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The Hawaiian Islands, rather than land, are exposed peaks of a great undersea mountain range known as the Hawaiian–Emperor Seamount Chain. Formed by volcanic activity over a spot in the Earth’s crust, the breathtaking beauty and stunning views of the Hawaiian Islands are unrivaled.
Hawaii is usually known for eight significant islands, including Hawaii, Maui, Oahu, Kauai, Lanai, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Niihau, and roughly 125 atolls, smaller islands, and sandbars. While each island has its charms, if you like to hike, Kauai will certainly not disappoint with arguably some of the best hikes in the world.
Kauai is home to roughly 91 hiking trails, mountain biking, and backpacking routes.
There is also a wide range of trails, from 3,000-foot ridge paths on the North Shore to beach walks along the Na Pali coastline. All of these hikes range from easy, paved routes to highly challenging rocky terrain up thousands of feet, offering breathtaking views.
Exploring Kauai is an endless adventure. Luckily, the Garden Isle has some of the best hikes for all ability levels. In fact, many hikers travel to Hawaii to hike the challenging Kauai’s Na Pali Coast Trail. Its rugged scenery and sheer cliffs give way to the Kalalau Valley at the end of the Na Pali Coast Trail. This historic valley is known as the original home of over 6,000 indigenous peoples.
Whether looking for an easy trek or hoping to check a few trails off your hiking bucket list, the island offers incredible natural beauty, and Kauai hiking provides a unique challenge.
1. Hanakapi’ai Falls Trail
This unique northern Kauai trail within Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is a 7.7-mile out-and-back trail near Hanalei. It is a popular but challenging route that takes half a day or on average 4.75 hours to complete.
The trail is open year-round, but leave the pup behind — dogs are not allowed. The first half of the route is a moderate hike to Hanakapiai Beach, which can be muddy and slippery during the first mile. The second half involves a strenuous hike to the falls. The total elevation gain is roughly 2,457 feet.
Along the way, hikers can expect varied, rugged terrain. Although stunningly beautiful, avoid the trail after heavy rainfall. Advanced reservations are now required for all non-Hawaii residents.
2. Awa’awapuhi Trail
Located in northwest Kauai, the Awa’awa’puhi Trail is part of Koke’e State Park. The Awa’awapuhi Trail involves a challenging six-mile out-and-back trek through dense jungles and dry landscapes near Kekaha, Kauai. Totally within the Nāpali-Kona Forest Reserve, which allows hikers and runners to enjoy the tropical wildflowers and wildlife.
At the trail’s end are sweeping views of the Na Pali coastline. While beautiful, the Awa’awapuhi Trail is a hard hike and will take the experienced hiker roughly four hours to complete. This round-trip trail is open year-round, so you and your pup can enjoy the views.
The trail is a continual downhill hike from 4,120 feet elevation to the valley rim of Nualolo at 2,500 feet. The trail’s end is flat grassland and a popular picnic area. But there is a hefty climb out.
3. Makawehi Lithified Cliffs Trail
The Makawehi Lithified Cliffs Trail is a 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Koloa on the island’s South Shore. The elevation gain is a scant 317 feet, but the terrain is craggy, and the walking and hiking trail is often rated as moderately difficult. It is a popular one-hour-and-a-half trail, and dogs are welcome when leashed.
Located on Keoneloa Bay in South Kauai, the trail extends from Shipwreck Beach to the remote and stunning Mahaulepu Beach near Kawailoa Bay. Along the way are tidal pools and sculpted lava formations. And the ancient limestone sea cliffs, sandblasted by a salty mix of wind and water for millions of years, house a trove of fossils, petroglyphs, and burial grounds.
4. Nounou East Sleeping Giant Trail
The Nounou East or Sleeping Giant Trail is moderately difficult near Kapaʻa, Kauai, in east Kauai. The out and back is roughly 3.5 miles but will take two to three hours to complete.
The trail can be hot later in the day, and some drop offs are steep. The elevation gain is a brisk 1,000-foot trek, but the views are spectacular, and there are examples of exotic plant life and island birds. Along the Nounou Mountain are unobstructed views of the island’s eastern shore and Waialeale at the trail’s end.
The rugged trail resembles a sleeping man giving way to the name. In the town of Kapaa, locals still tell the legend of a giant who feasted so much at a party in his honor he never woke up.
The Sleeping Giant Trail is active and open year-round. Luckily, off-leash dogs are welcome.
5. Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls
The Canyon Trail to Waipo’o Falls is generally considered a moderately challenging three-mile out-and-back trail near Kekaha, in Koke’e State Park. Waterfall hikes are some of the most popular, and this trail can be completed in two hours at a steady pace. The elevation gain is a noticeable 1066 feet,
This popular rainforest hike is excellent for families and children, but unfortunately, no dogs. Parking is easily accessible and a short walk to the Canyon Trailhead.
The route is known for exotic birdwatching, hiking, and running – making it a relatively busy trail. Because of the terrain, significant rain makes the trek slippery and muddy, and hiking shoes and poles are usually recommended. The dirt trail’s best months are October through February – outside the rainy season.
6. Kuilau Ridge Trail
This amazing ridge trail is a 3.6-mile out-and-back trek through the lush jungle of Lihue-Koloa Forest Reserve on the east side of the island, towards Waialeale. Moderately easy, the trek takes about two hours to complete and is popular with kids. The Kuilau Ridge Trail is one of the more popular hikes on the island, and you will also see year-round horseback riding and mountain biking. Leashed dogs are also welcome for a bit of extra fun. Overall, this is an excellent hike. But the area is prone to tropical rain making things muddy – sturdy hiking shoes are suggested.
This trailhead starts at the Keahua Arboretum parking lot on Kuamo’o Road and continues through dense forest to Kuilau Ridge. This amazing ridge trail offers incredible views of the mountain peaks.
This trail has multiple waypoints, including picnic tables and a bridge at the Kuilau & Moalepe Trails intersection.
7. Nualolo Trail
The Nualolo Trail in western Kauai offers sweeping views of the Na Pali Coast, but the 7.5-mile out-and-back trail near Kekaha will make you work for the stunning scenery. A day hike, Nualolo Trail, is a challenging route that taxes endurance. It takes roughly five hours to complete. Luckily there is native wildlife and exotic wildflowers to distract you from the 2,578-foot elevation gain.
Hiking shoes and walking sticks are a must on this trip, and it often rains, making the narrow parts and steeper grades a bit muddy.
8. Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach
The Kalalau Trail on the island’s western shore is the quintessential 22-mile out-and-back, 12-hour hike along the Na Pali Coast. However, if you are looking for a taste of the area’s awe-inspiring beauty, try the Hanakapiai Trail, which covers the first two miles one way of the Kalalau Trail. This abbreviated route starts at Ke’e Beach on North Kauai. It passes through Kalalau Beach and ends after hikers have crossed the stream at Hanakapiai Beach.
The trail is complex, with numerous climbs and descents, making this a strenuous hike even with sturdy shoes and hiking poles. The entire trail gains 6,177 feet in elevation. The weather on the trail can be rainy, windy, and very rustic.
The route skirts the mountain’s edge along the ocean through the Hono O Nā Pali Natural Area Reserve and Napali Coast State Wilderness Park. Day hikers who wish to see Hanakapiai Falls can detour roughly two miles. Non-Hawaii residents planning to hike the Kalalau trail hike must make online reservations which will be limited to 900 daily.
9. Uluwehi Falls
Uluwehi Falls, also known as Secret Falls, is nestled in the lush Wailua River Basin. The valley basin is a favorite for fishing, and paddle sports and kayak tours are common on the Wailua River.
The dirt trail is open year-round, but the family pup is better off at home.
A moderate route with a bit of scrambling, this 6.1-mile out-and-back trail near Kapaʻa takes roughly two hours to hike at a steady pace.
The path can be muddy and overgrown with roots and vegetation, but the waterfalls at the end are worth the effort. Many combine the hike with a kayak to reach and explore the Kamokila Hawaiian Village at 1.8 miles en route and cut the path time.
10. Waimea Canyon Lookout
The Waimea Canyon Lookout is an easy 0.1-mile loop paved path near Wainiha on the far west part of the island. Referred to as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, the views of Waimea Canyon are breathtaking. Further up, the summit overlooks Wai’ale’ale.
Generally considered an easy route, it takes an average of two minutes to complete. Wheelchair-accessible, the short walk is great for families and kids. Leashed dogs are also welcome on this busy, two-minute trail.
Waimea Canyon State Park charges fees to park and enter for Hawaii non-residents. Fees are per vehicle for parking and per person for entrance.
At the summit, the fog gives way to a panoramic island view, including the red and amber colors given off by the hard red dirt unique to Kauai.
11. Kauapea “Secret” Beach
The island of Kauai has many secrets, but Kauapea Secret Beach is not one of them. This 0.6-mile out-and-back trail near Kilauea is considered an easy route with a negligible 173- foot elevation gain that takes roughly 21 min to finish. It is also one of the best hikes in Kauai.
Kauapea Secret Beach Trail is an incredibly popular walking trail open year-round. It is kids and family-friendly, although it can be slippery during rain. Some of the descent is steep, requiring a bit of scrambling. But good hiking shoes will help the climb.
The beach has a view of the Kilauea Point Lighthouse. And depending on the season, this is a great place to spot whales offshore.
12. Kilauea Lighthouse
The Kilauea Lighthouse Trail is an easy 0.4-mile out-and-back trail that gains 82 feet in elevation near Kilauea and is part of the Kilauea National Wildlife Refuge. Open year-round, the views from Kilauea Point are spectacular. The trail is hugely popular for walking and sightseeing.
It is a bit steep on the return walk, but the trek only lasts 15 minutes. Unfortunately, dogs are not allowed on this trail.
The short paved trail, roughly six feet wide, leads to the historic Daniel K. Kilauea Inouye Lighthouse. Built in 1913 on Kilauea Point, this is a favorite spot for watching seabirds as they nest and is perfect for humpback whale watching. The Lighthouse has an easily accessible parking lot, but there is an entry fee.
13. Wai Koa Loop Trail
The Wai Koa Loop Trail is an easy, 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Kilauea in the island’s northern part. Very popular for hiking, mountain biking, and running, and at a steady hike will take about two hours to complete.
The path is relatively flat, with a slow 813-foot elevation gain and lots of shade. There are possible muddy spots due to the shade, but the path is usually well-groomed. A small stone edge waterfall at the waypoint is a great stop. And the exotic plants and wildlife along the path are kids’ favorites.
Leashed dogs are welcome on the Wai Koa Loop, and the Kauai North Shore Dog Park can access the trail. But this part of the trail is on private property, so a waiver at the Anaina Hou Welcome Center is necessary.
Staying on the path while on the private property ensures continued public access to this valuable trail.
14. Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail
The Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail: From Shipwreck Beach in Poipu to Punahoa Point is worth the afternoon. Enjoy this moderately challenging, 3.7-mile out-and-back trail near Koloa.
The challenges stem from a standing start and a bit of a grade to the beach. The endemic red soil and black volcanic rocks can prove slippery after a hard rain. But the trek is worth the effort.
Popular for hiking and walking, it takes an average of 1 h 23 min to complete. Locals and visitors frequent the trail year-round, and it is a beautiful hike for the kids, family, and the family pup.
This coastal trail travels Kauai’s southern coastline from Shipwreck’s Beach on Keoneloa Bay next to Makawehi Point to the remote but stunning Mahaulepu Beach and Makauwahi Cave near Kawailoa Bay. The elevation is a mere 318 feet gain.
Along the path are sheer sea cliffs, coves, dunes, and tide pools along the trail. In the winter, the beach offers excellent venues for humpback whale watching and is a favorite spot for local monk seals.
15. Ho’opi’i Falls Trail
The Ho’opi’i Falls trail is a moderately difficult hike that takes about an hour to complete the 2.4-mile out-and-back trail near Kapaʻa on the island’s eastern side. A small elevation gain of 196 feet hides the cliffs and rocky scrambles needed to reach the Falls. Dogs are welcome on a leash.
The trek to the trailhead and the difficulties with parking make this an interesting adventure. Parking for this trail is technically at Kapahi Park, but the trailhead is on Kapahi Road. Ho’opi’i Falls is a beautiful area for hiking, but the site is on private land in a small neighborhood. Visitors are asked to respect right-of-ways and quiet zones.
Also, it is not recommended to get in the water due to contamination from poorly maintained house sewers.
16. Alakai Swamp Trail
The Alakai Swamp Trail is located in the northwestern part of the island in the Na Pali Kona Forest Reserve and Koke’e State Park. This moderately challenging 7-mile out-and-back trail near Kekaha takes three and a half hours to finish.
The Alakai Swamp Trail lives up to its name, as much of the back half of the trek is pools and swamp waters. A wooden plank path, this area is great for birding and hiking. However, due to the nature of the environment, rain, mud, and overgrowth can be an issue, so be prepared.
The elevation gain is a respectable 1,332 feet, and the rocky climb will provide a strenuous workout. But the views from the Kilohana Vista are worth the scramble if the weather cooperates. Leave the kids and pup at home. This trail is not for the faint of heart.
17. Okolehao Trail
The Okolehao Trail, also dubbed Hanalei River Trail and Hihimanu Trail, is a moderately strenuous 2.6-mile out-and-back trail in the Hanalei National Wildlife Refuge on the northern tip of the island.
The short version of the route takes about an hour and a half to finish. But for the truly adventurous, the trail expands to a four to five-hour trek requiring sturdy hiking shoes, water, and walking sticks.
An ascent to the ridgeline ascent behind Hanalei provides panoramic views of the valley and the ocean. This is the official short trial.
The next challenge is a mud-encrusted, rope-assisted climb of Hihimanu Ridge, Kauai’s Twin Peaks. If you choose to continue, look for the locally famous tree “Woody,” which signals a second flat plateau with sweeping views of Hanalei Bay and Pier, the Kilauea Lighthouse, Princeville, and Bali Hai. If you reach the trail’s end, you can view a rough 1/5 of the magnificent island of Kauai.
18. Makaleha Trail
The Makaleha Waterfalls Trail is a 5.2-mile out-and-back route through the dense jungle near Kapaʻa on the east side of the island. This is a difficult route taking experienced hikers two and a half to three hours to complete. Parking is at the water tanks at the end of Kahuna Road north of Kapaa, and the trailhead is immediately adjacent.
This popular trail is famous for rocky scrambles, overgrowth, secondary paths, and many bugs, but the cliff trails and stunning waterfall on the east trail are the perfect rewards. Not for the faint of heart or the family dog.
Don’t Forget to Pack Your Hiking Boots
On your upcoming vacation to the beautiful island of Kauai, be sure you leave space in your suitcase for your hiking boots. Once you get your first glimpse of the natural beauty of this island, I’m sure you’ll be eager to see even more of it. From beginner-friendly to advanced-only, there’s more than one hike on this list for you to choose from.
Featured Image Credit: Maridav
