Kauai North Shore
Within the North Shore region of Kauai lies the Na Pali Coast State Park. Majestic cliffs or "pali" rise as high as 4,000 feet overlooking the northern shore of the Pacific Ocean. Although the park is inaccessible by car, visitors can get there by boat (or kayaks), by helicopter, or by hiking the Kalalau Trail.
The strenuous Kalalau Trail runs about 11 miles along the North Shore coast from Ke'e Beach through five valleys to the Kalalau Valley and Kalalau Beach. Most hikers will need about 6 to 8 hours to complete this journey, but the reward is a great one. A limited number of camping permits are issued for Na Pali Coast State Park in an effort to protect its delicate ecosystem.
Another point of interest and spectacular beauty within Kauai's North Shore is Hanalei Bay. The bay is composed of a long, sandy beach in the shape of a half-moon. One side of the beach seems to have literally been carved into the side of a cliff while the other side ends at a rocky point. While the surf in most of the North Shore is too rough for safe swimming, Hanalei Bay boasts calm waters.
Travelers should also visit Kilauea on the north shore of Kauai - one of the most popular spots in Hawaii. The point at Kilauea is the northern most point on the island and features the Kilauea Point Lighthouse and National Wildlife Refuge. The Lighthouse was built in 1913 and had been lit each night up until the start of World War II. The US Coast Guard has been responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of the landmark since 1939. The Lighthouse is wholly contained within the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge that boasts 203 acres of protected land for native species such as the nene (Hawaii's State Bird, the Hawaiian Goose), the Laysan albatross and the Hawaiian monk seal. Migrating humpback whales and spinner dolphins can also be observed from the shore of the Refuge.
Another favorite spot in Kauai's North Shore is its most photographed beach, Lumahai Beach. Breathtaking in its beauty, Lumahai served as the location for the making of the film South Pacific.
Hawaii Vacations
Kauai Hawaii
Kauai North Shore
