The rugged coastline on Kauai known for its sea cliffs and valleys is the Nā Pali Coast.
Nā Pali means “many cliffs” in Hawaiian, a fitting name for the sharply folded shoreline on Kauai’s northwestern side. The cliffs rise dramatically above the Pacific, in places reaching about 4,000 feet, while narrow valleys cut inland through the island’s volcanic landscape.
The coastline formed through volcanic activity, erosion, and immense amounts of rainfall that carved Kauai’s soft volcanic rock over millions of years. The protected area is closely associated with Nā Pali Coast State Park and the famous Kalalau Valley. The Kalalau Trail is the principal land route, crossing several valleys over roughly 11 miles.
A common mix-up is treating Kalalau Valley as the name of the whole coastline. Kalalau is one prominent valley within the Nā Pali region; Hanalei Bay and Waimea Canyon are separate Kauai landmarks. Much of the coast has no road access and is viewed by hiking, boat, kayak, or helicopter.