Kalalau Beach - Beaches On Kauai Kapaa, Hawaii

One of the most amazing places in the world. Kalalau Beach is accessible by an 11 mile hike along the magnificent Na Pali Coast. You can get there in one day if you were ambitious, but most people do it in two.

This is one of the most isolated places in the world. Think about it. You're in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, on the most remote island chain in the world - the one furthest away from Honolulu; and you've traveled along scary cliffs to get here.

Access to Kalalau Beach is either by boat or an 11 mile hike on one of the most difficult trails on the Hawaiian Islands. There are no facilities except composting toilets. Ho'ole'a Falls at the western end of the beach provides fresh water, but needs to be purified before drinking.

The beach itself is long, sand and amazingly gorgeous. The steep pali cliffs behind the beach are so tall, it's a sight you can't explain unless you see it in person. They make you realized how small you are.

There are caves where visitors will camp out and sleep in if the tide is not too big. But be advised, camping anywhere on the beach or under the cliff can be hazardous because of falling rocks. There are goats that travel along the ridge and kick rocks down, some say deliberately, and have been known to cause head trauma requiring a Life Flight out by helicopter.

There is a small campground that is a far better spot to camp with shaded trees, and camp sites. Safer by far. I used a hammock that kept my equipment and clothing off the ground and away from the bugs. In the evening, I can think of no spot on earth one could enjoy looking at the heavens from this beach. No pollution or city lights to obscure the view. Magnificent.

Kalalau Beach is a place few will ever visit, and those that do will never forget the experience.