Nestled in Kaua’i Island, one of Hawaii’s oldest islands, is a 230-acre (93-hectare) stretch of paradise called Hāʻena State Park. The park is often referred to as the “end of the road” because it is located at the terminus of the Kuhio Highway, which is the major thoroughfare between the north and east shores of Kaua’i Island.
Swim in the turquoise waters at Ke’e Beach. Protected from large waves by reefs, the lagoon is ideal for snorkeling and the protected cove provides the perfect setting for picnicking, fishing and sunbathing. Hāʻena is also famous for its wet caves, which are fed by freshwater springs. Legend has it that Pele, Hawaii’s volcano goddess, dug the caves in her quest to find a new home, but finding only water, she abandoned the site.
If you are feeling active, walk the Kalalau Trail that starts in Hāʻena. This 11-mile (18-kilometer) hike takes you past cliffs and waterfalls and through lush valleys along the Nā Pali Coast. The trail is quite strenuous and if you choose to make the round trip, it is recommended to obtain a camping permit and stop overnight at Hanakoa or Kalalau Beach. For an easier pace, you can opt to walk the first quarter of the hike, which brings you to Hanakapi’ai Beach, a popular tourist attraction. Admire its beautiful scenery but beware its dangerous rip currents and high surf.
Hāʻena is an hour’s drive from Lihue. Lihue Airport, the main airport on Kaua’i Island, offers flights to Hawaii’s other islands as well as mainland United States. Hāʻena is 5 miles (8 kilometers) west of Hanalei, a beautiful crescent-shaped beach that features in several famous films, including South Pacific.
Hāʻena State Park offers many amenities for a day of hiking and picnicking, including restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables and drinking water. Admission to the park is free but it is best to arrive early, because parking spaces are limited. You can enjoy the park every day during daylight hours.
