Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. } The swim is only possible in the summer months, only. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License, Camping at Kalalau requires someserious planning as camping permits go fast.Permits area available on. return; This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. As if Honopu Beach couldnt get more breathtaking, theres also a waterfall here. Napali, meaning the cliffs or many cliffs, consists of 16 miles of dramatic coastline, vivid sea cliffs with over 4,000-foot steep drop-offs, emerald-green valleys, sea caves, and waterfalls. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; All Rights Reserved. Carved into a valley on Kauais rugged Na Pali Coast, the popular magazine named Honopu Beach as one of the countrys most breathtaking spots, and we certainly agree. When we arrived on the beach, it was completely empty. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley, while sand dunes can be found on both sides. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. Download your copy of our Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail image = 'qw'+rnid + i; This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. We started our excursion in the morning. Dane (@nakadane) climbed a sand dune to snap some pics. When the warrior was satisfied with the placement of the remains, hed jump to his death, thus securing the locations secrecy forever. (Be warned they may tryto dissuade you from doing the hike since it's not an officialtrail). In Adventure, Places by Makana ChartersMay 10, 2021Leave a Comment. Movies like, After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the, Click here to visit Niihau & Napali Boat Tour, Click here to email reservations@holoholocharters.com, Click here to view location Port Allen Marina Center The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. Theres a reason this beach is known as one of the hardest to reach on the island of Kauai. This was once a thriving fishing village featuring a stream near many heiau and shrines still found throughout the valley. (That spec at the bottom the photo is a person.). The total distance depends on how far you hike out on the ridge at the end, but we estimate that to the logical and safe stopping pointit's about 2.4 miles one way. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. A, Why Your Kauai Vacation Needs a Raft Tour, 9600 Kaumuali'i Highway Waimea, HI 96796. Another nickname of Honopu is Cathedral Beach. This arch is full of water. On that page, we've also posted a map of the entire area (Koke'e and Waimea State Parks) for you to download and print out at home. var image; So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, this beach is the place for you! This made the swim to Honopu that much longer and it made having a snorkel and fins that much more important. Photo: Ben Schmit. The two hidden and pristine white sand beaches at the end of Honopu Valley, are joined by a 90-foot high arch through the base of the rocky outcropping separating them. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. }else{ Despite the regulations the Department of Land and Natural Resources enforces to limit visitors and respect Honopus sacred history, theyve made several exceptions for Hollywood. Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. It was imperative to bury a chiefs remains in a secret location because it was believed that the mana contained within could be used against the tribe if discovered by the wrong people. But nothing compares to seeing this beautiful coastline in person, and we invite you to join us on one of our boats. Add Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. Providing the highest degree of quality customer service available in the industry. Don't forget to check ourKoke'e State Park Hikingpage for information on all the incredible trails inside the park. We are conveniently located with departures in Port Allen and Hanalei, to service guests of Kauai staying in Hanalei, Princeville, Kilauea, Kapaa, Wailua, Lihue, Koloa, Poipu, and Waimea. The cliffs are formed by erosion duringthe winter when gigantic surf pummels this side of the island. Breakfast, lunch, and beverages are included in this action-packed adventure for the whole family. No road or even a hiking trail leads to it. As we emerged from the water on Honopu Beach, we saw that we were surrounded by towering cliffs. No landing of any boat or aircraft is allowed on the beach or in the valley, unless they belong to Hollywood movies, of which several have been filmed here. Check out our other articles at the top of this page for other locations. "mainEntityOfPage": { We recognize the proper use of the Hawaiian language including the okina [], a consonant, and the kahak [] or macron (e.g., in place names of Hawaii such as Npali). The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. On our signature tour, well explore Kauais extraordinary Napali Coast, and then voyage across the channel to snorkel the world-class waters of Lehua Crater off the Forbidden Island of Niihau, all in one incredible day. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! It is the largest natural arch in Hawaii and Our intent is to strengthen Kauais economy by creating fulfilling jobs and careers, fostering our employees contributions to the islands general health and well-being. Once the winds come, swimming back here to Kalalau Beach wouldve been impossible. (808) 338-9980 if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-box-3','ezslot_0',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-box-3-0');It doesn't get anymore secluded and remote than Honopu Beach on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. Well, the only way to legally access it is by swimming. Themana here is very powerful, and many people in this area feel an eerie presence when they are here; as if they are being watched by spirit guardians. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. } The swim is only possible in the summer months, only during low tide, and only before the winds have picked up. In fact, thats what happened in the 1976 movie Acapulco Gold. The winds, very strong current, and waves would be against you and the distance just seems too far. Come voyage with us to the extraordinary Napali Coast and explore sea caves, waterfalls, and hidden beaches. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. We ate a small breakfast at our campsite then walked the lengthof Kalalau Beach (pictured above) towards the West. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. So would walking the 4 miile } On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. The cliffs directly behind Kalalau beach are known as the cathedral cliffs, for the cathedral-like spires jutting towards the heavens. Plenty to eat and drink and the group size was just great. } If you were to have a panic attack during this swim, youd be in trouble as theres no shore for you to swim up to. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; While there is a good bit of descent in the first mile and a half, it's not that much different than many of the ridges in the area. In fact, thats what happened in "name": "Na Pali Riders", WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. Brian (@blam) and I made our way to towards the back of the sand dunes. Until then, Honopus sand dunes and amazingly blue waters will continue to stay enchanted for twinkle-toed adventurers to discover. Everything is larger than it appears once you walk up to it. You dont have to make the intense swim to the beach to enjoy the uniqueness of the area. Daily, The Honu (Sea Turtle) and Its Importance to Hawaii, 6 Tips for Photographing the Na Pali Coast, 5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast, View From the Top or From the Waters: Discover the Best Way to Explore the Na Pali Coast. show(star_img,rid); Boats and even kayaks are not permitted to land on the beach, so anyone wanting to go has to literally swim there, which is quite dangerous given the strong rip currents and pounding surf. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. A lot of people, though they might bestrong, can get panic attacks when swimming in the open ocean. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; The trail drops about 1,400-1,950 ft. in elevation from the trailhead to the ridge; again, depending on how far you go out on the ridge. One could survive in the area simply on the large amount of wild fruit, such as guavas and grapefruit that grows along its coast. But setting foot on Honopu is not so easy, as boat, kayak, helicopter and other assisted landings are not permitted and there is no land access due to the steep cliffs. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. { In the valley, ancient burial and home sites have been uncovered, including tools, and artifacts, and evidence of a sophisticated terrace and agriculture network proves that this was once a popular community. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. The restrictions on beach landings are due to the beaches and valley being sacred in Hawaiian culture. var lc; Every single day, from sunrise to sunset, Kauais coasts sing a unique symphony of natural wonder. All of the rubblethat breaks off gets washed away leaving this clean edge between sand and cliff. If you're visiting Kauai soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Kauai Visitor Guides. Great service! Honopu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches that Kauai has to offer. Hours: 8:00a.m. The next valley, Kalalau, is probably the most famous and photographed valley of the Napali Coast. Beautiful sunset and beautiful water topped off the adventure. The Honopu Valley, which is easily spotted for its distinctive natural arch is filled with stories and wonder that youll want to explore if youre planning a trip to Kauais most famous coastline. Sticks and branches are often laid across the wrong trails, so watch for them. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; You are not allowed to land any watercraft on the island, and helicopters are also not permitted. One could survive in the area simply on the. } WebFrom $285 Niihau + Napali Super Tour On our signature tour, well explore Kauais extraordinary Napali Coast, and then voyage across the channel to snorkel the world-class waters of Lehua Crater off the Forbidden Island of Niihau, all in one incredible day. WebHonopu Beach | Kauai Boat Tours Honopu Beach & Valley One of the most dramatic and mysterious sections on the Napali Coast is Honopu, which consists of two pristine white-sand beaches, backed by steep 1,200 cliffs and separated by the famous 90 Honopu Arch. It got this name because of the conch shell-like sound that the arch makes when northerly winds blow into the valley. "datePublished": "2022-03-16", At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. by Our premier trip aboard Holoholo begins with a continental breakfast as we head west and north to the majestic Napali Coast with waterfalls, lush valleys, and sea caves. WebHonopu Beach One of the most remote shores in the world, Honopu Beach, located on Kauais Na Pali Coast, can only be accessed by swimming. 4353 Waialo Rd There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. This first prominent cliff we will encounter on our Napali Coast tour is the Makaha ridge and valley. Port Allen Marina Center Tour boats and catamarans glide through the white caps. The good news is that on a good clear day it results in a view that is perhaps Kauai's greatest. The rest of the crew made their way over. , such as guavas and grapefruit that grows along its coast. Eleele, HI, 96705. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. Luckily we are running tours every day (weather permitting) on a variety of different boats. The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. Travel in comfort and style to dramatic locations around Kauai and Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau off uninhabited Lehua Crater. If so, how much it costs. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. function noshow(star_img,rnid) document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; Eleele, HI, 96705. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. In fact, thats what happened in WebHonopu Beach | Kauai Boat Tours Honopu Beach & Valley One of the most dramatic and mysterious sections on the Napali Coast is Honopu, which consists of two pristine white-sand beaches, backed by steep 1,200 cliffs and separated by the famous 90 Honopu Arch. So would walking the 4 miile The area is a place of ancient temples and burial grounds for Hawaiian royalty. We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. Up to this point the trail has continuously descended almost a thousand feet, but now the undulating peaks of the ridge require some strenuous ups-and-downs. These days, its a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to the clear water and abundance of marine life. The Koke'e Lodge and Museum will also have maps available, but we'd definitely advise you to go ahead and review the map and become familiar with the area. With its stunning views and rich history, its an unforgettable experience that youll always treasure. The two hidden and pristine white sand beaches at the end of Honopu Valley are joined by a 90-foot high arch through the base of the rocky outcropping separating them. info@MakanaCharters.com Its no question why Honopu Valley and Beach is listed as one of the worlds most beautiful and dramatic spots. "@type": "WebPage", Hello does the boat take you to the island? } } document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Movies like King Kong, Jurassic Park, Six Days and Seven Nights, as well as Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End all feature this beautiful backdrop. | Web usage privacy. On our Kauai boat tours, we help guests fully appreciate and absorb Kauais natural beauty, while respecting the islands water, wildlife, land, people, and traditions, with our eco-friendly and meticulously maintained Kauai-built boats and talented staff. Honopu Valley has been called the Valley of the Lost Tribe as it was the last rumored refuge of the Menehune on Kauai. Theres a reason its known as one of the worlds most beautiful destinations. The trail and activity descriptions are given to give the reader a better understanding of what to expect while hiking and participating in activities in Hawaii. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. Movies like King Kong, Jurassic Park, Six Days and Seven Nights, as well as Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End all feature this beautiful backdrop. Movies like King Kong, Jurassic Park, Six Days and Seven Nights, as well as Pirates of the Caribbean: At Worlds End all feature this beautiful backdrop. ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. lc=rid; The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. For over 20 years we have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian family owned business that takes pride in providing the best possible experience for visitors to Kauai. This blog post will provide a complete guide to Honopu Beach, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. var shows = 0; }, Private and Quiet Luxury Beach House 3 minute walk to beach TVNC#5151, Hale Kahakai: Beachfront home on the Magical North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii Life Rentals presents Modern beach style vacation house, with A/C, Affordable Beach House Just Steps to the Beach Children Welcome! We recognize the proper use of the Hawaiian language including the okina [], a consonant, and the kahak [] or macron (e.g., in place names of Hawaii such as Npali). Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. The next valley and cliff are known as Awaawapuhi, it is a great valley with a stream at the bottom. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Waimea, HI 96796 Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; Make sure to bring your camera on this spectacular Kauai tour. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! A raft tour will show you all that this part of Kauais coastline has to offer, and you will get to see the famed Honopu Valley. var i; Holo Holo Charters offer Kauai private boat tours to sightsee and snorkel locations like Napali Coast, Niihau, Lehua Crater, Honopu, Kalalau, and Kipu Kai. Honopu Beach has a lot of cultural significance for the Hawaiian people. The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian, because of the sound the northerly winds make when they blow through the arch. else if(star_img=='5'){ There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. Swimming on Kauais Na Pali Coast can be treacherous, with huge waves and rip currents. The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. ny = document.getElementById(image); We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. } else { A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. , and only before the winds have picked up. The dykes act as aquifers and store water. Experience Kauai snorkeling tours and true trade-wind catamaran sailing on Kauais Napali Coast! selectedText = 'Poor'; Suite 5A { } However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. Fins are also highly recommended. shows = 1; Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. Also, you don't have to be a hard-core hiker to experience all the best Kauai sights, as many Kauai sightseeing tours are perfect for all ages and abilities. Artifacts have been recovered that are hundreds of years old, ancient heiau, or sites of worship, have been uncovered, and terracing is still present in many areas. Known as The Valley of the Lost Tribe, Honopu was once home to hundreds of native Hawaiians who lived in relative isolation from the rest of the island. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. From the water, we could look back and peer into the sacred Honopu Valley. else Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. else if(star_img=='4'){ (See pre-landslide views of Kalalau Beach.) Movies filmed at Honopu include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. } Our destination wasHonopu Beach, one of the most incredible beaches in Hawaii. var selectedText = ''; 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. Longitude: -159.6480865. Probably the most recognizable ones areSix Days, Seven Nights,Pirates of the Carribean,King Kong,andJurassic World. Honopu Beach. Its our promise to provide the cleanest, safest & most unique ocean experience available with the highest degree of aloha spirit customer service. So an early start was a must. At the trailhead, just as you leave the road, take the left branch (under the large limb) to find the main trail. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. }, Adventure Tours 2020 All Rights Reserved Site Map Disclaimer, Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and, You dont have to make the intense swim to the beach to enjoy the uniqueness of the area. WebHonopu Ridge Trail is a 4.2 to 5 mile (round trip, depending on how far you go) hike that takes you to incredible views of Honopu Valley and a portion of the NaPali Coastline. Once you step foot on Honopu Valleys beaches, youll understand why its been given such a name. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; In fact, the only legal way to access it is to swim to it. Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail Waiting for your response. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. This arch connects the two beaches of Honopu Valley. These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a. Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. "dateModified": "2022-10-21" This is where we'd advise you to stop, as the third and final portion of the ridge is very narrow and dangerous.