Although all of Hawaii is photogenic, you'll never see anything like this bucket-list worthy aerial view — especially at sunset. Capture a colorful coastline of varying red, orange, green and brown mountains against the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.
(before flying a drone, check and follow local drone regulations and permit requirements)
Plan
Overview
Skill level
Moderate
Accessbility
Public Location
Hours
Anytime
Fee
Free
Pack
Drone
Hiking shoes
Water bottle
Rain jacket
Flashlight
Bugspray
Camera with rain cover (optional)
Models (optional)
How to get there
N22° 09' 17.7012"W159° 38' 55.9896"
This drone image was taken at the end of Kalepa Ridge Hike, looking onto the Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and the Pacific Ocean. From the trailhead, it should take about 30-45 minutes to reach the end of the hike.
First, you'll need to get on Kokee Road and drive all the way to Kalepa Ridge Trailhead. Then, I recommend parking in the lot (22.150282, -159.645776). You'll walk up a little hill with the bathrooms on the right, so if you need to go, go before you start the hike! You don't want to have to use the bathroom during those golden hour moments.
Proceed to the Kalepa Ridge Hike trail and there'll be a fence on the left with a sign. Walk towards the fence and you should see a little tight path going down the mountain on the opposite side of the fence. Follow that path and continue going down the hill to start the hike.
Keep following the trail and eventually you'll get to where I launched my drone. If you feel confused or that the trail disappears you'll need to turn around. On the left should be grass/forest and on the right should be an opening to the valley below. Reference the GPS to see exactly where I stood, with my drone flying north toward Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park and the ocean's coast.
Tips
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Learn more about the locations and
how to get the best pictures including:
Best times to go
Current weather conditions and times around twilight