One of our (few) pre-planned activities was to hike a portion of the Na'Pali Coast via the Kalalua Trail.  Our objective was to hike from Ha'ena State Park, literally where the road ends on the North side of Kauai, down to Hanakapi'ai Beach.  It is a four mile round-trip hike with plenty of elevation gain, but the scenery makes it all worth it.

We started pretty early in the morning and after a long drive started up the trailhead.  The first 1/4 to 1/2 mile is very rocky and given the season was relatively wet and slippery.  Once over the rocks the trail started to put on some decent elevation with wonderful views of the Na'Pali coast as well as the beach near the trailhead.  The surf was 12-16 feet that day, so in addition to the trail cutting through coastal rainforest we were treated to the constant sound of crashing waves.

Shortly before reaching the beach, we had to cross a small stream.  The water was surprisingly cold.  Once we made it to the beach we discovered that a combination of high tides and very high surf had the waves breaking above the sand, so we each grabbed a rock and had a trail lunch.  Even without the high surf, you'd be half-insane to attempt swimming on there as the rip currents are incredibly strong.  Shortly before you get to the beach, a sign informs you of this fact via a death toll.

After our lunch we hiked back and immediately headed to the bar.  After a wonderful lunch and some beers, we hit Hanalei Beach.  I (Bob) was the only one who ventured into the surf.

Once everyone was satisfied with beach time, we grabbed some ice cream and shave ice before heading back to Poipu.

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