FAQ About the Na Pali Coast

Many tourist attractions in Hawaii showcase the incredible natural beauty of the land. Visitors flock to the Na Pali Coast, as it features exceptional flora, sea cliffs, and stunning views. If you’re planning a trip to the Garden Island, use this guide to get ready for your visit to the coastline.

4 Commonly Asked Questions About the Na Pali Coast

Where is it?

The Na Pali Coast is located on the northern shore of Kauai. This rugged area covers 17 miles of mountainous beaches and canyons, and it’s best reached by boat or helicopter.

What’s its history?

Kauai was formed over five million years ago as magma rose from floating tectonic plates. The Polynesians traveled to the island around 1200 A.D. They came in outrigger canoes, crossing over 2,000 miles of ocean and using the stars as their guide. Soon, Tahitians from French Polynesia arrived on the island, and the two cultures survived by fishing and gardening taro and sweet potatoes.

Captain Cook landed on the island in 1778, and missionaries reached Kauai around 1820. Settlers encourage the natives to start cattle ranching and farming, and many Tahitians and Polynesians left for other islands or assimilated into Western culture.

What can I do when I visit?

The coast is a tourist attraction, featuring the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and other beautiful public areas. You can paddle the coast’s length, take snorkeling tours near the shore, or hike the 11-mile Kalalau Trail.

Helicopter tours offer memorable experiences that allow visitors to see large stretches of the coast quickly. Many tourists appreciate the convenience of a guided tour and prefer relaxing comfortably in the aircraft. Taking a flight is also the only way you can see the Na Pali Coast’s stunning views of the mountains and sea.

What should I wear?

Kauai can be warm and sunny one minute, then windy and cold the next. Most tourist attraction operators recommend wearing pants and bringing an extra layer to keep you warm. Garments made of wool are excellent options because they wick sweat in hot weather and insulate during chilly gusts. Opt for closed-toe shoes to protect your feet if you’re hiking, and skip the hat during an open-door helicopter tour.