Kauai’s sacred and remote Honopu Beach on the Na Pali Coast is renowned for its large natural arch that divides the beach into two sections.
- Region: Na Pali Coast
- Renowned for its 90-foot natural arch that divides the beach into two sections.
- Popular highlight on Kauai helicopter tours and Na Pali Coast boat tours.
- Honopu is a sacred place for Hawaiians.
- Accessibility: No land access. Boat and kayak landings are prohibited, leaving swimming to the beach as the only option.
- Overnight stays are prohibited.
- No lifeguards or restrooms.
- Map: Google Maps
Honopu Beach, also known as Cathedral Beach, is a remote and stunning beach located on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. The beach is renowned for its remarkable Honopu Arch, a large 90-foot natural arch that divides the beach into two sections. Backed by towering sea cliffs, the beach is inaccessible by land. Boats and kayaks are prohibited from landing on the beach, leaving swimming to the beach as the only viable option. Though stepping foot on Honopu Beach is a real challenge, the beach is a highlight of Kauai helicopter tours and Na Pali Coast boat tours. The name Honopu means “conch shell” in Hawaiian, because of the sound winds make when they blow through the arch.
Honopu Beach, and Honopu Valley behind the beach, hold significant historical, cultural and spiritual importance for Hawaiians. Several ancient temples and burial grounds are located in the valley, and the area is steeped in Hawaiian legends and myths. The valley is sometimes referred to as The Valley of the Lost Tribe because it was said to be the last known refuge of the mysterious Menehune people.
To protect Honopu’s cultural significance, and to preserve its pristine natural environment, restrictions have been put into place on visiting the beach. With boat and kayak landings prohibited, along with overnight stays, visiting the beach is problematic. Visitors can either swim from the adjacent Kalalau Beach, about a quarter mile away, or from a specially chartered boat. (There are no tour boats that offer swimming to Honopu Beach.) This swim can be difficult and potentially hazardous due to strong currents and waves, so it is recommended only for expert swimmers with proper safety precautions and preparations. The area can also be seen from above via a hike on the difficult Honopu Ridge Trail (now closed) in Kokee State Park.
Honopu Beach’s stunning scenery and dramatic landscape have made it a popular filming location for several movies. Among the notable films shot at Honopu Beach is the 1976 remake of King Kong and the romantic adventure Six Days, Seven Nights starring Harrison Ford and Anne Heche.
