Awaawapuhi Tour at a Glance…

Price: $156 per Person
Tour Time(s): Offered All Year
Wednesday: 8:00 a.m.
Thursday: 8:00 a.m.
Friday: 8:00 a.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m.
Fitness Level:
Adventure Ready: Expect a moderate workout with longer distances, steady climbs, and varied terrain requiring good fitness and endurance.
Distance + Elv.:
Challenging: 5.8 miles and 1,900 feet of elevation gain.
Duration (3-4 HRS.):
Half-Day Adventure: Includes hiking time, stops for sightseeing, and lunch.
Distance: 5.8 miles (out and back)
Trail Time: 3-4 hours
Restrictions: Children under 16 years need to be accompanied by an adult; if not, service will be denied with no refund.
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Awaawapuhi

Guided Hike to Spectacular Na Pali Coast Views

Experience the beauty of Kauai’s Awaawapuhi Trail with a knowledgeable guide who brings this iconic hike to life. Often rated among the top trails on the island, this journey offers stunning perspectives of the Na Pali Coast and a deep connection to Kauai’s unique landscapes and history.

Starting at 4,120 feet in Kokee State Park, your guide will lead you on a 3.1-mile descent through the Na Pali-Kona Forest Reserve. Along the way, they’ll share insights into the native dryland forest, pointing out plants like koa and ohia and helping you spot native birds such as the iiwi and elepaio. With every step, you’ll uncover more of the trail’s magic as panoramic views of the Awaawapuhi and Nualolo Valleys begin to unfold.

At the trail’s end, perched at 2,500 feet, your guide will reveal one of Kauai’s most spectacular vistas. Gaze north toward Kee Lagoon, south to Niihau and Lehua Rock, and straight ahead to the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. The grassy terminus offers a peaceful spot to pause for lunch, provided as part of the tour, before beginning the ascent back.

This guided hike transforms a scenic trail into an unforgettable adventure, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Kauai’s wild beauty.

Detailed Tour Info…

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What’s Included?

  • State certified guide(s)
  • Day packs
  • Walking sticks
  • Deli lunch + chips, tropical fruit and cookies
  • Variety of tropical juices and flavored sparkling waters

What to Bring?

  • Sun protection
  • Light, long-sleeve shirt
  • Sweatshirt or light jacket
  • Shorts
  • Rain gear
  • Footwear: light hiking boots, sports sandals, or athletic shoes
  • Lunch + snacks: candy bar, gorp, fruit, etc.
  • A water bottle (or two) to fill up at our purified water station — we also have reusable water bottles for sale
  • A camera and binoculars

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this hike hard?

We rate this hike as “strenuously difficult.” The hike is just over 3 miles each way and the trail is often muddy. You’ll encounter slick rocks and roots — and the trail can be steep in sections. Guests should be patient and sure-footed to enjoy this challenging hike.

How long is the hike?

From the parking area to the edge of Na Pali and back is approximately 5.8 miles. It’s mostly downhill on the way out — and uphill on the return.

We’ll spend 3 to 4 hours on the trail. Total time depends on the trail conditions and the pace of our group.

Is transportation provided? Is hotel pick-up an option?

No. Meet your guide(s) directly at the Awaawapuhi Trailhead in Kokee (Google Map).

Are there restrooms and water at the trailhead?

There are no facilities at the trailhead. However, many of the lookouts in Kokee State Park have restrooms and drinking fountains.

Map / Location

Meeting Location

Awaawapuhi Trailhead in Kokee :: Google Map

Tour Map

Hiking Awaawapuhi Ridge Trail Map

Before You Sign Up

No Unaccompanied Minors

Children under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult; if not, service will be denied with no refund. Minimum age to participate in this hiking tour is 6 years.

Cancellation Policy

We have a strict 24-hour cancellation policy. Parties of 6 or more required 48-hour cancellation. Inside of these windows there are no refunds.

Weather Cancellations

Cancellations made by Kayak Kauai due to inclement weather are 100% refundable.

Tours are Non-Refundable

If for any reason the entire hike is not accomplished by individuals (even if an individual is holding back a tour and is sent back by our guides), there is no refund.

Safety is First

Kauai weather can be mild or wild, and change quickly. If deteriorating conditions prevent us from safely continuing our adventure, depending on progress made, there may be a slight discount.

The Trail can be Very Muddy

The trail can be muddy any time of the year, so make sure everyone in your party are up to the challenging potential of a slip or slide! Choose footwear that can get wet, has good traction, and you don’t mind getting muddy.

Kauai Gift Card

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