The guys were great and personable. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; By donating to our small business, you accept and acknowledge the donation terms. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. This is where we'd advise you to stop, as the third and final portion of the ridge is very narrow and dangerous. Like all valleys along the Na Pali coast, Honopu Valleywas a home to ancient Hawaiians. Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. WebA Bit of History for Your Na Pali Coast Tour Honopu Beach. Honopu Beach. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. It basically fell into the ocean. We invite you to go the distance and experience the adventure of a lifetime. This is just as well since Honopu is most definitely sacred. WebHonopu Arch is one of the most amazing sights you will see along the Napali Coast. , while some involve tales of the supernatural as it served as burial grounds for Hawaiian chiefs in the past. - 8:00p.m. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. 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. The name Honopu means conch shell in Hawaiian, because of the sound the northerly winds make when they blow through the arch. ny = document.getElementById(image); var selectedVal = ''; "@type": "WebPage", So would walking the 4 miile WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. More than just a boat ride, our mission is to take our guests on safe, educational, and awe-inspiring adventures that cultivate a sense of understanding and respect for Kauais ecosystem and cultural history. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! return; The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. ny = document.getElementById(image); 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. The cliffs directly behind Kalalau beach are known as the cathedral cliffs, for the cathedral-like spires jutting towards the heavens. Fins are also highly recommended. Fun factdid you know that Holo Holos four tour boats were all designed and built right here on Kauai? 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). Kauai Travel Blog We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. else if(i=='3'){ } if(i<= selectedVal) On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley, while sand dunes can be found on both sides. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. "description": "Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. On the third day of a recent camping trip in Kalalau, Kauai, we woke up early and walked to the end of Kalalau Beach. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. The crew Drew, Emily and Jess were fantastic! if(star_img=='1'){ We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. var selectedText = ''; Our boats will enhance your Kauai boat tour experience, and so will our personnel. These spots are better appreciated through a helicopter tour or a boat cruise through the Na Pali Coast. Your use of this website constitutes your acceptance of all the terms, conditions, and disclaimers posted herein. This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. Make sure to bring your camera on this spectacular Kauai tour. 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. 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. 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. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. 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. Hours: 8:00a.m. Great service! When we arrived on the beach, it was completely empty. 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. selectedVal = '2'; In fact, this is exactly what happened in the James Bond movieThe Man With the Golden Gun. 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). But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. Book Now Learn More Snorkel + Sail From $210 Napali Snorkel Sail Wearing long pants is a great way to get through the ferns (we personally love convertible cargo pants). 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. WebThe beach guests can visit the two parts of the beach thanks to the small natural arch formed in the rock. In fact, the only legal way to access it is to swim to it. for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { Hiking along the shore from Haena Beach Park to Tunnels to Ke'e and back would also be a beautiful and rewarding experience. This is due to the belief that a chiefs bones gain a supernatural power upon death, which could be used against the chiefs tribe. What a day! Holo Holo Charters offer Kauai private boat tours to sightsee and snorkel locations like Napali Coast, Niihau, Lehua Crater, Honopu, Kalalau, and Kipu Kai. Honopu Beach. 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. Remnants of Hawaiian life can still be found in this area, including a rope ladder that connected the beach to the valley. 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. document.getElementById('rat').value="4"; Mahalo! 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. Then, cross the 17-mile Kaulakahi Channel to Hawaiis Forbidden Island of Niihau to do some world-class snorkeling at Lehua Crater. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in (Originally published in September 2015. }, document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; Honopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. Archeological evidence discovered in the 1920s suggests that a human population flourished in this valley but then disappeared suddenly, which is why Honopu is sometimes called the Valley of the Lost Tribe. WebThey will have very few people so you will have a peaceful beach. You can see dykes running through the arch when you look up. Once at Kalalau Beach, some choose to strap on their fins, grab a snorkel, and make the 400-yard swim to Honopu. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. The Holo Holo snorkel/sail was a great excursion! }, Private and Quiet Luxury Beach House 3 minute walk to beach TVNC#5151, Hale Kahakai: Beachfront home on the Magical North Shore of Kauai, Hawaii Life Rentals presents Modern beach style vacation house, with A/C, Affordable Beach House Just Steps to the Beach Children Welcome! Honopu Beach is one valley past the famous Kalalau Valley and Beach, which is only accessible via a strenuous 11-mile backpacking trip. (Be warned they may tryto dissuade you from doing the hike since it's not an officialtrail). ", Whether you're looking for a professional hiking guide or need some maps to take along, you'll find them right here. Experience Kauai snorkeling tours and true trade-wind catamaran sailing on Kauais Napali Coast! We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coast felt like a good 350-400 yards. The swim is only possible in the summer months, only. WebHonopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. 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. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. 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. }else{ Even with a snorkel and fins you need to have some experienced swimmers in your group. Waiting for your response. 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. selectedText = 'Poor'; "name": "Na Pali Riders", document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. Sand dunes can be found on both sides! Honopu actually consists of two beaches, which are backed by majestic 1200-foot (365 m) high sea cliffs and separated by the Honopu arch. Mahalo! However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. The Honopu Arch is one of the best parts of Honopu Beach. 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. So for me, being surrounded by a bunch of confident swimmers was very comforting. Photo: Ben Schmit. 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. The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. Honopu Beach. 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. Honopu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches that Kauai has to offer. 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. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); Over the years, weve earned ten consecutive TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. All Rights Reserved. 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 can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! Legends aside, we know for certain that the Honopu cliffs were used as burial sites for ancient chiefs that ruled along the Napali Coast. On the other side of the Honopu arch is anotherbeach. 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). Highly recommend this cruise line! Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. No road or even a hiking trail leads to it. { 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. By providing genuine aloha hospitality, were determined to earn and keep the reputation from our guests and our community of being the most professional and forward-thinking Kauai boat tour company, that we may exist and thrive for decades to come. Waimea, HI 96796 | Web usage privacy. But if there was one location that has seen more action than anywhere else, it is probably Honopu. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. Latitude: 22.14403388 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. Wasnt a lot to see snorkeling, but it was still fun. 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. For when you actually put it in perspective, the archway is hundreds of feet long and big enough for a helicopter to fly through it. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. Makana Charters WebAdd Honopu Beach, on Kauais Na Pali Coast, to the list of the worlds most beautiful and most dramatic beaches. Honopu Beach is one of the most beautiful and secluded beaches on Kauai. While the trail is pretty short, it is no longer maintained by the park (due to Hurricane Iniki damage way back in 1992 and Hurricane Iwa in 1982) - so prepare to bushwack; the ferns are especially brutal on the legs if you're not prepared. document.write("
"); This arch is full of water. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. Check out our other articles at the top of this page for other locations. for (var i=1; i<=5; i++) { We hope to see you out there. 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. 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. Native Hawaiians began abandoning their culture and simple lifestyle and eventually moved to more populated communities on Kauai to take advantage of emerging opportunities. 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. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. Another name for the beach is Cathedral Beach because of its spectacular, soaring appearance. show(star_img,rid); The "parking lot" is on a curve, just a short ways past theAwa'awapuhi Trailtrailhead. A, Why Your Kauai Vacation Needs a Raft Tour, 9600 Kaumuali'i Highway Waimea, HI 96796. by WebHonopu beach and valley have been made famous by several feature films. document.getElementById('rat').value="5"; Honopu Beach. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. } else { We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. And while all of Hawaiis beaches are gorgeous in their own way, some are certainly prettier than others. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, Honopu Beach is the place for you! Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. In 1922, visiting archaeologists found several skulls thought to be primitive, pre-Hawaiian people. The scale of this place can only be comprehended by being here. 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. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Good"; document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=" "; But setting foot on Honopu is not so easy, as boat, kayak, helicopter and other assisted landings are not permitted and there is no land access due to the steep cliffs. } Honopu Beach is as hard to get to as it is dramatic. var shows = 0; It is up to each individual to know their limits, abilities and level of expertise before attempting any outdoor activity. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; While touring the Na Pali Coast with us, some locations may seem familiar, as if you have seen it before. if(el.style.display == 'inline'){ Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 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. "headline": "Honopu Beach, Kauai: A Complete Guide", 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. Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/blank.gif"; 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). The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. selectedVal = '1'; 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 Get more stories delivered right to your email. The Original Niihau + Napali Coast Boat Tour. were succeeding in realizing those ideals. Trademarks and brands are the property of their respective owners. Nualolo cliff and valley are spotted next; another fishing village thrived here due to an excellent coral reef system fronting the beach. var lc; A dramatic arch in the cliff connects two white-sand beaches, with a waterfall nearby. When the warrior was satisfied with the placement of the remains, hed jump to his death, thus securing the locations secrecy forever. Above: Kauais Honopu Beach as seen on a Kauai helicopter tour. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. If so, how much it costs. WebLooking down toward the coast, the thin stretch of beach and the Honop Arch can be seen in the distance. It is the largest natural arch in Hawaii and el.style.display = 'inline'; The sea caves along Napali were mostly created by erosion, the constant waves have chiseled away at the porous lava rock. With its picturesque structure, a solid minute spent looking at it in awe is enough to last a lifetime. It is considered to be a sacred place and is told to be the ancient burial grounds of Hawaiin chiefs. 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. 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. Our destination wasHonopu Beach, one of the most incredible beaches in Hawaii. All of the rubblethat breaks off gets washed away leaving this clean edge between sand and cliff. When Hollywood needs a dramatic, exotic, tropical beach, they often head to Honopu. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; selectedVal = '5'; var b = document.getElementById('t0'); This blog post will provide a complete guide to Honopu Beach, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. Honopu Valley has been called the Valley of the Lost Tribe as it was the last rumored refuge of the Menehune on Kauai. The winds, very strong current, and waves would be against you and the distance just seems too far. function show(star_img,rnid) So to get here, one must swim. This leads to the question, How do you get to Honopu Beach?. Honopu is by far the most difficult beach to reach on the island of Kauai. Providing the safest, most unique, and memorable ocean experience available. 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. } 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. The natural beauty of Kauai and unique landscapes on this island make it a prime spot for filming. 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.