Kauai’s north shore straddles a delicate balance.
It’s a hugely popular visitor draw thanks to its stunning cliffs, forests, beaches and seas, and its Haena State Park beckons as a gateway to the famed Napali Coast and Kalalau Trail.
At the same time, it’s a fragile environment in need of preservation. That point was driven home in April 2018, when record flooding closed the region’s main road — Kuhio Highway — for more than a year.
Now that the highway has reopened, officials have come up with new rules for visitors to lessen the impact on the area’s precious wildlife, as well as its residential community.
“While it takes a little more effort and advance planning to get into Haena State Park, people will appreciate its beauty and how amazing it is once they experience it,” said Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau. “We want this special area to be managed so that it’s available to future generations.”
Following are four ways that clients can see Kauai’s north shore in a memorable and responsible fashion.
Make Reservations
Before the storm, roughly 3,000 people visited Haena State Park each day. Now, that number has been limited to 900.
No matter how clients arrive at the park, they need reservations. Travelers who drive themselves there must prebook a required parking pass, which costs $5 for several hours. Clients who walk in or get dropped off must buy a $1 access pass beforehand. Reservations can be made up to 30 days ahead.
www.gohaena.com
Visitors now need passes to enter and park at Haena State Park, home of Kee Beach and the start of the Kalalau Trail.
Credit: 2019 DLNRRide the Shuttle
The North Shore Shuttle provides easy and handy transfers to Haena. It runs daily from pickup locations in Waipa and Princeville. Clients should book their ride ahead of time. The fare — $15 roundtrip per person — includes a park entry voucher.
During their sojourn at Haena, clients can relax at Kee Beach or walk the Kalalau Trail as far as Hanakapiai Beach and its nearby waterfall. Visitors who want to hike farther must apply for a state parks camping permit.
kauainsshuttle.com
Stop in Hanalei
As the last real town before Haena State Park, charming Hanalei suffered a drop in tourism after the road closed just beyond it. These days, its mom-and-pop boutiques, galleries, restaurants and activity companies are open and eager for business.
Clients looking to give back to the destination can take time in the picturesque town, whether it’s for a shave ice from JoJo’s Shave Ice, a surfing lesson with Kayak Hanalei or lunch at Tahiti Nui.
www.jojosshaveice.com
www.kayakhanalei.com
www.thenui.com
Travelers heading to the end of the north shore highway pass through the colorful town of Hanalei.
Credit: 2019 Kauai Visitors Bureau/Kicka WitteTake the Aloha Pledge
Kauai residents want to protect their home. So, officials are encouraging travelers to read and sign the online Aloha Pledge, designed to create mindfulness among visitors.
The pledge asks clients to take a range of actions during their stay, such as learning about the local culture, using reef-safe sunscreen, picking up trash, cleaning footwear to prevent the spread of invasive species and practicing kindness.
www.alohapledge.com
Hanalei Colony Resort Update
Hanalei Colony Resort, which is located near the end of the road on Kauai’s north shore, is now taking reservations for stays starting Dec. 20.
The 52-unit property suffered significant damage from the island’s historic floods of April 2018. During its closure, it served as a vital community hub while its facilities were being restored.
“We are especially excited to open a select number of rooms starting just in time for the upcoming Christmas holiday,” said Laura Richards, general manager of the resort.
Dating back to 1969, Hanalei Colony — the only beachfront resort on the north shore — features suites with full kitchens and private lanais in low-rise, plantation-style buildings. Amenities include Opakapaka Grill & Bar, Napali Art Gallery & Coffee House, and Hanalei Day Spa.
The resort is preparing to celebrate its 50th year as the gateway to the Napali Coast, Richards added.
Nightly rates begin at $452. Return guests get a 10% discount on their entire stay, including accommodations, food and spa services.
www.hcr.com
