Making Memories

Hāʻena State Park, located on the north shore of Kauai, is a must-visit destination known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural history. It is often called the end of the road and marks the endpoint of the Kuhio Highway.

To visit, you’ll need a reservation. Reservations are only available 30 days in advance at 12am HST. Tip: Check the website at7-8 am HST for new availability due to cancellations.

Reservation options:

1. Shuttle & entry pass – fee is per person (cost is for both the shuttle ride and entry)
2. Parking & entry pass – availability is very limited. This is the most economic option (besides walking/biking) as you only pay one low flat-rate fee for the car + entry pass per person. Permits are sold out immediately, so be sure to reserve for this well in advance.
   Note: Hawaii state residents with a current Hawaii driver license, state ID or UH student ID may enter the park and park their vehicle for free, first-come first-serve.  
3. Entry pass only – you can walk or bike to the entrance.

At the time of this writing, the fee calculation for 4 adults, for example, is as follows:

• Shuttle: $40/person, making the total to be $160.
• Car: $10/car + $5/person, summing up to be $30.
• Entry only: $5/person, totaling $20.

The park is open daily including holidays from 7:00am to 6:45pm. Parking lot opens at 6:30am. The shuttles run daily from 6:20a to 6:40p (last pick up at park). 

The Kalalau Trail

Considered to be the hardest and most dangerous hike in Hawaii; however, it is a must-do in Kauai!! The legendary trail stretches from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Beach. The first 2 miles to Hanakapi’ai Beach are popular for day hikes, while the full trail requires permits (to camp overnight) and backpacking gear. Not only the distance, but the terrain is quite challenging. Note that it rains almost daily in the north shore, so the hike is usually slippery and muddy. The first 2 miles isn’t very difficult, but definitely not easy. So time yourself carefully, so that you can exit the park on time or before it gets dark. Note the time it takes you to hike 1 mile and decide when you need to turn around. Also note that the trail’s difficulty increases the further you hike.

• About 5-minute walk from the shuttle stop, there’s the beautiful Ke’e Beach at the trailhead. Most reports we’ve read describe the waters to be calm. However, when we were there this summer, the waves were really strong. Regardless what month of the year, the reef channel at the west end of the beach should be avoided due to stronger currents. When safe, this beach is ideal for snorkelling. There is a lifeguard on duty who makes announcements if there are strong currents coming, or if he/she sees someone wandering into dangerous waters. There’s restroom and outdoor shower here.
• At about 1 mile, you’ll see the Nā Pali Coast as well as an amazing view of the Ke’e Beach below. It’s at an open section of the hike and is extremely windy, whereas most of the hike until then, you’re surrounded by jungle vines on one side and rocks on the other.
• At 2 miles, you’ll arrive at the picturesque Hanakapi’ai Beach. Keep in mind that the beach is not safe for swimming as the surf and rip currents are often extremely treacherous. The park-ranger told us this is one of the most dangerous beaches in the world, and you should take this caution seriously. Even if you’re not going in the water, even if you just want to get a photo, beware of a rogue wave. If you’re interested, read this story of how a group of tourists barely survived a rogue wave!!
• Hanakapi’ai Falls is about 4 miles into the hike. You’ll cross the stream on the way, so be sure to observe for high water before crossing. You do not want to be caught in a flash flood! According to the park ranger, it takes an experienced hiker about 6 hours round-trip to the waterfall. That’s 8 miles round-trip, so plan your hike carefully!
• Beyond Hanakapi’ai Falls – if you hike beyond this point, then most likely you’ll be camping overnight. It is not possible to do the full hike (11 miles one way) within the day. So if this is your plan, then be sure you have the proper gear and permit. Even in the summer, once the sun sets, Kauai gets a little cooler for a tropical island. There’s restroom facility at Kalalau Beach.

Limahuli Garden & Secret Moments

Beyond Hāʻena right nearby is Limahuli Garden, a gorgeous botanical garden that feels like walking into an ancient Hawaiian story. Everywhere you look in Hāʻena, it’s like nature showing off.

The garden is open Tuesday through Saturday, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm. Last check-in with a reservation is 2:15 pm. The entrance gate will close at 3pm. Not required, but online reservation is strongly recommended.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Reservations are required for entry and parking, so plan ahead.
• The park is open daily, but check for weather updates—flooding and landslides can temporarily close the road.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, lots of water, and shoes you don’t mind getting muddy if you’re hitting the trail.

Hāʻena isn’t just another stop on the itinerary—it’s the kind of place that gets under your skin. It’s wild and peaceful all at once, the kind of beauty that makes you pause and whisper, “wow!” For us, it wasn’t just about checking off a park; it was about feeling connected to the island in a deeper way.

If you get the chance, don’t just see Hāʻena—experience it. Trust me, it’ll be one of those days that stays with you long after the sand has washed off your feet.

For a complete guide to Kauai, read my post on Hawaii Part 1: Kauai – The Garden Island.