Kauai’s Na Pali coastline features some of the highest sea cliffs in the world, intricately carved through by narrow valleys, waterfalls, and streams. Experience it from the water via a beautifully planned boat tour, and you’ll leave with the memories (and photographs!) of a lifetime. Capt Andy’s has a stellar reputation as a tour provider, and thanks to the wide variety of tour options they offer, there’s something for practically every traveler–from adventure-seekers to casual sightseers to foodies just in it for the Hawaiian-style BBQ.
Expect well-maintained vessels, exceedingly accommodating guides, and an unforgettable experience from booking to debarkation.
Some of our favorite tour options include:
The Na Pali Snorkel BBQ Sail
Want to catch a glimpse of the gorgeous coastline as well as the wonders under the surface? The Snorkel BBQ Sail spans 5.5 hours of the day. Because it departs in the morning, you’re all but guaranteed to catch a glimpse of spinner dolphins frolicking along the coastline. Bring a swimsuit along, because later in the morning, you’ll have a chance to jump in yourself. At lunchtime, enjoy a delectable BBQ lunch prepared on board–complete with dessert, beverages, beer, and wine. You’ll have plenty of room on the 65′ yacht to enjoy the sunshine or the shade, relax, and enjoy the adventure.
Na Pali Day Expedition
This 5-6 hour adventure along the Na Pali coast culminates in snorkeling on a secluded secret beach, exploring the ruins of an ancient Hawaiian village, and taking in sea caves, jungle hiking trails, and waterfalls along the way. This trip occurs on a custom-made 24′ raft that allows for secluded beach landings. Enjoy snorkeling, the occasional humpback whale sighting (if your trip falls during whale season), and a picnic lunch with desserts and beverages.
Na Pali Cave Patrol
A shorter expedition that’s just as spellbinding, the Na Pali Cave Patrol trip lasts about three hours and takes you in and out of sea caves and even under waterfalls that look like they came straight out of a storybook. The sheer height of the cliffs and the contrast of the bluer-than-blue waters and emerald cliffs will leave you reeling with the beauty of the place, even as you explore some of the nooks and crannies that most visitors to the Na Pali Coast don’t ever get to see.
Other tours include a sunset dinner tour, a snorkel adventure, and a picnic sail–all of which come highly recommended by visitors who return year after year to rebook with Capt Andy’s.
Capt Andy’s tours is located in Eleele, with most tours departing from Port Allen on Kauai’s South Shore; they’re easily accessible from most parts of the island, but keep in mind that if you’re coming from the North Shore, you’re in for a drive of just under two hours.
Insider Tips:
-Capt Andy’s doesn’t provide shuttle service to or from your accommodations, so arranging transportation to the correct harbor is on you. Plan in advance, because it’s a 1:45 drive from the North Shore.
-Even though it’s Hawaii, you might want to bring a jacket along–especially if you’re going on a rafting tour. The cool tradewinds and sea spray can make it feel a bit chilly, especially in the mornings.
-Traveling with younger adventurers? Keep in mind that children must be 6 years old to go on a rafting tour and at least 3 for a catamaran tour.