"); 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. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. ", "@context": "https://schema.org", WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. Honopu Beach is as hard to get to as it is dramatic. Call Us: 808-742-6331 | Text Us: 808-639-2052. A visible X slashed into the high part of the cliff helps you easily recognize Nualolo. 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. el.style.display = 'inline'; However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. selectedText = 'Excellent'; Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Honopu Beach. This tribe was believed to consist of Marquesans, who were Polynesians originally from Tahiti. At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. "author": { These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a. Everything is larger than it appears once you walk up to it. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. { Honopu Beach. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; (See pre-landslide views of Kalalau Beach.) The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. 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. document.getElementById('rat').value="2"; } 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. "image": "https://www.napaliriders.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_9585.jpg", When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. 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. (808) 338-9980
When we arrived on the beach, it was completely empty. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. 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 erroneous legend endures up to this day, but the isolated valley is also widely believed among locals to be a place of temples and a burial site for the islands chiefs. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; I understand we have to swim to shore from the boat. , and only before the winds have picked up. 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. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. 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. On the other side of the Honopu arch is anotherbeach. Great activity for families. We enjoyed Honopu Beach for an hour or so. 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. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; A GPS can come in really handy as well when retracing your steps out, as there are opportunities to get lost coming out, too. Get more stories delivered right to your email. Being the best company to be a part of and work for. There are three major parts of the trail. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. We point out the most famous sea cave along the way, the Open Ceiling Cave. I followed Kurtis and Sonomi (@lomilomisomi)back through the golden arch. 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. This beach is named after the Honopu Arch, a natural rock arch that used to be located here. } Remember to respect the quiet atmosphere and leave no trace behind as you head on to your next adventure. So for me, being surrounded by a bunch of confident swimmers was very comforting. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coastfelt like a good 350-400 yards. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. - 8:00p.m. At approximately 10 minutes or so into the hike you'll come to a junction in the trail - you'll want to bear to the right at this junction and from that point follow the most worn portion of the trail (again, look for the orange and pink ribbons). * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Download your copy of our Theres a reason this beach is known as one of the hardest to reach on the island of Kauai. if(i<= selectedVal) You can really see how sheer these cliffs are here. 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. Feel free to contact us if you have specific questions. Overall though, we feel the trail is fairly easy to follow and is well marked. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. Saw whales, sea turtles, bottle nose dolphins and spinner dolphins. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. Kauais South Shore vs North Shore Which One to Choose? Honopu Valley has been called the Valley of the Lost Tribe as it was the last rumored refuge of the Menehune on Kauai. 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. This arch connects the two beaches of Honopu Valley. Photo: Ben Schmit. el.style.display = 'none'; Keep in mind that the currents usually flow in the same direction, so if you swim over to Honopu and it was easy, it may not be as easy on the way back if the current comes from that direction (which you may not have noticed on your way there). At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. This belief is the source of many Hawaiian legends and myths, which wed love to give you a glimpse of. Well, the only way to legally access it is by swimming. In Adventure, Na Pali Coast by Makana ChartersJune 10, 20162 Comments. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. Its our promise to provide the cleanest, safest & most unique ocean experience available with the highest degree of aloha spirit customer service. "@id": "https://www.napaliriders.com/a-complete-guide-to-honopu-beach/" for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. Its also rumored in some circles that Honopu Valley was the last home of Kauais fabled Menuhune tribe of little people. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. 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. Reading about it is one thing, but to truly enjoy the beauty, power, and serenity of a place as special as Honopu and the rest of the Na Pali Coast, you will have to see it for yourself. Friends, winning the title of#1Best Boat Tour in America is a major affirmation that 1.) All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. 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. You should only attempt this swim if you are an extremely confident swimmer who is familiar with rough ocean conditions. No other company offers this amazing trip daily. 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. By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. During summer when the ocean is calm, some people walk from Kalalau Beach on the exposed rocks and sand along the cliffs to Honopu Beach for most of the way.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_4',130,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Since Honopu Valley is so isolated, it is believed to be spiritual. 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. Hours: 8:00a.m. else if(i=='2'){ Check out our Google Earth Honopu Ridge Trailmap for more an overview. if (shows){ function form_visible(){ 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. WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. Add Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. 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. 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. Come voyage with us to the extraordinary Napali Coast and explore sea caves, waterfalls, and hidden beaches. In this article, well take you through the stories surrounding Honopu Valley and equip you with tips on visiting the spot. In 1922, visiting archaeologists found several skulls thought to be primitive, pre-Hawaiian people. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. Providing the safest, most unique, and memorable ocean experience available. It is said this cave once had a weak roof structure that eventually collapsed, creating a skylight effect into the cave. 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. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. Wasnt a lot to see snorkeling, but it was still fun. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { The sailing was especially a fun experience. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; The land on Honopu Valley is highly fertile, making it a great base for communities and even castaways! Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. The most famous and most photographed spot on Honopu is most likely the giant archway. A, Why Your Kauai Vacation Needs a Raft Tour, 9600 Kaumuali'i Highway Waimea, HI 96796. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. Some tales talk about the valley having served as a home to. So would walking the 4 miile Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! 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. Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. All of the rubblethat breaks off gets washed away leaving this clean edge between sand and cliff. At the trailhead, just as you leave the road, take the left branch (under the large limb) to find the main trail. This was once a thriving fishing village featuring a stream near many heiau and shrines still found throughout the valley. 4516 Alawai Rd. selectedVal = '5'; The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. else if(star_img=='3'){ Unless youre a triathlete or an experienced open ocean swimmer, this swim would not be possible without a snorkel and fins.I brought a small dry bag and strapped it to my leg to carry by camera gear. Keep an eye out for the orange and pink ribbons that others have tied up to mark the trail. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); (Be warned they may tryto dissuade you from doing the hike since it's not an officialtrail). This article is part of a series to give you an idea for the one-of-a-kind scenery on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai. Swimming on Kauais Na Pali Coast can be treacherous, with huge waves and rip currents. var ny; 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. function showform(raid){ DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. Once you get through the initial "maze" it's very easy to follow the trail out onto the ridge. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; 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. Please let us know. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. We soaked in our surrounds before making our way to the arch. The sea caves along Napali were mostly created by erosion, the constant waves have chiseled away at the porous lava rock. In fact, thats what happened in the 1976 movie Acapulco Gold. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in 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. If you do continue, use extreme caution as the trail is only two or three feet wide in places with a very steep drop off on either side and the ground itself is very crumbly and erosive. selectedText = 'Fine'; Wearing long pants is a great way to get through the ferns (we personally love convertible cargo pants). The cliffs are formed by erosion duringthe winter when gigantic surf pummels this side of the island. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Check out our other articles at the top of this page for other locations. According to Country Livings 27 of the Most Beautiful Places In America, one of the best beaches in the country also happens to be one of the most remote. The Original Niihau + Napali Coast Boat Tour. Makana Charters
WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. 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. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. Longitude: -159.6480865. 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. If we missed ourwindow of opportunity, we would have to wait at Honopu until the evening when the winds finally die down. Holo Holo Charters offer Kauai private boat tours to sightsee and snorkel locations like Napali Coast, Niihau, Lehua Crater, Honopu, Kalalau, and Kipu Kai. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. } 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). Hello does the boat take you to the island? 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. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Eleele, HI, 96705. It looks small but that thing is 90 feet tall. If you come with us and feel that deja v, it is probably because you have seen it, in Hollywood movies. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. } At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. In fact, thats what happened in 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. The sheer cliff faces are scarred with lines formed bywater running down them when it rains. With its picturesque structure, a solid minute spent looking at it in awe is enough to last a lifetime. ny = document.getElementById(image); Suite 5A So, which of Hawaiis countless stunning beaches do you think is the prettiest? True story! Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. Sponsored Content >. Banner Ads (managed by BuySellAds) > 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. Dane (@nakadane) climbed a sand dune to snap some pics. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. (808) 338-9980
Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. 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. 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. As if Honopu Beach couldnt get more breathtaking, theres also a waterfall here. This is just as well since Honopu is most definitely sacred. Providing a solidly positive impact on both our ocean resources and our island community. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. 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. However, make sure you have the stamina to take this route to get to Honopu Beach its deemed as the most difficult beach to reach in Kauai, with Only the strongest, most ocean-hardened swimmers attempting to reach it by swimming. } Hanauma Bay was once voted as the best beach in America, but wed love to hear your thoughts. 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. If you happen to be someone who likes to jog across a knife-edge ridge with a several-thousand-foot precipice on both sides, the end of Honopu Ridge will give still give you pause to be mindful about how you proceed. Our boats will enhance your Kauai boat tour experience, and so will our personnel. It is up to each individual to know their limits, abilities and level of expertise before attempting any outdoor activity. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. For an up close and personal glimpse of the famous Honopu Sea Arch, check out this mesmerizing footage from Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. What a day! Boats (including kayaks) are not allowed toland here. Fun factdid you know that Holo Holos four tour boats were all designed and built right here on Kauai? A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. Could you please let me know if you can arrange a boat for a family of 4 adults to visit Honopu beach. In fact, thats what happened in Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! lc=rid; if(star_img=='1'){ selectedVal = '1'; Alternatively, you can also jump off a boat cruise and swim to shore, so long as you have the go signal and guidance from your captain. The only way to get to Honopu is by swimming, either from Kalalau Beach or from a boat. Tour boats and catamarans glide through the white caps. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. It stands 90 feet in the air and makes a conch shell sound when the winds are right. The crisscrossing of trails and 4x4 roads can be confusing at first, but once you select your routes, it's not too bad. }, 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. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. 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). ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. Water was dripping down and it felt like it was raining underneath the arch.This means that the arch is constantly eroding and rocks can drop from the roof at anytime. Because its extremely difficult and dangerous to access, most visitors to Hawaii will never step foot on the beach at Honopu. Photo: Ben Schmit. This discovery supported claims regarding native tribes having lived in the area in the mid-19th century. Hours: 8:00a.m. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. 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. 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. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. 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. var i; Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. selectedText = 'Very Good'; 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.
