5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast

The Na Pali Coast is one of those places that travellers visit from all over the world.

Located on the North-west side of Kauai, the oldest inhabited Hawaiian island, this 17-mile stretch of Napali coastline is a spectacular natural wonder, created by a dramatic geological collision of tectonic plates resulting in huge volcanic eruptions and finished by millions of years of erosion through wind and water.

Here are 5 of the most interesting facts about the Na Pali Coast you should know.

5 Interesting Facts about the Napali Coast

1. Na Pali means “High Cliffs”

The word “Na Pali” literally translates as “High Cliffs.” This is because the cliffs of Na Pali along the shoreline rise as much as 4,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean. This makes it one of the greatest natural barriers on Earth.

Na Pali Coast can’t be accessed through vehicles (see #5 for more details). It can be viewed over land by hiking or in a helicopter, and from the ocean by  kayaks or catamarans.

Side note: We offer amazing tours of the Na Pali coast through 3 different catamarans. Click here to learn more.

2. The First Settlers

For hundreds of years, Hawaiians inhabited almost all of the valleys on Na Pali Coast. Their communities farmed, fished, and traded amongst one another to survive.

The first settlers on the Na Pali Coast were Polynesian navigators around 1200 AD. Many Tahitian migrants followed soon after, shaping the culture of Kauai and other Hawaiian islands today.

3. Na Pali Coast was a Trade Center

Na Pali Coast was a central location for trade between Hanalei, Waimea and Ni`ihau, and the western islands of the Hawaiian archipelago. After Kauai was visited by Captain Cook in 1778, many foreigners migrated to the island.

Because of this migration, the Hawaiian tribes along the Na Pali Coast began to die off from Western diseases. The last known native Hawaiians to live along the Na Pali Coast were sighted at the beginning of the 20th century.

4. Beautiful Waterfalls

Central Kauai is the wettest region on earth, receiving over 400 inches of rainfall a year. Due to the amount of rain, the Na Pali Coast contains some of the world’s largest and most beautiful waterfalls. The strong ocean current and crashing waves have played a significant role in creating the coast’s unique topography, which features awe-inspiring sea arches and hidden caves.

5. Na Pali Coast is Nearly Inaccessible

All of the valleys, beaches, caves and waterfalls on the Na Pali Coast are inaccessible by land, which is why boating is the preferred method for viewing the Napali coastline.

Na Pali Coast boasts an incredible array of marine life. Dolphins, turtles, and tropical fish are seen on a daily basis. Monk seals, rays, or whales often make an exciting appearance.

Makana Charters is here to help you get the most out of your visit to our little slice of paradise. The spires of the world famous Na Pali are calling you and your family to get on board.

Check out all our boats and book your tour today

Experience the stunning Napali Coast in the most enjoyable way. Book your Napali coast boat tours today!

5 Interesting Facts about the Na Pali Coast [Infographic]

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5 Interesting Facts About the Na Pali Coast

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The Na Pali Coast is one of those places that travellers visit from all over the world. Located on the North-west side of Kauai, the oldest inhabited Hawaiian island, this 17-mile stretch of coastline is a spectacular natural wonder, created by a dramatic geological collision of tectonic plates resulting in huge volcanic eruptions and finished by millions of years of erosion through wind and water. Here are 5 of the most interesting facts about the Na Pali Coast you should know.

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Makana Charters

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Makana Charters

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