The 11-mile Kalalau Trail leads to one of Hawaii's most remote camping experiences, where backpackers earn their stay through challenging terrain and creek crossings. This walk-in campground sits at the end of the famous Na Pali Coast trail, accessible only to those willing to carry their gear across sometimes rough sections of coastline path.
Camping spreads along nearly half a mile of beach, with sites scattered throughout the treeline behind the sand. A waterfall provides water access and serves as a natural shower, though campers should treat all water sources. Matt S. notes to be "careful camping on the beach as waves can rise overnight." The basic toilet facilities reflect the remote setting, and helicopter tours occasionally pass overhead during daytime hours.
Multiple reviewers mention the demanding nature of reaching this spot, with one describing the 22-mile round trip as both torture and reward. Sites accommodate both tents and hammocks, and the area includes access to explore the broader Kalalau Valley. Day hikers thin out after the initial trail sections, leaving overnight visitors with more solitude.
The campground requires advance permits and serves as a base for those seeking extended time along this undeveloped coastline. Nearby options include Hā'ena State Park for easier access camping before tackling the trail.
Description
Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park & Kalalau Trail: In-order to access the Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park as well as the Kalalau Trail, visitors have to go through Hāʻena SP. Hāʻena SP now requires advanced reservations for entry except for those with valid camping permits for the Nāpali Coast SWP and for Hawaii residents. Those with Nāpali Coast SWP Camping Permits do not need to make a Hāʻena SP Park Entry Reservation. Please present your valid camping permit upon arrival.
Camping Permits are available 90-days in-advance
Location
Public CampgroundKalalau Trail Camping — Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park is located in Hawaii
Coordinates
22.2099475860596 N
159.589431762695 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Toilets
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Kalalau Trail Camping — Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park needs a permit.
