boots to sandals for water crossing. Walking through the water instead of crossing rocks and boulders were easier. I am short, my husband is 6ft and has a longer stride. It was easier for him to walk on the rocks.
Beware of low hanging branches!!!
We hit our head multiple times because we were watching our footing.
As listed in other reviews, the heat and sun on the way back is ridiculous. So yes, water water water. The hike back in the heat can take its toll on you. We packed some electrolyte gels to help get us through.
The entire hike was absolutely amazing. From the coastal view, greenery, all the water crossings, falls, bamboo...all of it.
It was a tough hike. Would we do it again? Absolutely!
Written August 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanne K
Ottawa, Canada165 contributions
Nov 2022 • Family
We took a shuttle to the start of the hike. The views are breathtaking. We hiked to the falls and had lunch. It was a hot day but rained along the way and then was quite chilly at the falls. Pack water, food layers and rain gear and wear proper hiking shoes and you will be fine. Great way to tire out teenagers!
Written November 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bonjour ! Je voulais savoir combien de temps il faut prévoir pour la randonnée complète ?
Merci !
Written August 8, 2018
Can I currently hike to the trail/falls or has access been closed off due to the recent flooding?
Written June 3, 2018
I am currently on the island. July 17 and the trail access is still closed unless someone knows a bypass or way around road blocks. FEMA has the area restricted as many residents are current displaced living in a school.
Written July 17, 2018
Can I get to the Hanakapiai Trail/Falls right now? Or is it closed off from the flooding?
Thanks!
Written June 3, 2018
So did you go recently or not? I am trying to figure out what is still closed and what is not but there is so much mixed information out there. Thanks.
Written June 1, 2018
Got it. From my research it appears that the falls are inaccessible due to the flooding that happened in late April. I can confirm that camping and hiking the Napali coast is closed.
Written June 3, 2018
Last time we were in Kauai my wife and I did the trip to the beach no problem. Sadly we didn't have time to make it to the falls and back. My question is this: Is the trail to the falls well marked? I've read yes and no at a couple of different places. Thanks. Fingers crossed for good weather to get the 8 mile round trip hike done this time.
Written July 15, 2017
its so buisy you cant get lost there.its like ant trail.Not easy one though.much more rocks mud and stream crosings.walking pole a plus
Written July 21, 2017
Where exactly does the trail start? And where is the best place to park?
Written March 28, 2017
We started near Kalalau Beach. There's limited parking if you arrive before 7 or 8am. Otherwise a quarter mile from the beach is a parking lot. Just be careful driving in because it has a steep drop off and lots of holes.
Written March 28, 2017
Really depends on the conditions that day. If it's been rainy and muddy, you may want something more stable. If it's been dry, you'll be fine in chacos. My wife did the entire hike in chacos on a relatively dry day and really liked being able to cross the streams without staying wet.
Written March 9, 2017
Are there any easy access rope swings or rock pools similar in kaui that are much more safe and still really unique?
Written September 9, 2016
I do not remember any rope swings. There are some pools in the river going to the falls that you can get in.
Written September 14, 2016
Is it a hard trail to walk? Is it okay to swim in? What about in the winter?
Written September 8, 2016
The beach area is not safe to swim at. The falls is great to swim at. This is a lot more than a little walk to the falls. You need to be in descent shape.
Written September 14, 2016
No. We did it in the rain and it became extremely dangerous. By the time we returned, they had closed the trail. Expect the muddy trail to turn into a running muddy creek, and the knee high river crossings to be waist deep Rapids. Expect misery.
Written July 25, 2016
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