Extreme Sports
4–5 hours
Free cancellation
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Recommended by 96% of travelers
96% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$263
per adult
Na Pali Experience
Na Pali Experience
5
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Full view
About
Aloha! Join us for an experience you will remember forever. Kauai's Na Pali coast is one of the most spectacular attractions in the world. Avoid the crowds and climb aboard a vessel that allows you to have a closer look. Our boats are the most practical size and design for touring Na Pali. Large enough for comfort and small enough to enter and explore ALL of the sea caves! Allow our small family operation to provide you with your Na Pali experience. Space is limited; reserve your tour today!
Kekaha, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
3,488 reviews
Excellent
3,429
Very good
44
Average
8
Poor
3
Terrible
5
anoukmc
Aspen, CO1 contribution
May 2024 • Family
Had a fantastic time with Na Pali Experience. We booked the 6 person catamaran tour, and though it was a little more expensive, it was well worth it. We felt very safe and comfortable the entire time and were provided with refreshments and snacks, and were very lucky to have the opportunity to have a half hour to Snorkel, which was so special for all of us. Captain Dan was so kind, friendly and an expert navigator. He was very knowledgeable and explained the significance of each natural feature of the coast in an entertaining and compelling way, and also played some great songs for us to listen to while we cruised on the way back. We were so fortunate to be able to enter the caves that many of the larger boats were not able to access. The tour was worth every penny, and we are already planning our return! The views and features of the Kauai coastline are unparalleled - and spectacular in every way. It was truly a remarkable experience and was one of the greatest highlights of our unforgettable trip. Would recommend Na Pali experience and Captain Dan100%!
Written September 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your amazing review! We're happy to hear you had a such a great time with Captain Dan and felt it was worth the cost. We appreciate your support and hope to see you again!
-Na Pali Experience
Written September 16, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Michael K
12 contributions
May 2024 • Friends
We booked the 6 person power catamaran tour to see the Na'pali Coast, thought it would be a nicer experience than one of the bigger boats or the inflatables. The trip totally exceeded all expectations, our boat captain/guide Colin was amazing. We booked the afternoon tour, and the weather mostly cooperated, we had a bit of rain that was more refreshing than annoying. The cloud obscuring the tops of some of the peaks really added to the otherworldly atmosphere of the coastline, really only enhanced the ethereal appearance of the mountains.
Colin kept us entertained with stories about the history of the coast and tales of his experiences growing up around the island. His boat handling skills are exceptional, we managed to back into three sea caves with some crazy changes in the water flowing in and out of the caves - especially Koa Mano!
We lucked out and saw two separate pods of spinner dolphins - epic jumps and was fun to watch them glide along the sides and front of our boat. Even saw some baby dolphins in the second pod.
The tour leaves out of Kekaha, which is closer than Port Allen most of the big boats come from. So it is much quicker to get to Na'pali (8 miles less to travel) and seems to be less 'traffic' from other boats.
The boat we were on, Na'pali Experience I (also known as Elizabeth), is a great boat to be on. Comfy seats, great views and a pretty nice sound system. She handled the waves with ease and can move out when needed. Her and Colin made for a great team!
We all agreed it was an amazing adventure full of gorgeous scenery, great company and memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you Colin and Na'Pali Experience!
Colin kept us entertained with stories about the history of the coast and tales of his experiences growing up around the island. His boat handling skills are exceptional, we managed to back into three sea caves with some crazy changes in the water flowing in and out of the caves - especially Koa Mano!
We lucked out and saw two separate pods of spinner dolphins - epic jumps and was fun to watch them glide along the sides and front of our boat. Even saw some baby dolphins in the second pod.
The tour leaves out of Kekaha, which is closer than Port Allen most of the big boats come from. So it is much quicker to get to Na'pali (8 miles less to travel) and seems to be less 'traffic' from other boats.
The boat we were on, Na'pali Experience I (also known as Elizabeth), is a great boat to be on. Comfy seats, great views and a pretty nice sound system. She handled the waves with ease and can move out when needed. Her and Colin made for a great team!
We all agreed it was an amazing adventure full of gorgeous scenery, great company and memories that will last a lifetime.
Thank you Colin and Na'Pali Experience!
Written May 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo! Sounds like a 10/10 day on the water! We love hearing that our guests had a great tour and enjoyed the crew as well. Mahalo for choosing Na Pali Experience and hope to see you again!
-Na Pali Experience
Written May 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Katie F
1 contribution
Oct 2024 • Couples
We had the best time with Chellen and Corbin!!! Both are super knowledgeable of the island and so fun to spend the morning with. They also only booked 18 of us where other boats we saw had 50+ passengers. Highly highly recommend, would definitely go again!!
Written October 14, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're delighted to hear you had a great time with us on the beautiful Na Pali Coast! Please join us again soon!
Written October 14, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ginger
22 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
The BESTboat tour ever! No need for separate whale tour, Captain T and Nolan showed us how to spot dolphins and whales, and willingly detoured to bring us closer to them to observe their playfulness while continuing to power us up the Nepali coast in an exceptionally comfortable catamaran for 18 people. Captain T kept the boat close to the coast so that we could really appreciate the enormous breakers and the power of the ocean against the Nepali coast where there is no reef to break the surf. Nolan and Captain T filled us with detailed Hawaiian history pertaining to various aspects of the Nepali coast as well as Hawaiian culture, all while playing great music! Boating expertise At its finest as captain T maneuvered the Catamaran into four different sea caves and gave us a full history of those caves. Not only maneuvered in bow first but would come out and then back the catamaran into the cave so that all people on the catamaran, no matter where you were sitting,had the full experience of these incredible caves.
The ride back to the harbor included a free swim in the middle of the ocean which was awesome, unlimited soft drinks and juices, and snacks during our swim time. Then it was exhilarating riding the big swells back to Harbor with huge spray flying everywhere from the ocean. It was a one of a kind of experience and you will never experience going in the caves like that anywhere else.It was worth every penny of the trip and we will definitely go again on another trip to Kauai! We used meclizine which is a nondrowsy Dramamine and I took those pills an hour before the tour and once during the tour and had no problems with the sickness. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Captain T and Nolan, you were the best.
The ride back to the harbor included a free swim in the middle of the ocean which was awesome, unlimited soft drinks and juices, and snacks during our swim time. Then it was exhilarating riding the big swells back to Harbor with huge spray flying everywhere from the ocean. It was a one of a kind of experience and you will never experience going in the caves like that anywhere else.It was worth every penny of the trip and we will definitely go again on another trip to Kauai! We used meclizine which is a nondrowsy Dramamine and I took those pills an hour before the tour and once during the tour and had no problems with the sickness. Thank you, thank you, thank you, Captain T and Nolan, you were the best.
Written March 25, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Amazing!! Mahalo for your wonderful review of your experience with us! We are stoked to hear you enjoyed your tour with us and hope you can join us again soon!
-Na Pali Experience
Written March 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kat M
1 contribution
Sep 2024 • Couples
We had a wonderful experience with our captains, Chellen and Brian. Both native to Hawaii, they shared so much knowledge about marine life, the ocean, and the gorgeous Na Pali coastline. A big swell had forced us to change our plans of sea kayaking the coast and left us disappointed, however we decided to use Na Pali experience as our guide to still get our eyes on the famous coast— a non-negotiable for our honeymoon. Our disappointment fizzled away instantly. Even with the big swells, rain (or liquid sunshine according to Captain Chellen), and some passengers dealing with some severe seasickness, Brian and Chellen kept the energy positive and their attention to their guests was above and beyond any expectation. They brought us to a place that they do not typically bring their trips to snorkel- since the swells were too large for us to do it along their route. This allowed us to see a few sea turtles, a pod of dolphins, and a pristine coral reef teeming with colorful fish. Their customer service was outstanding in every single way and we were very impressed. We wanted to use a smaller company to support a small business on the island, as well as be with a smaller group of people rather than the big boats crammed with 50+ people— and this was an excellent choice. We drove over 2 hours from Princeville in traffic to get to them, and I would do it again to support the company and guides. 5 stars all around, thanks for making our honeymoon even more memorable with this experience.
Written September 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo for your wonderful review! We love hearing that guests enjoyed their time with us, especially when celebrating something special. We hope you were able to create lots of lasting memories during your honeymoon. A hui hou!
-Na Pali Experience
Written September 16, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
obbintoontown
Saskatoon, Canada22 contributions
Feb 2024 • Family
Ten of us in our 3-generation crew were joined by two other couples for a great experience in Kauai in late February, thanks to Captain 'T' and first mate 'Hawaiian' Brian. Their boating skills, Island knowledge, candor and humour made the trip the best. The boat seemed perfect (size, power, comfort) to allow us to get CLOSE to shore, the reef (for a snorkel stop) and actually INTO the caves. The early-morning start clearly was better for quieter ocean conditions, though a little chilly on this overcast day. We motorred alongside dolphins on the way out and even ventured a little out to sea on the way back to view a whale and her calf. Of course the group pictures with the Na Pali coastline in the background are stunning. This is a pricy 5-hour adventure, but provided lots of unforgettable memories.
Written March 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo for choosing Na Pali Experience and we hope you can join us again soon!
-Na Pali Experience
Written March 30, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mr_Patrick-01
Buffalo, NY1 contribution
Oct 2024
Captain Jake is fantastic. He took us along the coast and into a cave and shared the history of the Hawaiian natives and much more. The boat is an ex-Navy Seal boat that is very capable and exciting. We also snorkeled and were provided fresh pineapple and other snacks that hit the spot!
I would recommend using the Napoli Pirates as it is a small outfit and the trip was with a small group (12 total I think) so its more personal.
This day-trip was my favorite activity of my time on Kauai.
I would recommend using the Napoli Pirates as it is a small outfit and the trip was with a small group (12 total I think) so its more personal.
This day-trip was my favorite activity of my time on Kauai.
Written October 15, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We're delighted you had a fun fun time with us and enjoyed learning about the history of the coastline. Hope to see you again soon!
Written October 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
songxtina
Portland, OR1 contribution
Apr 2024
It was a “brochure day” as the capt and his crewmate called it!! We saw dolphins, turtles and got to snorkel! We even saw a monk seal while snorkeling! Chellen expertly drove us in and out of sea caves that had us all oohing and ahing. What I found the most surprising was all the history and marine biology that I learned from the captain and the crewmate. 10/10 would recommend this more intimate ride over the big boat experience!
Written April 30, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AMAZING! We love those perfect days on the coast, you really can't beat it! Mahalo for choosing Na Pali Experience and we're so stoked to hear you had an amazing time. We hope to see you again soon!
-Na Pali Experience
Written May 1, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
karicowell
Los Angeles, CA2 contributions
Apr 2024
Our time with Na Pali Experience was amazing! Capt. Jackson kept us informed of what we were doing and why, the sea conditions & why we may or may not be doing certain things (there's no controlling Mother Nature!!), and gave us so much history and recommendations of the island!
We had so much fun on our experience due to Capt. Jackson!
I also want to give a shout out to Nolan who anchored our boat before snorkeling and retrieved a lost snorkel mask for us!! His swimming and diving skills were A+++++ and he deserves as much Coors Banquet as you can afford!
The gods were shining down on us that day and we were able to see and do everything, and I'm 100% certain it would be just as good a time if Mother Nature wasn't as kind that day because of how Capt. Jackson ran his ship!
I highly recommend Na Pali Experience! Request Capt. Jackson!!
We had so much fun on our experience due to Capt. Jackson!
I also want to give a shout out to Nolan who anchored our boat before snorkeling and retrieved a lost snorkel mask for us!! His swimming and diving skills were A+++++ and he deserves as much Coors Banquet as you can afford!
The gods were shining down on us that day and we were able to see and do everything, and I'm 100% certain it would be just as good a time if Mother Nature wasn't as kind that day because of how Capt. Jackson ran his ship!
I highly recommend Na Pali Experience! Request Capt. Jackson!!
Written April 28, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Sounds like a 10/10 day on the coast! We will deifinitely treat Nolan to some Coors for this one! ;) Big mahalo for choosing Na Pali Experience and for supporting our small business. It's amazing to hear you had such a great time on the coast and we hope you can join us for another adventure!
-Na Pali Experience
Written May 1, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NiagaraFlyer
Grimsby20 contributions
Dec 2024
Easy to book. Easy to check in. Sign your waivers on line in advance and make yours and the twins lives easier.
An exceptional day on the boat. Loved the small group aspect and as we passed a number of large group catamarans we were thrilled to be on the smaller craft.
The ladies who run this are so knowledgeable and passionate about the area, the wildlife and the behaviour of the ocean itself you felt very comfortable that safety was a priority.
We had an exceptionally calm morning so we were able to have a snorkeling stop, entered the sea caves but this is not the norm. It was made clear that it had been a few weeks since they had entered the caves. Bonus day.
We saw bottlenose dolphins (rare event) , spinner dolphins, humpbacks, a sea turtle and a lone monk seal on shore.
Even without those extras, the sheer majesty of the Na Pali cost itself was worth the price of admission.
Highly recommend the Na Pali Pirates for you tour group.
An exceptional day on the boat. Loved the small group aspect and as we passed a number of large group catamarans we were thrilled to be on the smaller craft.
The ladies who run this are so knowledgeable and passionate about the area, the wildlife and the behaviour of the ocean itself you felt very comfortable that safety was a priority.
We had an exceptionally calm morning so we were able to have a snorkeling stop, entered the sea caves but this is not the norm. It was made clear that it had been a few weeks since they had entered the caves. Bonus day.
We saw bottlenose dolphins (rare event) , spinner dolphins, humpbacks, a sea turtle and a lone monk seal on shore.
Even without those extras, the sheer majesty of the Na Pali cost itself was worth the price of admission.
Highly recommend the Na Pali Pirates for you tour group.
Written January 2, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AMAZING!! Mahalo for choosing Na Pali Experience and we hope to see you again soon!
-Na Pali Experience
Written January 15, 2025
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Hi. Do you go in any caves during the month of February? I’m interested in going in the open ceiling cave pukalani. I know many won’t go during the winter. Thank you
Written January 24, 2022
Very unlikely. The seas are too rough in the winter months. I would not recommend a boat tour of the Na Pa Li at all in the winter. Instead opt for a helicopter tour for wonderful views. If your are a little adventurous and enjoy photography, go for a "doors off" flight to be able to get the best photos.
Written January 24, 2022
This is a super cool small boat experience that takes you into the sea caves and gets you up close to the Na Pali coastline. Snorkeling part is fun but even if you don't snorkel the experience is awesome.
Written September 4, 2019
Hi we’re staying in Poipu. Where is your meeting point and how long is the drive please?
Written July 28, 2019
Should take you 35-40 min. Boat leaves from Kikiaola Harbor. Very easy to find. They will send you all the directions and info you need.
Written July 28, 2019
How big are the boats (how many feet)? Are there cushioned seats? I can't find any pics of the inside of the boats...if anyone has any that would be appreciated! Thanks!
Written May 26, 2019
All sitting areas have a 3" pad to sit on and what looks like a 2", but more dense, pad to lean back on. My pics only showed the sitting area in front of the boat, but if you search the thumbnail pics at the bottom of the current picture window (on Tripadvisor), you can pick out better pics that others have provided that show the inside really well.
Written May 27, 2019
We are staying in Kapaa- how far is the departure point from there?
Written April 3, 2019
Exactly 1 hour but allow a little more for cushion, especially if on the later tours. Thanks!
Written April 9, 2019
Is this a good option for young children? I have 7&8 year old sons.
Written January 10, 2019
Our 8 year-old had a great time and was even a braver snorkeler than our older kids (12, 14, 17). All tolerated the ride without problem despite pretty rough seas for about half of the trip. All did get one dose of preventive meds before.
Written September 4, 2019
Is this a good option for young children? I have 7&8 year old sons.
Written January 10, 2019
they will love it. there were lots of kids on the sail boat. the captain even allowed a couple to drive the boat (they got a kick out of it)
Written January 10, 2019
Is snorkeling experience required to be able to participate in the snorkeling part of the tour? I have never snorkeled in my life but am eager to try. Thanks.
Written January 3, 2019
Hi, will be coming from POA ship, options onhow to get to you without a car?
Written September 11, 2018
That is a long distance around 30-40 minutes. Taxi or Uber but it will probably be expensive.
Written September 11, 2018
Aloha, First off, congratulations! Now, heres your answer. 1st trimester can be ok if approved by your doctor and on our Morning Magic trip when the seas are generally calmer. Please also call 2 days before your departure to check on forecasted conditions to make sure it is average to above average conditions. Hope to see you soon!
Mahalo nui loa,
Nathaniel Fisher
Written July 2, 2018
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.