Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park wilderness guide
State Wilderness Park · HI

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is a stunning natural preserve located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, featuring dramatic sea cliffs, lush valleys, and remote beaches.

State Wilderness Park6,1752+ Trails

Designation

State Wilderness Park

Total Wilderness Area

6,175

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is a stunning natural preserve located on the island of Kauai, Hawaii, featuring dramatic sea cliffs, lush valleys, and remote beaches.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is renowned for its iconic 16-mile coastline characterized by towering cliffs reaching up to 4,000 feet, lush valleys, and pristine beaches. This park, only accessible by foot, boat, or air, offers an untouched glimpse into the natural beauty of Hawaii. The park is home to diverse ecosystems, including rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and unique flora and fauna. Historically, the Na Pali Coast was inhabited by native Hawaiians, and remnants of their ancient settlements can still be found there today. Key recreational activities for visitors include the famous Kalalau Trail hike, which offers breathtaking views and challenges hikers with its rugged terrain, and opportunities to camp at Kalalau Beach. The area is also popular for kayaking, snorkeling, and exploring underwater sea caves. Despite the park's remote and rugged nature, it attracts outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and solitude amidst Hawaii's natural wonders.

Field Guide · State Wilderness Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Kalalau Trail✦ Unique native Hawaiian flora and fauna✦ Kalalau Beach✦ Honopu Valley
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Na Pali 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 Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Permits are required for hiking beyond Hanakapi'ai Falls and for camping along the Na Pali Coast.

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 Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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

Kalalau Beach

A remote camping experience on a secluded beach, accessible only by hiking the Kalalau Trail.

Reserve on Recreation.gov
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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

Ka‘ena, Hawaii
⌖ 2.14 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
⌖ 5.76 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
⌖ 5.76 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
⌖ 6.51 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
⌖ 11.41 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
Anahola, Hawaii
⌖ 17.83 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Anahola, Hawaii

Anahola, Hawaii, is a quiet coastal town where surfing, snorkelling, and beach camping create a memorable ocean adventure. With warm waters and lush backdrops, it’s a top spot to experience Kauai’s raw outdoor beauty.

April to October
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park

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

Clear Views, No Compromise: Hanalei’s Adult Dry Snorkel+ Mask
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
SnorkelADV Bookable

Clear Views, No Compromise: Hanalei’s Adult Dry Snorkel+ Mask

A concise guide to the high‑tech Tropic mask and dry snorkel package offered in Hanalei by Hanalei Trading — what’s included, how long you can take it, and why the kit elevates Hawaiian snorkeling.

SnorkelPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Morning Fun Run on the Na Pali: A 3-hour Raft from Hanalei
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
Boat TourADV Bookable

Morning Fun Run on the Na Pali: A 3-hour Raft from Hanalei

A compact, three-hour winter-season raft tour from Hanalei Bay that combines Na Pali cliffline sightlines, whale and marine wildlife viewing, snorkeling when conditions allow, and Hawaiian storytelling.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
River Launch to Bay Horizons: SUP Lessons in Hanalei
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
SUPADV Bookable

River Launch to Bay Horizons: SUP Lessons in Hanalei

A 1.5-hour, instructor-led standup paddle lesson in Hanalei Bay with all gear provided — this guide explains what to expect and how the session is structured.

SUPPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Afternoon Light on Nā Pali: A Private Hanalei Catamaran Escape
ADVEXPEDITION
Hanalei, Hawaii
Boat TourADV Bookable

Afternoon Light on Nā Pali: A Private Hanalei Catamaran Escape

A private afternoon catamaran cruise from Hanalei to the Nā Pali Coast offering flexible photo stops, snorkeling when conditions allow, and a relaxed, private pace for families and small groups.

Boat TourPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip