The Napali coast is a 17-mile expanse of rocky, steep, but oh-so-gorgeous series of cliffs that stretch along Kauai's northwest shore. Travelers agree there's no better way to experience Kauai's natural beauty and eye-catching terrain than at Napali, so you should make plans to marvel at it – either on foot, from the water or from the air (there are no roads that go along the Napali Coast).
Hiking the Kalalau Trail is the least expensive method of surveying this coast, but it's also an incredibly strenuous excursion that only experienced hikers should attempt. Other popular ways of taking in Napali are via boat or helicopter, which allows travelers to see parts of the coast inaccessible on foot, such as untouched beaches, sea caves and sky-high waterfalls that are tucked between the fluted cliffs. Visitors say those prone to seasickness might want to reconsider a boat tour, as the north shore's waves tend to be very rough. If you can handle the exorbitant fees, many agree a one-hour helicopter tour is the best way to view Napali; there will be no achy muscles or queasy stomach, plus you'll get to see more of the area in a shorter period of time. Whatever you choose to do, travelers said the extra effort – whether it's a challenging hike, rocky boat ride or expensive helicopter tour – was completely worth the extra effort.
If you want to hike the Kalalau Trail, you'll need to obtain a permit. Keep in mind if you're planning on just hiking to Hanakapi'ai Valley (2 miles from the trailhead), you won't need a permit. Go farther beyond that and you'll need to get a $20 camping permit, which is valid for a maximum of five nights, even if you aren't planning on camping. Visit the Hawaii State Park's website for more information. You can take a boat tour or helicopter tour year-round. Prices vary according to excursion; visit the Hawaii State Park's website for information on boat trips and Hawaii's tourism website for details on helicopter tours.