Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Wet Caves
CAVE
Two wet caves are within the boundaries of Haʻena State Park. The first,
Waikapalaʻe
Wet Cave
(aka the Blue Room), is just a short walk from the road opposite the visitor-
parking overflow area. Formed by constant wave-pounding many years ago, this massive
cavern is as enchanting as it is spooky.
Though the Blue Room has been rather dry of late, when there is water, some slip in to
experience the sunlight's blue reflection in the deeper chamber of the cave. Please note
this water may have leptospirosis, the rocks are slippery and there is nothing to hold onto
once in the water. The second cave,
Waikanaloa Wet Cave
, is on the south side of the
main road.
Kaulu Paoa Heiʻau
TEMPLE
The roaring surf worked as a teacher to those who first practiced the spiritual art of hula,
chanting and testing their vocal horsepower against nature's decibel levels. Keʻe beach is
home to one of the most cherished heiau, and it's also where the goddess Pele fell in love
with Lohiau.
Leis and other offerings for Pele can be found on the ground and should be left as is.
Enter the heiau through its entryway. Do not cross over its walls, as it is disrespectful and
said to bring bad luck.
THE NA PALI KAYAK TREK
The Na Pali Coast has reasonable claim to offering the most spectacular scenery of
all of Kauaʻi. Any trip to Kauaʻi without experiencing it would be incomplete; and if
you're able, kayaking it arguably offers one of the most unforgettable adventures
on the planet.
Kayaking the Na Pali Coast is strenuous and dangerous, and therefore not for
everyone. Going with a guide helps manage the dangers; going without means
you're more than just familiar with sea (not river) kayaking. It also means you know
better than to go alone. Always check several days of weather forecasting and
ocean conditions before launching ( 245-3564). Hanakapiʻai Beach is about a
mile in. About six more miles along and you can set up camp at Kalalau. If you start
very early, you can aim for setting up camp at Miloliʻi (with a permit), which is at
the 11-mile point, two miles past Nuʻalolo Kai. From there you have the often (sea-
sonally) surfless, hot, flat stretch of Polihale, for what feels like much longer than 3
miles.
Always start on the North Shore, end on the Westside (due to currents) and nev-
er go in winter (potentially deadly swells).
