As its name suggests, the Kalalau Valley Lookout is perched over the deepest and most extraordinary valley along the rugged Na Pali Coast. The valley itself is in Na Pali Coast State Park, and it extends into Haena State Park next to Wainiha Bay. But the Kalalau Lookout is in Kokee State Park. The deep, lush Kalalau Valley is surrounded by dramatic cliffs on three sides and spreads down to the ocean, and it's the location of some of the most pristine and secluded of all Kauai beaches. Until 1919 when the residents were moved to Lihue, the valley was inhabited by native Hawaiians who supported themselves by fishing and cultivating vast terraced fields of taro plants.

Access to the valley is strictly regulated. There are scenic helicopter tours from Princetown available, and beach kayak landings and zodiac boat tours are allowed by permit. Once on the beach, you can explore numerous sea caves. On foot, you can enter the valley on an eleven-mile hiking trail that begins at Kalalau Lookout and winds its way down to a camping site, which allows a maximum of 60 campers per night, past waterfalls, and into Haena State Park. This is a strenuous hike and not one for everyone. If this kind of physical activity is not for you, the Kalalau Valley Lookout is accessible by vehicle from the west side of the island at the Waimea Canyon turnoff on Highway 50. The lookout’s grassy rest area has restrooms and picnic tables. For the best views and photographs, try to arrive in the morning to avoid the clouds and mist common in the afternoon.