Kauai is an absolute paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. With lush valleys, jagged mountain peaks, and breathtaking coastal trails, the Garden Isle offers some of the most scenic and rewarding hiking in all of the Hawaiian Islands. While Kauai has plenty of easy, family-friendly nature trails, the real rewards come from tackling some of the island’s more challenging and strenuous hikes.
If you do not mind getting your heart pumping and breaking a sweat, the team at Parrish Kauai has some hiking trails for you. These four epic Kauai hikes are challenging but offer incredible payoffs that make all the effort worthwhile.
Kalalau Trail
Easily one of the world’s most famous and grueling hikes, the Kalalau Trail winds along the sculpted Na Pali Coast, offering endless views of emerald valleys, fluted cliffs, and pristine beaches. The trail begins at Kee Beach on the North Shore. Only the first four miles to Hanakapiai Beach are recommended for most hikers, but the adventurous can push on all the way to the stunning Kalalau Valley.
Awaawapuhi Trail
Awaawapuhi Trail is a roller coaster of a ridge hike in Kokee State Park that climbs through valleys and up razorback ridges. While the climb is tough, hikers are rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views in all of Hawaii – the towering Awaawapuhi Valley lookout with its views of Mount Waialeale’s eroded crater walls. This hike is not for those who are afraid of heights, elevation at the top is 2,500 feet.
Kukui Trail
Known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon State Park is known for its amazing hiking trails that offer fabulous views of its magnificent canyon namesake. The Kukui Trail is one of the park’s best hikes, but the uphill climb is a real challenge; if there is a hike to use hiking poles, this is it. However, once you reach the top, hikers are treated to scenic views that make the challenging trek worth it.
Alakai Swamp Trail
Fog-shrouded, rain-soaked, and downright otherworldly, Alakai Swamp Trail traverses through one of the world’s highest swamplands. Walk through rainforests, shallow bogs, and more unique landscapes. Be prepared for mud; this is one of the grimmiest hikes you will find in all of Hawaii. The trail ends at Kilohana, a vista that offers jaw-dropping views of Wainiha Valley and Hanalei Valley on clear days. This hike is a bit of a slog at times but truly unique.
Luxurious Accommodations on Kauai
After a challenging hike on Kauai, you deserve to come back to an accommodation that is private, rich in amenities, and luxurious. That is where Parrish Kauai comes in; since 1984, we have been one of the island’s leaders in hospitality. Our vacation rentals on Kauai offer something for everyone, from large vacation homes to condos at some of the island’s top resorts.
You can browse all of our accommodations on Kauai online, and once you have found the perfect property for you, book with the click of a button. For more information, call 1-800-325-5701.