na pali boat tours from hanalei bay (north shore)

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Na Pali Coast Tours

Kauai sightseeing & snorkeling adventures.

Seasonal departures from Hanalei Bay!

Depart from Hanalei Bay,  the closest port to the Na Pali coast! 

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Our Na Pali Coast Tours

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• Clock 4 Hours
• Map Marker Hanalei

Na Pali Snorkel Adventure

Explore ancient sea caves, towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls as we voyage from Ke’e beach to Nualolo Kai. Look for marine life and enjoy some of the best snorkel spots the north shore has to offer!

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Na Pali Sight See Adventure

Take in the splendor of the Na Pali coastline during the golden hours!  Capture breath taking views as we cruise to Kalalau valley and beyond!  We enjoy fun in the sun and sea spray on this amazing ocean adventure of a lifetime!

Purchase the perfect gift for thrill seekers and outdoor adventurers!

Over 1,000 Reviews on TripAdvisor

"This tour was the ideal experience for exploring the North Shore of Kauai. Captain Steve and his son were so knowledgeable about everything, from the names of the waterfalls to the legends the cliffs and valleys hold. I’ve only done a tour like this once before, and it was on a zodiac boat, which was bumpy and not as enjoyable. This boat was the ideal size to handle the waves, as well as fit into sea caves along the Napoli Coast. Captain Steve was an excellent driver, and we never felt unsafe, even inside caves with big waves. I would highly recommend this family-owned and operated company for your next boat tour."

"My husband and I did the afternoon 4 hour Na Pali coast and snorkel tour. It was the highlight of our time in Kauai! Captain Steve and his co-captain (blanking on her name but she was awesome) were fantastic tour guides. I loved Captain Steve's personal touches to every story he told about the coast as well as his knowledge and understanding of the ocean. He took us through sea caves and gave us a taste of the Na Pali "Rollercoaster Ride." The snorkeling was awesome too! Both of them gave clear instructions about safety and frequently checked on passengers to make sure everyone was feeling OK. In addition to the actual tour, their website explains exactly what you get and gives accurate information about what to expect. We went during a time when Kuhio highway to Hanalei was under construction due to a landslide a few months prior and there was a limited amount of time to get into the area. It was clearly stated on the website along with the time you needed to make the trip. The booking staff did a great job communicating with us about what to expect and was very helpful. I cannot say enough great things about this tour and company! Definitely recommend!!"

"To be honest, we accidentally booked this tour instead of one the the competitors that we had done before—and we are so glad we did! Captain Steve and his mate Dave were fantastic, super informative and fun, and they took us into coves and caves that we’d missed before. The lunch was surprisingly good! This is one tour you don’t want to miss, the Napali coast is beyond stunning from this viewpoint, and the snorkeling was great as well. It was definitely a highlight of our trip."

"Wonderful staff, left on time, organized, beautiful views of the coast and sea caves along the way, great snorkeling location where you get to see all kinds of sea life and well worth the price to be able to leave right from Hanalei Bay."

"If you want to ride out on some massive waves and get a great view of the Napali coast, book this adventure with captain Steve & crew. Cap'n Steve navigated the Northern waters with ease and grace. My wife and I had a blast going in & out of remote sea caves and under water falls on this epic tour. An absolute must do on a Kauai visit."

Explore secluded beaches, ancient Hawaiian sites, tropical reefs, lush valleys, sea caves that were once lava tubes, and thousand-foot waterfalls crashing along the coastline.

Play alongside Hawaiian spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish as you snorkel the most beautiful coves on the coast!

Our catamarans are the limousines of the ocean fleet! Our US Coast Guard certified motor powered catamarans were designed for maneuverability and speed.

We get you there and back in comfort like no other tour boat company on the island of Kauai! Experience it for yourself and book a tour with us!

We keep our tours small and personalized with a local touch! Our family is locally born and raised from Kauai’s North Shore. Our vessels were built on Kauai for running the exciting Na Pali coast.

The size and design of our boats allow us to navigate sea caves and coastlines closely for a truly unique Na Pali Coast tour!

5 of the Best Napali Coast Boat Tours

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One of the most popular sights on Kauai is the stunning Napali Coast. Located on the north west side of Kauai, the 17 miles of coastline is absolutely spectacular. But it’s inaccessible by car, so if you’re hoping to see it (which you definitely should) you’ll need to go by boat, helicopter/plane, or by foot. 

There are a lot of different tours to choose from. We’ve listed our top five picks below to help you find the best option for your trip. Read on to learn more about the best Napali Coast boat tours and book your trip.

Learn more about our favorite Napali Coast Boat Tours here! – Are you staying near the North Shore? Check out the tours that leave from Hanalei Bay . – Napali Coast snorkel and sailing tour with a water slide! – Visit the forbidden island of Ni’ihau , snorkel in a crater, and see the Napali Coast. – Our favorite 4.5-hour su nset dinner cruise of the Napali Coast . – Small group, power raft tour of the Napali with snorkeling. – Hawaiian-owned catamaran tour, choose from 4 types of catamarans .

Napali Coast Boat Tour FAQs

The ride to the Napali Coast can be rough. We have yet to go on a tour where someone doesn’t get seasick. So if you are prone to seasickness (or even if you’re not!) you might want to consider taking seasickness medication to help. 

What are the different boat options for the Napali Coast boat tours?

Choosing the right type of boat for your adventure is important. The two main options are rafts (including Zodiac rafts) and catamarans (both power and sailing).

Rafts are easily maneuverable and fast, but you’re in for a less leisurely ride. Think of it as an adventure! An adventure where you’ll likely get wet and there’s a chance there won’t be shade. This is something Jordan and I would do but we wouldn’t bring our five-year-old son or our parents on a trip like this. 

A catamaran is a more comfortable ride but you do miss some of the pep you get with a raft. It’s not quite as easy to zip in and out of sea caves (conditions permitting). But you’ll have shade and you likely won’t get wet if you don’t want to. 

Where do Napali Coast Boat Tours depart from?

There are three main locations that you’ll find as departure points for Napali Coast Boat Tours:

Port Allen: Located just 15-20 minutes from Poipu on the south shore of Kauai, this is the most popular departure point for Napali Coast tours.  Click for directions to Port Allen .

Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor: 30 minutes from Poipu, this is the closest departure point to the Napali Coast from the south side.  Click for directions to Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor .

Hanalei Bay: On the north shore there are a handful of tour operators that leave from Hanalei Bay. This is the closest point of departure to the Napali Coast but the seas do get rough. Tours depart here March/April through October as the winter brings in large swells.

Where should you stay on Kauai? That’s a tough decision.

What’s the best time to visit the Napali coast?

You can visit the Napali Coast any time of year, but if you’re aiming for the calmest seas, your best bet is in the summer. During the winter months (October through March) waves can get large and the surf can get rough. The trip to and from the Napali Coast is rarely super smooth, but it’s usually better in the summer than in the winter. 

That said, we’ve done the trip in mid-November and had an absolute blast. 

Not sure when to plan your trip? We have you covered with our best time to visit Kauai article .

What’s included on a Napali Coast Boat tour?

There are two ways to see the Napali Coast: on a snorkeling tour or a sightseeing tour. We include options for both below. 

On snorkeling tours, you can expect a meal (or two!), drinks (water, juice, soda, and occasionally alcoholic beverages), as well as snorkeling gear and a knowledgeable guide. 

On dinner cruises, drinks and food are included as well as a knowledgeable guide.

Is a trip to the Napali Coast worth it?

If you’re coming to Kauai, I think a trip to see the stunning Napali coast is worth it. The stunning mountains and coastline are not accessible by car, so seeing it by boat, helicopter, plane, or hiking is the only way to experience it. The beauty is extraordinary and by taking a boat you also get to enjoy the wildlife that you meet along the way (often dolphins).

It’s one of our favorite things to do on Kauai ! If you have young kids who can’t go on a Napali Coast boat tour, check out our 24 Things to Do on Kauai with Kids .

A Napali Coast boat tour can be a rough ride for those with children or prone to seasickness. We recommend taking motion sickness medicine the night before your boat tour.

If seasickness or the chance of rough seas (winter months) doesn’t sound good to you, consider these other ways to see the Napali Coast of Kauai or go snorkeling on Kauai.

• Napali Coast Helicopter or Airplane Tour (best safety record on the island)
• Napali Coast Hiking Tours
• Snorkeling with Sea Turtles from South Shore (Poipu)

The 5 Best Napali Coast Boat Tours

There are a lot of excellent tours on the island, but we’ve narrowed it down to share with you what we think are the best Napali Coast boat tours around.

Napali Coast Tours from Hanalei Town (North Shore)

If you’re staying on the north shore in the summer, you are close to the Napali coast! So close in fact, that it’s only a 15-minute ride from Hanalei to the start of the Napali coast. But we warned — a trip from Hanalei is an adventure.

The tours run from March through October only (the north shore experiences huge surf in the winter). The catamaran holds 18 passengers and is available for both a morning and afternoon snorkeling tour (4 hours) as well as a 2-hour sightseeing tour (no snorkeling included).

There is no bathroom aboard the boat, so plan accordingly!

Learn more about the Hanalei to Napali tours

The rest of the best Napali Coast boat tours depart from Port Allen and Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor.

Custom-Built Boats for the Napali Coast

Explore the Napali Coast on Kauai-built boats — both a sailing catamaran and a power catamaran that take a max of 41 and 49 passengers, respectively. The owner Kevin is a boat builder. He designs and builds all the boats for Holo Holo Charters. 

We’ve gone out with Holo Holo several times and we’ve always enjoyed our trip! We have a video at the end of the article of one of our experiences.

Holo Holo Charters offers four different tour options that all leave from Port Allen:

• Ni’ihau and Napali Super Tour: 7 hours
• Na Pali Snorkel Sail: 7 hours
• Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail: 4.5 hours
• Na Pali Sunset Dinner Tour: 3.5 hours

We’ve done both the Ni’ihau and Napali Super Tour and the Napali Snorkel Sail and both were excellent. 

Boats are shaded in the cabin area and tours are available to children ages 5 and over.

Snorkeling tours include snorkel gear, breakfast, and lunch, as well as beverages. Sunset cruises include dinner and drinks. 

Napali Coast Sailing Tour

Blue Ocean Adventure Tours (Napali Explorer) offers twice-daily power catamaran tours. On each catamaran, you’ll have a max of 40 passengers. The tours leave from the Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor, so it’s the closest spot on the west side of the island to the Napali Coast. 

The morning and afternoon tours offer 45 minutes of snorkeling and snorkeling gear is included. On the 4.5-hour tour, you’ll also have a Hawaiian-style BBQ lunch with water, juice, and soda. 

And for the kids (and really adults too), there is an inflatable water slide on the boat. 

Book the Napali Explorer morning tour

Book the Napali Explorer afternoon tour

Napali Coast Adventure on a Power Raft (small group tour)

Head out to the Napali coast on a zodiac with Kauai Z Tours. This tour includes snorkeling, but like most of the tours offered, the emphasis is on the scenery and less on the time in the water. 

Kauai Z Tours operates their tours on a 25’ rigid hull zodiac boat, which is coast guard approved for a maximum of 14 passengers. Zodiacs or rafts are known for their speed and maneuverability, so this is more of an adventurous ride. There is no shade or covering on the boat, so hats, sun-protective clothing, and reef-safe sunscreen are a must. 

During this five-hour tour, you’ll get to cruise up the west side of the island to the Napali coast in a zodiac raft that seats 14. Included in your tour is a dry bag, snorkeling gear, juice and water, as well as a deli-style lunch. 

The tour departs from Kekaha (the Kikiaola small boat harbor), which is approximately a 32-minute drive from Poipu. This is approximately 17 minutes up the road from Port Allen (closer to the Napali Coast), where some other tours leave from. 

Learn more about the Napali Coast Zodiac rafting tour.

Kauai Z Tours doesn’t just specialize in Napali coast tours — you can book south shore snorkeling tours as well as whale-watching tours . 

Hawaiian-Owned Napali Coast Boat Tours

Makana Charters is a native Hawaiian-owned business with ancient roots on the island. They have 15 years of experience running tours on the Napali coast. 

Makana Charters offers the same Napali coast tour but on four different catamarans.

Learn more about Makana’s tour and pick the catamaran that’s right for you.

All tours depart from the Kikiaola small boat harbor, approximately 32 minutes from Poipu, a close departure point for the Napali Coast. That means more time is spent seeing the coast and snorkeling, and less time is spent getting there. 

Included in the tour is the use of snorkeling gear, juice and water, as well as a deli-style lunch and snacks. 

They can accommodate children 3 and up and pregnant women (weather-dependent and with a doctor’s note). They offer morning and afternoon tours as well as private tours.

Plan the Rest of Your Trip

Let us help you plan the details of your Kauai trip. With our island itinerary, we take you on excursion days to different parts of the island so you can see the best sights, eat at the best restaurants, and have an amazing trip.

The Hawaii Vacation Guide,  thanks so much! I purchased the Kauai itinerary and it is awesome! I had no idea how much work and information you guys really put into it and I am so excited for our trip now!! Kayla R.

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The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Kauai.

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Explore one of the most unique and amazing places on the planet

Na pali coast boat tours departing from hanalei bay,  first tour on nā pali , incredible views, golden hour fun run,  from $3,228.40 .

BEST EXPERIENCE!

Private tours, join us for an unforgettable time.

Just a few miles north of the iconic Hanalei Bay lies a stretch of coastline one has to see to believe. 3500 foot cliffs diving straight into the ocean, sunlight reflecting from waterfalls as they cascade into the sea, pods of spinner dolphins jumping and dancing in the surf. The experience of Nā Pali will be etched into your memories for many years to come.

Come along for the ride of your life on a Na Pali Coast Adventure Tour with Hanalei Charters !

Napali Coast Tours

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Napali Coast Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Na Pali Experience

Na pali coast catamaran & rafting tours | kauai, hi, the perfect boats for na pali coast.

Avoid the crowds and climb aboard vessels that allow you to have a closer look. Our boats are the most practical size and design for touring the Na Pali Coast. They’re large enough to keep you comfortable, yet small enough to fit into all of the various sea caves when conditions permit. Get started by choosing one of our boats below!

Choose Your Boat

Na pali rafting adventures.

Our high-speed, wet & wild rafting adventure is one of Kauai’s most exhilarating rides. Regarded by many as the Ferrari of the Na Pali Coast, this is a must do adventure for thrill seekers who are young & fit.

Deluxe Power Catamaran

Ride in style along the Na Pali Coast in our state of the art 35ft power catamarans. These boats provide a similar experience to our rafts, except they are even faster, more comfortable, and great for almost any age!

6 Person Power Catamaran

Enjoy the Na Pali Coast’s most intimate and personalized boat tour to date. With only 6 guests, this unique offering is unmatched industry wide. This trip is incredible as a shared tour and even better as a private charter!

A Breathtaking Experience

Join us on one of our Na Pali Coast catamaran or rafting tours for an unforgettable experience. The Na Pali Coast is one of the most spectacular attractions in the world, and our tours allow you to enjoy its unparalleled beauty without the hassle of crowds. The Na Pali experience offers you:

• Small-group tours or entirely private tours so you can enjoy the stunning views of the Kauai coast unobstructed
• Expert Captain / Crew
• Practical, comfortable vessels
• Tours of Kauai sea caves
• Marine life encounters – dolphins, whales, turtles & more
• Excellent service and personalized attention from a small, family operation

Space is limited so reserve your tour online today!

Join us on our Na Pali Coast boat tour for an unforgettable experience at one of the most spectacular attractions in the world. Our tours allow you to enjoy its unparalleled beauty without the hassle of crowds.

Users Smaller groups, avoid the crowds!

Sunset Sea cave accessibility (conditions permitting)

Support a local, owner / operator, small family operation

Cruise Ship Clean, well-maintained vessels ideal for Na Pali Coast

Dolphin Marine life friendly-We respect marine life protection laws

Heart Eco friendly company – We only allow reef safe sunscreen onboard & no single use plastics

Checkmark Superb safety rating, we take your safety and our job seriously!

Star Outline 5 star overall rating on every review platform in existence!

Info Click here to meet the staff and learn more about our Company

Open Year Round For Touring, Inquiries, & Reservations; Book Today!

Top-rated kauai boat tours ★★★★★.

"First: Since the have a small nice boat it is good space. We were a couple and it was 3 others in the boat. Many other companies have a crowded boats (50 plus people). After a short drive we got to see a bunch of dolphins. Great experience!! Drive up the coast with nice stories and scenery was perfect. Only to stop and swim with some turtles. A perfect day!"

"This was absolutely the highlight of our time in Hawaii! If you are on the fence about doing a boat tour, then stop looking now and book with Na Pali Experience. Captain Jon was fantastic, knowledgeable and a wonderful guide throughout the tour. We did the afternoon tour and lucked into amazing weather that allowed us to visit all the sea caves. Snorkeling with sea turtles, incredible views, and coming back with the sunset light hitting the mountains... nothing comes close! We would highly recommend this tour to anyone!"

"My Na Pali Pirates experience was amazing! Fun, fast raft rides on exciting water? Check! Epic views of the Na Pali coast? Check! Sea caves? Check! Snorkeling with sea turtles? Check! But most importantly, Jake and Jacob were incredible incredible guides! Fun and knowledgeable with the perfect amount of dad jokes and great tunes! This is seriously a MUST DO, and I will continue to do this raft tour any time I am back in Kauai! Stop looking at other boat tours of the Na Pali coast and book this one! It's fun and exciting and you will be supporting a LOCAL SMALL BUSINESS! Thank you to "The Jakes" for an epic time!

"The 35’ Deluxe Catamaran “Cadillac of the Caves” was AMAZING! Do not miss this when you’re in Kauai. Brian and Capt. Nate were fun, kind, knowledgeable, patient…all the things. They personally made sure every single person was comfortable and having fun the whole time. They shared tons of knowledge about Kauai and the Napali coast, played music, made us laugh, and were obviously capable and at ease on the ocean. The deluxe catamaran was big enough to be comfortable, but small enough to fit in caves and be an exciting ride. My husband and 7 year old sat in bench seats in the middle of the boat, while my 10 year old and I rode up front for a more exciting ride. We stopped to snorkel and they provided good equipment. They also put out snacks and drinks while we were in the water. They made sure everyone had enough time in the water and didn’t feel rushed back. Our family all took Dramamine the night before and again about an hour before we got on the boat, and we all felt fine the whole time. Do take similar precautions if you’re at all worried about sea sickness. I cannot recommend this company and experience highly enough. It was one of my favorite days ever! It was the experience of a lifetime to take in the gorgeous scenery in such a fun and exciting way. The experience and memories are worth the price. Book it!

"A beautiful small boat tour for 6 cruising the Na Pali coast. The boat is small enough to go into the caves. JD was a great captain! He was very friendly, knowledgeable and experienced which was very reassuring when it came to the big waves since it was a very windy day."

Proud Founders of Adopt Na Pali

A COASTLINE WORTH PROTECTING

Learn more about how our small company founded Na Pali Coast’s first ever, full scale, in-depth, marine debris clean-up and how you can be a part of it. Rather than adopt-a-highway, we decided to adopt-a-coastline, and it’s something we look forward to year after year. Contact us for how to be a part of something special and help us keep one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines in immaculate condition. Mahalo for your continued support.

TYPE OF TOURS

• Na Pali Coast
• Sunset Cruises
• Whale Watching
• Private Charters

CLASS OF BOAT

• Star Hawaiian Yachts

Classic Sailing Adventures

Raft expeditions.

• Gift Certificates
• Community Support
• Frequently Asked Questions

"Must Do Kauai Adventure! Absolutely Amazing!! ...great trip! Thanks to all of the wonderful crew! " – Jane W., Jan 2023

Na Pali Coast Kauai Boat Tours . Experience an Adventure of a Lifetime with Capt Andy's!

Star class yachts, star na pali dinner sunset sail.

4 hrs Adult $245 Child $205

Star Na Pali Snorkel BBQ Sail

5.5 hrs Adult $245 Child $225

Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail

4 hrs Adult $215 Child $195

Na Pali Snorkel Picnic Sail

5.5 hrs Adult $215 Child $195

Na Pali Day Expedition

6 hrs Adult $295 Child $255

Raft Whale Watch

2 hrs Adult $99 Child $79

Na Pali Raft Cave Patrol

3 hrs Adult $189 Child $159

Na Pali Raft Snorkel

4 hrs Adult $224 Child $199

"We went on the Kauai Napali Coast tour . Not. To. Be. Missed. Snorkeled, hiked, saw whales, turtles and dolphins… and was just awed. Full day. Awesome every minute. " – Malachy W., Jan 2023

Voted #1 Napali Tour Co. by Hawaii Magazine! – Hawaii Magazine Best of the Best 2023

Na Pali Coast Kauai Boat Tours with Capt Andy's

Welcome to Capt Andy's Kauai boat tours, your gateway to adventure along Na Pali Coast!

Embark on a journey like no other as we take you on an unforgettable Kauai boat tour through the majestic Na Pali Coastline. Nestled along the stunning Garden Island of Kauai, this iconic destination is renowned for its towering emerald cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. And there's no better way to experience its beauty than with Capt Andy's.

Our expert crew is dedicated to providing you with an extraordinary and personalized experience. Whether you're seeking a thrilling adventure, a serene escape, or a combination of both, our Na Pali Coast boat tours are tailored to meet your desires. As we cruise along the coast, be prepared to witness nature's marvels up close and personal—playful dolphins dancing in the waves, graceful sea turtles gliding through the sea the mesmerizing sight of humpback whales breaching (in season).

At Capt Andy's, we offer a range of tour options to suit every traveler. Choose from our luxury Star Class Yachts , spacious Classic Sailing Adventures , or adrenaline-pumping zodiac rafts . Whichever vessel you select, rest assured that our top priority is your comfort, safety, and enjoyment. Our knowledgeable and friendly crew members are here to provide captivating storytelling, fascinating historical insights, and expert guidance throughout your journey.

Immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Na Pali Coast as we venture into hidden sea caves , marvel at the ancient lava tubes, and snorkel in the vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical fish. For the more adventurous souls, we also offer exciting options like cliff jumping and paddleboarding, allowing you to make the most of your Na Pali experience.

Begin your extraordinary journey on a Capt Andy's Na Pali Coast tour. Let us be your trusted guide as you create memories to last a lifetime. Book your adventure now and prepare to be captivated by the awe-inspiring beauty of Kauai's Na Pali Coast!

Adventure Tours Hawaii

Hanalei to na pali coast boat.

Depart from Hanalei, on the lush North Shore or Kauai – just 15 minutes away from the Na Pali coast!

Experience the boat IKAIKA, the limousine of the catamaran boats - a sleek, stable and 32 feet long with 500 horsepower, we get there fast. Our unique design allows our power catamaran to be the only company out of Hanalei to get in all the caves (conditions allowing).

Explore secluded beaches, ancient Hawaiian sites, tropical reefs, majestic valleys, sea caves and thousand-foot waterfalls. See where movies like South Pacific, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more!

What to Expect

Start the Na Pali Coast adventure from the beautiful and romantic Hanalei Bay. Hanalei Bay is a beautiful natural port that makes for easy beach loading. From here we embark on an adventure of a lifetime covering the full 15 miles of the Na Pali Coast.

As we first head out, be camera ready and keep your eyes open for pods of Hawaiian spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, monk seals, whales (in season) and other marine life.

Our knowledgeable crew provides narration as they take you down this secluded coastline to a land lost in time. We love to pull under cascading waterfalls that drop into the ocean, alongside majestic cliffs and explore ancient sea caves. We’ll stop for a 45 min. – 1 hour for lunch on aboard and jump in the water for swimming and snorkeling. The return ride back to Hanalei is a guaranteed Hawaiian roller coaster ride!

Tour Disclosure: Northerly surf swells can affect snorkel spots and prevent safe exploration near sea cliffs and caves. Sea cave entry and snorkeling cannot be guaranteed in advance for safety reasons at anytime during the year. From the months of October - February there is no snorkeling at all.

Seasonal Disclosure: Due to heightened ocean activity September – February, and because the boat is not stationary when boarding near the tide line, this tour is not recommended for anyone over 70 years old for safety reasons.

• Knowledgable and Friendly Crew
• Narrated Boat Tour
• Light sandwich lunch
• Bottled water and soft drinks
• Snorkel gear (summer months only)
• Max Capacity of only 18 people

Requirements

• Guests must be prepared to be exposed to the elements and ride an open vessel with NO bathroom. It always rains in Hanalei but we travel west towards the drier side!
• Guests must be in good general health and able to climb a vertical dive ladder from shallow waters to board and disembark, sometimes in small surf. Hanalei Bay is a natural port with NO loading docks.
• Anyone pregnant, under age 4, with a serious health concern (ie neck or back issues, heart condition, etc.), weighs 300lbs +, gone through recent surgery or who tests positive for COVID-19 is not permitted.

Kauhale Center, 4489 Aku Road, Hanalei, HI 96714

Cancellation Policy

Advance notice required to rebook without penalty and cancel with full refund:

• 1 - 4 passengers = 48 hours
• 5 - 9 passengers = 72 hours
• 10 + passengers = 96 hours
• Private charters require a 7 day advance notice.

No refunds for reasons including but not limited to late arrivals or no show, late cancellation or late request to rebook, rainy conditions, sea sickness, modified tour route and/or water activity. Note: If a 4 hour tour is reduced to a sight see only tour due to unforeseen circumstances, then a partial refund will be issued to honor the lesser tour rate. Na Pali Coast Hanalei Tours reserves the right to deny service for any reason.

Voted the Best Boat Tour in the US!

Holo Holo Blog

Napali coast tours from hanalei, the 2022 summer north shore season has officially commenced, and boy are we ready for a good one.

We’ve been running our Napali Coast raft boat snorkeling tours out of Hanalei since 2012, and each season presents its own difficulties but, to be honest—the last four years have been exceptionally challenging. And it’s not just us; they’ve been exceptionally challenging on all of Hanalei’s businesses. Let us explain what’s been going on…

Hanalei Floods of 2018 | Photo: Courtesy of Matthew Roth, CC-BY

It was the spring of 2018 and Kauai was earning her reputation as one of the wettest places on Earth. The island, and particularly the north shore, was saturated. Then on April 15 th , it rained some 49 (forty-nine!) inches in 24 hours—breaking state and national records. It was just too much for both the Hanalei and Wainiha Rivers—they both blew out causing severe flash flooding in the town of Hanalei, widespread power outages, and several landslides that blocked the Kuhio Highway. Homes and businesses were wrecked, Blackpot and Ke’e Beach Parks as we knew them were forever changed, there were even confused and displaced bison roaming around on the beach!

During the 2018 emergency, we used our tour boats to deliver food, water, and medicine to areas cut off by the landslides and to transport people and pets out of those areas.

Instead of getting into the details about all the property damage and implications (sections of Kuhio Highway were closed for 14 months!), we’ll keep it short and just tell you that for Holo Holo Charters, the 2018 north shore season never got started and as far as the 2019 season– we were able to pull of some tours, but it was a logistical nightmare, and it amounted to less than half of what we would normally run.

So, in early 2020, we were relieved to be getting back to business as usual. Until (cue the ominous music)… well, we don’t need to tell you what happened in March 2020. You know.

Total shutdown for the 2020 season. And not just the north shore part of our business– Holo Holo Charters was completely shuttered for a solid 13 months, as were most of the Kauai boat tour companies.

In early 2021, things were looking hopeful; the vaccines were becoming widely available, restrictions were loosening, and people felt comfortable traveling again. Once again, we were relieved to be getting back to business as usual. Until (cue the ominous music) mother nature struck again.

Yep, another radical spring rain event and another major mudslide on Kuhio Highway. Nobody could believe it; was the north shore cursed!? This new mudslide occurred on a steep section of highway called “Hanalei Hill” and repairing it took seven months of crews working around the clock. During those seven months, traffic flow was limited to one lane, and traveling the two measly miles between Princeville and Hanalei was taking several hours. So much like the 2019 season, in 2021, we were able to pull off some tours, but it was a logistical nightmare, and again, it amounted to less than half of what we’d normally run.

That brings us to the present day– May 2022—and we’re really hoping this is the season we actually get back to business as usual. The time has never been better to book a tour with us– our two raft-style boats are both sporting brand new, high-tech, fuel-efficient diesel outboard motors, we have a shiny new van to transport our guests from the parking area to the Hanalei River mouth (where the tour begins), and our north shore captains and crew are rearin’ and ready to show our guests an amazing time on the incredible Napali Coast.

Thank you for supporting Holo Holo Charters and all the Hanalei businesses that had the resolve and resilience to hang on through these last four years! Book your Napali Coast boat tours out of iconic Hanalei Bay Today!

Napali Coast Raft Tour From Hanalei

$ 279.00 🕒4 Hours

This 4-hour Napali Coast tour from Hanalei is aboard 40-foot rigid-hull inflatable leaves from Hanalei Bay. Explore the sea caves while plunging under cascading waterfalls and a fantastic snorkel adventure along the Napali coast and Kauai’s north shore. Seasonal Tour May-October

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• Reviews (2)

 Napali Coast Raft Tour From Hanalei Bay is the best way to discover the best of the Na Pali Coast. Departing from Hanalei, you will embark on an unforgettable journey along the rugged coastline of Kauai’s North Shore.

As you embark on your adventure, be prepared to be mesmerized by the towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys of the Na Pali Coast. Your knowledgeable captain and crew will guide you through the pristine waters and provide fascinating insights into the area’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

One of the tour’s highlights is exploring the hidden sea caves that dot the coastline as you navigate these enchanting caverns, Marvel at the stunning formations and crystal-clear waters.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife along the way. The Na Pali Coast is home to various marine life, from playful dolphins and graceful sea turtles to majestic humpback whales (seasonal). There’s always a chance of encountering these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

During the tour, you’ll have ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking scenery and capture unforgettable moments with your camera. Whether snapping photos of the dramatic cliffs or admiring the vibrant marine life below, every moment on the water will be memorable.

As you journey back to Hanalei, reflect on the beauty and wonder of the Na Pali Coast. With its rugged landscapes, pristine waters, and rich biodiversity, this iconic destination offers a true feast for the senses. Book your Hanalei North Shore departure raft tour today and experience the Na Pali Coast firsthand.

Tour Time:  Seasonal (May 1 – Sept 31)

• Check-in 6:30 am & 7:00am
• Duration approx. 4 hours
• Returns 11:30 am & 12:00 pm
• Hanalei Office
• Get Directions

What To Bring:

• Delicious Sandwich Lunch
• Island Juices and Filtered Spring Water
• All equipment and instruction is included
• The chance to see spinner dolphins

Restrictions:   No Pregnant Women or bad backs or necks.  No Children under 5. Cancellation Policy: 48-hr (before activity date) cancellation policy on ALL activities, except where otherwise noted.

5-5080 Kuhio Highway Unit 2, Hanalei, HI 96714

2 reviews for Napali Coast Raft Tour From Hanalei

KATHY GURULE – August 3, 2015

SHAWN AND DAVID TOOK OUR RAFT OUT THEY WERE SO FUN AND TOLD US ALOT ABOUT THE WATER FALLS AND THE HISTORY OF THE ISLAND AND THEY GOOD CARE OF US ALL THANK YOU GUYS.

Macy Lane – May 27, 2014

Na Pali coast tour was wonderful!! The rafts were super fun and loved going into the sea caves..A must do!!

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Na Pali Coast Rafting and Snorkel Tour

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Na Pali Coast Hanalei Tours

Posted on Last updated: March 21, 2024

Home » Activities » Na Pali Coast Hanalei Tours

If you’re on the North Shore of Kauai, you will especially appreciate the boat tours of the Na Pali Coast that depart from Hanalei Bay. The convenient tours save a road trip to the other side of the island (Port Allen) while offering a wonderful opportunity to explore the island’s remarkable Na Pali Coast.

The Hanalei tours of the Na Pali Coast are offered in the spring, summer and fall months, generally starting in the middle of April and ending the last week of October. During this time, Hanalei Bay is usually placid, allowing tour boats to pull up to the beach to load passengers. During the winter months, the surf is stronger and boat loadings are often not safe.

In addition to the convenience of the Hanalei departures for North Shore visitors, the Na Pali Coast is nearer to Hanalei Bay than it is for Port Allen, the usual launching point for Na Pali Coast tours. As a result, more time can be spent on the Na Pali Coast, and less time on travel, with a Hanalei departure. Moreover, the tours from Hanalei visit the opposite end of the Na Pali Coast from the Port Allen tours. Weather permitting, two different sea caves can be navigated by the smaller boats of the Hanalei tours. The caves are usually not seen on tours from Port Allen. Those tours (from Port Allen) generally travel only as far as Kalalau Beach before turning around.

The boats leaving from Hanalei are substantially smaller than the ones leaving from Port Allen. The Port Allen boats are larger, and more stable, catamarans. The Hanalei tour boats have a rougher ride, especially during the travel between Hanalei Bay and the Na Pali Coast. Those prone to seasickness or have certain medical conditions should choose a Port Allen tour instead.

Another notable difference between the Hanalei and Port Allen departures is the time of day and lighting conditions. The 8AM and 12 noon departures from Hanalei do not benefit from the spectacular “golden hour” on the Na Pali Coast in the late afternoon. Though there is some interplay with light and shadows in the early morning hours of the 8AM departures, most of these time periods are spent in direct sunlight. Though the scenery is beautiful, the sunset cruises leaving from Port Allen offer richer viewing and photo options in our opinion.

Wear water friendly clothes on the Na Pali Coast Hanalei tours as you will probably get wet to some degree. Bring sun protection, including sunglasses, hats and reef safe sunscreen. A light jacket helps with the ocean spray on the higher speed travel between the coast and Hanalei Bay and also in the event of rain.

Na Pali Coast Hanalei Tour Photos

The following is an account of a Na Pali Coast Hanalei tour.

We met up at the company’s Hanalei office next to Tahiti Nui. Dry bags were issued to all participants to protect personal belongings. Passengers walked in a group from the office to Hanalei Beach for the pickup.

It was a glorious morning in Hanalei. Shortly, the 26-foot catamaran Leilani arrived to pick us up. (Getting onboard required wading a very short distance into the water and climbing up several steps on the back of the catamaran.)

Soon we were off on our adventure and heading up the coast. You could easily make out the different beaches on Kauai’s North Shore. This is the Tunnels Beach/Haena Beach area.

This is where the North Shore beaches end at Ke’e Beach and the Na Pali Coast begins. The first beach to be found on the Na Pali Coast tour is Hanakapiai Beach. On land, this beach can only be reached via a two-mile hike on the Kalalau Trail.

The entrance to a sea cave.

This is the Double-Door sea cave with two entrances!

Inside the cave! It is the captain’s discretion to determine if conditions are safe to enter caves on the tour.

This incredible sea cave has a waterfall cascading through a hole in the ceiling. Look closely and you can see where a rock has wedged in the opening, something that was new from the last time we had visited the cave.

Amazing scenery of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast.

Waterfalls of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast!

Another amazing beach on the Na Pali Coast!

The Open Ceiling Cave is a large round cave with a rocky point in the middle.

The amazing Honopu Beach has an archway that connects two sides of the beach. The photo does not capture the enormity of the arch. The archway is large enough for a helicopter to fly through, as happened in the movie Acapulco Gold.

The pristine snorkeling spot was beautiful above and below the water.

The boat anchored at the snorkeling spot along with another tour boat.

Celebrities can often be found on Kauai. #georgiannflood

This beach looks like something from a Jurassic Park movie!

After spending about 45 minutes at the snorkeling spot, we sped back to Hanalei Bay. Though it was mostly sunny on this day, rains are a common occurrence so be prepared. A light jacket helps with the ocean spray on the trip back and also in the event of rain.

It was a choppy, high speed trip back with plenty of ocean spray and plenty of scenery!

Ominous clouds over the North Shore.

Back at beautiful Hanalei Bay!

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Afternoon Sightseeing and Snorkeling Tour

Quick Details

• Map Marker Departing From: Hanalei Bay (North Shore)
• Hour Glass Duration: 4 Hours
• Info Amenities: Bathroom onboard and Shaded Seating
• Cruise Ship Vessel Type: 35 ft. Aluminum Power Catamaran
• Users Capacity: Up to 22 people
• User Ages: 5+ years (Expecting Mothers Not Allowed)
• Clock Check in: 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM (tour dependent)

Experience the dramatic Na Pali Coast with a boat tour in Kauai! 

This tour is also called our “Photo Favorite Tour” due to the tremendous photo opportunities during this time of the day, with the Na Pali Coast facing west into the sunlight.

Our catamaran boat tours take you along the Na Pali coast with ease! 

The Afternoon Na Pali Tour starts with Check-in is from 12:00-12:30pm for tours departing at 12:45pm. Check-in is from 12:30-1:00pm for tours departing at 1:15pm.

Snorkeling equipment and floatation devices are provided, as well as a waterproof dry-bag.

Please note that we do not guarantee snorkeling or entrance into sea caves. Our goal is always to provide the best tour possible, given the day’s weather and ocean conditions. Safety is priority #1.

• Chevron down What's Included

– Deli sandwich lunch (locally sourced and made-to-order) Note: Sandwiches are not available in the months of March and October. – Cold Beverages/Snacks – Snorkeling approx. 45 mins (equipment provided) – Narration at photographic stopping points (valleys, caves, waterfalls, beaches, any wildlife encountered) – NOTE: This tour does not involve any beach landings

• Chevron down Why is it more convenient to depart from Hanalei Bay?

Convenient Na Pali Departure Point

Leaving Hanalei Bay, you reach the Na Pali in about 15 minutes. Along the way, you pass some premier windsurfing, kiteboarding, and local surf spots before arriving at the Na Pali Coast.

Other tours originating from Port Allen take hours of travel to get to and from the Na Pali while seeing only a fraction of the beauty that the Na Pali Coast has to offer. Our tours get you there fast so that you have time to leisurely experience the best of Na Pali Coast! To see what we mean take a look at the map. Port Allen tours are represented by the red line and our tour is represented by the green line .

• Chevron down What to Bring
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Beach attire (please change into a swimsuit prior to boarding)
• Light cover-up jacket
• Prescription Snorkel Mask (if needed)
• Chevron down What to Wear
• Swim attire
• Water shoes (slippers, flip flops, reef shoes, anything but closed-toed shoes)
• Chevron down Where to Check In

5-5190 Kuhio Hwy # 1 Hanalei, HI 96714 US

Seasickness precautions are always recommended for all passengers – even on the calmest days.

Private Charters

Please call (808) 826-6853 to book.

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• Clock 4 hours
• Users 5+ years (Expecting Mothers Not Allowed)

Morning Sightseeing and Snorkeling Tour

We depart Hanalei Bay around 7:30 and return approximately 4 hours later at around 11:30. Snorkel equipment and floatation devices are provided, as well as a waterproof drybag.

Book Now – Boat Tours Available out of Port Allen

Napali Coast Boat Tours

Kauai’s rugged and roadless northwest Napali Coast is sacred, protected, and can only be experienced by sea, air, or on foot. Holo Holo Charters will take you by sea, aboard our spacious and comfortable catamarans. Departing from Port Allen, you’ll experience Kauai’s entire northwest coastline– traveling along Kauai’s beachy and arid westside, past the towns of Waimea and Kekaha, Pacific Missile Range Facility, Barking Sands Beach, Hawaii’s longest beach- Polihale Beach, and to the heart of Kauai’s incredible Napali Coast.

Our Napali Coast Kauai boat tours from Port Allen are the best way to experience this amazing yet difficult-to-access part of Kauai. Whether you say yes to an action-packed morning of snorkeling and sailing, an offshore adventure to the “Forbidden Island” of Niihau, or a more relaxed dinner, drinks, and sunset experience— a drive to Port Allen on the southwest shore is well worth it.

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Niihau + Napali Super Tour

7 hours · niihau, lehua crater and the napali coast.

What a day! No other company offers this amazing trip. Our premier trip aboard Holo Holo begins with a continental breakfast as we head west and north to the majestic Napali Coast with waterfalls, lush valleys, and sea caves.

» Learn More

Explore these tours operating year-round out of Port Allen

• Hour Glass 3.5 hours
• Binoculars Sightsee
• Map Marker Port Allen

Napali Coast Sunset Boat Tour

There’s nothing like a Kauai sunset and there’s no place better to see it than on the water.

• Hour Glass 5 hours
• Anchor Snorkeling

Napali Snorkel Sail

For true trade wind sailing on Kauai join us aboard Leila, a beautiful 50′ sailing catamaran!

• Hour Glass 4.5 hours

Napali Sunset Sail

Watch the colors of the coastline change as the sun sinks into the ocean; it’s truly gorgeous.

• Hour Glass 7 hours

What a day! No other company offers this amazing trip. Our premier trip aboard Holo Holo begins with a continental breakfast as we head west and north to the majestic Napali Coast!

Kauai Boat Tours

For most people, “by sea” is the optimal way to experience Kauai’s amazing Napali Coast. Hiking is too time-consuming and hard core, and helicopter tours are super cool– they’re just too short! On a boat, you’re able to spread out, get some sun, eat, drink, and relax while we do all the work. On a boat, we’re right there with ocean wildlife such as Hawaiian spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), and green sea turtles, and we’re staring straight up the 4,000’ sea cliffs of the Napali Coast and its iconic geological features such as the Kalalau Valley, Cathedrals, Open Ceiling Cave, and Honopu Arch.

There are many options for Kauai boat tours, so the question becomes: what boat do you want to be on? Comfort and safety are the priorities at Holo Holo Charters. Holoholo , our 65’ cruising catamaran and Leila , our 50’ sailing catamaran were both designed and built here on Kauai for style, stability, and efficiency. Both vessels offer plenty of seating and storage, and each have two bathrooms, for everyone’s convenience.

Kauai Boat Tours to the Napali Coast

On a Holo Holo Charters tour, you’ll feel welcome, comfortable, safe, and appreciated. Our crew members are trained to anticipate your needs; if you need a napkin, need help adjusting your snorkel mask, or need a hand to the bathroom, they’ve got you! Our professional Captains will use their experience and expertise to choose the day’s optimal route and itinerary, including when and where to stop for snorkeling, sailing, relaxing, and eating. They’ll narrate the journey with interesting information, history, stories, and legends of Kauai and Hawaii.

We serve fresh, filling, high-quality meals that are prepared daily using whole ingredients, by a local catering company, and our beverage selection offers a little something for everyone— from juices and sodas to Ginger Mai Tais mixed with local Koloa Rum.

No matter where you’re staying on island, it’s worth planning a Kauai boat tour departing from Port Allen on the island’s southwest shore. Pack the car, make a day of it, and come aboard with Holo Holo Charters for a high-value experience that’s action-packed and relaxing at the same time. Come see for yourself the amazingness that is Kauai’s Napali Coast and journey with the company that was named 2022 Best Boat Tour in America by the USA Today 10 Best Readers Choice.

Napali Coast Snorkeling

Along the way, we’re looking for  sea life , including dolphins, turtles, whales (in season), seabirds, and even mountain goats that can often be spotted high up on the cliffs. Your captain anchors at one of several protected shallow reef areas that are teeming with tropical fish. We provide all of your snorkel gear and instruction so you can get the most out of your Kauai snorkeling adventure.

Napali Boat Tours

After snorkeling near the gorgeous Napali Coast, we take some time to relax and enjoy the magnificent coastline. We provide a tasty sandwich lunch, with chips, soft drinks, juices, water, and cookies for dessert. When you have had your fill, we make our way back to Port Allen.

"Outstanding experience!"

From start to finish my family and I thoroughly enjoyed our afternoon trip down the Napali Coast. The captain and crew were engaging and interesting - and their enthusiasm was palpably genuine. This was my third Napali experience and by far the best - I wholeheartedly recommend Holo Holo Charters.

"A Very Fun and Well Organized Trip!"

We had a spectacular trip down the Na Pali Coast; saw lots dolphins, turtles, and a Monk Seal. The young men were very knowledgeable, fun, and helpful. I was amazed at how comfortable the boat was, and we enjoyed the snorkeling and a yummy lunch. Thank you for making this experience possible; I will definitely do it again when family visits.

"Highlight of our trip!"

We had the best time. Every minute was unforgettable. Worth every dollar and our captains were fantastic. Highly recommended!