Fun factdid you know that Holo Holos four tour boats were all designed and built right here on Kauai? Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Honopu Beach. It was just us and the occasional crab. 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. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. Kauai is most definitely our favorite Hawaiian island to hike. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. True story! The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. So an early start was a must. If you were to have a panic attack during this swim, youd be in trouble as theres no shore for you to swim up to. Wasnt a lot to see snorkeling, but it was still fun. 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. Honopu Ridge Trail else if(i=='5'){ And while all of Hawaiis beaches are gorgeous in their own way, some are certainly prettier than others. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. I followed Kurtis and Sonomi (@lomilomisomi)back through the golden arch. Honopu Ridge Trail Just be sure to respect the area and preserve its natural beauty. After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the Forbidden Island of Niihau. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. A visible X slashed into the high part of the cliff helps you easily recognize Nualolo. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; While the trail is pretty short, it is no longer maintained by the park (due to Hurricane Iniki damage way back in 1992 and Hurricane Iwa in 1982) - so prepare to bushwack; the ferns are especially brutal on the legs if you're not prepared. "@type": "WebPage", Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. selectedText = 'Poor'; In fact, thats what happened in Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! Breakfast, lunch, and beverages are included in this action-packed adventure for the whole family. Maintaining the best vessels and equipment on island. Well, the only way to legally access it is by swimming. include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. In 1922, visiting archaeologists found several skulls thought to be primitive, pre-Hawaiian people. Its no question why Honopu Valley and Beach is listed as one of the worlds most beautiful and dramatic spots. Its our responsibility to conduct business using the best practices available to preserve the integrity of the water, land, and wildlife that we have the privilege of showcasing. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. function show(star_img,rnid) selectedText = 'Fine'; We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. Above: Kauais Honopu Beach as seen on a Kauai helicopter tour. return; Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. Were obsessed and we believe that its the best thing to do on Kauai and no visit to Kauai is complete without experiencing the island from the water. You can also encounter waterfalls and sand dunes on the main part of the beach. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. Then, cross the 17-mile Kaulakahi Channel to Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau to do some world-class snorkeling at Lehua Crater. These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a. Kauai Travel Guide Frequently Asked Questions. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; 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. Hours: 8:00a.m. 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. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. Honopu Beach Then it was time to swim back to Kalalau Beach and cook up some food at camp. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); The steep cliffs (pali) surrounding the valley and beach kept the area protected from outside intruders. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. 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. All Rights Reserved. We happened to have triathletes, ocean safety certified folks, surfers and a former water polo player in our group. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; 4516 Alawai Rd. No road or even a hiking trail leads to it. The writer and/or publisher of this website is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, rescues, inconvenience, or loss of life by anyone attempting any of the hikes or activities on this website. 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. These cliffs were created millions of years ago when Kauai was formed and have since been shaped by years of withstanding the elements. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. Honopu Beach has a lot of cultural significance for the Hawaiian people. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. Only the strongest, most ocean-hardened swimmers should attempt a swim to Honopu, with fins highly recommended. Tour boats and catamarans glide through the white caps. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. Eleele, HI, 96705. Honopu beach show(star_img,rid); Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. We invite you to join us toenjoy this special piece of paradise. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! The "parking lot" is on a curve, just a short ways past theAwa'awapuhi Trailtrailhead. Honopu is by far the most difficult beach to reach on the island of Kauai. The beach can easily be seen from a distance on Na Pali Coast boat and helicopter tours. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. 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. The good news is that on a good clear day it results in a view that is perhaps Kauai's greatest. The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. (See pre-landslide views of Kalalau Beach.) if(i=='1'){ With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Yes, honorable yet fatal. 4353 Waialo Rd Holo Holo Charters was voted the best boat tour in the entire U.S.! WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. 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. In any event, you may want to consult the rangers at Koke'e VC before heading out on this hike. Once you step foot on Honopu Valleys beaches, youll understand why its been given such a name. else if(star_img=='5'){ Honopu Beach document.write("
"); WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. } if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ The guys were great and personable. With its stunning views and rich history, its an unforgettable experience that youll always treasure. Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. 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. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. } We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; for (var i=1; i<=5; i++) { 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. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; Since swimming to the beach is necessary to set foot on it, one must be a very strong swimmer to reach it (and wear fins). Keep an eye out for the orange and pink ribbons that others have tied up to mark the trail. - 8:00p.m. { ny = document.getElementById(image); document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; We started our excursion in the morning. Thanks. Our intent is to strengthen Kauais economy by creating fulfilling jobs and careers, fostering our employees contributions to the islands general health and well-being. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { } The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. This arch connects the two beaches of Honopu Valley. Every other tour boat operating on Kauai was ordered and delivered from a faraway factory in a faraway land, but were proud to say that our companys boats were designed by our companys founder, specifically to tackle the unique and challenging ocean conditions Kauai faces as the westernmost island of the most remote island chain in the world. However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. Tours All partners and related links comply with our Advertising Disclosures. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; This blog post will provide a complete guide to Honopu Beach, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. The two hidden and pristine white sand beaches at the end of Honopu Valley, are joined by a 90-foot high arch through the base of the rocky outcropping separating them. (That spec at the bottom the photo is a person.). A raft tour will show you all that this part of Kauais coastline has to offer, and you will get to see the famed Honopu Valley. Sponsored Content >. Honopu Valley And Arch 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. ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; I followed Kurtis (@kurtisfunk) through this massive arch. selectedVal = '5'; 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. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. There are many myths surrounding this unique scar, but it is mostly credited to the volcano goddess, Pele, leaving her volcanic signature. The only way to get to Honopu is by swimming, either from Kalalau Beach or from a boat. It could be some time before I ever come back here. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. 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. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. lc=rid; Waiting for your response. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. 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. 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. The rest of the crew made their way over. They were very knowledgeable and we learned a lot of information about the island and the sea life. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. }, 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! Boats (including kayaks) are not allowed toland here. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. 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. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. } There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. It must be accessed by swimming from a boat or the neighboring beach in the summer months. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. However, later studies of the valley and the found artifacts determined that all of Honopu Valleys residents were Hawaiian. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. document.write("Please Select
"); It is said this cave once had a weak roof structure that eventually collapsed, creating a skylight effect into the cave. 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. This beach is only accessible by the sea and camping is allowed with a permit. Its said that, to this day, the bones of these warriors can be found in the sand dunes, underneath the cliffs, after being exposed to heavy rains or winds. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. }, { Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. 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. Waimea, HI 96796 The arch collapsed in 1992, but the beach still retains its name. The valley and beach of Kalalau boast many hikers all year round; the Kalalau trail starts at Kee beach, and winds over eleven strenuous miles to Kalalau Beach. } All of the rubblethat breaks off gets washed away leaving this clean edge between sand and cliff. { Thank you! In fact, thats what happened in the 1976 movie Acapulco Gold. This first prominent cliff we will encounter on our Napali Coast tour is the Makaha ridge and valley. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. As we walked down Kalalau Beach, we got to see the massive sea caves carved into the cliffs. for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { The water then flows 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. Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. The land on Honopu Valley is highly fertile, making it a great base for communities and even castaways! The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian because of the conch-like sound the arch makes in high winds.