Park Conditions
Current Conditions
National Weather Service: North Shore Weather Forecast
Hawaii State Parks: Kalalau Trail Information and Status
County of Kauai Ocean Safety: Kē‘ē Beach Surf Conditions
Safety Considerations:
Swimming & Snorkeling
Do NOT swim at Hanakāpī‘ai Beach (many past injuries & deaths). No lifeguards, unpredictable currents & rogue waves.
It is a long way from help with no cell service.
Even at Kē‘ē Beach, expect rougher ocean October to April (poor snorkeling). Year round, lifeguards will close Kē‘ē if unsafe.
Clip: Rogue Wave Injures Bystanders
Kauai Lifeguards: Snorkeling Safety
Expect SLIPPERY / MUDDY conditions. This hike is very strenuous and not recommended for young/elderly.
The second leg of hike from beach to waterfalls is recommended for experienced hikers ONLY.
DO NOT CROSS STREAM if water is rushing or so murky you can’t see bottom.
If stream levels rise, and stream is UNSAFE TO CROSS, you should SHELTER IN PLACE until it is safe to cross.
No refunds due to conditions at the park or closure of the beach or trail.
Interested in nearby community projects? Visit our partner websites:
Cultural stewardship with lo’i kalo (taro) volunteer activities at Hā‘ena State Park, and developer of Hawaii’s first Community-Based Subsistance Fishing Area (CBSFA).
Limahuli National Tropical Botanical Garden
Reservations required. Verify garden hours at their website. Built on the footprint of Hawaiian ancestors, Limahuli is one of the most biodiverse valleys in the Hawaiian Islands.
Cultural stewardship and education in support of local food systems. Visit their grab-and-go fridge for delicious food just a short drive west of the Park & Ride lot.
Community-led, Government-supported solutions for the north shore.