Hanakapiai Falls

Hanakapiai Falls drops over 90 meters into a large pool and sits at the end of an 8-kilometer trail through the Napali Coast landscape. The route combines steep pathways with multiple stream crossings and offers views of cliffs and thick forest.

Ancient Hawaiian pathways along the Napali Coast formed the foundation for today's Kalalau Trail leading to the falls. These routes once connected settlements and taro gardens scattered across the region.

The waterfall is part of the sacred Napali Coast, where Hawaiian communities once lived in the cliffs and the landscape still holds spiritual importance for local people today.

The trail is demanding and requires fitness plus preparation for muddy sections and steep inclines. Carry water and wear proper footwear to navigate safely.

On rainy days, rainbows often form over the pool as water breaks into fine mist. The surrounding mountain apple trees and bamboo forests create a secluded, green pocket at trail's end.

GPS coordinates: 22.18559,-159.59497

Latest update: December 8, 2025 20:00