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Ke Ala Hele Makalae Coastal Loop

Ke Ala Hele Makalae Coastal Loop

Moderate

4.6

(5028)

13,288

riders

Ke Ala Hele Makalae Coastal Loop

Q: How difficult is the Puhi to Kapaʻa via Kapaʻa Coastal Path loop — Puna route for road cycling?

This route is classified as moderate , requiring good fitness due to its length of approximately 60.8 kilometers (37.8 miles) and an elevation gain of about 570 meters (1,870 feet). While much of it is well-paved, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and more challenging.

02:55

60.8km

570m

Road cycling

Cycle the moderate 37.8-mile Puhi to Kapaʻa via Kapaʻa Coastal Path loop, offering ocean views and beautiful beaches on Kauaʻi.

Last updated: February 26, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Wailua River State Park

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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250 m

Kalapaki Beach

Highlight • Beach

Kalapaki Beach is a great beach for lots of activities, including swimming, learning to surf, body surfing, boogie boarding, and stand-up paddle boarding. Kalapaki Bay is in front of the Kauai Marriott Beach Resort. The break wall protects this area from the rough, open ocean. Here on the sands, you can find sunbathing, beach volleyball, picnics, or simply watching the outrigger canoes.

Tip by

15.3 km

Waipouli Beach Park

Highlight • Beach

Waipouli Beach is a more low-key park by the Waipouli Beach Resort. There is public beach access on the south end, and it's a hangout spot for Kauai’s monk seals, right off the biking coastal path. This area is family-friendly, with shopping, coffee shops, activities, and hiking very close by. It has been marked as a wonderful spot to see the sunrise.

Tip by

15.9 km

Kapaʻa Beach Park and bike path

Highlight (Segment) • Beach

Kapa'a Beach is a long beach with golden sands that parallels the Kapa'a Bike Path. The full name is Ke Ala Hele Makalae, meaning “path that goes by the coast." Most people simply call it the Kapa‘a Bike Path or Kaua‘i Bike Trail. This bike path is a multi-use path that totals about 7 miles.

Tip by

18.6 km

Keālia Beach

Highlight (Segment) • Beach

Keālia Beach is a long, white sand beach popular for whale watching during the winter. Surfers frequent here, depending on the swell and wind conditions. The north end of the beach can be good for swimming and boogie boarding. Keālia Beach has lifeguards, restrooms, and showers. The Kapa'a Coastal Path is awesome for biking and is paved.

Tip by

21.6 km

Donkey Beach

Highlight • Beach

Donkey Beach is a secluded beach in the northeast of Kauai. The beach was a very popular nudist beach, but isn't anymore as the current owners decided against it. As the water is pretty rough here, it's not the perfect beach for swimming and snorkeling, but still a very nice spot for sunbathers and to take a little break after a long day of hiking.

Tip by

45.7 km

Poliahu Heiau, Temple Dedicated to Kū & Wailua River Viewpoint

Highlight • Historical Site

Poliahu Heiau at Wailua River State Park in Wailua has views of the Wailua River and the Pacific Ocean. Here you can also see the ancient Hawai'ian temple, Poliahu. All these things can be seen from the turnout. Poliahu is believed to be a Luakini (ancient Hawaiian) temple for the god Ku for success in war. Sadly, the structures were destroyed in 1819 by colonialism. It is important for a visitor to note that the area is considered sacred to many, so be respectful when visiting.

Tip by

60.8 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

27.6 km

15.7 km

12.3 km

4.99 km

231 m

Surfaces

46.5 km

13.9 km

430 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (130 m)

Lowest point (0 m)

Weather

Friday 8 May

27°C

20°C

29 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h

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This route was planned by komoot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the Puhi to Kapaʻa via Kapaʻa Coastal Path loop — Puna route for road cycling?

This route is classified as moderate, requiring good fitness due to its length of approximately 60.8 kilometers (37.8 miles) and an elevation gain of about 570 meters (1,870 feet). While much of it is well-paved, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and more challenging.

What is the terrain like on this cycling loop?

The terrain is mostly well-paved and easy to ride, especially along the Kapaʻa Coastal Path (Ke Ala Hele Makalae) which is 95-98% asphalt and concrete with gentle grades. However, the full loop includes sections that may be unpaved and difficult to ride. There's a short, unpaved 800-foot section on the Kapaʻa Coastal Path between the Sheraton Kauai Coconut Beach Resort and the Kauai Coast Resort where you might need to walk your bike.

What are the best times of year to cycle this route?

The route can be enjoyed year-round. However, for a chance to spot humpback whales from the shore, particularly at Keālia Beach, the winter months from December to March are ideal. Always check the local weather forecast before you go.

Are there any specific parking areas or trailheads for this loop?

While the Komoot tour starts in Puhi, the Kapaʻa Coastal Path segment, a key part of this loop, has various access points and parking options along its length, particularly in Kapaʻa town. You can find bike rentals and amenities there, making it a convenient starting point for the coastal section.

Do I need a permit or pay any entrance fees to cycle this path?

No, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to cycle the Kapaʻa Coastal Path or the general public roads that make up this loop.

Is the Puhi to Kapaʻa via Kapaʻa Coastal Path loop — Puna dog-friendly?

The Kapaʻa Coastal Path is a multi-use path, and dogs are generally allowed on a leash. However, always be mindful of local regulations and other users, especially in crowded areas. Some beaches or specific segments might have restrictions, so it's best to check signage.

What kind of scenery and landmarks can I expect to see along the way?

You'll experience breathtaking coastal views, including stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and beautiful beaches like Kalapaki Beach, Waipouli Beach Park, Keālia Beach, and Donkey Beach. The route also passes through lush tropical rainforests, coconut groves, and historical sites such as Poliahu Heiau and the old town of Kapaʻa with its plantation-style architecture.

Are there places to stop for food or refreshments along the route?

Yes, particularly in Kapaʻa town and along the Kapaʻa Coastal Path, you'll find opportunities to stop for food and refreshments. There are food trucks, restaurants, and covered picnic tables available.

Does this route intersect with other trails?

Yes, while primarily a road cycling loop, the route briefly intersects with or runs very close to several other paths, including sections of the Kapaia Suspension Bridge, Beach Access, Kuamo'o-Nounou Trail, Nounou West Trail, Public Beach Access, and Hoolako Foot Path.

What wildlife might I encounter while cycling?

Beyond the lush tropical flora, during the winter months (December to March), Keālia Beach is an excellent spot for shore-based whale watching, offering a chance to spot humpback whales.

Is it possible to rent bikes nearby if I don't bring my own?

Yes, several inexpensive bike rental facilities are available in Kapaʻa, making it convenient for visitors to access and enjoy the Kapaʻa Coastal Path and surrounding areas.