Awaawapuhi Trail
The Awaawapuhi Trail in Kokee offers a challenging yet rewarding hike through some of Hawaii’s most breathtaking scenery. Spanning approximately 6.2 miles round-trip with varying incline and terrain, the trail begins at Kokee State Park Headquarters and winds through lush forests and stunning canyon views before ending at the Awaawapuhi Lookout, with a panoramic view of the Napali Coast.
The view is especially striking just before sunset, when golden light washes over the rugged coastline. The trail demands some stamina and hiking experience, but the payoff in scenery makes it one of Kauai’s most memorable hikes.
Location: Kokee (35.8 miles from Poipu)
Hanakapiai Falls Hike
This hike rewards multiple stream crossings and varied terrain. Starting at Kee Beach on the North Shore, the first two miles follow the Kalalau Trail, climbing steadily to 400 feet before opening to sweeping views of the Napali Coastline and Kee Beach below. The trail then alternates between ocean and valley views, passing small waterfalls before descending to Hanakapiai Stream, fed by the falls two miles further up. Wade across to reach Hanakapiai Beach, a good spot to cool off in the stream before continuing—though the ocean here isn’t safe for swimming due to strong currents and shore break.
From the beach, the trail to the falls gains 760 feet, winding through bamboo forests and mountain apple trees with some narrow, slippery sections near the end. The payoff is a 300-foot waterfall with a swimming area below, well worth bringing lunch and water to enjoy before retracing your steps. The full round trip is 8 miles and takes about 5 hours, so plan accordingly—and watch the weather, since rain can cause the stream to rise quickly and strand hikers in the valley.
Location: Haena (52.1 miles from Poipu)
Kalalau Trail
The Kalalau Trail is a stunning but challenging hike on Kauai, known for breathtaking views of the Pacific, lush greenery, and scenic waterfalls. A permit is required, available through the Hawaii State Parks website or by phone up to 14 days in advance. A single-night camping permit costs $20 per person, while multi-night permits run $40 per person, with discounts available for Hawaii residents.
Since permits are limited and tend to sell out quickly, it’s best to apply as early as possible—especially for peak season (May–September), when booking several months ahead gives the best chance of securing your desired dates. The trail itself demands solid physical fitness, as hikers face steep, strenuous terrain and sometimes extreme weather, so come prepared and follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve its natural beauty.
Location: Haena (52.1 miles from Poipu)
Mahaulepu Coast Trail
The Mahaulepu Coast Trail in Poipu is a picturesque, well-marked 4-mile round-trip hike suitable for all skill levels, offering breathtaking ocean views, rugged lava rock formations, and lush coastal vegetation. Along the way, hikers encounter secluded beaches, blowholes, and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites, including heiaus and burial mounds that offer a glimpse into the island’s history.
A highlight is Makauwahi Cave, the largest limestone cave in Hawaii, home to a unique and fragile ecosystem with rare and endangered species—hikers are asked to stay on designated trails to help protect it. Open year-round, the Mahaulepu Coast Trail is a must-visit for hikers, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts of any experience level.
Location: Poipu
Nualolo Trail
The Nualolo Trail is a picturesque 4.5-mile hike known for breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, majestic cliffs, and lush vegetation. Starting at Koke’e State Park, the trail descends into Nualolo Valley through steep, uneven terrain rated moderately difficult, so sturdy shoes and plenty of water are essential. Along the way, hikers pass through Koa and Ohia forest, home to plant and animal species found only in Hawaii.
The view from Nualolo Ridge is breathtaking, taking in both the Nāpali Coast and the Pacific Ocean. Further down in Nualolo Valley, hikers can see the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village, a glimpse into the indigenous culture that once thrived there—making this trail a must for anyone visiting Kauai who loves hiking and nature.
Location: Kokee overlooking Waimea Canyon (37.9 miles from Poipu)
Pihea Trail
Pihea Trail begins at the Puu O Kila Lookout over Kalalau Valley in Kokee State Park, following a narrow ridge with sweeping views into the valley as clouds part to reveal lush green slopes, the blue Pacific, and towering cliffs. The trail winds through native Ohia, fern, and koa forest, transitioning after the first mile to a boardwalk of wood planks with chicken wire for traction.
Around two miles in, turn left at the junction with the Alakai Swamp Trail toward Kilohana Lookout, descending steep wooden stairs to cross Kawaikoi Stream before climbing along narrow ridges onto a high plateau. The boardwalk continues over small bogs, where fog can limit visibility to just a few feet. After a couple of dips in the trail, you emerge at the western edge of Wainiha Pali at Kilohana, rewarded with a panoramic view stretching from Wainiha Valley to the horseshoe-shaped Hanalei Bay.
Location: Kokee overlooking Waimea Canyon (37.9 miles from Poipu)
Sleeping Giant Hike
The Nounou Kuamoo Trail crosses Opaekaa Stream on a wooden bridge and winds through a forest of strawberry guavas. At .75 mile, a covered picnic table offers views of Kalepa Ridge and the upper Wailua Homestead, making it a good option for a shorter hike. The trail continues along Nounou Mountain’s west side, meeting the Nounou West Trail around 1.8 miles, then passes through a cathedral forest of Cook Pines planted by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, surrounded by pines, strawberry guava, wild orchids, and eucalyptus as it climbs.
At the top, sweeping views take in Mt. Waialeale, Anahola’s Kong Mountain, the Wailua River Valley, and the coastline from Kealia to Kalapaki, with another picnic table for resting. From here, a more difficult climb leads along the ridge toward the giant’s head, rewarding hikers with a 360-degree view of Kauai’s east side. The trail gets its name from the giant’s profile it traces across, visible from the ocean or Kapaa side of the mountain.
Location: Wailua (20.6 miles from Poipu)
Waipo’o Falls Hike
Waipo’o Falls is an 800-foot, two-tiered waterfall on Kokee Stream, located in the heart of Waimea Canyon, the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. It can be viewed from several lookouts along the canyon road: a first glimpse comes from the Waimea Canyon Overlook past mile marker 10 on Highway 550, while a closer, better view awaits a couple miles up at the unsigned Pu’u Ka Pele Lookout, just before mile marker 13.
For a closer look, a popular family-friendly hike begins between mile markers 14 and 15, starting along Halemanu Road for .75 miles to the trailhead of the Canyon Trail and Waipoo Falls Trail. The trail winds along the canyon’s rim through forested bird lands, offering phenomenal views of both the canyon and the Kokee Rain Forest—though the falls themselves aren’t visible from the trail’s end.
Like most falls on the islands, Waipo’o’s flow depends on rainfall; it can run dry in summer but is quite impressive in winter or after heavy rain.
Location: Kokee overlooking Waimea Canyon (33.6 miles from Poipu)
