What it is
Ke Ala Hele Makalae, which translates to "The Path that Goes by the Coast," is a paved, multi-use path along Kauaʻi's eastern shoreline, often called the Coconut Coast. It is designed for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating and is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. The path currently consists of approximately 8 miles of completed segments, primarily running from Lydgate Park in the south to just past Donkey Beach (Kuna Bay) in the north. It repurposes portions of a former sugar cane railway corridor. The long-term vision is a continuous 17-mile path from Niumalu to Anahola, though several phases are still in development with no final completion date set.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose this path for its continuous, scenic ocean views without vehicle traffic. It is a family-friendly and highly accessible way to experience the coastline. The path is mostly flat with only gentle grades. Key points of interest along the route include Lydgate Beach Park's protected swimming ponds, the mouth of the Wailua River, the shops and eateries of Kapaʻa town, and Kealia Beach, a popular surf spot. The northern section, particularly around Kealia, offers excellent vantage points for spotting humpback whales during the winter migration season (December-March). Interpretive signs along the path provide information on local history, culture, and wildlife. The path is a popular spot for watching the sunrise.
Logistics
Access and Parking: The path is free to access. Major access points with free parking are located at Lydgate Beach Park (south), Kapaʻa Beach Park (central), Waipouli Beach Park, and Kealia Beach (north).
Segments: The path is not yet a single continuous route. There are two main segments: a southern section in and around Lydgate Park and a longer northern section running from south of Kapaʻa town to Ahihi Point/Donkey Beach. A small gap exists in the Waipouli area between the major segments, requiring a short walk on an unpaved surface.
Duration: Use is flexible. A short stroll could take 30 minutes, while cycling the main 4.5-mile Kapaʻa to Ahihi Point section can take under an hour, or 1.5-2 hours walking. Biking the full round-trip of the separate northern and southern sections takes approximately 2-3 hours. It is suitable for a quick stop, a half-day activity, or a morning anchor.
Rentals: Numerous bicycle rental shops are located in Kapaʻa, many directly on the path. Prices for standard beach cruisers are around $30 for a full day. E-bikes and children's accessories are also widely available.
Amenities: Restrooms, water fountains, showers, and picnic pavilions are available at the major beach parks that serve as trailheads, including Lydgate, Kapaʻa, and Kealia. There are many scenic benches along the route.
Safety and cautions
Sun and Weather: Large portions of the path, especially north of Kapaʻa, are exposed with very little shade. Sunscreen, hats, and ample water are essential to prevent sunburn and heat exhaustion. Strong onshore trade winds can create challenging crosswinds for cyclists.
Ocean Safety: The path runs alongside beaches with powerful surf and currents. Swimming should only be done at lifeguarded beaches or in protected areas like the ponds at Lydgate Park.
Trail Etiquette: Users should stay to the right and be courteous to others. A 15 mph speed limit is often suggested for cyclists. Pass with care, as the path can be congested, particularly near Kapaʻa town.
Closures: Sections of the path may occasionally close for maintenance, storm debris cleanup, or due to coastal erosion. Visitors should check for any posted alerts from Kauaʻi County.
Wildlife: Hawaiian monk seals may be seen resting on the beaches, especially near Donkey Beach. It is illegal to disturb them; a significant distance should be maintained. Humpback whales are visible from shore in winter.
Editorial take
Who it's for: Ke Ala Hele Makalae is ideal for families with children, casual cyclists, joggers, and anyone seeking a flat, accessible way to enjoy Kauaʻi's coastal scenery. It is one of the best activities on the island for visitors with mobility challenges.
Who should skip it: Travelers seeking solitude or a rugged, challenging hike should look elsewhere. The path's popularity, especially the Kapaʻa section, means it can be crowded. Hardcore hikers would prefer trails like the Māhāʻulepū Heritage Trail, which offers a wilder, unpaved coastal experience without amenities.
Distinctions: This is a planned, paved recreational path maintained by the county. It should not be confused with undeveloped coastal trails or simple beach walks. It is often referred to simply as the "Kapaʻa Bike Path," but its official name covers all segments.
Source notes
- Kauai Path Inc.: The non-profit advocacy group provides history, status updates, and maps.
https://www.kauaipath.org/ - Go Hawaii (State Tourism Authority): Provides a good high-level overview for visitors.
https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/kauai/regions/east-side/ke-ala-hele-makalae - TrailLink (Rails-to-Trails Conservancy): Offers detailed logistics, user reviews, and a map of the route.
https://www.traillink.com/trail/ke-ala-hele-makalae/ - County of Kauai: Official source for alerts on path closures due to weather or maintenance.
https://www.kauai.gov/Government/Departments-Agencies/Parks-Recreation - Hele On Kauai Bike Rentals: Example of a typical rental operator with location and bike types.
https://www.heleona-kauai.com/ - Roaming the Americas (Travel Blog): Provides recent, detailed visitor-focused information on segments and rental options.
https://www.roamingtheamericas.com/kapaa-bike-path-kauai/ - Kauai.com (Local Guide): Offers a good summary of the experience and path etiquette.
https://www.kauai.com/kauai-attractions/ke-ala-hele-makalae-coastal-path/
