Na Pali Experience — Attraction in Kauai

As a local family visiting from Oahu, we chose to do a boat tour of the Na Pali coast instead of allocating time during our stay on Kauai for hiking the Kalalau Trail. There are several boat tours available, and most seemed to offer a similar experience, so we chose Na Pali Experience based on location since we were staying nearby. We selected the early departure (dolphin guarantee) so that we could do something else in the afternoon and make it a full day with just two activities.

We arrived at the boat harbor around 615am on the day of our tour, and staff from Na Pali Experience were already setup and checking people in. We paid for parking using the QR code ($20 for 8 hours), and then went and checked in. We were provided two large waterproof bags for any belongings that we wished to bring along, and we found a seat while we waited for the tour to start.

Shortly after 7am, we boarded the vessel, a large catamaran with outboard motors and a partially covered deck. The boat was very nice - the deck and most surfaces had foam padding, and the bench seats provided plenty of space while also allowing nice views. Our captain, Kiley, expertly maneuvered the boat out of the harbor and into the ocean swells. Once we were away from the harbor, Kiley allowed anyone interested to take seats at the bow of the vessel (there were seats up front for 8). Then we were bouncing across the waves and on our way to the Na Pali coast. There were frequent sprays of water coming off the bow, and the people that sat in front got soaked. Everyone else just got wet.

Jay, the only crewmember aboard, helped throughout the journey by situating passengers, pointing out sights, and working with Kiley to safely operate the boat. We saw a large pod of dolphins on our way out, and then we arrived at a snorkel spot and Jay dived into the water to tie the boat up so we could all get in the water. Snorkel gear was provided and of sufficient quality, and a couple of friendly honu (green sea turtles) visited us while snorkeling. After we got out of the water, Jay handed out snacks and cold drinks, and there was also fresh-cut pineapple available.

After the snorkel, Kiley piloted us along the Na Pali coast, taking us into a couple of the caves and even under a waterfall. The sights were amazing, and Kiley explained some of the history of various spots along the journey.

As we headed back to the harbor, Kiley stopped the boat and allowed us to jump into the ocean or to use the onboard restroom. Shortly after that stop, passengers spotted a fin in the water and both Jay and Kiley got very excited - it was a large hammerhead shark.

As we headed into harbor, Kiley and Jay both shared some favorite spots to eat and sights to see. Kiley finally returned us back to the boat harbor shortly before noon, and we headed back to our accommodations full of the excitement of the boat ride. We were exhausted, and it may be a good idea to leave the rest of your day open after taking this tour.

Overall, the Na Pali Experience boat tour was the highlight of our weeklong trip. While helicopter tours will offer the same sights and more, the boat tour left us feeling a connection to the Na Pali coast and the island that I doubt we would have had in a helicopter. Kiley and Jay were outstanding, and the boat was comfortable, clean, and well-maintained. There are very few tourist attractions in Hawaii that do not feel exploitative to me as a local, but I would wholeheartedly recommend Na Pali Experience to anyone visiting Kauai, locals and...

I rode on Na Pali Experience’s 6-person Power Catamaran during my visit to Kauai in January 2024. Na Pali Experience offers three boat tours, which take place in the morning and in the afternoon (the departure times vary depending on which you boat you pick):

“Na Pali Rafting Adventures” (priced at $189): This is their high-speed rafting adventure and is regarded as the “Ferrari of the Na Pali Coast.”

“Deluxe Power Catamaran” (priced at $209): This is their 35ft catamaran, which accommodates larger groups.

“6-person Power Catamaran” (priced at $229): This is their small boat tour, which offers a more intimate experience than the other two options.

As per the Na Pali Experience's website, the 6-person catamaran is unmatched industry-wide; I think the 6-person Power Catamaran is the way to go especially if you are traveling solo or with a small group.

JD, my captain for my tour, was very entertaining and imparted a lot of knowledge about the Na Pali coastline and the marine life in Kauai. I was on the boat with a young couple and a middle-aged couple who was accompanied by their very excited young son who called dibs on the snacks that were offered and kept insisting he wants to sit in the front of the boat(!). JD made several stops en route to the coastline to allow us to observe the natural beauty and allow for some time to snorkel (for those of us who were interested). He also took the boat into the hidden caves, which looked surreal and must be seen close up in person (pictures do not do justice to how beautiful these sea caves look in real life!).

I have read on some travel blogs that boat excursions sometimes get cancelled if weather conditions are not favorable so it might be better to book your trip earlier on during your visit to Kauai in case the tour gets cancelled and you need to re-book for a later day. Another thing to keep in mind is that there may be traffic en route to the departure point (Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor) as I noticed the roads were jammed during one of the mornings I took my Lyft ride to a meeting point for another sightseeing tour (only 10% of the island is accessible by car so it it highly probable that you may get stuck in traffic alongside local commuters who are on their way to work depending on the day you book your tour). For those of you who don’t have a car on you (as I didn't), I suggest you book your carshare ride such that you arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes in advance in case there is traffic. Another tip for those of you who plan to visit Kauai without a car: please book your carshare ride at least 12 hours in advance via the app to ensure you have a ride secured for any sightseeing excursions you might book. My hotel was close to Poipu Beach and the ride from my hotel to Kikiaola Harbor took a little over 30 minutes so you will have to get up a bit early in case you book the morning excursion.

A trip to Kauai is incomplete without a visit to the Na Pali coastline and I am so happy I went on this adventure with Na Pali Experience; while the beautiful landscape of the coastline speaks for itself, the experience was further enhanced by JD's hospitality. My tour with Na Pali Experience is one of the most memorable excursions I have taken in my life - I would happily...

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Crazy good Na Pali Coast Adventure!

Our family’s experience with the Na Pali Experience charter was spectacular! From start to finish, this tour exceeded all expectations, offering a perfect blend of excitement, education, and natural beauty.

The journey along the Na Pali Coast was breathtaking, with countless opportunities for stunning photos. We were treated to an incredible wildlife show - playful dolphins, majestic whales breaching, and vibrant marine life during our snorkeling stop. The kids were absolutely thrilled! The Moana music was also a nice touch.

Our skilled captains navigated us into mesmerizing sea caves (I was a little scared but got over it) and even let us experience the thrill of driving the boat into a waterfall! This water came from rain atop the mountain fifteen years ago that has been slowly trickling through the rock to end up cascading onto us!!

The snorkeling session over a beautiful reef was a highlight, allowing us to explore the underwater world of Hawaii. You can definitely hear the whales if you go a few feet down, equalize your ears, and wait… the kids loved jumping straight into the Pacific Ocean. No pool can compare.

What truly set this tour apart were our guides, RJ and Kyle. As locals, they shared insights into the island’s history and culture. Their knowledge, professionalism, and friendly demeanor made us feel safe and entertained.

This private charter is perfect for families, offering a personalized experience that caters to all ages. Kids all get life jackets of course - no concerns for safety at any time. Ours had the time of their lives, and as parents, we couldn’t have asked for a more engaging and unique adventure. I should say that we lucked out with weather (sunny and calm). I hear that it could be choppy, wet, and windy if you don’t luck out; maybe ask the guides before booking if you’re concerned.

I should also say - this company got three brand new boats in December 2024. Super impressive, very clean, fast, comfortable. Especially the front area. Nice shade in the rear.

If you’re looking for an exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime experience on Kauai, the Na Pali Experience charter is an absolute must. It’s more than just a boat tour; it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Hawaii’s natural wonders. Mahalo to the entire team for memories we’ll...