In fact, thats what happened in Remnants of Hawaiian life can still be found in this area, including a rope ladder that connected the beach to the valley. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. It got this name because of the conch shell-like sound that the arch makes when northerly winds blow into the valley. In our opinion, it is one of the best though roughest hikes on Kauai. Waimea, HI 96796 Breakfast, lunch, and beverages are included in this action-packed adventure for the whole family. Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. The Holo Holo snorkel/sail was a great excursion! In this article, well take you through the stories surrounding Honopu Valley and equip you with tips on visiting the spot. Providing a solidly positive impact on both our ocean resources and our island community. include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. 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. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Call Us: 808-742-6331 | Text Us: 808-639-2052. 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. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; From the water, we could look back and peer into the sacred Honopu Valley. 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. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. } This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. } The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. "@type": "WebPage", Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. "dateModified": "2022-10-21" var image; 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. Then it was time to swim back to Kalalau Beach and cook up some food at camp. 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. } And while all of Hawaiis beaches are gorgeous in their own way, some are certainly prettier than others. At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! However, later studies of the valley and the found artifacts determined that all of Honopu Valleys residents were Hawaiian. You are not allowed to land any watercraft on the island, and helicopters are also not permitted. On that page, we've also posted a map of the entire area (Koke'e and Waimea State Parks) for you to download and print out at home. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; This is where we'd advise you to stop, as the third and final portion of the ridge is very narrow and dangerous. 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. 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 A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. ny = document.getElementById(image); The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. This blog post will provide a complete guide to Honopu Beach, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. Another nickname of Honopu is Cathedral Beach. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Could you please let me know if you can arrange a boat for a family of 4 adults to visit Honopu beach. The scale of this place can only be comprehended by being here. 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. These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a. Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. Sand dunes can be found on both sides! There are many myths surrounding this unique scar, but it is mostly credited to the volcano goddess, Pele, leaving her volcanic signature. Kauai Travel Guide Frequently Asked Questions. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; "url": "https://www.napaliriders.com/" var el = document.getElementById('sf'); No road or even a hiking trail leads to it. From the water, this arch looks modest in size, but that is only when compared to the massive landscape that surrounds it. Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. 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. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. 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. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. This discovery supported claims regarding native tribes having lived in the area in the mid-19th century. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. With its stunning views and rich history, its an unforgettable experience that youll always treasure. 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. return; A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. }, 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! When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; The dykes act as aquifers and store water. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. selectedVal = '5'; After our catamaran tour departs Port Allen, located in the Hanapape Bay on the southwest side of Kauai, we head north along the west coast of Kauai, towards the Napali Coast. }, Love Hawaii? So to get here, one must swim. 4516 Alawai Rd. Whether you're looking for a professional hiking guide or need some maps to take along, you'll find them right here. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. field.value = field.value.substring(0, maxlimit); Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. } The cliffs are formed by erosion duringthe winter when gigantic surf pummels this side of the island. 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). Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. } The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. Everything is larger than it appears once you walk up to it. 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. } Dora Rozet, East West Tours. There was a massive landslide this past winter and a couple hundred yards of Kalalau Beach is now gone. As if Honopu Beach couldnt get more breathtaking, theres also a waterfall here. This beach is only accessible by the sea and camping is allowed with a permit. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; We ate a small breakfast at our campsite then walked the lengthof Kalalau Beach (pictured above) towards the West. After coming out on a tour it can be fun to watch these movies, even if you have seen them before, but this time with a bit of reference to point out the locations made out to be everywhere but Kauai. 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. info@MakanaCharters.com But nothing compares to seeing this beautiful coastline in person, and we invite you to join us on one of our boats. function show(star_img,rnid) Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; The swim is only possible in the summer months, only. Take that arch way off in the distance for instance. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. As we emerged from the water on Honopu Beach, we saw that we were surrounded by towering cliffs. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. 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. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. Nualolo is probably steeper going down than Honopu; though Honopu does have some very steep areas. 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. 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. var shows = 0; - 8:00p.m. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { This cliff is easily distinguished, as it hosts radar and tracking equipment and cellular phone sites you can see from a distance. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; , while some involve tales of the supernatural as it served as burial grounds for Hawaiian chiefs in the past. Theres a reason its known as one of the worlds most beautiful destinations. Swimming on Kauais Na Pali Coast can be treacherous, with huge waves and rip currents. 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. If your resources allow, we recommend putting a cruise through Na Pali Coast on top of your Kauai bucket list, so you may catch a glimpse of the valleys grandness. Napali, meaning the cliffs or many cliffs, consists of 16 miles of dramatic coastline, vivid sea cliffs with over 4,000-foot steep drop-offs, emerald-green valleys, sea caves, and waterfalls. Hanauma Bay was once voted as the best beach in America, but wed love to hear your thoughts. 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. The cliffs directly behind Kalalau beach are known as the cathedral cliffs, for the cathedral-like spires jutting towards the heavens. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. Thus, when a chief died, a capable warrior was designated for the honorable yet fatal task of burying his bones. There are three major parts of the trail. Honopu is by far the most difficult beach to reach on the island of Kauai. else if(i=='3'){ var n = document.getElementById('n'+rid); Probably the most recognizable ones areSix Days, Seven Nights,Pirates of the Carribean,King Kong,andJurassic World. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only during low tide, and only before the winds have picked up. As we walked down Kalalau Beach, we got to see the massive sea caves carved into the cliffs. We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! var selectedText = ''; These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a boat cruise through the Na Pali Coast. 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. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. Hours: 8:00a.m. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. If you find yourself at a stream bed (the left fork), go back and take the other fork which continues out onto the ridge. Aloha! The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian, because of the sound the northerly winds make when they blow through the arch. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. else if(star_img=='2'){ 4353 Waialo Rd 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. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. 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. Friends, winning the title of#1Best Boat Tour in America is a major affirmation that 1.) 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 In the valley, ancient burial and home sites have been uncovered, including tools, and artifacts, and evidence of a sophisticated terrace and agriculture network proves that this was once a popular community. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. It stands 90 feet in the air and makes a conch shell sound when the winds are right. WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. The waters of Niihau and Lehua are considered to be some of the best in Hawaii with over 100-feet of visibility and unique lava formations with rare endemic sea life you wont find anywhere else. Nualolo cliff and valley are spotted next; another fishing village thrived here due to an excellent coral reef system fronting the beach. Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. 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. (808) 338-9980 WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. This is just as well since Honopu is most definitely sacred. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. } Also, currents can be present even if the ocean appears calm. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. 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. Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail A lot of people, though they might bestrong, can get panic attacks when swimming in the open ocean. Despite the regulations the Department of Land and Natural Resources enforces to limit visitors and respect Honopus sacred history, theyve made several exceptions for Hollywood. Some tales talk about the valley having served as a home to. (That spec at the bottom the photo is a person.). Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. What a day! selectedText = 'Fine'; Honopu Beach was once a popular spot for filming movies and TV shows, including South Pacific and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.. This belief is the source of many Hawaiian legends and myths, which wed love to give you a glimpse of. Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. 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. Once you get through the initial "maze" it's very easy to follow the trail out onto the ridge. The end of the valley houses two secluded small beaches collectively called Honopu beach or Cathedral Beach both believed to be spiritual spots for their calm waters and history. The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. It basically fell into the ocean. else if(i=='5'){ WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. var ny; We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. Its the hard rock thatsembedded in the more crumbly earth. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. We happened to have triathletes, ocean safety certified folks, surfers and a former water polo player in our group. While touring the Na Pali Coast with us, some locations may seem familiar, as if you have seen it before. Theres the intensity of the rainbows, the fluctuation of the waterfalls, the playfulness of the spinner dolphins, and the majesty of humpback whales (seasonally). 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). You can also encounter waterfalls and sand dunes on the main part of the beach. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. 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. WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. In Adventure, Na Pali Coast by Makana ChartersJune 10, 20162 Comments. I followed Kurtis (@kurtisfunk) through this massive arch. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. It is considered to be a sacred place and is told to be the ancient burial grounds of Hawaiin chiefs. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'to_hawaii_com-box-3','ezslot_0',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-to_hawaii_com-box-3-0');It doesn't get anymore secluded and remote than Honopu Beach on Kauai's Na Pali Coast. The restrictions on beach landings are due to the beaches and valley being sacred in Hawaiian culture. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. Being the best company to be a part of and work for. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; The steep cliffs (pali) surrounding the valley and beach kept the area protected from outside intruders. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in Maintaining the best vessels and equipment on island. However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. Photo: Ben Schmit. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; { 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. selectedVal = '1'; With approximately 750 miles of stunning coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are easily home to some of the best beaches in the country if not the world. ", With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. 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. } } Nestled along Kauais 17-mile Na Pali Coast is a landmark valley surrounded by a beautiful mystery. When you get a chance to step foot in this gorgeous landmark, always keep in mind to respect each element in the area, as well as the history that encompasses years and years of Hawaiian culture. Boats (including kayaks) are not allowed toland here. In Adventure, Places by Makana ChartersMay 10, 2021Leave a Comment. Booking a tour with the Na Pali Riders is a fantastic way to get the most out of your visit and see what Kauais coastlines have to offer. 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. Hawaiians enjoyed an isolated life in the valleys of Napali for hundreds, perhaps thousands of years. } Please let us know. function mark(star_img,rid) However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. Every single day, from sunrise to sunset, Kauais coasts sing a unique symphony of natural wonder. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. It was just us and the occasional crab. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley. Sometimes you can make out a trail at the top, this is accessible from Kokee State Park and a vigorous hike will get you to an overlook of Awaawapuhi and another trail that connects to the Nualolo trail and cliff. The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. Lic# TVNC1058, Most prominent landmark on beach is the Honopu arch, which separates two small sandy coves, No landing of any aircraft, boat, kayak or even surfboard is allowed at Honopu Beach, The only legal way to access it is to swim here (either from neighboring Kalalau Beach or from an offshore boat).