Kauai Travel Blog
This is our first trip to Hanakapiai Beach since the Kalalau Trail reopened in the summer of 2019 after being closed in April 2018 due to flood damage. Naturally, the beach still looks exactly the same, beautiful as ever!
The beach is reached via a two-mile hike on the first part of the Kalalau Trail. This part of the trail is also called the Hanakapiai Trail. A permit is now needed to hike to Hanakapiai Beach. The permit also allows access to Hanakapiai Falls, reached via another two-mile hike inland.
Hanakapiai Beach has a magical, mystical vibe to us, and this is one our favorite places on the entire island of Kauai. Bookended by dramatic rocky points, backed by a verdant tropical forest, trimmed with rounded stones, and with a refreshing stream emptying into the ocean, this is the beach dreams are made of.
Hanakapiai Beach Photos
First glimpse of Hanakapiai Beach from the Kalalau Trail.
A shallow lagoon forms behind the beach during the summer months.
A Hawaiian Monk Seal enjoying Hanakapiai Beach.
The backdrop of the beach is stunning.
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