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State park · Hanalei, Hawaii
Hāʻena State Park
The park is at the end of Kauai’s north shore road, with Kēʻē Beach, a shallow-reef beach, and the start of the Kalalau Trail that runs along the Nā Pali coast cliffs. Visitors from outside Hawaii must reserve parking or a bus.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hāʻena State Park
Hāʻena State Park sits where Kauai’s north shore road ends, about 12 km past Hanalei. From there the Nā Pali Coast begins, with no roads. The park includes Kēʻē Beach, lava caves, and sacred sites linked to hula tradition, such as the Ke Ahu a Laka terrace where the dance was taught.
Kēʻē Beach has a reef that, in summer, forms a shallow, clear lagoon good for snorkeling when the sea is calm. In winter, waves pass over the reef and currents become strong. On the west side of the sand you can see the first cliffs of the Nā Pali.
The Kalalau Trail starts at the beach. The first section, about 3.2 km, climbs and drops along the slope to Hanakāpīʻai Beach, offering coastal views. Swimming at Hanakāpīʻai is not recommended because of strong currents. Continuing beyond that point requires a camping permit.
The number of visitors per day is limited. Non-residents of Hawaii must reserve a parking spot or a bus seat that departs from Hanalei and Princeville in advance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day for Kēʻē and the trail section to Hanakāpīʻai and back; your reserved time slot determines how long you can stay.
Best time
From May to September, when the sea is calm for snorkeling at Kēʻē. Early morning hours are cooler on the trail. After rain the trail becomes slippery and streams rise.
How to get there
Via Highway 560, about 12 km past Hanalei, with one-lane bridges. Tourists must reserve parking or a bus at gohaena.com; without a reservation you will not be allowed in. Check before you go.
Tip
Book as soon as reservations open, because spaces fill quickly. Wear sturdy footwear for the trail and do not cross the Hanakāpīʻai stream when the water is high.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hāʻena State Park
Do you need a reservation to enter Hāʻena State Park?
Yes, for non-Hawaii residents: you must reserve parking or a bus in advance. Check before you go.
How far can you go on the Kalalau Trail without a camping permit?
To Hanakāpīʻai Beach, about 3.2 km from Kēʻē. Beyond that point a camping permit is required.
Can you swim at Kēʻē Beach?
In summer, when the sea is calm, the reef lagoon is good for snorkeling. In winter, waves and strong currents make swimming inadvisable.