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Getting
There. The trail begins in Ha'ena State Park
at the northwest end of Kuhio Highway (Route
56) about 41 miles (a 1 1/2-hour drive) from
Lihu'e Airport. Many people get to the
trailhead in a rental car, by catching a
ride with friends or even hitchhiking.
A great way to get to the trail head is
through Karen. Who is Karen?
Karen lives on Kauai and has a service that
can pick you up from the airport and deliver
you and your bags to the trailhead.
You can reach her by emailing her at
hikekauai@gmail.com.
Climate/Seasons. Throughout the year,
temperatures seldom drop below 60°F. Summer
weather (May to October) normally brings
steady tradewinds and occasional showers
while winter weather (October to May) is
less predictable. Tradewind showers are more
frequent during the night and early morning.
Infrequent widespread storms cause flash
floods.
Gear. Travel
light. Lightweight hiking shoes with good
traction are popular. Camping gear should
include a lightweight sleeping bag or
blanket, sleeping pad, tent or tarp, cooking
stove and fuel, water purification tablets
or filter, first aid kit, mosquito
repellent, sunscreen, rain gear, and
biodegradeable soap.
Permits
Required.
Obtain all permits from the Honolulu or
Lihu'e State Parks office. Camping fees for
Na Pali Coast went up recently. The new fee is
$20.00 per person per
night. $15 if you are a resident. You can
check for availability of permits
here.
Day-use
hiking permits are required when continuing
beyond Hanakapi'ai valley, even if overnight
camping is not planned. Permits can be
obtained from the State Parks office in
Lihue.
Camping
Permits. A maximum stay of 5 nights is
allowed in Na Pali Coast State Park. Within
the 5-night maximum, no 2 consecutive nights
are allowed at Hanakapi‘ai or Hanakoa.
Facilites.
The authorized camping areas along the trail
do not have tables or drinking water.
Composting toilets are available at
Hanakapi'ai, Hanakoa, and Kalalau. All
camping areas are located on shaded terraces
near streams.
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