Hanakapi'ai Beach

Hanakapi’ai Beach is a remote and strikingly beautiful spot along Kauai’s rugged Nā Pali Coast. Accessible only by hiking the first two miles of the famous Kalalau Trail, this golden-sand beach is framed by steep, jungle-covered cliffs to one side and the expanse of the Pacific Ocean to the other. The journey to the beach takes visitors through lush valleys, bamboo forests, and along dramatic coastal cliffs, making it one of the most rewarding hikes in Hawaii.

Despite its beauty, Hanakapi‘ai Beach is regarded as one of the most dangerous beaches in the world. There is no protective reef to soften the surf, so powerful waves, strong currents, and an unpredictable shore break make swimming here extremely hazardous. Instead, visitors should come to enjoy the scenery, explore the nearby sea caves, and relax on the sand after a challenging hike.

About two miles inland, Hanakapi’ai Falls offers an additional hiking adventure, leading to a spectacular 300-foot waterfall cascading into a serene pool. The combination of the wild beach, dramatic cliffs, and tropical landscape makes Hanakapiai Beach a must-visit for experienced hikers looking for the untamed beauty of Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast.