Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop from Wailua
Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop from Wailua
2.6
(2)
34
riders
Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop from Wailua
04:01
87.0km
940m
Road cycling
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 18, 2026
Tips
Temporary access restrictions
Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.
After 31.0 km for 230 m
Permit required
After 31.6 km for 230 m
Permit required
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
2.26 km
Waipouli Beach Park
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
2.88 km
Kapaʻa Beach Park and bike path
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Tip by
5.53 km
Keālia Beach
Highlight (Segment) • Beach
Tip by
8.59 km
Donkey Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
31.0 km
Kīlauea Point National Wildlife Refuge
Highlight • Natural Monument
Tip by
31.4 km
Kilauea Lighthouse and Wildlife Refuge
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
40.7 km
Anini Beach and Honu Point
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
52.0 km
Hanalei Valley Lookout
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
87.0 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
52.7 km
18.6 km
10.0 km
5.70 km
Surfaces
77.9 km
9.09 km
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Elevation
Highest point (140 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Sunday 12 July
28°C
23°C
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop from Wailua is a truly ambitious road cycling route, rated difficult, covering 54.0 miles (87.0 km) with a substantial 3089 feet (941 metres) of elevation gain, taking around 4 hours and 1 minute. This isn't your typical scenic cruise; it's a demanding ride that attempts to connect two very different parts of Kauai, best suited for experienced cyclists looking for a significant challenge and who are comfortable with less-than-ideal road conditions for bikes.
What to expect on Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop from Wailua
Expect a ride of two distinct halves, each with its own character and challenges. The section leading to Donkey Beach utilizes the Ke Ala Hele Makalae, a paved multi-use path known for its stunning coastal views and gentle grades, passing landmarks like Kealia Beach. This part is generally easy. However, connecting to the Hanalei Valley Lookout on the North Shore involves traversing significant distances on main highways, which are described as "sketchiest" for road cycling due to narrow shoulders and heavy traffic. The Hanalei area itself offers beautiful views of the valley and taro fields, but includes moderate elevation changes and steep climbs like Hanalei Hill. This route is for highly confident cyclists who are prepared for varied and often challenging road conditions, including busy sections.
Planning your visit
It's important to understand that a direct "Donkey Beach – Hanalei Valley Lookout loop" is not a commonly recognized or recommended road cycling route. Donkey Beach is accessed via the Ke Ala Hele Makalae path on the east side, while Hanalei Valley Lookout is on the North Shore. Connecting these two points by road would require traversing significant distances on main highways that are generally not considered bicycle-friendly due to narrow shoulders and heavy traffic. Cyclists looking to experience both areas would typically drive between them and then cycle the distinct routes within each region. If you choose to attempt this connection, be prepared for challenging road conditions and heavy traffic, especially on the main highways.
Trail details
- Distance: 54.0 miles (87.0 km)
- Elevation gain: 3089 feet (941 metres)
- Difficulty: difficult
- Estimated time: 4 hours and 1 minutes
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