It is considered to be a sacred place and is told to be the ancient burial grounds of Hawaiin chiefs. 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. 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. Longitude: -159.6480865. However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. 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. Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Providing a solidly positive impact on both our ocean resources and our island community. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only. 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. It basically fell into the ocean. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. Honopu Beach. Swimming on Kauais Na Pali Coast can be treacherous, with huge waves and rip currents. 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. Makana Charters
At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; In fact, this is exactly what happened in the James Bond movieThe Man With the Golden Gun. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. This beach is only accessible by the sea and camping is allowed with a permit. } show(star_img,rid); image = 'qw'+rnid + i; This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. 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. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. A visible X slashed into the high part of the cliff helps you easily recognize Nualolo. Everything is larger than it appears once you walk up to it. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; The only way to get to Honopu is by swimming, either from Kalalau Beach or from a boat. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. Feel free to contact us if you have specific questions. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. 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 Beach. Experience ancient Hawaii from the water by power or sail during a Napali Coast Sunset Dinner Cruise and experience majestic waterfalls, hidden sea caves, towering cliffs, and lush valleys. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. var image; We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. 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. 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). although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. "@type": "WebPage", Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, this beach is the place for you! for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { 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. We hope to see you out there. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. ny = document.getElementById(image); Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Its another huge strip of sand surrounded by sheer cliffs. The forest/fern portion of the trail, which terminates at an overlook of the valley mostly blocked by trees. These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. The "parking lot" is on a curve, just a short ways past theAwa'awapuhi Trailtrailhead. 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. Being the best company to be a part of and work for. Eleele, HI, 96705. As if Honopu Beach couldnt get more breathtaking, theres also a waterfall here. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. 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 With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. "mainEntityOfPage": { Overall though, we feel the trail is fairly easy to follow and is well marked. 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. Daily, Because Honopu Valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water, many stories have formed about what events occurred in the area in olden times. Beautiful sunset and beautiful water topped off the adventure. Kauai is most definitely our favorite Hawaiian island to hike. After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the Forbidden Island of Niihau. All Rights Reserved. Then, cross the 17-mile Kaulakahi Channel to Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau to do some world-class snorkeling at Lehua Crater. 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. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. We happened to have triathletes, ocean safety certified folks, surfers and a former water polo player in our group. This arch connects the two beaches of Honopu Valley. Saw whales, sea turtles, bottle nose dolphins and spinner dolphins. The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. Remnants of Hawaiian life can still be found in this area, including a rope ladder that connected the beach to the valley. Trying to reach Honopu Beach is an adventure that is certainly not for everyone. This arch is full of water. Nualolo is probably steeper going down than Honopu; though Honopu does have some very steep areas. 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. So to get here, one must swim. This was once a thriving fishing village featuring a stream near many heiau and shrines still found throughout the valley. 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. 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. In fact, thats what happened in If we missed ourwindow of opportunity, we would have to wait at Honopu until the evening when the winds finally die down. The most famous and most photographed spot on Honopu is most likely the giant archway. WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. 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. It is the responsibility of the reader to use common sense and good judgment by interpreting and using the information to safely enjoy any outdoor activities. Hours: 8:00a.m. Honopu 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. } 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. 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. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. Another nickname of Honopu is Cathedral Beach. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. 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. Sand dunes can be found on both sides! Once you get through the initial "maze" it's very easy to follow the trail out onto the ridge. (808) 338-9980
The sea caves along Napali were mostly created by erosion, the constant waves have chiseled away at the porous lava rock. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. }, The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. Honopu Beach has a lot of cultural significance for the Hawaiian people. Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. 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. Movie scenes have been filmed at Honopu for the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Honeymoon in Vegas and Jurassic Park 3. Theres the intensity of the rainbows, the fluctuation of the waterfalls, the playfulness of the spinner dolphins, and the majesty of humpback whales (seasonally). With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. } The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. "@context": "https://schema.org", 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. { A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. if (field.value.length > maxlimit) This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. On the other side of the Honopu arch is anotherbeach. 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. Take that arch way off in the distance for instance. 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. Honopu Beach was once a popular spot for filming movies and TV shows, including South Pacific and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.. In Adventure, Places by Makana ChartersMay 10, 2021Leave a Comment. We invite you to join us toenjoy this special piece of paradise. Travel in comfort and style to dramatic locations around Kauai and Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau off uninhabited Lehua Crater. These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. It looks small but that thing is 90 feet tall. In fact, thats what happened in the 1976 movie Acapulco Gold. ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. 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. The further in he walked, the bigger the arch looked. var i; Not too crowded. Theres a reason this beach is known as one of the hardest to reach on the island of Kauai. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. A lot of people, though they might bestrong, can get panic attacks when swimming in the open ocean. 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. Nestled along Kauais 17-mile Na Pali Coast is a landmark valley surrounded by a beautiful mystery. If you miss it, just park at Kalalau Lookout and hike the 1/4th of a mile back to the trailhead. 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. } The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. From the water, this arch looks modest in size, but that is only when compared to the massive landscape that surrounds it. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. "@id": "https://www.napaliriders.com/a-complete-guide-to-honopu-beach/" var selectedText = ''; 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. Breakfast, lunch, and beverages are included in this action-packed adventure for the whole family. Maintaining the best vessels and equipment on island. Native Hawaiians began abandoning their culture and simple lifestyle and eventually moved to more populated communities on Kauai to take advantage of emerging opportunities. selectedVal = '1'; 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. Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail 4353 Waialo Rd } The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. 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. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! 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. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; 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. - 8:00p.m. Another name for the beach is Cathedral Beach because of its spectacular, soaring appearance. So would walking the 4 miile Hello does the boat take you to the island? Nualolo cliff and valley are spotted next; another fishing village thrived here due to an excellent coral reef system fronting the beach. With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. document.getElementById('rat').value="1"; Eventually, you'll come to a hill where the trail descends very steeply again onto the outer (third) portion of the ridge. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); At the trailhead, just as you leave the road, take the left branch (under the large limb) to find the main trail. Holo Holo Charters was voted the best boat tour in the entire U.S.! Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. 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. 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. 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. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; 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. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! Whether you are seeking an all-day ocean adventure to the Napali Coast and Niihau, a sailing adventure with snorkeling, or a romantic sunset dinner cruise; we have an option for you. } Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. 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. It is up to each individual to know their limits, abilities and level of expertise before attempting any outdoor activity. There was a massive landslide this past winter and a couple hundred yards of Kalalau Beach is now gone. 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. el.style.display = 'inline'; 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. 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. 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. It was imperative to bury a chiefs remains in a secret location because it was believed that the mana contained within could be used against the tribe if discovered by the wrong people. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. 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. 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. 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. "description": "Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. }, In our opinion, it is one of the best though roughest hikes on Kauai. Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. The rest of the crew made their way over. } By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. 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). selectedVal = '4'; We invite you to go the distance and experience the adventure of a lifetime. The forests of Honopu Ridge are unique for the area, receiving less than 100 inches of rain per year; considerably less than the surrounding forests of Koke'e State Park. 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. What a day! function form_visible(){ else if(star_img=='5'){ WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. document.write("
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"); 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. 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). While touring the Na Pali Coast with us, some locations may seem familiar, as if you have seen it before. var selectedVal = ''; Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. function mark(star_img,rid) The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. function show(star_img,rnid) Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks.