Hanakapiai Falls

Hanakapiai Falls or Hanakapi'ai Falls is an approximately 300 feet high waterfall located on the Na Pali side of the island of Kauai. It requires a hike of approximately 2 miles from Hanakapi'ai Beach. The waterfall is described as "gorgeous but challenging". The trail is unmaintained and is a popular day hike for able-bodied hikers.

After hiking two miles of rugged terrain to Hanakapiai Beach along the Kalalau Trail visitors may be tempted to turn back and head back towards Ke'e Beach. But if not too tired, they should consider taking an additional four-mile round trip hike inland to see the Hanakapi'ai Falls. It can take up to two hours to reach the falls and requires numerous stream crossings.

The total elevation gain to the falls from Hanakapi'ai Beach is 760 feet. This is a fairly strenuous hike. The trail can be rough in spots, but the 300-ft waterfall at the end is worth the trek. There are numerous mountain apple trees along the route as visitors travel through small bamboo forests. The trail crisscrosses the stream several times, so be mindful of water flow. Make sure to pack rain gear because showers pop up frequently and carry drinking water since it is not safe to drink stream water without sterilizing it.