Of all the islands of Hawaii, they call Kauai "The Garden Isle". It is known for it lushness and its preservation of raw beauty. The most green area of Kauai is it's north shore. Pack a picnic lunch and drive five miles past Hanalei Bay for breathtaking scenery that you will only see on foot.

The famed Napali coastline hiking trail is at the end of the road and I mean literally the end of the road. The road ends to a beautiful, crystal clear, white sand beach. At this location you will find a trail head for the Kalalau Trail. There are various degrees of hikes on this one trail and astonishing nature you can only see if you hike this trail.

The entire trail is 12 miles and leads you to a camping beach called Kalalau Valley. However; along this trail are shorter more relaxed day hikes. Two miles from the trail head is Hanakapiai Beach*. About a quarter of a mile into the hike you can stop and see spectacular views of the Napali Coastline. Along this trail you will also see rare birds, various fruit trees, and have the opportunity to hop across small streams that will help you cool off.

When you come to the two mile marker, Hanakapiai Beach, there is a running river that flows from the green valleys out into the ocean. Stop here and enjoy your picnic lunch, sunbathe or take a dip in the crisp, cool river.

Hanakapiai Beach has lush deep valleys and small caves to explore right on the beach. However; if you are an avid hiker and want to hike a little further, about two more miles there is a waterfall called Hanakapiai Falls. The extra miles are a little more difficult but the reward is amazing. At the end of your exertion is a 150 foot waterfall that crashes into a small pool.

Stop here and feel the wind and mist the waterfall exudes and relax into its gentle power. You can also swim in the pool, but be careful not to swim right under the fall, the current is strong.

Heading back toward the beginning of the trailhead is much easier because it is all downhill which makes these little hikes fun.

This perfect day hike is a great way to experience the raw beauty of Kauai without getting too exhausted; and at each marker there is definitely a place to cool off, relax, and enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty that surrounds you.

For more information about Kauai please visit discoverkauai.

*Hanakapiai Beach is not a swimable beach, and should be approached with caution. The currents in this area are very strong.

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