Hike to Turtle Cave
Princeville, Hawaii
Details
Distance
0.75 miles
Elevation Gain
62 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by Dan Deublein
Repel down the cliffs of Kauai to visit Turtle Cave, which is inhabited by sea turtles! Please remember to be cautious and respectful and do not disturb the turtles.
Turtle Cave is located within a small bay on the Princeville side of Kauai. This hike requires swimming, repelling down a steep cliff and potentially high tides. This particular access point is located on private property, so you should be staying in one of the rentals or traveling with a guest.
When you turn right on Edward Rd, make your second left just before the dead end. You will want to park towards the end of the parking lot and walk between buildings 3 & 4 towards the ocean.
Look for a sign that says "Warning High Surf Below" and this is where the dirt trail begins. The initial hike is along a red dirt path with minimal descent. As you continue, the trail morphs into an extremely rocky path requiring the use of existing ropes to repel downward.
As you reach the bottom, you will need to boulder over several rocks until you see the opening face of the cave. Be sure to look for sea turtles as they are often swimming in the bay area if not sleeping inside - hence, the name Turtle Cave!
You must be able to assess the tide and your ability to reach the cave. DO NOT attempt this during high tide or during the winter months. During the summer, you can typically swim or even wade up to the beach.
Once you reach the beach, begin exploring the cave and be on the watch for turtles. If you are lucky enough to see the turtles, just remember they are protected by state and federal laws, which prohibit you from approaching them.
Continue towards the back of the cave which slightly bends to reveal a second opening to the ocean. This is why you may also hear the term "Two Headed Turtle Cave". When you are finished enjoying this incredible adventure, simply return the way you came.
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Hike to Turtle Cave Reviews
That sign warning is accurate. The trail down at the end of Edward Rd is treacherous to say the least. Not only must you grab hold of vines and a small rope to repel the slippery slope, but the mosquitoes will feast on you on the way down. Going anyway? Ok, it is beautiful once down. The cove and cave are spectacular! Fortunately I did not go back up the same way. About a hundred yards or so east of the Edwards trail just past a waterfall you will see a trail leading back up. No repelling, no slipping. A bonus is you will pass a beautiful waterfall with a nice little pool to soak in. A secret the locals would not like leaked, so shhhhh! By the way, I am 70, so don’t let your age stop you from experiencing the beauty of this place.
5.0
The hike down can be a bit slippery especially if it’s raining and you have to swim a tiny bit to get to the cave, but definitely worth seeing. However if your aim is to see the turtles you have to go at night. I went around 10 pm and there were at least 6-7 turtles there sleeping. Bring a headlight but try your best to not disturb them as they are protected endangered animals.
5.0
Leave No Trace
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