Ke Ala Hele Makālae “The Path that Goes by the Coast”
Kauaʻi Photographer – Kit Furderer
Ke Ala Hele Makālae, also known as the Kapaʻa Bike Path, is a multi-use paved path stretching 7.6 stunning coastal miles on Kauaʻi’s East side. Residents and visitors can enjoy the path’s picturesque views from Lydgate Beach to Kuna Bay (Donkey Beach). So go ahead, grab your walking shoes or bike (Kapaʻa Town has plenty of places to rent affordable bikes for the day), and head on down to “The Path that Goes by the Coast” for an unforgettable, family-friendly outdoor adventure.
Top Reasons to Check out the Kapaʻa Bike Path:
- Did somebody say “ocean views?” The views along the path are incredible and include mesmerizing ocean views (with dolphin, humpback whale, monk seal, and turtle sightings in the right place, at the right time), enclosed rocky inlets, sweeping views of Kapaʻa Town, gorgeous rolling mountains, windswept trees, and more.
- However you choose to cruise the path (bike, run, walk, skate), it’s a great way to exercise while enjoying the natural outdoors and fresh ocean breeze; it feels less like work and more like play.
- Are you finding it difficult to make time to connect with a friend? Do you have your little ones with you and are looking for a healthy activity you can all enjoy (and where the littles can burn off some steam)? Are you trying to squeeze some physical activity into your already-squeezed day? Could you really use some good old-fashioned “outdoor therapy” and rejuvenation? Well, my friends, look no further. You can check all these boxes (at once) and more with a stroll down the bike path.
- It’s affordable, family-friendly, and welcoming to all ages.
- There are plenty of perfect places along the path to stop and enjoy a picnic (there are covered pavilions with picnic tables along the path), swim, walk the beach, or sit in silent reflection. The path offers something for everyone, including public restrooms along the way.
- Leashed dogs are welcome.
- Many informative and educational signs are spread along the path, covering topics ranging from local cultural history to plants and animals, providing local context for your coastal cruise.
- Along the path is a palpable feeling and air of aloha, a welcoming, shared camaraderie, and an opportunity to connect with others.
Kauaʻi Photographer – Kit Furderer
Tips for Success While Enjoying the Path
Kauaʻi Path Inc., an educational 501(c)(3) non-profit that works to preserve, protect, and extend access island-wide through the design, implementation, and stewardship of non-motorized multi-use paths, shares a helpful “Path Etiquette” section on their website. Check it out here: https://www.kauaipath.org/eastside.
Also, as a friendly reminder, please pack your trash, plenty of water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for your adventure along the coast so you are set up for a stress-free day. Oh, and remember, be open to the adventure and ready for FUN!
Exciting News: Ke Ala Hele Makālae is Inducted into the Rails to Trails Conservancy Hall of Fame
Rails to Trails Conservancy named Ke Ala Hele Makālae the 2024 Inductee into the Hall of Fame Trails. According to Rails to Trails, the Hall of Fame Trails are “selected based on merits such as scenic value, high use, trail and trailside amenities, historical significance, excellence in management and maintenance of facility, community connections and geographic distribution.” (1) Watch for new signs along the path showcasing the 2024 Hall of Fame award. Cheehoo!
Also, stay tuned as the County of Kauaʻi expands the Ke Ala Hele Makālae. Eventually, the path will be a whopping 17 miles long, stretching the coastal path from Anahola to Nāwiliwili.
Kauaʻi Path states, “The environmental work required for Phases IV and VI is essentially complete. That eight-mile section of the path will connect Lydgate Beach Park to Hanamāʻulu and Līhuʻe.” Additionally, “Entitlement work on the final connection-Phase V from Anahola to Kuna Bay-is currently in suspension, pending exertion of political will by a future mayoral administration.” (2)
With exciting expansion plans on the horizon, Ke Ala Hele Makālae’s future is bountiful and bright. See you on the path, where there are plenty of good vibes and aloha to go around.
(1): https://www.railstotrails.org/hall-of-fame/
(2): https://www.kauaipath.org/eastside