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Hikes
United States
Kauaʻi County

Anahola

The best walks and hikes around Anahola

4.6

(179)

2,133

hikers

25

hikes

Hiking around Anahola, located on Kauai's northeast coast, features a diverse landscape where mountains meet the sea. The region is characterized by the dramatic Kalalea Mountains inland and the Anahola River, which contributes to its lush environment. Coastal areas offer pristine beaches and coral reefs, while inland trails traverse through forests and pasture lands. This combination provides varied terrain for outdoor activities.

Best hiking trails around Anahola

  • The most popular hiking route is Keālia Beach to Donkey Beach — Kauai, a 4.8 miles (7.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 59 minutes to complete. This path offers coastal views along the Ke Ala Hele Makalae.
  • Another top favourite among local hikers is Donkey Beach – Kapaa Bike Path loop from Kealia, a moderate 7.1 miles (11.4 km) path. This loop provides extensive ocean vistas and connects coastal areas.
  • Local hikers also love the Upper Hoʻopiʻi Falls – Lower Ho'opi'i Falls loop from Kawaihau, a 2.5 miles (4.0 km) trail leading through lush forest to waterfalls, often completed in about 1 hour 6 minutes.
  • Hiking around Anahola is defined by coastal paths, lush forest trails, and routes leading to waterfalls. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to moderate hikes.
  • The routes in Anahola are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. More than 1600 hikers have used komoot to explore Anahola's varied terrain.

Last updated: May 12, 2026

4.6

(7)

21

hikers

#1.

Ho'opi'i Falls Trail

1.24km

00:20

20m

20m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

16

hikers

7.71km

01:59

30m

30m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Popular around Anahola

Running Trails around Anahola

Road Cycling Routes around Anahola

Cycling around Anahola

Tips from the Community

Alex
November 3, 2023, Kapaʻa Beach Park and bike path

Kapa'a Beach is a long beach with golden sands that parallels the Kapa'a Bike Path. The full name is Ke Ala Hele Makalae, meaning “path that goes by the coast." Most people simply call it the Kapa‘a Bike Path or Kaua‘i Bike Trail. This bike path is a multi-use path that totals about 7 miles.

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Daniel Krueger
November 3, 2023, Donkey Beach

Donkey Beach is a secluded beach in the northeast of Kauai. The beach was a very popular nudist beach, but isn't anymore as the current owners decided against it. As the water is pretty rough here, it's not the perfect beach for swimming and snorkeling, but still a very nice spot for sunbathers and to take a little break after a long day

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Alex
November 3, 2023, Keālia Beach

Keālia Beach is a long, white sand beach popular for whale watching during the winter. Surfers frequent here, depending on the swell and wind conditions. The north end of the beach can be good for swimming and boogie boarding. Keālia Beach has lifeguards, restrooms, and showers. The Kapa'a Coastal Path is awesome for biking and is paved.

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maniboyflex
October 26, 2023, Kapaa Bike Path

Kapaa Bike Path is one of the best places to ride along the coast in Kauai, it can be perfect to enjoy a ride surrounded by the beautiful coast landscape, while feeling the offshore breeze. It is 8 miles of a nice paved multi-use path that allows family-frendly cycling.

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Daniel Krueger
October 25, 2023, Keālia Beach

Keālia Beach is particularly popular among surfers but also offers swimming opportunities at the north end of the beach if the ocean is calm.

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True to its name, the Pineapple Dump pier marks where workers of Hawaiian Canneries Company once unloaded railroad cars brimming with pineapple waste into the sea. A decades-old practice from Hawaii's pineapple boom. These discarded trimmings reflect the rise and fall of the Hawaiian pineapple industry that dominated global production for much of the 20th century.

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Daniel Krueger
October 18, 2023, Donkey Beach

Donkey Beach is a secluded beach in the northeast of Kauai. The beach was a very popular nudist beach, but isn't anymore as the current owners decided against it. As the water is pretty rough here, it's not the perfect beach for swimming and snorkeling, but still a very nice spot for sunbathers and to take a little break after a long day.

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Hoʻopiʻi Falls Trail is a trail through the jungle and leads from Kapahi Road to the Hoʻopiʻi Falls. The trail, that partly follows Kapaʻa Stream, is really short and completely flat, so you don't need any experience.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many hiking trails are available in Anahola?

Anahola offers a diverse selection of over 25 hiking trails, catering to various skill levels. These include easy walks, moderate paths, and some more challenging routes, allowing you to explore the region's mountains, coastlines, and lush interiors.

Are there any easy hikes suitable for beginners or families in Anahola?

Yes, Anahola has 13 easy trails perfect for beginners or families. A great option is the Upper Hoʻopiʻi Falls — Kauai trail, which is a shorter walk leading to a beautiful waterfall. Another accessible choice is the coastal path from Keālia Beach to Donkey Beach — Kauai, offering scenic ocean views.

Can I find trails with waterfalls in Anahola?

Absolutely. Anahola is home to beautiful waterfalls. You can explore the Upper Hoʻopiʻi Falls – Lower Ho'opi'i Falls loop from Kawaihau, which takes you through lush forest to both the upper and lower falls. These natural features are a highlight of the region's interior trails.

What kind of natural features can I expect to see on Anahola trails?

Anahola's trails showcase a stunning variety of natural features. You'll encounter the dramatic Kalalea Mountains, lush forest and pasture lands, and the Anahola River. Coastal paths offer views of pristine beaches like Donkey Beach and turquoise waters, while inland routes lead to beautiful waterfalls such as Upper Hoʻopiʻi Falls and Lower Ho'opi'i Falls.

Are there any circular hiking routes in the Anahola area?

Yes, there are several circular routes available. A popular option is the Donkey Beach – Kapaa Bike Path loop from Kealia, which offers extensive ocean vistas. Another loop that takes you to waterfalls is the Upper Hoʻopiʻi Falls – Lower Ho'opi'i Falls loop from Hoʻopiʻi Falls.

What do other hikers say about their experience in Anahola?

The hiking experience in Anahola is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse terrain, from stunning coastal views to lush forest paths, and the opportunity to discover beautiful waterfalls. Many appreciate the serene, less crowded nature of the trails.

Are there any challenging hikes for experienced hikers in Anahola?

While many trails are easy to moderate, Anahola does offer 4 more challenging routes for experienced hikers. These trails often involve greater elevation gain and traverse more rugged terrain, providing a rewarding experience for those seeking a more strenuous adventure through the region's diverse landscapes.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Anahola?

Anahola offers pleasant hiking conditions year-round due to Kauai's tropical climate. However, the drier months from April to October generally provide the most comfortable weather for hiking, with less rain and more sunshine. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, especially during the wetter winter months.

Are there any coastal trails offering ocean views in Anahola?

Anahola is renowned for its beautiful coastal trails. The Ke Ala Hele Makalae, also known as the Kapa'a Coastal Bike Path, offers spectacular ocean and beach views, with opportunities to spot marine life. Portions of this path connect areas like Kealia to Donkey Beach and extend towards Anahola, providing extensive ocean vistas.

What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while hiking in Anahola?

While hiking in Anahola, you can encounter several notable landmarks and attractions. The dramatic Kalalea Mountains, famously known for their 'Hole in the Mountain' peak, provide a stunning backdrop. You can also visit Chin of the Sleeping Giant or enjoy panoramic views from the Aloha bench. The region's pristine beaches and waterfalls like Ho'opi'i Falls are also key natural attractions.

Is public transport available to access hiking trailheads in Anahola?

Public transport options directly to all trailheads in Anahola can be limited. While some bus routes serve the general area, accessing specific, more remote trail starts often requires a car. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes in advance if you plan to rely on public transportation.

Where can I park when hiking in Anahola?

Parking availability varies by trailhead in Anahola. Popular spots like Anahola Beach Park typically offer designated parking areas. For other trails, roadside parking might be available, but it's always best to arrive early, especially on weekends, and to be mindful of local regulations and private property signs.

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