Nā Pali Coast State Park

Nā Pali Coast State Park is a nature reserve on the northwest coast of Kauai featuring green cliffs that tower 1,200 m (4,000 feet) above the Pacific. The terrain covers 2,500 hectares (6,175 acres) and includes steep valleys, narrow beaches, and dense tropical vegetation.

Hawaiian communities settled in the remote valleys for centuries, cultivating taro on stone platforms. The settlements were abandoned in the 19th century after disease and economic shifts forced residents to move to more accessible locations.

The name Nā Pali comes from Hawaiian and means high cliffs, describing the steep rock formations that rise directly from the ocean. Visitors can spot remnants of stone walls and terraces along the coast that were once used for growing taro.

Access is either on foot via the Kalalau Trail, by boat, or by helicopter, with permits required for hiking. The trek is demanding and requires good physical fitness, as the path can be narrow and slippery in places.

Inside Kalalau Valley stand remnants of shrines and worship sites that offer clues to the religious practices of early inhabitants. Some caves along the coast served as burial sites and are still considered sacred today.

Location: Kauai County

Operator: Hawaii Division of State Parks

Website: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/kauai/napali-coast-state-wilderness-park

GPS coordinates: 22.18333,-159.64167

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:17