Eleele, Hawaii

A strenuous 7 mile hike, depending on which way you start, that takes you from the world renowned Kalalau Valley from Pu'u O Kila lookout, through dense mossy forests, across a stream, up to the highest swamp in the world and ends in views of Kaua'i's north shore of Wainiha valley and Hanalei Bay.

Kalepa Ridge is a narrow, unofficial trail that starts at the Kalalau Lookout in Koke'e State Park. To get to the trailhead, drive to the popular Kalalau Valley Lookout near the end of highway 550 in Koke'e State Park. Look toward the left (ocean side) of the parking lot where you'll see the unm...

First, you need kayaks to get on the river. I bring my Oru Kayak with me everywhere, but we did have to rent one additional, and there are rentals everywhere - a quick Google search will get you tons of options. You can launch your boat from directly across the Wailua River Marina where you see t...

There are a few different approaches for this hike - you can take either the East route, West route, or the Kuamoo-Nounou route. The East route is closest to nearby towns of Kapa'a and Wailua, so for convenience I chose this route.The trail quickly begins with several switchbacks, all of which a...

Easiest/Direct route: When in the Kapa'a area from the main highway turn left onto Kawaihau road. Follow Kawaihau all the way up until you see a sign for Kapahi road, turn left onto that road. Driving in, you'll see a red gate on your left-hand side. The parking area is just after the gate, along...

NOTE: The beach is closed in the winter months due to high surf. Be sure to work with a local guide to insure you do this adventure safely.The only way to reach Miloli'i is by Kayak.  Unless you are going to be bringing your own kayak to the island chances are you will need to rent one from a com...

Hanalei Bay is one of the most scenic beaches on the north shore of Kauai.  It features mountain views and a pier.  In summer, the water gets calm and clear.  It's perfect for swimming, SUP, and diving.  During the winter, the it becomes a beautiful surf spot. There are small lots for parking sca...

This hike begins at the parking lot of Ke'e Beach at the Northern most point you can drive to on the island. This is where the Kalalau Trail begins. From there, you immediately start hiking upward, with great views of the beach down below. The first two miles of the trail are the busiest, as n...

Hanakoa Falls is one of two large waterfalls along Na Pali Coast. While most set out for a high-paced hike on Kalalau Trail, rushing past Hanakoa Valley, those who choose to explore Hanakoa Valley and Falls will not be disappointed. To reach the beautiful Hanakoa Valley, you will take the same tr...

Enjoy the view of the Garden Island from the crystal clear waters of the pacific ocean. Experiencing the coast by water allows for private beach access and exploring amazing sea caves! You have a few options to go by boat to see this enchanted terrain.Guided Kayak ToursYou can rent a kayak and pa...

This hike is on the beginning section of the Kalalau trail, at Ke'e Beach. Your trip begins with a winding 2 mile trail to Hanakapi`ai Beach. The beach is a beautiful place to hang out and relax, there's a stream where you can take a dip, and bathrooms if you need to stop. Unfortunately, there's ...

They don't call it the butt slide trail for nothing— the Okolehao Trail (translated to iron butt, for more than just the glutes involved) —is a short drive from Princeville, just before Hanalei Bay. Filled with lush vegetation, ample wildlife, and stunning viewpoints, the full trail isn't for th...

Makua, aka Tunnels, is known for its incredible mountain scenery. This beach also offers great snorkeling, where people will usually see turtles. Public parking, bathrooms and showers are available at Haena Beach Park located west of Tunnels. Be sure to head to the beach early, parking on the tow...

This beach is easily found by driving into Princeville and heading toward the St. Regis hotel. The trail to the beach is just before you arrive at the hotel. There is a small public parking lot on the right, which leads to the trail. If the lot is full, don't worry, the St. Regis Resort will vale...

Wyllie's beach is a small beach next to Anini beach. It is on the northwest side of the river mouth. There is a 0.8 mile trail down to the beach. The trail head is near the Westin Princeville. This is a handy beach for those staying in the Princeville area, as it is walkable from most vacation ho...

Between the frequent rains and the often overcast forecast, Kauai is not always the typical Hawaiian tropical getaway people dream of. But there are few islands that offer the same majestic waterfalls, luscious valleys, world renowned breaks, and more. Like a handful of the island's other gems, Q...