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Napali Coast State Wilderness Park wilderness guide
State Wilderness Park · HI

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, offers dramatic sea cliffs, lush valleys, and pristine beaches, making it a destination for adventurers and nature lovers.

State Wilderness Park6,1752+ Trails

Designation

State Wilderness Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,175

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, offers dramatic sea cliffs, lush valleys, and pristine beaches, making it a destination for adventurers and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Napali Coast State Wilderness Park is located on the north shore of Kauai, Hawaii. Known for its towering sea cliffs that rise over 4,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean, the park is a stunning example of natural beauty. The lush valleys and hidden beaches provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, making it a key area for ecological preservation. Its history includes ancient Hawaiian settlements, and remnants of these historical sites can still be found. The park is renowned for the Kalalau Trail, which offers challenging terrain and unforgettable views of the coastline. Other recreational opportunities include kayaking, exploring sea caves, and camping on secluded beaches. The park's remoteness adds to its allure, drawing visitors who seek both adventure and tranquility.

Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Hiking the Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii★ 9.2⌖ 1 miHiking
Kuhio Highway

Hiking the Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii

Explore the iconic Kalalau Trail along Kauai's Nā Pali Coast. This challenging 11-mile hike from Ke'e Beach to Kalalau Beach features breathtaking cliffs and hard terrain. Best undertaken May through September, permits required for overnight stays.

Trek the Majestic Kalalau Trailhead★ 9.4⌖ 1 miHiking
Kalalau Trailhead

Trek the Majestic Kalalau Trailhead

Explore the challenging 11-mile Kalalau Trail along Kauai's Napali Coast, starting near Hanalei, HI. This hard trail offers hikers breathtaking coastal views, encounters with native wildlife, and access to remote beaches. Permits are required for the full trail.

Tropical Wonders of Ha'ena State Park★ 9.3⌖ 1 miHiking
Ha'ena State Park

Tropical Wonders of Ha'ena State Park

Explore Ha'ena State Park located on the northern shore of Kauai. The park features the challenging Kalalau Trail and is known for dramatic landscapes, snorkeling, and cultural sites. Ideal for adventure seekers and photography enthusiasts.

Tropical Paradise: Ha'ena Beach Park★ 8.7⌖ 1 miSnorkeling
Ha'ena Beach Park

Tropical Paradise: Ha'ena Beach Park

Explore Ha'ena Beach Park in Kaua'i for stunning coastal views, snorkeling at Tunnels Beach, and hiking the Kalalau Trail. Offers cultural and natural richness. Best visited in spring and summer, located an hour from Lihu'e Airport, Hawaii.

SnorkelingView Details→
Tunnels Beach★ 9.2⌖ 2 miSnorkeling
Tunnels Beach

Tunnels Beach

Explore Tunnels Beach on Kauai's north shore, known for snorkeling its vibrant reefs and diving through unique underwater lava tubes. Enjoy trekking along the scenic Makana Mountain. Ideal for adventure seekers, this spot can be busy, especially in summer months.

SnorkelingView Details→
Running the Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii★ 9.2⌖ 3 miTrail Running
Kalalau Trail

Running the Kalalau Trail, Kauai, Hawaii

Explore the Kalalau Trail in Kauai, Hawaii's Nā Pali Coast. This extreme 22-mile round trip is known for its rugged terrain and dramatic views. Ideal for experienced trail runners, the trail features steep inclines and challenging conditions. Permits required.

Trail RunningView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kalalau Trail, offering sweeping views and challenging hikes✦ Unique ecosystems with native Hawaiian flora and fauna✦ Kalalau Beach, a secluded paradise accessible only by foot or boat✦ Sea caves and arches that can be explored via kayak during calm conditions
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits required for camping; no fee for day hiking.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Kalalau Beach Campsite

Located at the end of the Kalalau Trail, offering an isolated beach camping experience.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ka‘ena
⌖ 1.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ka‘ena, Hawaii

A rugged coastal area offering remote hiking and natural exploration on O‘ahu's westernmost point, perfect for travelers seeking solitude and raw island landscapes.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Hanalei
⌖ 5.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hanalei, Hawai‘i

A lush, scenic north shore town offering diverse outdoor adventures with a relaxed tropical atmosphere and stunning natural landscapes.

April to OctoberExplore Town
Hanalei
⌖ 5.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hanalei, Hawaii

A tropical paradise with laid-back vibes, Hanalei offers an array of outdoor activities amidst lush landscapes and pristine beaches.

Spring and Early SummerExplore Town
Princeville
⌖ 6.35 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Princeville, Hawaii

A picturesque coastal town where lush landscapes and ocean adventures create the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Kīlauea
⌖ 11.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kīlauea, Hawaii

An active volcanic wilderness offering epic hiking, lava viewing, and unique landscapes shaped by ongoing volcanic activity.

Year-round (best in spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds)Explore Town
Anahola
⌖ 17.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Anahola, Hawaii

A tranquil coastal village offering a blend of authentic Hawaiian culture and vibrant outdoor water adventures amidst lush landscapes and powerful ocean swells.

April to OctoberExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Napali Coast State Wilderness Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.