Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. Unless youre a triathlete or an experienced open ocean swimmer, this swim would not be possible without a snorkel and fins.I brought a small dry bag and strapped it to my leg to carry by camera gear. Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. 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. 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. "image": "https://www.napaliriders.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/IMG_9585.jpg", Skip the restaurant and enjoy a delicious Kauai sunset tour including dinner and drinks, while basking in the glory of the Napali Coastrainbows, cliffs, valleys, beaches, waterfalls, wildlife. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. shows = 1; image = 'qw'+rnid + i; The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Once you step foot on Honopu Valleys beaches, youll understand why its been given such a name. } , such as guavas and grapefruit that grows along its coast. Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! 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. document.getElementById('rat').value="2"; WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. 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. else if(i=='4'){ although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. Add Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. 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. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only during low tide, and only before the winds have picked up. This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. In fact, thats what happened in Theres the intensity of the rainbows, the fluctuation of the waterfalls, the playfulness of the spinner dolphins, and the majesty of humpback whales (seasonally). Plenty to eat and drink and the group size was just great. You dont have to make the intense swim to the beach to enjoy the uniqueness of the area. Kauai's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Kauai's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. Some tales talk about the valley having served as a home to. 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. The main trail can sometimes become vague and you might be misled by several other smaller (hunters) trails that branch off from the main trail. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. 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. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. In summer months, it may be possible to walk at least part of the way from Kalalau Beach to Honopu on exposed rocks and sand. There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. If so, how much it costs. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. 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. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. 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. 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). (Be warned they may tryto dissuade you from doing the hike since it's not an officialtrail). If you do not agree with any part of these terms and conditions, you should not use this website. 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. 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. Also, currents can be present even if the ocean appears calm. Everything is larger than it appears once you walk up to it. DISCLAIMER: UnrealHawaii.com is an independent resource for Hawaii focused content. 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. Eleele, HI, 96705. 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). var i; 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. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Excellent"; Port Allen Physical: 4353 Waialo Road, Suite 5A, Eleele, HI 96705, Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. 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. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { There are three major parts of the trail. Another nickname of Honopu is Cathedral Beach. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. The sheer cliff faces are scarred with lines formed bywater running down them when it rains. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. At the eastern point of the bay is a high vertical sea cliff. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. "@type": "WebPage", The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. While touring the Na Pali Coast with us, some locations may seem familiar, as if you have seen it before. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. } } WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! Dora Rozet, East West Tours. 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. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. The crew was knowledgeable and helpful. 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). 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). All of the rubblethat breaks off gets washed away leaving this clean edge between sand and cliff. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Very Good"; The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian, because of the sound the northerly winds make when they blow through the arch. The guys were great and personable. 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. 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. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; In 1922, visiting archaeologists found several skulls thought to be primitive, pre-Hawaiian people. our companys ideals resonate with people and 2.) Boats (including kayaks) are not allowed toland here. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. Explore the beauty and adventure on one of our Kauai boat tours to the Napali Coast, Niihau and Lehua Crater. We ate a small breakfast at our campsite then walked the lengthof Kalalau Beach (pictured above) towards the West. Photo: Ben Schmit. WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. Click here to Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Banner Ads (managed by BuySellAds) > Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. Suite 5A Friends, winning the title of#1Best Boat Tour in America is a major affirmation that 1.) Much evidence of their life is still found today. 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. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. A lot of people, though they might bestrong, can get panic attacks when swimming in the open ocean. document.write("
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"); if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); } Like all valleys along the Na Pali coast, Honopu Valleywas a home to ancient Hawaiians. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. 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. What a day! Travel in comfort and style to dramatic locations around Kauai and Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau off uninhabited Lehua Crater. selectedVal = '4'; 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. selectedVal = '3'; although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. 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. This cliff is easily distinguished, as it hosts radar and tracking equipment and cellular phone sites you can see from a distance. 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. But nothing compares to seeing this beautiful coastline in person, and we invite you to join us on one of our boats. This beach is named after the Honopu Arch, a natural rock arch that used to be located here. Honopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. 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. Love Hawaii? In our opinion, it is one of the best though roughest hikes on Kauai. It is considered to be a sacred place and is told to be the ancient burial grounds of Hawaiin chiefs. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. 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 means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. countfield.value = maxlimit - field.value.length; 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. Hours: 8:00a.m. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Honopu Beach is as hard to get to as it is dramatic. As we emerged from the water on Honopu Beach, we saw that we were surrounded by towering cliffs. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. 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. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. "description": "Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; Native Hawaiians began abandoning their culture and simple lifestyle and eventually moved to more populated communities on Kauai to take advantage of emerging opportunities. See, Hawaiians believed that their chiefs were direct descendants of gods and that their bones contained powerful amounts of the gods mana or life force. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 The dykes act as aquifers and store water. else if(star_img=='2'){ if(i<= selectedVal) Please let us know. if(star_img=='1'){ Not too crowded. Honopu is by far the most difficult beach to reach on the island of Kauai. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in 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. 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. The cliffs directly behind Kalalau beach are known as the cathedral cliffs, for the cathedral-like spires jutting towards the heavens. 4516 Alawai Rd. Eventually, you'll come to a hill where the trail descends very steeply again onto the outer (third) portion of the ridge. It is estimated that life along the Napali began to change in the 1800s and early 1900s, as foreigners began frequenting the islands and introducing new ways of living. Our four Kauai-built boats are perfectly designed to take you and your family on an experience of a lifetime in the utmost safety, comfort, and style, to remote locations around the Napali Coast, Niihau, and Lehua Crater. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; 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. 5.8k Views. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. } } This discovery supported claims regarding native tribes having lived in the area in the mid-19th century. From the water, we could look back and peer into the sacred Honopu Valley. 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. (808) 338-9980
After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the Forbidden Island of Niihau. Saw whales, sea turtles, bottle nose dolphins and spinner dolphins. Wasnt a lot to see snorkeling, but it was still fun. else if(i=='3'){ The good news is that on a good clear day it results in a view that is perhaps Kauai's greatest. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, Honopu Beach is the place for you! Remnants of Hawaiian life can still be found in this area, including a rope ladder that connected the beach to the valley. Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. 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. Keep an eye out for the orange and pink ribbons that others have tied up to mark the trail. Honopu Beach. 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. 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. 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. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. 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. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. If you're visiting Kauai soon, be sure to download your copy of one of our updated 2023 Kauai Visitor Guides. ", The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. 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. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. With its stunning views and rich history, its an unforgettable experience that youll always treasure. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. When the warrior was satisfied with the placement of the remains, hed jump to his death, thus securing the locations secrecy forever. However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. "datePublished": "2022-03-16", Providing the safest, most unique, and memorable ocean experience available. 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 made the swim to Honopu that much longer and it made having a snorkel and fins that much more important. WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu 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. WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. We point out the most famous sea cave along the way, the Open Ceiling Cave. } But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. 4353 Waialo Rd Overall though, we feel the trail is fairly easy to follow and is well marked. Kauais South Shore vs North Shore Which One to Choose? field.value = field.value.substring(0, maxlimit); 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. If youre looking to experience a truly unique and beautiful beach, Honopu Beach is definitely worth a visit. Makana Charters
for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. }, Then it was time to swim back to Kalalau Beach and cook up some food at camp. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. We started our excursion in the morning. 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 Take that arch way off in the distance for instance. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, this beach is the place for you! Honopu Beach was once a popular spot for filming movies and TV shows, including South Pacific and Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides.. Honopu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches that Kauai has to offer. Remember to respect the quiet atmosphere and leave no trace behind as you head on to your next adventure. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. 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. True story! Every single day, from sunrise to sunset, Kauais coasts sing a unique symphony of natural wonder. The winds, very strong current, and waves would be against you and the distance just seems too far. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. Waiting for your response. While there is a good bit of descent in the first mile and a half, it's not that much different than many of the ridges in the area. 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. } 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. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. Above: Kauais Honopu Beach as seen on a Kauai helicopter tour. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. 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. So would walking the 4 miile Switch to the light mode that's kinder on your eyes at day time. ny = document.getElementById(image); (Originally published in September 2015. } In fact, thats what happened in 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 is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. Sand dunes can be found on both sides! if (field.value.length > maxlimit) At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. var selectedText = ''; The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. Mahalo! This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. 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. "mainEntityOfPage": { selectedText = 'Excellent'; 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). "@type": "Organization", Oh and, this swim is also only possible during the summer months and when there oceans are calm. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! Feel free to contact us if you have specific questions. 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. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. 4353 Waialo Rd else if(star_img=='3'){ Brian (@blam) and I made our way to towards the back of the sand dunes. This is where we'd advise you to stop, as the third and final portion of the ridge is very narrow and dangerous. Its no question why Honopu Valley and Beach is listed as one of the worlds most beautiful and dramatic spots. We did not linger under the arch for very long. This beach is only accessible by the sea and camping is allowed with a permit. 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.
honopu beach tour