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. 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. When the surf is up, it is dangerous to enter the ocean along the Na Pali Coast because of strong rip currents and pounding surf. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Honopu Beach was once a popular spot for filming movies and TV shows, including South Pacific and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.. It comes from the conch-like sound the arch makes in high winds, and conch shell in Hawaiian is called Honopu. No other company offers this amazing trip daily. selectedVal = '4'; We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. With its stunning views and rich history, its an unforgettable experience that youll always treasure. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. There are three major parts of the trail. Hours: 8:00a.m. From here the ridge descends steeply onto the ridge where the views get increasingly better as you hike up and down the hills along the ridge. "@type": "BlogPosting", Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in 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. 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. There are large waves that crash against cliffs, strong rip currents, and around 400 yards of swimming. Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License, Camping at Kalalau requires someserious planning as camping permits go fast.Permits area available on. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. "datePublished": "2022-03-16", The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. We ate a small breakfast at our campsite then walked the lengthof Kalalau Beach (pictured above) towards the West. 4353 Waialo Rd }, 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. Some tales talk about the valley having served as a home to. 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 The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. } Honopu Beach. The cliffs are formed by erosion duringthe winter when gigantic surf pummels this side of the island. Once the winds come, swimming back here to Kalalau Beach wouldve been impossible. } You should only attempt this swim if you are an extremely confident swimmer who is familiar with rough ocean conditions. If you're looking for a better-maintained trail with similar views of NaPali and a gorgeous valley at the end, then consider theNualolo Trail. 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. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only during low tide, and only before the winds have picked up. WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. 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. Themana here is very powerful, and many people in this area feel an eerie presence when they are here; as if they are being watched by spirit guardians. } 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. There was a massive landslide this past winter and a couple hundred yards of Kalalau Beach is now gone. 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. Check out our other articles at the top of this page for other locations. selectedVal = '5'; } At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. 5.8k Views. var selectedText = ''; WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. If you find yourself at a stream bed (the left fork), go back and take the other fork which continues out onto the ridge. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. selectedText = 'Poor'; Suite 5A The area is a place of ancient temples and burial grounds for Hawaiian royalty. The scale of this place can only be comprehended by being here. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. 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). Kauai Travel Guide Frequently Asked Questions. Also, currents can be present even if the ocean appears calm. Latitude: 22.14403388 In fact, the only legal way to access it is to swim to it. These days, its a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving due to the clear water and abundance of marine life. 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. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. } But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. 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. In fact, thats what happened in Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. selectedText = 'Excellent'; "author": { They were very knowledgeable and we learned a lot of information about the island and the sea life. Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. 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. lc=rid; WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. Some tales talk about the valley having served as a home to Kauais lost tribe, while some involve tales of the supernatural as it served as burial grounds for Hawaiian chiefs in the past. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. { else if(i=='2'){ At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. 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. "name": "Na Pali Riders", 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. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. Eventually, you'll come to a hill where the trail descends very steeply again onto the outer (third) portion of the ridge. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. Winds pick up at around 11am or noon. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. el.style.display = 'none'; The next valley and cliff are known as Awaawapuhi, it is a great valley with a stream at the bottom. The sheer cliff faces are scarred with lines formed bywater running down them when it rains. Were ready to impress, so come holo holo with us and let us give you a big dose of vitamin sea! 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. document.write(""); el.style.display = 'inline'; The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. for (i=1; i<=star_img; i++) { We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). 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. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. 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 Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. Like all valleys along the Na Pali coast, Honopu Valleywas a home to ancient Hawaiians. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. This is where we'd advise you to stop, as the third and final portion of the ridge is very narrow and dangerous. One could survive in the area simply on the. The guys were great and personable. Being burial grounds for Hawaiian royalty, its essential that you remain sensitive to your surroundings while visiting the 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. 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. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. if(star_img=='1'){ The "parking lot" is on a curve, just a short ways past theAwa'awapuhi Trailtrailhead. 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. A, Why Your Kauai Vacation Needs a Raft Tour, 9600 Kaumuali'i Highway Waimea, HI 96796. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. The land on Honopu Valley is highly fertile, making it a great base for communities and even castaways! Download your copy of our I followed Kurtis and Sonomi (@lomilomisomi)back through the golden arch. (808) 338-9980 Not too crowded. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. 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). Honopu Beach. 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. document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; - 8:00p.m. 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. 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. There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. } else { Come voyage with us to the extraordinary Napali Coast and explore sea caves, waterfalls, and hidden beaches. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. by Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. 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. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. Being the best company to be a part of and work for. One could survive in the area simply on the large amount of wild fruit, such as guavas and grapefruit that grows along its coast. }, 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. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! } 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. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. The sailing was especially a fun experience. For over 20 years we have been offering tours of the Na Pali coast on custom-built touring catamarans that were designed to provide the ultimate touring experience. In fact, this is exactly what happened in the James Bond movieThe Man With the Golden Gun. 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. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. In Adventure, Places by Makana ChartersMay 10, 2021Leave a Comment. During our brief time exploring Honopu Beach, I tried to keep in mind how lucky I was to be here.If you factor in the effort it takes to get to Kalalau, and that you then have to swim a few hundred yards to access this beach, Honopu is really hard to get to. selectedText = 'Very Good'; 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="Excellent"; Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. It is the largest natural arch in Hawaii and 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. 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). We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. 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). Because its extremely difficult and dangerous to access, most visitors to Hawaii will never step foot on the beach at Honopu. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; Our boats will enhance your Kauai boat tour experience, and so will our personnel. Probably the most recognizable ones areSix Days, Seven Nights,Pirates of the Carribean,King Kong,andJurassic World. The Honopu Arch is one of the best parts of Honopu Beach. Another name for the beach is Cathedral Beach because of its spectacular, soaring appearance. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Another nickname of Honopu is Cathedral Beach. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. Brian (@blam) and I made our way to towards the back of the sand dunes. 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. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. }, 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. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! 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. else if(star_img=='2'){ You can see dykes running through the arch when you look up. Fins are also highly recommended. Providing the highest degree of quality customer service available in the industry. else if(i=='4'){ Kauais South Shore vs North Shore Which One to Choose? 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. 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. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. Honopu Beach. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a boat cruise through the Na Pali Coast. Only the strongest, most ocean-hardened swimmers should attempt a swim to Honopu, with fins highly recommended. 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. If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. 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, 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 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. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; We soaked in our surrounds before making our way to the arch. Well, the only way to legally access it is by swimming. Hawaiians enjoyed an isolated life in the valleys of Napali for hundreds, perhaps thousands of years. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); Providing the safest, most unique, and memorable ocean experience available. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. Honopu Beach. In Adventure, Na Pali Coast by Makana ChartersJune 10, 20162 Comments. Our destination wasHonopu Beach, one of the most incredible beaches in Hawaii. Great service! Kauai Travel Blog 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. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. Honopu Beach. We hope that this article has given you a wonderful image of Honopu Valley and Beach and encourages you to come out and see this natural wonder for yourself. Its also rumored in some circles that Honopu Valley was the last home of Kauais fabled Menuhune tribe of little people. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. } selectedText = 'Fine'; (808) 338-9980 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 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. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 Mahalo! DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. This beach is named after the Honopu Arch, a natural rock arch that used to be located here. 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. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. Just be sure to respect the area and preserve its natural beauty. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. 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. Whether you're looking for a professional hiking guide or need some maps to take along, you'll find them right here. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. else if(star_img=='4'){ With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. 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. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. var lc; We invite you to join us toenjoy this special piece of paradise. "mainEntityOfPage": { The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. The steep cliffs (pali) surrounding the valley and beach kept the area protected from outside intruders. 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. I understand we have to swim to shore from the boat. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in This tribe was believed to consist of Marquesans, who were Polynesians originally from Tahiti. 4353 Waialo Rd 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. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); (Originally published in September 2015. So an early start was a must. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; 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.