Kalalau Trail Camping, near Hanalei, Hawaii, is a stunning spot for those ready to tackle the adventure of a lifetime. This location offers direct beach access with breathtaking views of the Na Pali Coast, making it a prime destination for hikers and campers alike.

The area is known for its primitive charm, with campsites scattered along the nearly half-mile stretch of beach. Visitors rave about the incredible scenery, with one camper noting, “If you make it to Kalalau Beach, you will be rewarded with an amazing location.” While there are basic outhouses available, the real highlight is the natural beauty surrounding you, including the nearby waterfall for a refreshing rinse after a long hike.

For those who love to explore, the Kalalau Trail offers some of the best hiking in the country. Reviewers emphasize the importance of being prepared, with plenty of water and snacks, as the trek can be challenging. As one hiker put it, “Kalalau is one of the best backpacking trips in the country.” Just remember, this is a remote area, so leave no trace and respect the land.

With its rugged terrain and stunning landscapes, Kalalau Trail Camping is perfect for those seeking a true wilderness experience. Whether you're soaking in the sunset or hiking through lush jungles, this spot promises unforgettable memories.

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

Kalalau Trail Camping — Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Kapa‘a, HI is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Kapa‘a. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Kapa‘a

The Best Camping Near Kapa‘a, Hawaii

the hype does not match the reality. Oh, if you are deaf it is a wonder to behold. The innocent tourists in helicopter tours make it a waste of time and money. Even thou you might be loving the magic which is pervasive, when you leave you will realize you have been cheated.

the campground itself is just OK.  A little  overmanaged for a wilderness .

I have done the hike to this campsite 4 times in 4 years. Each year I anticipate going and each time I do it I find myself asking myself, "why am I putting myself through this torture?" Then I am rewarded with the my goal, The kalalau beach.
Campsites are spread out with camping available anywhere in the treeline running the whole length of the nearly half mile long beach.
The campsites are fare for being so remote but the real treasure here is in the beach. Sit for a sunset and you will understand. 
Be aware is an 11 mile hike in and an 11 mile hike out. Do your research and get your permits.

Camping in a lost world

How can you complain about a campground in paradise?!

On the Na Pali Coast trail at the halfway point near Hanakoa Falls are a few primitive spots to call home before venturing on.  Warning: The ground is wet (duh, it's Kauai) and "locals" tend to squat in the area.  There's a 3-sided shelter to get out of the rain, but that happened to be where a kid was more or less living.  He was sweet and watched our things while we hiked to the waterfall - although he could have easily stolen everything we had.  

The area feels so sacred and special that even if you may be miserable and wet, you can't help but feel at peace.

Primitive perfection 

Kalalau is one of the best backpacking trips in the country. Please be respectful of the land and of others. The first part to the beach can be crowded with day hikers but the crowd thins out after that. Great views all the way!

Epic hike

This was my favorite hike in Hawaii. It was so beautiful I felt like I was in a movie! Make sure to bring lots of water and even a water pump or life straw, we ran out of water and thought we had brought too much initially. Also have a snack, I didn’t eat that day and my legs started shaking quite a bit. 

Amazing 

If you make it to Kalalau Beach, you will be rewarded with an amazing location and direct beach access in front of a stunning landscape. Access to the Kalalau Valley for exploring is easy from here. At the very end of the trail, there is a waterfall for access to water and taking a shower. Simply breathtaking, but you’ll have to work to make it there. There are outhouses too, but they’re very basic. You might find this site helpful as well: https://www.hikingkalalau.com. 

Photos of Kalalau Trail Camping — Nāpali Coast State Wilderness Park

Real photos from real campers