📸 Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park | Kauai, Hawaii
📝 My Story
Few places in the world can compare to the jaw-dropping beauty of the Nā Pali Coast.
We first experienced this legendary shoreline during our Captain Andy’s Nā Pali Dinner Sunset Sail — and it’s safe to say it took our breath away.
Towering emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, hidden sea caves, and vast untouched valleys stretch along 17 miles of rugged coastline.
The Nā Pali Coast is largely inaccessible by car — you either hike it (via the Kalalau Trail), see it from a boat, or experience it from the air by helicopter.
We chose the boat option, and it was the perfect way to feel completely immersed in this magical part of Kauai.
Watching the sunset over the dramatic cliffs, with dolphins jumping beside the boat, was one of those rare moments that you truly never forget.
Whether you sail, hike, or fly, visiting the Nā Pali Coast should absolutely be on your Hawaii bucket list!
📌 Quick Info
🏙️ City: Northwest Coast of Kauai
🅿️ Parking: Limited parking at trailheads (for hikers); boat tours depart from Port Allen
🚻 Bathrooms: At boat launch locations (not along the coast itself)
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not applicable
🧭 Travel Tip: Book boat tours or helicopter rides well in advance — they fill up quickly!
📸 Photographer’s Note: Golden hour lighting along the cliffs is absolutely spectacular
🛐 Etiquette: Respect trail and marine life regulations; Nā Pali is a sacred and fragile environment
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Summer months (May–September) for calmer seas and better access
♿ Accessibility: Limited; best accessed via boat or helicopter tours
💡 Pro Tip
If you’re prone to seasickness, bring motion sickness medication before any boat excursion — the waters can get rough even on calm days!
📸 Photography Tip
Use a polarizing filter to cut glare from the ocean and really make the colors of the cliffs and sea pop.
And don’t be afraid to put the camera down for a few minutes and just soak it all in.
🎉 Fun Fact
The name "Nā Pali" literally translates to "The Cliffs" in Hawaiian — and these cliffs rise up to an incredible 4,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean!
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Kauai (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
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Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
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