Napali Coast State Park wilderness guide
State Park · HI

Napali Coast State Park

Napali Coast State Park offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs and lush valleys along the northwest shore of Kauai, making it a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

State Park6,1752+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area6,175
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Napali Coast State Park

Napali Coast State Park offers breathtaking views of towering cliffs and lush valleys along the northwest shore of Kauai, making it a haven for hikers and nature lovers.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Napali Coast State Park, located on the island of Kauai in Hawaii, is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, vibrant green vegetation, and vast ocean vistas. The park spans over 6,175 acres and hosts the iconic Kalalau Trail, which provides a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience with its panoramic coastal views, stunning beaches, and hidden waterfalls. The park's rugged terrain includes sheer cliffs carved over millions of years by volcanic activities and oceanic forces. This remote and beautiful area not only offers unparalleled recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical habitat for native plant and bird species, some of which are unique to Hawaii. Historically, the Napali Coast is rich with ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, testifying to a time when native Hawaiians cultivated the fertile land. The remoteness and challenging accessibility of the park underscore its allure and preserve its breathtaking natural beauty.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Napali Coast State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kalalau Trail, renowned for spectacular coastal views✦ Diverse ecosystems with rare native Hawaiian plants✦ Hanakapiai Beach and Falls, a stunning hiking destination✦ Remote and secluded Miloli'i Beach, accessible only by foot or boat
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Napali Coast State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Napali Coast State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Napali Coast State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Napali Coast State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Napali Coast State 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 Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits required for hiking beyond Hanakapiai Beach and for camping.

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 Park

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

Kalalau Beach Campsite

Offers a remote camping experience at the end of the Kalalau Trail with stunning beach views.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Napali Coast State Park

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

Ka‘ena, Hawaii
⌖ 5.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ka‘ena, Hawaii

Ka‘ena, Hawaii offers a remote and rugged outdoor escape on O‘ahu’s western tip. Known for its coastal hiking trail, wildlife viewing including monk seals, and pristine beaches, it’s ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Hanalei, Hawai‘i
⌖ 8.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hanalei, Hawai‘i

Hanalei is a peaceful North Shore town with stunning bay views, great surfing, and lush trails. From paddling calm waters to hiking rainforest paths, it’s a perfect spot for outdoor lovers seeking tropical adventure.

April to October
Explore Town
Hanalei, Hawaii
⌖ 8.58 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hanalei, Hawaii

Discover Hanalei, a vibrant town on Kauai's north shore perfect for surfing, hiking lush trails, and exploring stunning beaches. Experience the spirit of aloha with endless outdoor adventures.

Spring and Early Summer
Explore Town
Princeville, Hawaii
⌖ 9.66 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Princeville, Hawaii

Princeville, Hawaii offers breathtaking coastal trails, vibrant coral reefs for snorkeling, and world-class golfing. Visitors can surf the northern shores or take a helicopter tour for incredible vistas of Kauai's unique landscapes.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Kīlauea, Hawaii
⌖ 14.23 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kīlauea, Hawaii

Kīlauea is one of the world’s most active volcanoes, located on Hawaii Island. With epic hiking trails, volcanic landscapes, and cultural sites, it offers adventurous travelers a rare chance to witness Earth's power up close.

Year-round (best in spring and fall for mild weather and fewer crowds)
Explore Town
Kekaha, Hawaii
⌖ 14.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kekaha, Hawaii

Kekaha, Hawaii is a rugged west coast town offering expansive beach hikes, kayaking, snorkeling, and wildlife watching. Its remote vibe and stunning natural areas like Polihale make it a perfect adventure base on Kauai.

April to October
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Napali Coast State Park

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

Kauai Na Pali Coast (Multi-day Charter)
ADVEXPEDITION
Kauai, Hawaii
Boat TourADV Bookable

Kauai Na Pali Coast (Multi-day Charter)

Set sail along Kauai’s legendary Nā Pali Coast aboard Mulan Charters’ multi-day journey, where steep cliffs, sea caves, and abundant marine life await. This trip pairs adventure with comfort for a deep dive into one of Hawaii’s most remote shorelines.

Boat TourPerfect for longer days on the water to make the ultimate highlight of your Hawaiian vacation.Certified Outfitter
From$19,850
Book Trip
Six Hours on Pi'ikea: Shared Sportfishing Out of Eleele
ADVEXPEDITION
ELEELE, Hawaii
FishingADV Bookable

Six Hours on Pi'ikea: Shared Sportfishing Out of Eleele

A 6-hour shared charter from Port Allen that puts anglers on a small, fully outfitted boat targeting marlin, ahi, mahi-mahi and wahoo — this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

FishingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Sightseeing and Snorkel Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Kekaha, Hawaii
PrivateADV Bookable

Private Sightseeing and Snorkel Tour

Join Komohana Charters in Kekaha for a private 4.5-hour water adventure. Customize your day with snorkeling, dolphin watching, or relaxing on the deck—an intimate, personalized experience on Kauai’s stunning coast.

PrivateCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
TUESDAY | Introduction to the Ahupua’a, it’s Food Systems and Waterways
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
History TourADV Bookable

TUESDAY | Introduction to the Ahupua’a, it’s Food Systems and Waterways

Discover the rich ecosystems and cultural traditions of Hawaii’s ancient land system on this engaging adventure at Waipa Foundation. Hands-on activities and local flavors await—perfect for curious travelers wanting a deeper connection to the land.

History TourAges 8+ • 3.5 HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Efoil Lessons
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
Water ActivitiesADV Bookable

Efoil Lessons

Ride above the waves with Kauai Foil Experience’s efoil lessons in Hanalei Bay. Learn to control this cutting-edge electric hydrofoil board and enjoy the thrill of water flight in one unforgettable session.

Water ActivitiesUp to 4 People • 1.5 HoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Gold Package with Train Ride & Round-Trip Transportation
ADVEXPEDITION
Hawaii, Hawaii
TrainADV Bookable

Gold Package with Train Ride & Round-Trip Transportation

Experience Kauai’s culture firsthand with Luau Kalamaku’s Gold Package, featuring premier seating, a scenic train ride, and an unforgettable performance celebrating Polynesian traditions.

TrainPremier Seating + Transportation & Train ride on Kauai Plantation RailwayCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Hawaiian Package with Train Ride
ADVEXPEDITION
Kauai, Hawaii
TrainADV Bookable

Hawaiian Package with Train Ride

Journey back in time with the Lu’au Kalamaku in Kauai, an immersive Polynesian performance paired with a scenic plantation train ride. Discover authentic Hawaiian culture through food, dance, and myth in this unforgettable evening celebration.

TrainStandard Seating + Train ride on Kauai Plantation RailwayCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip