Ha'ena State Park
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Ha'ena State Park is located on Kauai's North Shore in Hawaii.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and there are several reasons to visit. One of the main attractions is the beautiful Ke'e Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning sunsets. Visitors can also explore the park's lush, tropical forests, which are home to a variety of flora and fauna.
Another point of interest is the Na Pali Coast, which is a rugged and scenic coastline that stretches for 17 miles along the northwest shore of Kauai. The coast is accessible by foot, boat, or helicopter, and offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains.
The Hanakapiai Falls trail is another popular attraction in the park. The trail is a moderate hike that leads visitors through lush forests and across streams, ultimately ending at a stunning waterfall.
Interesting facts about the park include its role as a filming location for movies such as Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean. The park also features several ancient Hawaiian sites, including heiaus (sacred places of worship) and fishponds.
The best time of year to visit Ha'ena State Park is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and dry. However, visitors should be aware that the park can get crowded during peak tourist season, and parking can be limited. It is recommended to arrive early in the day to secure a parking spot.
Weather Forecast
Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Haena Beach Park - Kauai
|
||
Camp Naue
|
||
Hanakoa Camping
|
||
Kalalau Camping
|
||
Hanalai Black Pot Beach County Park
|
||
Kawaikoi
|
Natural Area Reserve Hono O Na Pali
Waioli Beach Park Hanalei
Hanalei Beach Park
Hanalei Pavilion Beach Park
Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park