Nualolo Tour at a Glance…

Price: $146 per Person
Tour Time(s): Offered All Year
Monday: 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.:
Advanced: 7.6 miles and 2,600 feet of elevation gain.
Duration (3-4 HRS.):
Half-Day Adventure: Includes hiking time, stops for sightseeing, and lunch.
Distance: 7.6 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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Nualolo

Guided Forest Hike with Spectacular Na Pali Views

Join us for a guided journey along the Nualolo Ridge Trail, one of Kauai’s most rewarding hikes through the heart of Kokee State Park. Often considered a sister trail to the Awaawapuhi, Nualolo Ridge offers dramatic views of the Na Pali Coast and an immersive experience in Kauai’s diverse ecosystems.

Your guide will lead the way from the trailhead near the Kokee Lodge and Museum at 3,660 feet, descending 3.8 miles through a vibrant dryland forest. Along the route, you’ll encounter native plants like koa, ohia, and mokihana, alongside introduced species such as eucalyptus and karaka nut trees. As the forest gives way to open landscapes, your guide will help you spot unique ferns, naupaka, and manono, all framing the iconic Na Pali cliffs.

Bird enthusiasts will enjoy learning about native species like the iiwi and elepaio, whose songs add to the trail’s enchanting atmosphere. The hike culminates in a spectacular lookout at 2,234 feet, where you’ll take in breathtaking views of Kee Lagoon to the north and the forbidden island of Niihau and Lehua Rock to the south.

This guided adventure goes beyond the hike itself, offering stops at the Kalalau Lookout and the Kokee Museum to provide a deeper appreciation of the region’s natural history and geology.

Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this guided hike is an unforgettable way to connect with the wild beauty of the Na Pali Coast.

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
  • 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 under 4 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 7.6 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 Nualolo 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

Nualolo Trailhead in Kokee :: Google Map

Tour Map

Hiking Nualolo 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.

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