The Best Nā pali coast camping in Hawaii

Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park, located in Hawaii, United States, is a stunning park and tourist attraction known for its rugged cliffs and beautiful coastline. The park features deep valleys, waterfalls, and streams, as well as ancient Hawaiian terraces where taro was once cultivated. After being closed for over a year due to severe flooding, the park has reopened with new management strategies in place. Visitors can access the park and the famous Kalalau Trail through Hāʻena State Park, with advanced reservations now required for entry. Due to the threat of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death fungus, visitors are urged to take precautions to protect the native trees. Camping permits for Nāpali Coast are in high demand and often sell out in advance, so visitors are advised to plan accordingly. The only legal way to access the shore areas in the park is by boat, making for a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

Polihale State Park, located at Lower Saki Mana Road in Waimea, Hawaii, is a stunning beach park that rewards visitors who brave a long and rutted dirt road with a breathtaking experience. This park is a popular tourist attraction, offering picnicking and tent camping on a wild coastline with a large sand beach backed by dunes. Visitors can enjoy swimming during calm conditions in the summer, as well as shore fishing and scenic views of the high sea cliffs of the Nāpali Coast. However, it is important to monitor local surf and weather reports before visiting the park, as the road leading to the park is unimproved and may become impassable during heavy rains. Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended, as rental car companies may prohibit their vehicles from accessing the park. Due to overuse and abuse, Polihale State Park has faced temporary closures in the past. The State Department of Land and Natural Resources Division of State Parks is working on improving park management and enforcing park rules to prevent further closures. Community feedback is being gathered through open house talk story sessions and virtual meetings to identify potential improvements and management policies. Overnight camping at Polihale has reopened for stays beginning August 14, 2022, with reservations available online.

Kalalau Trailhead, located in Hanalei, Hawaii, is the starting point for one of the most adventurous hiking trails in the world, the Kalalau Trail. This trail, originally built in the late 1800s, provides access to the stunning Napali Coast via land, traversing five valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach. The 11-mile trail offers breathtaking views of towering sea cliffs and lush tropical valleys. Visitors must have day-use reservations or a valid camping permit, as well as parking reservations to access the trail. Hiking the full 22-mile round trip in a day is not recommended, so camping permits are essential for those planning to stay overnight in Kalalau Valley. The trail is recommended for experienced hikers, with the first 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai Beach being a popular day hike.