Hawaii is possibly the most relaxing place on planet earth. Most peoples definition of paradise will some way or another involve lounging on white sandy beaches while sipping on Mai Tais. Unless of course, you are the kind of person who can’t sit still for more than five minutes.

As someone who can’t sit through more than one episode of a show on Netflix, Kauai’s beaches caused a constant tug of war with my mind and body.  On one hand, you have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world that make you contemplate giving up all your worldly possessions and becoming a beach bum. On the other hand, there is a screaming voice in my head that says okay now that you have seen this one, let’s go find another!

While I can’t be the only one with this affliction, I found a solution. The Mahaulepu Heritage Trail provides exercise for the body and calming views for the mind and soul.  Spend just a short while on this trail and you can feel your stress melt away like a candle being lit with a flamethrower. I have explored many trails as an outdoor enthusiast but the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail holds a coveted spot in my top five hikes of all time.

Choices for the Trailhead

You have two options for starting points on Mahaulepu Heritage Trail. You can begin at the designated parking lot located here or you can start from Shipwreck Beach. Parking can be tricky at Shipwreck Beach but this is where the scenic part of the trail begins. While facing the ocean, regardless of your starting point head left.

Shipwreck Beach

I wouldn’t visit Shipwreck Beach with the intentions of staying. The sand is littered with pine needles and other prickly tree droppings that are unpleasant to walk on let alone sit on. If you are into surfing, however, you can catch some gnarly swells here (or however surfers say big waves).

Mahaulepu Heritage Trail

The trail isn’t always obvious because of the sand and rocks you will be traversing over but if you stick to following the coastline you will be in good shape. When you reach the end of Shipwreck beach you will have to cut up through the trees. There’s no official way up and over so just find the path that seems easiest.

Once out of the trees, you get your first views of one of the last undeveloped coastlines left on Kauai. The trail will disappear at this point. Don’t worry, you and the trail will be reunited further down the coastline.

If you can pull yourself away from taking pictures,  you’ll eventually pass under an arch of Kiawe trees. The trail now winds down to sea level. There are several coves off the trail where can hang out and watch the waves slam into the cliffs. Just be mindful of incoming tides, this is not a place you want to swim.

The trail will eventually meet up with the outer edge of Poipu Bay Golf Course. Keep your head on a swivel as errant golf balls can ruin your day.

Just past the golf course, the trail ends at the red rocks of Punahoa Point. When you have had your fill of surf and sand retrace your steps and return to Shipwreck Beach or the trailhead parking lot.

Trail Tips

• This hike can be done in sandals
• Bring lots of water and sunscreen

Chad Albright

Chad can be summed up by his idea of a perfect day: Waking up early to watch the sunrise over the mountains, warm cup of coffee in hand then grabbing his camera and fly rod, hitting the trail to explore some uncharted territory followed by cold beers and campfire steaks. Chad is often joined on his adventures by his wife, Tori, and their dog, Kona.