Kauai, with its lush landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas, has long been a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Among its crown jewels are Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park, iconic destinations that draw visitors from around the world. In 2019 and 2021, new fees for out-of-state visitors were introduced by Hawaii’s Division of State Parks for accessing these extraordinary sites. These fees are a frequent question mark for individuals planning a trip to this area, and in this article, we explore the details of the new fees.
Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park
Located next to each other in Kauai’s high country on the island’s West Side, Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park are sights to behold.
Waimea Canyon State Park is the first attraction after a steep and winding drive up from the town of Waimea. The park features several scenic overlooks of the island’s remarkable Waimea Canyon, a colorful 10-mile long, 3,600-foot-deep gorge that is often called the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Several trails can be found in the park, including the Kukui Trail which goes to the canyon floor.
Continuing up the road takes you to the forested realm of Kokee State Park. The park boasts several jaw-dropping views of Kauai’s famed Na Pali Coast, including a spectacular view looking down into Kalalau Valley from an elevation of 4,000+ feet. Visitors can choose from at least 20 trails in the area to explore, including a trail over the highest swamp in the world (the Alakai Swamp Trail).
Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park Fees
The fees are for out-of-state visitors only. There is no entrance fee for Hawaii residents with a Hawaii drivers license or state ID. The fees grant access to all Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park attractions for the day.
Entrance Fee: $5 per person (children 3 and under free)
Parking Rates: $10 per vehicle
For example, fees for an out-of-state family of four traveling to Waimea Canyon/Kokee State Park in a private vehicle/rental car would be $10 for the vehicle plus $20 (4 x $5) for a total of $30.
Payments
Payments are made at pay boxes (kiosks) located in the main parking areas at Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park. Visitors are generally under the honor system to make the payments, however there are park attendants to monitor adherence.
Pay Box Locations
– Waimea Canyon Lookout Parking Lot
– Puu Hinahina Lookout Parking Lot
– Kalalau Lookout Parking Lot
– Puu o Kila Lookout Parking Lot
Tips
– No advance reservations needed.
– Pay on the day of your visit.
– Display receipt on vehicle dashboard.
– Receipt valid for both Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park.
– Take note of your license plate (photo etc.) as you will enter that information when making payment.
“With Hawaii seeing record numbers of tourists we are simply at the point where we need visitors to share in the increased costs to maintain our parks.” – DLNR Chair Suzanne Case
The revenue generated from the fees are used to fund park operating and maintenance costs, ensuring the long-term health of the parks. By paying these fees, visitors can actively contribute to the sustainability of these beloved parks, ensuring that the beauty of Kauai’s landscapes remain a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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