We utilized the shuttle service, even though one member of our party had a Hawaii driver's license because all the online reviews said parking is very limited and you might not find a space. During the first week in November there was plenty of parking left over, but utilizing the shuttle, although it was $35 p/p, assured us smooth entry. I saw some reviews where people complained about the process, but it's there to help preserve the area for years and prevent overcrowding. With a little planning and homework, it's really no big deal and the hike, beach, and views were 100% worth it. We hiked the 2 miles (one way) to Hanakapi-ai Beach. It's a strenuous hike with a steep incline and a stream crossing, but adventurous and fun. If I go back I would definitely like to go two more miles in to the waterfall, but not all of my party was game for that. We spent some time at Ke'e beach after the hike, where we saw rainbows and seals. The water was calm and the beach was surprisingly empty. It was my 2nd favorite beach in all of Kaua'i (with Secret Beach being my favorite).

Even though it poured, we had a great time. If you like to hike, this is for you. The hike was challenging but worth it .The views were amazing and the beach was beautiful! Make sure you eat before you go, or bring in food because there is no place to buy it in the park. Eat before you go is better so you don't have to carry as much. Walking sticks are recommended

This park is the end of the road and the beginning of the hiking trail to the Napoli coast. The beach is nice, with rollers coming in and eroded trees along the edge, roots spreading out above the sand. There are some toilet and picnic facilities. The signs say you need a reservation or come on the shuttle bus, so it is worth checking. On the walk to the beach are some nice Taro fields giving a good impression of how they grow. We did not take the trail, but it is important to take this on carefully, as it can be a rugged hike after the first parts. Getting to the park is along a narrow, bumpy and twisty road, which may make the shuttle a good option.

We booked our reservation and did a hike that ended with a waterfall. The hike was challenging at times, but you get to enjoy the mountains and ocean scenery as you go along. Hiking in Kauai is a blast, and we would go back to Haena state park again.

Do not make the same mistake as us. We didn't realise we had to book online in advance. We were unable to book from the car park area because there is no Internet in the area, so we drove back into Hanalei where we had a signal but there were no tickets available for the next 7 days. This State Park and the whole area look beautiful and well worth the visit.

A group of 6 of us grabbed a $40 each shuttle pass from gohaena.com about 30 days ahead of the day we knew we wanted to go to the park. On our scheduled day, we made our way to the Waipa Park & Ride for our shuttle. DO NOT BE LATE! We missed our reserved shuttle by 1 minutes and had to catch standby (took about 40 minutes to get the next available shuttle for 6 people). The shuttle ride (both to and from) was pleasant. Lots to see along the drive and the drivers were informative, funny and friendly. Ha'ena State Park is gorgeous. We did a hike along the Kalalau Trail to the Coast Viewpoint in the Napali Coast State Wilderness Park (located . The hike to the Viewpoint is no joke. It was even a challenge for weekend hikers and avid runner in our group. But the view was worth it! The Ke'e Beach was our #1 favorite of many beach excursions during our trip to Kauai. All 6 of us voted it the best. So take the shuttle and enjoy this pristine area of Kauai! Of Note: I highly recommend the shuttle service. Yes, it takes some time to catch and ride but it keeps the traffic in the park down and helps preserve the beauty of the park!

We did our research and reserved shuttle and park passes in advance. The hike to the beach is about 2 miles and took us 1 hour 35 minutes. Absolutely stunning views of the Na Pali Coast. My 3 companions hung out at the beach and hiked back. I hiked the additional 2 miles to the waterfall. It took me 1 hour and 10 minutes but I hike fairly fast. It was more impressive in person. It’s very tall. I also got in the pool and swam under the falls. The water was cold but so refreshing! It took me 1 hour 50 minutes to hike the 4 miles back. If you have bad knees (like 2 of my companions) then I would skip the hike to the waterfall. It’s not more strenuous than the first two miles but there are many roots and rocks that you have to step up and over. My knees were a little sore and they’re healthy.

This was a highlight of our trip and the trail closed 2 days after we were there. I tried so hard to get park parking pass but am so I glad to have the shuttle pass. Drivers were excellent and Sherman at the park was full of info. We made it to the 2nd beach and ate our lunch and stood in the waves it was amazing. The views were amazing too. I can see how things could go bad bc the bathrooms were gross as the kalalau beach hikers along with day hikers were all over the showers, restrooms and water fountain - just gross but that is not the park's problem. I'm so glad I got to visit.