Halape Shelter — Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park

The scenery is so beautiful. I discovered a lot of cool things from this place and I will probably never forget getting over it in my mind.

Halape is one of the most amazing places I've ever camped. Spent 3 nights there in January 2013 after about 15 miles hiking in from the west. Didn't see a soul the whole time, and we were in the national park for 5 days. The highlight of the trip was harvesting mussels off the rocks, climbing up the coconut palms to get fruit, and cooking up the mussels in coconut water with some curry powder we brought in. Most incredible foraged meal I've ever had. The lilikoi that grows on the hillsides just up from the beach are delicious too. It's hard to get to but worth the trip!

love the view

Who doesn't love camping on an isolated beach! Halape is a backcountry backpacking trip in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. You have to go the day before or the morning of to get camping permits from the backcountry office on a first com first served basis. There are a few trails to take to get to Halape ranging from 8-11 miles - people choose them based on elevation gain and how bad it is on your knees when hiking with a full pack on. Check with the backcountry office when you get your permits about the water supply there. There is generally plenty of water available at the beach site but bring your water filter or purification tablets! Bring fishing gear or a knife to collect opihi to eat. Be aware of the earthquake/tsunami history of the campsite in the past - the park rangers are good about telling you what to do in case of anything! Overall it's a mini paradise with a gorgeous beach to yourself. Walk over to Halape Iki for another perfect little beach cove.