Skip the restaurant and enjoy a delicious Kauai sunset tour including dinner and drinks, while basking in the glory of the Napali Coastrainbows, cliffs, valleys, beaches, waterfalls, wildlife. if(i<= selectedVal) , such as guavas and grapefruit that grows along its coast. Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. One of the first prominent beaches is Milolii, about four miles northeast of Polihale Beach, and the westernmost and driest valley of the Napali Coast State Park. They were very knowledgeable and we learned a lot of information about the island and the sea life. So would walking the 4 miile * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. 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. So, which of Hawaiis countless stunning beaches do you think is the prettiest? I followed Kurtis (@kurtisfunk) through this massive arch. selectedText = 'Excellent'; 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. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. } "dateModified": "2022-10-21" On the third day of a recentcamping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. var lc; Wasnt a lot to see snorkeling, but it was still fun. Once you step foot on Honopu Valleys beaches, youll understand why its been given such a name. When Napali was inhabited, it is estimated that a large population of two to four thousand Hawaiians may have lived in Kalalau at any given time. 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. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. It is the responsibility of the reader to use common sense and good judgment by interpreting and using the information to safely enjoy any outdoor activities. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. In olden times, it was believed that once a chief died, their bones were collected and taken to the cliffs, and the warrior who transported the bones had to die in order to ensure the secrecy of the location of the bones. if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ 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. 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. We hope that this article has given you a wonderful image of Honopu Valley and Beach and encourages you to come out and see this natural wonder for yourself. We invite you to go the distance and experience the adventure of a lifetime. No landing of any aircraft or boat is allowed in Honop Valley or on its beach, so visitors must swim from an offshore boat or from neighboring Kalalau Beach. Sand dunes can be found on both sides! With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. 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. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. Once you get through the initial "maze" it's very easy to follow the trail out onto the ridge. } The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. Brian (@blam) and I made our way to towards the back of the sand dunes. You can really see how sheer these cliffs are here. 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. Kauai Travel Guide Frequently Asked Questions. Since 1997, Holo Holo Charters has taken people on unforgettable adventures to Kauais, world-famous Napali Coast and remote locations like Lehua Crater off the Forbidden Island of Niihau. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. info@MakanaCharters.com
document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. selectedText = 'Good'; For when you actually put it in perspective, the archway is hundreds of feet long and big enough for a helicopter to fly through it. 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. Honopu Beach. 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. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley, while sand dunes can be found on both sides. 4516 Alawai Rd. The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. 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. As we emerged from the water on Honopu Beach, we saw that we were surrounded by towering cliffs. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! } By providing genuine aloha hospitality, were determined to earn and keep the reputation from our guests and our community of being the most professional and forward-thinking Kauai boat tour company, that we may exist and thrive for decades to come. More than just a boat ride, our mission is to take our guests on safe, educational, and awe-inspiring adventures that cultivate a sense of understanding and respect for Kauais ecosystem and cultural history. While the beach is difficult to access, it is only one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. As if Honopu Beach couldnt get more breathtaking, theres also a waterfall here. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; Waimea, HI 96796
| Web usage privacy. Its another huge strip of sand surrounded by sheer cliffs. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. With its picturesque structure, a solid minute spent looking at it in awe is enough to last a lifetime. Nestled along Kauais 17-mile Na Pali Coast is a landmark valley surrounded by a beautiful mystery. el.style.display = 'none'; "author": { although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. The winds, very strong current, and waves would be against you and the distance just seems too far. This arch connects the two beaches of Honopu Valley. }, 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. Remnants of Hawaiian life can still be found in this area, including a rope ladder that connected the beach to the valley. (That spec at the bottom the photo is a person.). 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 else if(star_img=='4'){ 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. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. While the trail is pretty short, it is no longer maintained by the park (due to Hurricane Iniki damage way back in 1992 and Hurricane Iwa in 1982) - so prepare to bushwack; the ferns are especially brutal on the legs if you're not prepared. if (field.value.length > maxlimit) The next valley and cliff are known as Awaawapuhi, it is a great valley with a stream at the bottom. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. Legends aside, we know for certain that the Honopu cliffs were used as burial sites for ancient chiefs that ruled along the Napali Coast. Until then, Honopus sand dunes and amazingly blue waters will continue to stay enchanted for twinkle-toed adventurers to discover. It is the largest natural arch in Hawaii and Honopu Beach. 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. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. Archeological evidence discovered in the 1920s suggests that a human population flourished in this valley but then disappeared suddenly, which is why Honopu is sometimes called the Valley of the Lost Tribe. el.style.display = 'inline'; * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the Forbidden Island of Niihau. When you do get to Honopu Beach, make sure to keep in mind that it is treated by the locals as a sacred piece of Hawaiian culture. Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! 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. - 8:00p.m. Highly recommend this cruise line! The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. I understand we have to swim to shore from the boat. 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. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. The forests of Honopu Ridge are unique for the area, receiving less than 100 inches of rain per year; considerably less than the surrounding forests of Koke'e State Park. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. The restrictions on beach landings are due to the beaches and valley being sacred in Hawaiian culture. else if(i=='5'){ With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. It was just us and the occasional crab. Voyage with us today on one of our Kauai boat tours and see why we were voted in the top 10 Best Boat Tour in the US for three years in a row (2021, 2020, and 2019). , and only before the winds have picked up. The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian, because of the sound the northerly winds make when they blow through the arch. This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. 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. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. Winds pick up at around 11am or noon. Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 } Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Experienced guides have been caught in small debris slides out here and have needed help to get back up to the top of the ridge. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. Suite 5A Click here to Learn more about sustainability, Click here to Learn more about private boat charters, Click here to Learn more about holo holo pono pledge, Click here to Learn more about photos, history & fun, Click here to Learn more about frequently asked questions, Click here to Learn more about reviews & testimonals, Click here to email reservations@holoholocharters.com, Click here to view location Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705 See, Hawaiians believed that their chiefs were direct descendants of gods and that their bones contained powerful amounts of the gods mana or life force. Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. Overall though, we feel the trail is fairly easy to follow and is well marked. Voyage to the Napali Coast and let us wine you and dine you, as we sail off into the sunset on our gorgeous & comfortable 50 catamaran, Leila. Check out our Google Earth Honopu Ridge Trailmap for more an overview. The Honopu Arch is one of the best parts of Honopu Beach. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! function show(star_img,rnid) This was once a thriving fishing village featuring a stream near many heiau and shrines still found throughout the valley. We had to be mindful of time so that we could swim back to Kalalau Beach before the wind came and ocean current picked up. } The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. In fact, thats what happened in "@type": "BlogPosting", 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. In Adventure, Na Pali Coast by Makana ChartersJune 10, 20162 Comments. If you come with us and feel that deja v, it is probably because you have seen it, in Hollywood movies. "@id": "https://www.napaliriders.com/a-complete-guide-to-honopu-beach/" "image": "https://www.napaliriders.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_9585.jpg", And while all of Hawaiis beaches are gorgeous in their own way, some are certainly prettier than others. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); When the warrior was satisfied with the placement of the remains, hed jump to his death, thus securing the locations secrecy forever. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Honopu 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. 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. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; }else{ Fun factdid you know that Holo Holos four tour boats were all designed and built right here on Kauai? Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. Not too crowded. It got this name because of the conch shell-like sound that the arch makes when northerly winds blow into the valley. Honopu Beach is as hard to get to as it is dramatic. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only during low tide, and only before the winds have picked up. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. document.write("
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"); The sea caves along Napali were mostly created by erosion, the constant waves have chiseled away at the porous lava rock. Honopu Beach. So for me, being surrounded by a bunch of confident swimmers was very comforting. Wearing long pants is a great way to get through the ferns (we personally love convertible cargo pants). document.getElementById('rat').value="2"; Providing the highest degree of quality customer service available in the industry. Parking for this hike is located 4/10th of a mile past the 17 Mile Marker on Highway 550. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; No other company offers this amazing trip daily. Honopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. All Rights Reserved. Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Theres a reason its known as one of the worlds most beautiful destinations. The crisscrossing of trails and 4x4 roads can be confusing at first, but once you select your routes, it's not too bad. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. else if(i=='3'){ var i; } She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. var selectedVal = ''; This beach is only accessible by the sea and camping is allowed with a permit. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. When we arrived on the beach, it was completely empty. We hope to see you out there. - 8:00p.m. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; 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. The sheer cliff faces are scarred with lines formed bywater running down them when it rains. If we missed ourwindow of opportunity, we would have to wait at Honopu until the evening when the winds finally die down. However, later studies of the valley and the found artifacts determined that all of Honopu Valleys residents were Hawaiian. }, 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! But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, Honopu Beach is the place for you! function noshow(star_img,rnid) WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. 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. It is the largest natural arch in Hawaii and Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. Nualolo cliff and valley are spotted next; another fishing village thrived here due to an excellent coral reef system fronting the beach. 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. if(star_img=='1'){ Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! It is estimated that life along the Napali began to change in the 1800s and early 1900s, as foreigners began frequenting the islands and introducing new ways of living. The channel between Kauai and Niihau is very deep and offers the best opportunity to see an abundance of sea life that resides in these Hawaiian waters. 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. Once the winds come, swimming back here to Kalalau Beach wouldve been impossible. 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. Beautiful sunset and beautiful water topped off the adventure. Like all valleys along the Na Pali coast, Honopu Valleywas a home to ancient Hawaiians. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. The Holo Holo snorkel/sail was a great excursion! In this article, well take you through the stories surrounding this mysterious valley and equip you with tips on visiting the spot, as well as the two beaches located by the valleys fascinating arch.