Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition
A 17-mile expedition along the Na Pali Coast — towering 4,000-foot emerald cliffs, sea caves, and waterfalls accessible only by water.
At a Glance
Distance
17 miles
Estimated Time
8-12 hours
Difficulty
Expert
Route Type
One-Way
Water Body
Pacific Ocean
Activities
Best Seasons
Route Map
About This Route
The Na Pali Coast of Kauai is considered one of the most spectacular sea kayak routes in the world. Towering 4,000-foot emerald cliffs draped in waterfalls plunge directly into the Pacific Ocean. This one-way route follows the entire 17-mile coastline from Haena to Polihale.
Sea caves, hidden beaches, and cascading waterfalls punctuate the route. The cathedral-like Honopu Arch — a natural stone archway on the beach — is accessible only by water. Dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales (winter) are regular companions.
This is an expert-level expedition requiring ocean kayaking experience, strong fitness, and careful weather planning. The route is only possible during summer months (May-September) when north shore swells subside.
Highlights
- •4,000-foot emerald sea cliffs
- •Honopu Arch — accessible only by water
- •Sea caves and cascading waterfalls
- •Dolphins, sea turtles, humpback whales
Safety & Hazards
EXPERT ONLY — open ocean with potential 6+ foot swells. No bailout points for first 7 miles. Cold-weather gear not needed but ocean rescue PFD mandatory. File a float plan. Requires state permit for Na Pali Coast State Park.
Shuttle Information
Shuttle from Polihale to Haena is a 90-minute drive. Most paddlers use outfitter shuttle service. Return permits required from DLNR.
Permit Required
DLNR camping permit required for Miloli'i / overnight stops; commercial trips require permitted outfitters
Frequently Asked Questions
- How difficult is Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition?
- Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition is rated expert difficulty. EXPERT ONLY — open ocean with potential 6+ foot swells. No bailout points for first 7 miles. Cold-weather gear not needed but ocean rescue PFD mandatory. File a float plan. Requires state permit for Na Pali Coast State Park.
- How long does Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition take?
- Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition covers 17 miles and typically takes 8-12 hours.
- Do I need a shuttle for Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition?
- Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition is a one-way route. Shuttle from Polihale to Haena is a 90-minute drive. Most paddlers use outfitter shuttle service. Return permits required from DLNR.
- When is the best time to paddle Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition?
- The best seasons for Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition are summer. Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition is on Pacific Ocean.
- Are permits required for Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition?
- DLNR camping permit required for Miloli'i / overnight stops; commercial trips require permitted outfitters
- What activities are available on Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition?
- Na Pali Coast Sea Kayak Expedition supports Kayaking. Highlights: 4,000-foot emerald sea cliffs, Honopu Arch — accessible only by water, Sea caves and cascading waterfalls, Dolphins, sea turtles, humpback whales.
Quick Facts
- Put-in
- Haena Beach Park
- Take-out
- Polihale State Park
- Water Body
- Pacific Ocean
- State
- Hawaii
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