Top Kauai On the Water

The Na Pali coast is one of the most spectacular sights in Kauai. The best way to see it is from the water, so join this catamaran cruise for unbeatable views of lush green valleys, towering spires, jagged sea cliffs, and wildlife such as dolphins and sea turtles, as well as time for snorkeling and swimming.

Head out on an epic adventure along one of the world's most magnificent coastlines. From your comfortable vantage point on a 37-foot (11 meter) Naiad Super Raft, enjoy spectacular views of the 17-mile-long Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Explore sea caves and private beaches—accessible only by raft—and snap photos of majestic cathedrals (the cliffs that tower over Kalalau Valley). As you journey along the water, keep an eye out for the marine life that inhabits the area, including dolphins and whales. Each trip (weather permitting) includes time to take a dip and snorkel amongst tropical fish and sea turtles.

The best way to experience the majestic Napali cliffs and coast is by boat. This half-day tour aboard a native- and family-owned catamaran will take you aboard one of four vessels with a guide who will share native stories and wildlife knowledge. Guests will either get to snorkel or go whale watching, depending on the season, explore the coast’s intriguing sea caves, and see the dramatic Waimea Canyon. Afternoon tours include lunch and a picturesque sunset.

Take in some of the most spectacular scenery on Kauai with this unique sunset catamaran cruise that covers both the Hulei'a River and Kalapaki Bay. Cruise up the river to take in highlights like the Menehune Fish Pond and the Hulē‘ia National Wildlife Refuge plus admire the sunset from Kalapaki Bay. Relax on board with snacks and drinks and learn about the local flora and fauna from your skipper.

Traverse Nā Pali Coast State Wilderness Park with a guide on this group snorkeling and wildlife-watching tour. Let your guide sail you to see cliffs, waterfalls, and maneuver into hidden caves aboard a zodiac raft. Head to some of the best spots on the water for snorkeling, and get a chance to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and possibly even humpback whales at the right time of year. Your guide brings the coast to life with history, stories, and insights into the landscape.

Take to the ocean surrounding Kauaʻi with this boat tour around the Nāpali coast. From the comfort of a custom-built boat, guests travel through the Napali Coast State Park as the captain shares stories of the local history and culture. After stopping for a snorkelling session and onboard deli lunch, guests make the return trip back to land. An excellent choice for nature lovers and the curious, this experience will delight both new and returning visitors to the island.

Enjoy a day of fun and relaxation—and catch unparalleled scenic views of Kauai's Na Pali coastline from the water—on this full-day, luxury catamaran cruise. There's no need to bring a thing, with drinks, lunch, and snorkel equipment provided. Soak up the sun on of the spacious decks, make the most of table service as you sip a Mai Tai, or take a thrilling ride down one of the plunge slides.

The Na Pali Coast is one of the world's most spectacular coastlines, and one of the best ways to see it is by cruising along the coastline as the sun goes down. This sunset cruise takes you out onto the ocean in a comfortable catamaran. As you glide past Na Pali's jagged peaks and emerald valleys, enjoy a complimentary Hawaiian-style dinner and toast the sunset with a Mai Tai.

The Hawaiian island of Kauai is where you’ll find the Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Explore the park from aboard a custom-built, deluxe catamaran on this half-day tour of the coastal region. Take in the views of towering sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic sea caves, and if you dive into the warm North Pacific waters for a swim or snorkel, you might even see dolphins, turtles, fish, and seasonal humpback whales(if ocean conditions allow).

With 17 miles of pure shoreline splendor—4,000-foot cliffs, emerald valleys, cathedral spires—Kauai’s Na Pali coast claims some of the country’s best sailing and snorkeling. On this tour, you’ll cross both off your list, hopping aboard a sailing catamaran for an unforgettable adventure. Between sitting down to breakfast and lunch, you’ll spot whales, snorkel amongst turtles and rays, and see one of the most spectacular coastlines on the planet.

Avoid crowds and embark on a Kauai snorkeling tour that limits group size. Head for Kauai’s pristine southshore reefs to see tropical fish, sea urchins, and sea mammals. You may also see a Hawaiian green sea turtle nesting on the beach or a Hawaiian monk seal basking in the sun.

Sunset on Kauai is always worth seeing, but experiencing it from a vantage point on the water is even more special. Enjoy golden hour onboard a luxury catamaran as you set sail around the island's Na Pali coastline. Spend the evening relaxing as you make the most of the catamaran's walk-up bar and table service, with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks included. As you cruise along, dine on a delicious included dinner, enjoy unparalleled views, and sip a refreshing Mai Tai, before heading back to shore.

This small-group Zodiac-style tour, limited to just 14 guests, delivers an adventurous, front-row experience aboard twin Hurricane boats—the same rugged vessels trusted by Navy SEALs. Glide across Kauai’s pristine waters for exceptional viewing and photo opportunities, while expert guides share insights about humpback whales, dolphins, and the island’s marine ecosystem. Ideal for adventure-loving families and wildlife enthusiasts, this tour offers an up-close and personal way to experience Kauai’s winter visitors.

Experiencing a Na Pali Sunset from the water is an unforgettable way to take in Kauai’s breathtaking coastline. You’ll cruise along 17 miles of dramatic sea cliffs, hidden caves, and pristine shoreline aboard a power catamaran, with opportunities to spot dolphins and humpback whales if it’s the right season. The evening is capped off with a casual dinner and a toast to the island’s beauty as the sun dips below the horizon.

Get beyond Kauai’s beaches and explore lesser-crowded locales armed with a paddleboard, map, and all the necessary gear—provided with this tour. Once you’re ready to go, you’ll make your way down the Wailua River to Secret Falls, where you can hike, swim, bask in the cascade, and more. Or go off on your own for more adventures, finding your own slice of heaven on the Garden Isle.

Explore the tropical waters of the Hanalei River and Hanalei Bay on this two-in-one Kauai tour, which combines both kayaking and snorkeling in one fun outing. With just your guide and a small group, paddle through the lush surroundings down the river and to the bay, where you can glimpse Makana Peak (also known as Bali Hai). Then, snorkel through the Bay Reef Lagoon, home to sea turtles and brightly colored tropical fish.

Explore the natural beauty of Kauai on a 5-hour tour that combines a lovely kayaking trip with an moderately easy hike to Uluwehi Falls, also known as Secret Falls. Your experienced guide provides a paddling lesson and guided kayak tour in the Wailua River Valley, following gorgeous waterways through the lush Kauai landscape. Then hop out of your kayaks and take a 45-minute hike to Secret Falls where you can cool off in the clear waters before returning to the Wailua marina the way you came.

Kauai’s Na Pali Coast—17 miles of world-renowned landscapes—is certainly best appreciated from the water. Experience it in style aboard a sleek catamaran, crew greeting you with mai tais and a sense of aloha. You’ll catch moments with spinner dolphins and sea turtles, relax over dinner, and raise a glass of Champagne when sunset hits this magnificent slice of the Garden Isle.

If you’re looking for a grand adventure while in Kauai, book this Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) Kayaking and Hiking Half-Day Tour. First, follow a guide who knows the area well on the Wailua River by kayak for a 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) paddle adventure. Then, hit the shore for a hike through the rainforest-like setting all the way to Uluwehi Falls (Secret Falls) to take in the amazing views of the falls.

Kauai is famous for its surf beaches, so get in on the action with a surf lesson in Poipu. Practice basic skills on land and learn how to stand up, before heading out into the warm Pacific Ocean to catch your first waves. All gear is provided, and it's a great beginner’s experience with a surf company that's been serving Kauai for more than 30 years.

Try a traditional Hawaiian sport at Kalapaki Beach—surfing an outrigger canoe through waves with views of the spectacular mountains and cliffs. While regular surfing requires practice to catch waves, this outrigger experience gets you in the water with an experienced paddler; even if you've never gone canoeing, you can ride Hawaiian waves the very first time you go out.

Experience Kauai nature at its finest on this kayaking and waterfall hiking tour. Paddle the majestic Wailua River, original home of the first Hawaiians, as your guide shares stories about the flora and fauna of Kauai's most sacred area. Then, hike through the rainforest to Secret Falls where you can enjoy a refreshing dip before a delicious lunch. This challenging tour requires participants to meet health and age guidelines to ensure safety.

Enjoy a snorkeling experience in Kauai without the crowds. Set sail for the gentle waters of the island’s southern coast aboard a Zodiac, and pass the famed Spouting Horn blowhole on your way to two different snorkeling spots where you can explore an abundance of marine life such as yellow tang and Hawaiian green sea turtle.