Exploring Kauaʻi’s Stunning State Parks

Kauaʻi, known as the Garden Island, offers five state parks featuring exceptional vistas, geological wonders, and some of the best hiking trails and beaches in Hawaii. From the rugged beauty of Na Pali Coast to the serene waterfalls along the Wailua River, this guide will enhance your exploration of Kauaʻi’s public lands.

Kokeʻe State Park

Best all-around for birding, fishing, hiking, camping, and more

Situated at 3600ft above sea level, Kokeʻe State Park spans 4345 acres on Kauaʻi’s west side. This stunning outdoor playground boasts campgrounds, rustic cabins, and 45 miles of hiking trails that navigate through native forests, ridgelines, and swamp-like montane wet forests.

• Bird watchers can discover endemic Hawaiian birds, including the white-rumped ʻapapane and the elusive pueo.
• Families can enjoy easy hikes like the half-mile nature loop through lush forests or the 3-mile Canyon Trail leading to the breathtaking Waipoʻo Falls.
• For a dose of adventure, brave hikers can conquer the Awaʻawapuhi trail, a 6-mile round-trip trek ending on a ridge 2500ft above awe-inspiring cliffs.

First-time visitors should stop by Kokeʻe Natural History Museum for invaluable information about the park and its trails. Don’t forget to try the delicious menu at Kokeʻe Lodge, featuring local dishes and refreshing drinks made with island ingredients.

Visiting Kokeʻe State Park: Located 42 miles northwest of Lihuʻe Airport, expect a drive of over an hour on winding roads. Entrance fees are $5 for non-residents, and parking costs $10 per vehicle.

Waimea Canyon State Park

Best for canyon views and nature walks

Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” boasts a 14-mile length and depths of up to 3600ft, shaped by the Waimea River’s relentless flow over millions of years.

• Visit the stunning overlook at Mile Marker 10 for breathtaking views of the canyon and the 800ft Waipoʻo Falls.
• Wander along the Iliau Nature Loop for an easy trek that gifts visitors with views of both Waimea and Waiʻalae canyons while showcasing native upland flora.
• For a challenge, attempt the Kukui Trail, a steep, scenic 5-mile round-trip leading to the canyon floor.

Visiting Waimea Canyon State Park: This park lies about 35 miles northwest of Lihuʻe Airport and is open during daylight hours with an entrance fee of $5 for non-residents.

Haʻena State Park

Best for swimming and snorkeling in summer

As you enter Haʻena State Park, you’ll adapt to a vacation vibe filled with beautiful sandy beaches and charming shops. Situated at Kūhiō Highway’s end, this park is a gateway to Kauaʻi’s most treasured spots, including Makua (Tunnels) Beach, which offers exceptional snorkeling opportunities.

• Haʻena Beach provides beautiful white sands perfect for swimming during the calmer summer months.
• The park also features ancient Hawaiian sites, such as the Maniniholo Dry Cave, ideal for exploration.

Visiting Haʻena State Park: About 37 miles north of Lihuʻe Airport, be prepared for heavy traffic and ensure that you make advanced reservations for parking and park access.

Wailua River State Park

Best for water-based activities like boating and stand-up paddleboarding

Wailua River State Park is highlighted by the scenic Wailua River, the only navigable inland waterway for larger boats in Hawaii. The park is great for kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the popular Secret Falls.

• Engage with several tour operators that offer kayak experiences and riverboat cruises showcasing the river’s natural beauty and history.

Visiting Wailua River State Park: Located just 5 miles from Lihuʻe Airport, this park is free and open from 7am to 6:45pm.

Polihale State Park

Best for spreading out on the beach minus the crowds

Polihale State Park stretches over 17 miles, featuring one of Hawaii’s largest beaches, perfect for serene long walks and beachcombing.

• The beach is not ideal for swimming, but it provides stunning views of the Na Pali Coast and a tranquil retreat from crowded locations.

Visiting Polihale State Park: Accessible via a challenging unpaved road, it can take over an hour to drive here from Lihuʻe Airport. Open daily from 5:30am to 7:45pm, admission is free.