Kauai: Na Pali Raft Snorkel Adventure
Recommended by 94% of travelers
Badge of Excellence
Kauai, USA
- 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
Why travelers loved this
·
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
Explore the dramatic cliffs and crystalline waters of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast with this small-group snorkeling adventure. Cruise along the spectacular coastline aboard a motorized raft, stopping to snorkel among native marine life at one of Kauai’s best coral reefs. Fuel up for the physically-demanding day with an included meal and drinks.
- Get a more personalized experience on a small-group tour
- Stay safe on and in the water under the watchful eyes of your guide
- Try your luck spotting dolphins, sea turtles, and humpback whales
- Learn about Kauai’s marine life from a skilled captain and crew
What's Included
- Guided Na Pali Coast raft adventure
- Snorkel Equipment & Expert Instruction
- U.S. Coast Guard–licensed captain
- CPR, First Aid, and water safety–trained crew
- Morning tours: Breakfast sandwiches, chips, cookies, and beverages
- Afternoon tours: Pulled Pork, Teriyaki Chicken or Seasoned Tofu bento box
- Safety briefing and instruction provided
- Gratuities
- Hotel pickup or drop off
- NO pregnancies, bad backs, recent surgeries or mobility issues.
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- Kauai Sea Tours4353 Waialo Rd #2B, Eleele, HI 96705, USA
Kauai Sea Tours is located in the Port Allen Marina Center. Continue to the end of the complex, then turn right and park in the third lot on your left, marked by our Kauai Sea Tours sign. From there, proceed to the check-in desk inside our office.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.What To Expect
Kauai’s Na Pali Coast is a dramatic, 16-mile (26-kilometer) stretch of jagged cliffs and emerald valleys along the island’s northwestern shore. The best way to view the spectacular scenery is from the water. Begin your adventure at Port Allen Marina Center, where you meet your friendly captain and crew. After a safety briefing and storage of your personal items in a dry bag, hop aboard a 14-person inflatable, motorized raft.
Your nimble vessel allows the group to get close to the shore and dart in and out of sea caves and under waterfalls (weather permitting). As you cruise along the coast, your crew shares information and legends about the landscape and help you spot passing marine life such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Don a provided snorkeling mask and fins, then splash into the clear waters at Nu‘alolo Kai to explore one of the best coral reefs in Kaua (conditions permitting).
Take a break partway through the tour for an onboard meal. Beverages are provided throughout the journey so you stay hydrated.
Your coastal adventure concludes back at Port Allen.
Your nimble vessel allows the group to get close to the shore and dart in and out of sea caves and under waterfalls (weather permitting). As you cruise along the coast, your crew shares information and legends about the landscape and help you spot passing marine life such as dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. Don a provided snorkeling mask and fins, then splash into the clear waters at Nu‘alolo Kai to explore one of the best coral reefs in Kaua (conditions permitting).
Take a break partway through the tour for an onboard meal. Beverages are provided throughout the journey so you stay hydrated.
Your coastal adventure concludes back at Port Allen.
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a strong physical fitness level
- Safety is our top priority: all passengers must be suited for possible rough waters and able to hold on and move about the vessel without concern
- No expectant mothers
- No individuals with back, neck, hip, knee, or other joint problems, recent injuries or surgeries, or mobility issues
- Children must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age is 7 years
- Maximum weight limit is 250 lbs (113 kg) per person
- Guests prone to motion sickness should take precautions, as conditions may vary. Consult a medical professional before taking any medication
- Routes and destinations are dependent on ocean conditions; tours may reroute to the south coast when necessary
- Wear a swimsuit, light cover-up, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Plan to get wet. This is a barefoot tour unless a medical condition requires footwear; please inform your captain in advance
- Please bring a towel, reef-safe (non-spray) sunscreen, a light rain jacket, water-protected camera or phone, and any required medications or allergy/insect protection
- Cancellation Policy: All modifications, reschedules, or cancellations must be made directly through Viator/Tripadvisor
- No-shows are charged 100%. No refunds for undisclosed health conditions, itinerary reroutes, missed water activities, or seasickness
- No pregnancies, bad back, recent surgeries or mobility issues.
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Mallory_H
Such a fun excursion! My friend and I had an absolute blast. Our instructor, Ryder, and Captain Paul were awesome. They were playing fun music, singing, and keeping the whole trip entertaining. We also learned a lot about the island along the way.
One of the highlights was seeing a huge group of dolphins, which was incredible. We also got to snorkel with fish and sea turtles, which was amazing. Another really cool part was going into some beautiful sea caves. And of course being able to see the west side of the island was just unforgettable!
The ride itself is very fast and bumpy, so make sure you hold on tight! By the end your hands might be a little sore from gripping the handles, but it’s completely worth it. Overall, such an unforgettable experience! I’d definitely recommend it! Worth the money.
Reviews
4.8
based on 1,645 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
Jennifer_W, Jul 2026
Saw so many dolphins and went into the caves. Not for the faint of heart. Gets you super close but more an adventure tour than a luxury tour.
Pratik_S, Jul 2026
Very good experience.highly recommended. The captain kk took us to all the arches inside and had exceptional views!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Sounds great, KK is awesome!
Mabel_B, Jul 2026
Believe in the high adventure level of this experience. Our captain Duffy and crew mate Hayley were fantastic!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Sounds great- thank you for sharing with us!
Jennifer_V, Jul 2026
Before going on this adventure raft we had seen reviews that Keke was an awesome captain and we were so stoked to learn that she was driving our boat. Be prepared for adventure - this is not your relaxing boat cruise. You sit on a motorized boat raft and go very fast over waves, super super fun! Keke was so knowledgeable about the history of Kauai and we were lucky enough to go into several ocean caves along the Napali . We also saw lots of spinner dolphins jumping around! The sandwiches provided were yummy. My daughter tends to get very boat sick but since the raft was high speed and sitting in the back plus a Dramamine she felt great the entire time. This is an incredible local business and we recommend to anyone looking for a high speed boat adventure featuring the best views of the Napali coast!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Great choice going with KK, she is a very skilled driver as well as someone who really knows her island! Another great choice - taking a preventative, just to be on the safe side! Mahalo for joining us and for the kind review!
Alexandra_C, Jul 2026
I’ve been on a lot of tours and this one was pretty intense! Our captain, Paul, was amazing with maneuvering the speedboat so we were absolutely soaked by the waves and screaming! The landscape was incredible, and hearing history about the old Hawaiian settlements that were there was fascinating. We saw so many kinds of seabirds and even a group of dolphins! We also entered a few sea caves and it was unlike anywhere I’ve ever been in my life. Snorkeling was fun - we were provided with equipment and it was really cool to snorkel by the cliffs. Lunch was great too! Overall very fun and unique tour but definitely be prepared for the intensity of the waves!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Sounds like all went well and we're glad to hear it. Mahalo for choosing KST!
Chris_A, Jul 2026
This trip is not to do snorkeling, snorkeling is a very small part of it. The views of Na Pali coast are beautiful. However, getting there takes quite a while. If you enjoy riding a mechanical bull while going 40 miles per hour on rough ocean waters - this is the trip for you.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
That's a pretty funny description! 1000's of people take this tour a month and love it. This is not for everyone. The rigid hull rafts require stamina and physical strength, especially in the water around Kauai!
We're sorry to hear you were disappointed.
Caleb_B, Jun 2026
Great experience! It definitely is an adventure and a challenge if the water gets rough, but well worth it. I was sore the next day so I definitely would recommend doing it before a rest day. Our captain, KK, made the trip fun, gave us lots of history, and has great taste in music. You will not regret this amazing experience.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
We're glad to hear you had a fun filled day! There usually are no regrets!
lori_w, Jun 2026
Highlight of our trip. We sat in the front of the boat and it was an EXPERIENCE! Very exciting! Throughout the trip we saw amazing sights - beautiful landscapes, caves, dolphins, turtles, etc. The snorkeling was perfect, calm clear waters. I get seasick normally but was fine on this trip. Our captain (Captain KK) was wonderful. Also, her playlists were impeccable (and I wish i asked if she could share a link to it 🤣). Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Jun 2026
We're glad to hear you had a memorable day! Mahalo for joining us!
Darcy_W, Jun 2026
Beautiful scenery and great explanations about Hawaiian history. The ride back is rough against the trade winds, but Duff was a great captain and Hailey (crew) were amazing!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Thank you for sharing Darcy
Svetlana_C, Jun 2026
The experience was amazing! My daughter and I enjoyed the thrill of the bumpy, fast ride. The views were not disappointing at all. Everything was so beautiful it seemed unreal. Both hosts Ilikai and kk were so fun and amazing, we loved their energy. I highly recommend booking with them!
Response from Host, Jun 2026
Great to hear you had a fun time! Mahalo for joining us!
Danielle_L, May 2026
This was the highlight of our trip, and one of the coolest experiences we've ever done. Paul and Josh were fantastic- they were extremely skilled and qualified. It is definitely an adventurous ride, but we were in good hands! Don't underestimate the ocean swell- you will get wet, and will be sore the next day, but that is part of the fun! 100% worth it and truly an unforgettable experience if you're up for an adventure.
Response from Host, May 2026
You have a fabulous attitude Danielle, and we love it! We're glad to hear you had fun. We appreciate the kind words - safe, fun, adventure, get wet!
janis_m, May 2026
KK and her partner were great! It was an awesome day and experience… do it!!! It’s so worth it! I will recommend this to anyone that wants to go see the Nepali coast line
Response from Host, May 2026
Awesome Janis - yes, JUST DO IT!
Tori_S, May 2026
Incredible experience that allows you to really take in the Napali coast. Sitting near the back of the boat, kept me from getting seasick. My stomach is easily irritated by motion.
Bring plenty of sunscreen and A rain jacket if the weather is rainy. Everything else is taken care of.
Response from Host, May 2026
Thank you Tori. Yes, we also recommend a preventative to help you from feeling sick.
XINBO_F, May 2026
Awesome thrilling experience. Would recommend a waterproof phone case/bag so you can take photos. This is a raft not a boat. You will get wet. Besides the majestic coastline we saw flying fish, dolphins, and ended the adventure with a nice swim with fish and sea turtles.
Response from Host, May 2026
Sounds thrilling and awesome! Yes, you do get wet on the rigid hull rafts!
Eric_C, May 2026
This is a physical ride but well worth it. Absolutely the funnest boat ride I’ve ever had in my life along with amazing views on the Napali coast. We also saw tons of dolphins up and close and went into multiple sea caves. Ensure you take motion sickness medication prior to the trip. Amazing trip and I highly recommend.
Response from Host, May 2026
Awesome Eric! Glad you had a great time!
Audesty_B, Apr 2026
We seriously had the best time on this excursion! Josh & Hailey were so much fun, friendly, kind, great to spend 6 hours with 🤣 We recommend them highly to anyone who wants to have an adventure! I have to say you are in for a “spicey” ride! Use that word instead of rough 🤣 The end of the zodiac was the funnest my 10 year old had an absolute blast she hasn’t stopped talking about how fun it was! Mahalo 🫶🏼 What an unforgettable experience of the Napali Coast!
Response from Host, May 2026
Mahalo to you for the awesome review! We loved hearing you enjoyed the SPICY ride! Thank you for joining us
Janee_H, Apr 2026
We highly recommendamazing Josh as Captain and Hailey his beautiful and fun spirited Co-captain on this once in a lifetime adventure!! The views of the Nepali coast were spectacular, the experience was an adrenaline rush but if you can't handle the waves you should say on shore whike the rest of us have a blast!! I would come back to Kauai just to experience that again!! We were able to see so many dolphins go through the caves and hear about the native culture, book this trip you won't regret it!!
Response from Host, Apr 2026
What fun advice Janee! We're happy to hear you had such a great time - Mahalo!
Kevin_D, Apr 2026
It was amazing! The views of the coast were incredible. The caption (KK) and crew were great and shared awesome stories about the Hawaiian culture.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
Thank you Kevin
Melissa_B, Apr 2026
This tour was a lot of fun. Elias and Captain Paul were great, fun, and informative. Because our boat was smaller we got to go into coves and other areas that the larger Catamaran's could not. The views were something out of a postcard or pic you would see in a calendar. We got to snorkel a few times as well as see pods of spinner dolphins.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
That is the cool plus about taking our smaller vessel, 'Imiloa, the caves! Thank you Melissa, we're glad to hear you had fun. Mahalo for joining us.
Michelle_W, Apr 2026
The Nepali coast was amazing! Going in and out of the caves was unique.The snorkeling was OK, did not see very many fish and coral. The boat ride was fun going fast for a while, but an hour ride to the coast and an hour ride back was very bumpy. My bottom could feel it the next day. Overall, we were glad we took the excursion.
Response from Host, Apr 2026
We're glad to hear you had a fun time Michelle!
Lindsay_P, Apr 2026
This Nā Pali Coast catamaran tour was truly the highlight of our entire trip! Our girls will never forget this experience—it was absolutely magical from start to finish.
We saw everything we could have hoped for and more… dolphins swimming alongside the boat, whales in the distance, and even sea turtles! The views of the Nā Pali Coast are beyond breathtaking—something you just can’t fully appreciate until you see it in person.
The staff was hands down the best—so friendly, attentive, and genuinely fun. They made the whole experience feel special, safe, and seamless.
If you’re on Kauai, this is an absolute must-do. We’ll be talking about this day for years to come! 🌊🐬🐢
Response from Host, Apr 2026
The NāPali is breathtaking! We’re so glad you a good time. We appreciate you joining KST.
Samantha_G, Mar 2026
Amazing Na Pali Coast tour—stunning views of mountains and sea caves. Saw dolphins and a sea turtle while snorkeling. Guides were great.
Only downside: it’s very physically demanding (about 5 hours holding on to the raft), not a relaxing ride, and I was sore the next day. Would’ve liked a more relaxed boat option.
Still 100% worth it for the experience.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you for the kind words Samantha. The rafts are super fun and yes, can be very physically demanding. We're glad to hear you had a great time!
Lacey_R, Mar 2026
Such an amazing experience! We had the best driver and boat crew; they explained Hawaiian legend as we explored. Going into the sea caves was very cool. Our kids (ages 12 and 14) loved it!
Response from Host, Mar 2026
Thank you so much Lacey - Mahalo for taking the time to share with us, we're really glad to hear you and your family had a good time.
Mallory_H, Mar 2026
Such a fun excursion! My friend and I had an absolute blast. Our instructor, Ryder, and Captain Paul were awesome. They were playing fun music, singing, and keeping the whole trip entertaining. We also learned a lot about the island along the way.
One of the highlights was seeing a huge group of dolphins, which was incredible. We also got to snorkel with fish and sea turtles, which was amazing. Another really cool part was going into some beautiful sea caves. And of course being able to see the west side of the island was just unforgettable!
The ride itself is very fast and bumpy, so make sure you hold on tight! By the end your hands might be a little sore from gripping the handles, but it’s completely worth it. Overall, such an unforgettable experience! I’d definitely recommend it! Worth the money.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
We are so happy to hear that you took so much good out of your experience Mallory! We appreciate guests like you so much, finding the beauty and fun and great time, even with some bumps! Mahalo!
Genevieve_T, Mar 2026
Super fun and amazing experience. Captain Paul and Ilikai were top notch and made sure we had a great time. They are very knowledgeable and friendly, and the music on board was awesome. It really is an adventure! We were a little sore the next day from hanging on (the ride can be a rodeo), but that’s part of the fun and 100% worth it. We saw whales and spinner dolphins along the way, and the Napali coast is absolutely stunning. Snorkeling was great, too! We never felt rushed, food and drinks were plentiful, and it was an overall amazing day.
Response from Host, Mar 2026
The trip really is worth is - it is stunning. Mahalo for joining us.
Christina_O, Jan 2026
INCREDIBLE experience! We surfed on 14 ft. waves, got to see two types of dolphins, whales & the beautiful views of the Napali coast. Our captain, Duffy, and deck hand, Hailey, were incredible guides and always had our safety in mind. This ride gets extremely bumpy and we rode large waves, so definitely consider that before booking if you get sea sick.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
We're glad you had an incredible time! Yes, the raft excursions do get bumpy, so be prepared!
Louis_G, Jan 2026
Kay Kay was our captain. She was fantastic, Kele was also on our boat and he did a great job as well! He brought homemade cookies for all of us. Mother Nature was nice enough that we had the chance to go into the open ceiling cave. Would love to take my kids on this when they’re older!
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Sounds great Louis, and very kind of Mother Nature!
Tucker_S, Jan 2026
Absolutely fantastic adventure.
Josh and Erin couldn’t have been better.
I would emphasize it’s not for people with bad backs or who get sea sick, but if you want a wild ride that is a blast this is for you.
Response from Host, Feb 2026
Sounds awesome Tucker - You are right, raft tours are for the athletically inclined for sure.
Charles_B, Jan 2026
Beautiful scenery along the coast, and we saw multiple pods of dolphins very close, 5 full breaches from humpback whales, and multiple sea turtles and countless fish while snorkeling. Excellent experience with KK and Eli as guides!
Response from Host, Jan 2026
5 breaches - wow, that is so beautiful. Sounds like you hit the jackpot! Mahalo for joining us!
Chelsea_T, Jan 2026
Everything you want it to be and more. Dolphins, whales, 100 different styles of fish caves, waterfalls. A must do
Response from Host, Jan 2026
Awesome Chelsea! Sounds great
From $217.42
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Compare Similar Experiences
Current
Kauai: Na Pali Raft Snorkel Adventure
1,645
5 hours 30 minutes
Free Cancellation
From
$217.42
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Explore Similar Things to Do
- Food Tours
- Street Food Tours
- Half-day Tours
- Walking Tours
- Food & Drink
- Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
- Private and Luxury
- On the Ground
- Private Sightseeing Tours
- Kauai
- Food Tours - Oahu
- Street Food Tours - Oahu
- Half-day Tours - Oahu
- Walking Tours - Oahu
- Food Tours - Honolulu
- Street Food Tours - Honolulu
- Half-day Tours - Honolulu
- Walking Tours - Honolulu
Attractions in Kauai, USA
- Lihue Tours & Tickets
- Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge Tours & Tickets
- Anini Beach Tours & Tickets
- Kalalau Trail Tours & Tickets
- Fern Grotto Tours & Tickets
- Hanalei Bay Tours & Tickets
- Opaekaa Falls Tours & Tickets
- Wailua Falls Tours & Tickets
- Kokeʻe State Park Tours & Tickets
- Polihale State Park Tours & Tickets
- Pā'ula'ula State Historical Park (Russian Fort Elizabeth) Tours & Tickets