The Best hikes in Kauai

Kauai is one of my favorite places to vacation and that's because it really has it all for me. I'm talking lots of outoor adventure including hiking, water activities, beach time and a really good food scene. One of my favorite things to do in Kauai is hike and there is no shortage of really great hikes here. So let's dig into my favorite hikes in Kauai.

Also check out my post "The best things to do and see in Kauai" which delves more into all you need to know about Kauai!

Hike the Kalalau Trail

If you're up for an adventure and want to hike along the Na'Pali coast then this is a perfect hike for you! It's 11 miles one way so 22 miles RT. Most people choose to camp along the way, note that you will need a permit to camp.

The trail starts at Ke'e Beach and ends at Kalalau Beach. The only places you are allowed to camp are at Hanakoa and Kalalau. You can hike the first two miles of this trail without a camping permit; it will take you to Hanakapi'ai and up to Hanakapi'ai Falls. However, you still need a day pass/reservation for this hike. In order to go beyond the 2 miles, you will need a camping permit even if you aren't planning to camp. Camping permits are available up to 90 days in advance. You can access day passes or permits here.

Hike the Okolehao Trail on the North shore

The Okolehao trail on the North shore of Kauai will reward you with spectacular views of Hanalei Bay, Verdant Hanalei Valley, Makena, Kilauea Lighthouse, and the Napali Coast. This is one of my favorite hikes that I've done in Kauai. It's a fun hike. It's 2.5 miles out and back and you will be hiking up. I would rate this hike as moderate. The elevation gain is 853 feet. Note that this trail can be very muddy if you go after it has rained. We got lucky and it was actually pretty dry the whole way for us. There are a lot of tree roots along the trail so wear very sturdy shoes.

The view from Okolehao Trail

Waimea Canyon

Head to the South Side of the island for an epic adventure at Waimea Canyon. There are actually two state parks in Waimea Canyon: "Waimea Canyon State Park" and "Koke'e State Park." You can easily see both in one day. Try to plan for a clear day so you can have the best viewpoint opportunities. We made the mistake of going on a cloudy day, and there was a lot that we couldn't see. Luckily, we had already been before on a very clear, sunny day! The drive to the park is stunning, and there are lots of places to pull over and enjoy the views. I highly recommend going for a hike. There are lots of ample hiking opportunities here.

Kalalau Valley Lookout

Hike Sleeping Giant

This is one of my favorite hikes in Kauai. It is also called the Nounou Trail. It is located on the East side of the island, making it a very accessible hike if you're staying in this area. It's 4 miles round trip and rewards you with jaw-dropping panoramic views of the island. It's rated as beginner-intermediate.

Sleeping Giant Trail

Ho'opi'i Falls Trail

This is one of my absolute favorite hikes, and that's because of the waterfalls it rewards you with! It's located on the east side, near Kapa'a. It's a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail. If you're feeling adventurous, there are spots along the way to jump in and cool off. Be aware that this hike can be very muddy and can experience flash floods, so always check the weather before embarking and wear sturdy hiking shoes.

Ho'opi'i Falls

The Wai Koa Loop Trail

If you're up for a more laid-back trail but still want some nice views along the way, I highly recommend this trail. It's on the stunning North Shore of Kauai, so you already know it's going to be good! It's more of a "walk" than a hike, but you get to see a lot along the way, including the Kilauea Forest, views of the Namahana Mountains, and a historic stone dam. It's a great place to stop for a picnic. There's also a rope swing if you dare to get in the murky water! It's a 4.5-mile loop. This would be a great option to add on after a longer hike or before, like we did!

Stone Dam on The Wai Koa trail

Rope Swing on the Wai Koa Loop trail

The views along the way on the Wai Koa Loop Trail

Maha'ulepu heritage trail

This is more of a walk than a hike, but it will reward you with the most insane views! You'll have great views of the Pacific Ocean. I love this trail because you're basically walking along the cliffside of the ocean. Look down in the water, and you'll spot lots of turtles. Keep your eyes out for whales jumping in the distance. This is a 2-mile coastal trail (4 miles round trip) that starts at Shipwreck Beach on the south shore.

Views from the Maha'ulepu heritage trail

That sums up my list of "the best hikes in Kauai." Have you been to Kauai? Do you have any favorite hikes? Let me know in the comments.