by Stuart_Green

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Hiking

Strenuous: 3.2 miles, half day

Overview: The Na Pali coast is stuff of legends. Perhaps because it's located on the remote western coast of Kauai, perhaps it's the challenge of tackling the narrow eleven mile coastal trail, or perhaps it's because there are people who like it so much out there that they've set up permanent (yet illegal) settlements.

Thankfully the hike to Hanakapi'ai Falls utilizes only the easiest and most well-travelled first two miles of the Kalualau trail, where it meets Hanakapi'ai beach. Stop here and admire the many posted sign warning of severe ocean currents, then stop to admire the many people who still risk it all to take a dip at this very picturesque beach. From here the trail takes a ninety degree inland turn up a rugged and slippery two mile trail to the face of the falls.