Andonce the winds pick up around midday, theres no way anyone (fins or not) is making that swim back, no matter how good a swimmer they are. We saw monk seals, dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales from the boat. If so, how much it costs. Dora Rozet, East West Tours. Beautiful sunset and beautiful water topped off the adventure. It comes from the conch-like sound the arch makes in high winds, and conch shell in Hawaiian is called Honopu. image = 'qw'+rnid + i; Overall though, we feel the trail is fairly easy to follow and is well marked. So would walking the 4 miile by When the warrior was satisfied with the placement of the remains, hed jump to his death, thus securing the locations secrecy forever. Holo Holo Charters was voted the best boat tour in the entire U.S.! At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Honopu Beach. Honop Valley - Wikipedia lc=rid; Honopu means "conch shell" in Hawaiian. 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. Holo Holo means to explore, to travel, and to go! ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Great activity for families. Switch to the dark mode that's kinder on your eyes at night time. Honopu Beach is one of the most secluded beaches that Kauai has to offer. Kauai Travel Blog Please let us know. 5.8k Views. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. "name": "Na Pali Riders", Say yes to adventure and come explore with us4,000-foot cliffs, emerald valleys, secluded beaches, sea caves, lava tubes, dolphins, whales, snorkeling, sailing, sunsets, and much more! Nestled along Kauais 17-mile Na Pali Coast is a landmark valley surrounded by a beautiful mystery. It basically fell into the ocean. 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. (Originally published in September 2015. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. }, The water then flows through the arch and into the ocean. It is said this cave once had a weak roof structure that eventually collapsed, creating a skylight effect into the cave. Many other movies have been filmed here. 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. Hanalei Physical: 5-5134 Kuhio Hwy, Hanalei, HI 96714. 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. No other company offers this amazing trip daily. 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. selectedText = 'Good'; 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. 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. You should only attempt this swim if you are an extremely confident swimmer who is familiar with rough ocean conditions. With the rugged scenery, waterfalls, beaches, and much more, it is easy to see why. A, Why Your Kauai Vacation Needs a Raft Tour, 9600 Kaumuali'i Highway Waimea, HI 96796. Honopu Beach Even with a snorkel and fins you need to have some experienced swimmers in your group. All Rights Reserved. So to get here, one must swim. For example, as an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. "dateModified": "2022-10-21" } Honopu Valley and Beach ny = document.getElementById(image); Honopu beach The vertical faces were even more dramatic than those at Kalalau. 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. Providing the safest, most unique, and memorable ocean experience available. 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. Honopu Beach, USA document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML=selectedText; Dora Rozet, East West Tours. Na Pali Coast Tour: Honopu The top of the valley can be accessed by a variety of hikes as well if youre in for the challenge. Honopu Beach 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. var selectedVal = ''; 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. Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 document.getElementById('rat').value=selectedVal; Tour Port Allen Marina Center Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. A Guide to Honopu Valley and Beach in Kauai. var el = document.getElementById('sf'); Remember that this location is sacred to the locals of Hawaii and should be treated with respect, and you should leave no trace when you decide to leave. Honopu Beach Freshwater is abundant with a stream and waterfall nearby, and the wide valley has excellent conditions for farming with terracing still in place from ancient days. This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. function textCounter(field, countfield, maxlimit) { The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. I followed Kurtis and Sonomi (@lomilomisomi)back through the golden arch. Voyage to the Napali Coast and let us wine you and dine you, as we sail off into the sunset on our gorgeous & comfortable 50 catamaran, Leila. Honopu Valley has been called the Valley of the Lost Tribe as it was the last rumored refuge of the Menehune on Kauai. The restrictions on beach landings are due to the beaches and valley being sacred in Hawaiian culture. We ate a small breakfast at our campsite then walked the lengthof Kalalau Beach (pictured above) towards the West. 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. 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. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: 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. selectedVal = '2'; At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. Daily, 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. Call Us: 808-742-6331 | Text Us: 808-639-2052. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Fine"; 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. else if(star_img=='5'){ The scale of this place can only be comprehended by being here. This was once a thriving fishing village featuring a stream near many heiau and shrines still found throughout the valley. At approximately 90 feet tall, the Honopu Valley is considered the tallest peak in Kauai. We happened to have triathletes, ocean safety certified folks, surfers and a former water polo player in our group. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Honopu consists of two beaches that are connected by the Arch which stands 90 feet tall and is 124 feet wide. WebWe have also Kayaked the coast during Summer 3 times. We had to be mindful of time so that we could swim back to Kalalau Beach before the wind came and ocean current picked up. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu. We realize the importance and continue to use them outside of the online platform. Just as beautiful as the valleys surroundings are the legends that have formed from its mysterious location. Aloha! Waimea, HI 96796 | Web usage privacy. There may be more legends surrounding the valley, but it does make sense for it to have served various island tribes in the past. Above: Kauais Honopu Beach as seen on a Kauai helicopter tour. We started our excursion in the morning. After viewing all the famous sites of Napali, the captain points the boat west toward the Forbidden Island of Niihau. The valley is isolated and not easily accessible except by water. 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. There was a massive landslide this past winter and a couple hundred yards of Kalalau Beach is now gone. However, these have been omitted from this website for the best online experience for our visitors. With swim fins and snorkels in hand, we prepared for a long swim to a secluded beach. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. } This story was last modified on September 14, 2015. Kauai Sea Tours has been providing award-winning tours since 1991. On one side a waterfall flows onto the beach from Honopu Valley. Honop Ridge Trail } The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. This article is part of a series to give you an idea for the one-of-a-kind scenery on the Na Pali Coast of Kauai. Its our promise to provide the cleanest, safest & most unique ocean experience available with the highest degree of aloha spirit customer service. You are not allowed to land any watercraft on the island, and helicopters are also not permitted. WebHonop Valley and Beach sit along the northwest shore of the Hawaiian island of Kauai, on the Na Pali coast. } This blog post will provide a complete guide, including directions and tips on what to do when you get there. In fact, thats what happened in The winds, very strong current, and waves would be against you and the distance just seems too far. 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. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. Napali Coast Recently Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US! el.style.display = 'inline'; else if(i=='3'){ selectedVal = '1'; Honopu Ridge Trail The forest/fern portion of the trail, which terminates at an overlook of the valley mostly blocked by trees. include the 1976 remake of King Kong, Six Days Seven Nights, Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides and Honeymoon in Vegas. 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. 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. We didnt GPS it or anything but the open ocean swim along the rocky coastfelt like a good 350-400 yards. In fact, the only legal way to access it is to swim to it. 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. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. var b = document.getElementById('t0'); Honopu Valley and Beach This Jurassic-like wonderland features two coves, separated by a massive rock arch, and is set against towering 1,200-foot sea cliffs. This first prominent cliff we will encounter on our Napali Coast tour is the Makaha ridge and valley. The "parking lot" is on a curve, just a short ways past theAwa'awapuhi Trailtrailhead. document.getElementById('t0').innerHTML="Poor"; A visible X slashed into the high part of the cliff helps you easily recognize Nualolo. The sailing was especially a fun experience. Oh and, this swim is also only possible during the summer months and when there oceans are calm. 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. The remote beach features a 90-foot natural arch in the middle that is large enough to fly a helicopter through. Many Hawaiian myths and legends tell of this area, and it is also a place of ancient burial grounds for local chiefs. Tour This unique landmark often has brown boobies perched above the entrance. else if(star_img=='2'){ And while all of Hawaiis beaches are gorgeous in their own way, some are certainly prettier than others. This made the swim to Honopu that much longer and it made having a snorkel and fins that much more important. The experienced travelers, who often recover on the nearby coastal stretches, know that you can get to the beach not only by sea. Thanks. Providing the highest degree of quality customer service available in the industry. The next valley and cliff are known as Awaawapuhi, it is a great valley with a stream at the bottom. Providing a solidly positive impact on both our ocean resources and our island community. Love Hawaii? Waimea, HI 96796 Saw whales, sea turtles, bottle nose dolphins and spinner dolphins. One of the first prominent beaches is Milolii, about four miles northeast of Polihale Beach, and the westernmost and driest valley of the Napali Coast State Park. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. Makana Charters 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. Because its extremely difficult and dangerous to access, most visitors to Hawaii will never step foot on the beach at Honopu. We have considered swimming over on a calm morning from Kalalau wearing fins. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! This tribe was believed to consist of Marquesans, who were Polynesians originally from Tahiti. As morning sun rose over the towering cliffs surrounding Honopu, it lit up the arch with warm glow. This is rated a difficult trail based on the fact that the trial is not officially maintained. Honopu Valley and Beach Mailing: PO Box 50940, Eleele, HI 96705 It got this name because of the conch shell-like sound that the arch makes when northerly winds blow into the valley. Honopu Beach 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 Kauai 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. Our fun team is passionate about creating incredible adventures in You can see dykes running through the arch when you look up. Around the corner is a large waterfall, cascading down the sea cliff, through the arch and into the ocean. Its another huge strip of sand surrounded by sheer cliffs. Once the winds come, swimming back here to Kalalau Beach wouldve been impossible. 2023 Hawaii Travel Guide. document.write("
| "); The shoreline area of Nualolo Aina was once a fishing village ringed by steep sea cliffs. It can be difficult to find, but it is definitely worth the effort! Suite 5A Another interesting feature of Honopu Beach is the picturesque waterfall that falls from one of the rocks. Honopu Beach Longitude: -159.6480865. 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. What a day! Photo: Ben Schmit. } Tour boats and catamarans glide through the white caps. although you can not land on the beach, it is still enjoyable getting real close and taking in how majestic Honopu is. var selectedText = ''; If you miss it, just park at Kalalau Lookout and hike the 1/4th of a mile back to the trailhead. Tour boats and catamarans glide through the white caps. The forests of Honopu Ridge are unique for the area, receiving less than 100 inches of rain per year; considerably less than the surrounding forests of Koke'e State Park. document.getElementById('rat').value="3"; Honopu Beach for (i=1; i<=5; i++) { The most famous and most photographed spot on Honopu is most likely the giant archway. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. So if youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque beach to relax on, this beach is the place for you! Na Pali Coast Tour: Honopu 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. 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. var shows = 0; It must be accessed by swimming from a boat or the neighboring beach in the summer months. 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. 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). our companys ideals resonate with people and 2.) 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. ny.src="../../../reviews/images/star.gif"; Honopu Beach 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. |