Sunset Ridge Trail

The Sunset Ridge Trail climbs to the low cliffs and rocky headlands at the northern end of Polihale Beach, the precise point where the Na Pali Coast sea cliffs meet the flat sand of the west shore, marking one of the most dramatic geographic transitions in the Hawaiian Islands. From the ridge, hikers look north directly into the base of the Na Pali cliffs rising sheer from the water while looking south along the vast 17-mile beach extending to the horizon. This vantage point is considered one of the finest sunset viewing locations on Kauai, with the Pacific horizon unobstructed and the cliff faces turning spectacular shades of orange, red, and purple in the fading light. The trail crosses mixed terrain of scrubland, red dirt, and sand before ascending to the rocky headland viewpoint. Native coastal plants including naupaka and beach heliotrope line the route. This short loop is an ideal way to bookend a beach day at Polihale with an elevated perspective on the extraordinary natural setting that makes this remote state park one of the most memorable destinations on the Garden Isle.