Na'Pali Coast

The Na'Pali Coast is one of Hawai'i's greatest hikes. Eleven miles of essentially unspoiled coastline, passing through two beaches and ending a half-mile before a third that is only legally accessible by swimming into it from the ocean. The hike winds its way along cliff sides overlooking the crashing surf and turquoise waters far below, and then skirts into valleys to cross a stream, only to venture back out to the ocean. The result is an every-changing landscape of tropical forest, coastal views, and waterfalls. We hiked part of the trail, to Hanakapi'ai Falls, on a humid day, culminating in a swim beneath the waterfall.

Betsy at one of the many cascades along the trail

The beach itself was pretty rough, as evidenced by this makeshift sign.

Bamboo stands accented the trail on the way up-valley to the falls.

And Betsy didn't hesitate to play.

Pink flowers shed their needles on the trail, enhancing Hawai'i's reputation as paradise.

Our first view of Hanakapi'ai Falls

OK, twist our arms. We'll go for a little dip.

It was definitely cold, but swimming beneath and behind the falls was a rush. Not to mention reinvigorating for the hike out. Ahhh...