Wow, this trail was something. I came to Kauai for a jungle…read moreadventure, and I definitely got one here! It is such a magical path First of all the trailhead is pretty hard to find and kind of hilarious. There is literally no official signage, except a sign that reminds people to stay quiet since they're in a neighborhood. There is a designated parking lot may be about a quarter mile away, so you're not supposed to park in front of peoples houses. As you're walking from the parking lot towards the trailhead, someone's house is labeled with a cute story between frog and toad that says that the trailhead is three houses down. There's the most narrow little entryway into the trailhead. We also thought it was funny after our hike that almost all the yelp reviews talk about how easy this hike is. We're a pretty fit family, and I'll just say that after a week of rain, this trail was quite treacherous, so part of our experience may be that we got unlucky with the weather. We had to try really hard not to slip at every step. There's areas down to the river in the waterfalls that are really really steep where we had to grab onto trees and branches to not cause a landslide. We were caked in mud from the knees down and on our hands for most of the hike . Definitely need shoes with good grip - our Keens worked well since we were able to rinse out some of the mud in the river. It rained on and off during our hike, but luckily there were so many trees that the rain itself was not too bothersome, but most of the trail was soaked in mud puddles . We only made it to the first waterfall because of the conditions but still had a blast ! We had a lot of fun but I wouldn't have brought my older parents for example so be wary depending on the rain !

A relatively short and easy hike. The whole thing took just over an hour for us, which includes the…read moretime we took to stop for photos and admire the views. We did read that it can get very slippery and muddy at times, but luckily we didn't run into that issue. The ground was pretty dry when we went, and I had no issues with my super old shoes that had no traction left. There are also few areas when going down to the falls where you need to navigate down some steep/rocky areas, and then back up when coming back. Shouldn't be an issue for those who are able-bodied, but just something to keep in mind if you were hoping to come with those who aren't (maybe not the best idea). The falls were a bit small when we went, but overall the hike was pretty with lots of lush greenery. We saw some people jumping into the water, but we were way too lazy for that. We also read that septic tanks from the neighborhood may leak into the water. Since the trail starts in a residential neighborhood, please be respectful and mindful when walking past homes to the trailhead, and don't be too noisy or trespass. We also parked our cars nearby at Kapahi Park. The neighborhood roads are small and I can see why residents would get annoyed with people constantly cluttering up the street to go hiking. Overall, a great option if you're looking for an easy but beautiful hike. Maybe consider hiking shoes if it has recently rained heavily since apparently it can get muddy.

This was an easy drive straight to the end of Maalo Road, and it's free!!…read moreIf you plan on doing any driving on Kauai I highly recommend buying the Shaka App. Four self guided driving tours with colorful narration and cultural storytelling.

Located at the end of Maalo Road, this beautiful double waterfall cannot be safely or legally…read moreaccessed due to the notoriously steep, muddy, and very slick unmaintained trail down. But you can however view it safely from the designated roadside lookout. The parking lot here, although free, is very small and often filled to the brim with cars. The lot itself is also in desperate need of maintenance as it is filled with potholes, so getting in and out may be tricky. There are also vendors who fill up the front part of this lot, which further add to the chaos. Located in a sacred royal valley once known as the capital of Kauai, ancient Hawaiian chieftains and warriors use to test their bravery by leaping from the top of this nearly 200ft tall waterfall. There's not a lot to do once you get up to the top of the lookout except to snap a few photos. So it is debatable if it is worth the drive all the way out to here and dealing with the whole parking lot situation.

A fantastic intermediate trail if you're looking for some good exercise and aren't scared of a…read morelittle mud. It took two hours to go up and down while stopping for lots of photos and going at a pretty leisurely pace. Mostly covered, so it felt great even on a sunny day. Highly recommend.

This was much harder than I expected. The valet at the hotel told me to try it, and I didn't…read morerealize that it was gonna be slippery with rocks and roots throughout. Once it started raining, I was slipping and sliding the whole way absolutely gorgeous, but definitely wear tennis or hiking shoes.

Kauai is my favorite place in the world period. It fits my outdoor,water centric shorts and tee…read moreshirt nature perfectly. Over the years I've seen hundreds of waterfalls on the Garden Isle. Several I'll never see again as,it was a long impossible once in a lifetime hike However,Opaeka'a Dallas is easy. Right off a main road it takes little effort for a big payoff. I recommend sunrise or evening viewing for the best outcome. Take it in for your wakeup call ! * Yet Another Missing Review. I distinctly remember doing this one sitting in the car having my morning coffee. Now,Gone poof! That's a lot Yelp for respecting my work

We drove up and there was an "attendant" sitting on a rock. Signage - $10 for the vehicle, $5 per…read moreperson if you were a non-local. I grew up on Kauai and this was a shock to see these charges. We left and went to Wailua Falls - no parking fee and the falls much more spectacular. There was one car in the parking lot while Wailua Falls had a constant stream of cars (no fees).

Beautiful. You absolutely have to take a boat ride down the coast if you are in Kauai at least…read moreonce in your life.

I'd like to be transparent, I'm a little bit confused about a few things…read more.. I had reservations made ahead of time to hike the famed Kalalau Trail 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach and another 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Falls. Upon driving to the Kalalau Trailhead, I entered Ha'ena State Park. I thought to myself, "oh, wow, cool, I didn't even know Kalalau Trail was within a state park!". Now, lol, after parking my car and reviewing the Kalalau Trail hiking guidelines, it was time to venture over to Hanakapi'ai Beach. Not even 1 minute into the trail, there was a clear sign stating I was now entering Na'Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. What??? But I thought Kalalau Trail was part of Ha'ena SP?! So both? What's the difference between Ha'ena SP and Na'Pali Coast SP? I guess the only thing to do is venture over to Google and search for the answer... The only reasonable solution I discovered on Google is Ha'ena SP hosts the parking lot for Kalalau Trailhead. But, once you start hiking on Kalalau Trail land, you're officially now entering and located within Na'Pali Coast boundaries. And with this info...I believe there are more options for activities within Ha'ena State Park, although I never got around to do any exploring. Now, if you're specifically visiting here for the Kalalau Trail, I'm convinced it's Na'Pali Coast territory, lol. Finally, trying to get to the bottom of this strange mystery, is when visiting Kokee State Park on the opposite side of the island of Kauai, most of the overlooks and lookout points there showcased the Na'Pali Coast. But I guess for Kokee SP, you're not actually inside Na'Pali Coast State Park land, you're just admiring the views and sceneries of the Na'Pali Coast from high above. Lol, yes...maybe I should have been better prepared ahead of time. With all this said...let me quickly return to the Kalalau Trail and provide a few highlights about the experience and what you can expect inside Na'Pali Coast State Wilderness Park... - While hiking to Hanakapi'ai Beach, a lot of the beautiful Na'Pali Coast setting will be revealed. There were moments to take a break from the trek to appreciate the landscape. - When the clouds went away and the sun shined, the coastline illuminated the Pacific Ocean waters. - You'll also capture a vantage point of Kauai's lush green island vegetation and rain forest appearance. In total, that's what I believe made Na'Pali Coast State Wilderness Park rewarding. It's hiking among nature until Kauai's colorful coast comes into appearance. The surroundings exude that vintage, tropical, Hawaiian image that tourists anticipate when visiting. At the time of visiting Kauai, I found it difficult to understand whether I was hiking Kalalau Trail within Ha'ena SP or Na'Pali SP. After completing some detailed internet research, I'm confident the popular hike is connected with Na'Pali. And with that understanding, Na'Pali Coast is a winning state park.

What a magnificent journey and place! Nicknamed Secret Falls...I don't think it's much of a secret…read moreanymore. However, our afternoon tour kicked back and took our time and we ended up being the only group at the waterfall when we got there! Two mile kayak trip down the river, then about a mile hike to the falls. The hike isn't too bad. Some places you're crossing in knee-high water (it changes depending on conditions), mud, some bouldering, and some slick spots. The wooden planks for most of the trail are nice and make it way easier. My daughter and I both hiked in our water shoes and it wasn't too bad. The waterfall is secluded and gorgeous! The water is cold but so refreshing after that journey to get to it! Great spot to hang out, relax, have a snack, swim and just enjoy! Rest up for the mile hike and two mile kayak journey back home!

This is great. Took the Paddleboard on a trip down the river to see the falls. It's a bit of a…read morewalk from the area that you "park" your kayak or paddleboards, but it is also an easy well prepared hike. It was great for 2 kids that were 8 and 10 years old. The waterfall was nice, and you can def go swimming in it. Be prepared that the water in cold. We did the hike with water shoes, that wasn't ideal. I think I would have probably just worn sandals for the walk. You do need to cross through a couple small rivers, but it was nothing crazy. Glad we did this little excursion in Kauai on Father's day. It was great exercise, and being outside in paradise. It makes it even more special that you need some sort of water vessel to get there, or I guess you an take a helicopter. Good times!

Lizards, Flowers, and Birds - Oh My!…read more This trail was my go-to hike when I lived in the Wailua Homesteads. The trailhead is far enough back in the mountains that you can't hear any traffic from the road - only the musical musings of birds (and occasional cock-a-doodle-doo from the island's inescapable rooster population, of course.) The incline is moderate enough that you can take in the incredible views and easily hold a conversation without panting. It is suitable for almost anyone. The only challenging part is climbing around a giant Eucalyptus that recently fell across the trail. I did, however, watch a man with a baby strapped to his back negotiate it with ease. It can get quite muddy and slippery after rain, so wear shoes with good traction. You may want to grab one of the walking sticks that can usually be found on the gate next to the trailhead. The beginning of the trail cuts through tall grass. If you are hiking in late summer or fall, be sure to grab some guava off the trees here. After you push through, the trail opens up and you will find yourself surrounded by massive trees with thick, waxy, green vines crawling up their trunks. Look to your left to enjoy sweeping panoramas of the mountains and valley below. This is a great place to take in views of Mount Waialeale, the second highest peak on the island. But don't forget to look down - along the sides of the trail you will find colorful, fragrant native flowers. After about 45 minutes of hiking, you will find yourself in an open grassy field with a picnic table. This is a great place to stop for a snack and take in the panoramic view of the interior of the island. Look on the ground for sleeping grass; it looks a bit like a 2" long fern. Tap its leaves, and watch it curl up, or go to "sleep." This is honestly the coolest plant I've ever encountered - it could easily entertain me for hours. Even my 71-year-old father, who is generally unimpressed, had a grand old time squatting down and poking the grass with me! Most people turn back here, but I recommend continuing on along the ridgeline until you reach the small footbridge, where the trail turns into the Moalepe Trail (there will be a sign.) Below the trail is a thick canopy of vines enveloping the forest. This area of the trail is a good place to spot lizards and birds, smell ginger flowers, and enjoy the serenity of the trail less traveled. The mosquitoes that guard the bridge are blood-thirsty and vicious, and usually leave me running back the way I came. Total round-trip time: 2-3 hours Bring: water, snacks, a hat, mosquito repellent, shoes with good traction If you have two cars or can arrange a ride, you can link up the Kuilau Ridge and Moalepe Trails and do a one-way hike. I have never done this before, but would love to. After you return to the trail head, go for a dip in the swimming hole across the street. It has a rope swing where you can practice your Tarzan moves, and a picnic table. Be ready to battle mosquitos here as well. Then, walk across the bridge to the Keahua Arboretum to check out the Rainbow Eucalyptus - you will not be disappointed.

We did this activity on our second day in Kauai and t'was a pretty day when we went there,…read moregoodness! It is located in Wailua - East side and has a distance of 2.25 miles each way. Depending in your pace it was just a short easy to moderate hike. But once it rained, it's a different story. It can be really muddy and according to locals it can suck you down so prepare a really muddy shoes & dirt everywhere. Kuilau Trail connects to an east route that meets up with the Moalepe Trail. Further down the trail will come to a wooden footbridge which crosses the Opaekaa Stream. The view is not too much but the green lush vegetation will still make you feel refreshed & relaxed at some point. It is a friendly-hike to do so kids or old folks can definitely enjoy this. Please don't forget to bring your water and do wear proper hiking clothes. I advise to wear good hiking shoes & bring quarter zip as temperature can drop any moment. Do not forget that Kauai got more rain in most places in the US so I suggest you bring your rain jacket in case you need it. And most of all practice LEAVE-NO-TRACE POLICY all the time. Mahalo for reading & happy juandering fellow Yeeps.

One of the most famous/ not so secret place to park when going to both Hā'ena beach park and…read moretunnels beach. This area to park is the access you can use to get to tunnels beach! Once you get there it's super gorgeous! Definitely worth the 1 hour drive from lihue for a sunrise/sunset in Kauai!

By far our favorite beach! The colors of the water were…read moremagical and snorkeling wasn't bad. The waves were stronger in front of the lifeguard station but there is a little inlet that was pretty calm. The beach was true beauty in all directions. We wanted a family picture in front of the water but when we stood there we realized greenery on the backside was even prettier! There is a quick stop near by at a dry cave. Was a wonderful stop. Wished we had more time there Parking is limited so get there early. We went at 2pm and circled a couple times before parking on the road side

We only had time to do the East Nounou Trail and the Nounou Shelter Trail so this review is based…read moreoff of those. The East Nounou Trail was our second hike of the day and did not disappointed. It is 2 miles with no steep ascent and a bit of coverage with breezes coming near the 1.75 to 2 mile markers. The views are spectacular as you overlook the east side of the island and south of the island as you get further up. There is one hurdle which you have to climb a rock, but it wasnt bad. You can hurl yourself up or take a bit of a path on the left to slowly get yourself up it. It is a ascending, descending, and straight way hike path. Eventually you will hit a T-intersection and decide whether to continue the Nounou trail to the right or go to the Shelter trail on the left. The Shelter trail feels like only mere steps away from the T-intersection and the view is covered a bit by bushes. The best view is near the 1.75 mile mark as there is a hill you can get on for a better elevated view of the ocean. I think if you want a better valley view, you would have to continue the Nounou trail. There werent many people on this hike when we went (around 1:30 pm) but when we left (around 3:30 pm), more people were arriving. Overall, an somewhat of an easy for intermediate hikers.

We took the approximately 3.4 mile Nounou trail east and then went all the way to the summit (maybe…read moreonly a half mile or so but taxing) and then back down to the street where we walked to our car. The Nounou trail is pretty level although it does get a little muddy in spots and has a few minor obstacles such as felled trees along the way. Beginner to low intermediate. Very green very Kauai trail.

Very nice hidden gem in Anahola on the north shore of Kauai! Pretty quiet as well and not very…read morecrowded. Aliomanu Beach is not the easiest beach to access, as you will have to park at the designated parking lot, then hike about 5 minutes through tall grass and weeds, then another 5-10 minutes boulder-hopping until you reach the sand. But it's well worth the effort and you get beautiful views of the bay!

Growing up in Anahola, Anahola Beach was always a go to for sun, surfing and fishing. Very relaxing…read morebeach!