Exploring the Na Pali Coast by boat is a must-do adventure if you are traveling to Kauai, Hawaii. The towering coastline is jaw-dropping and the sea life is unbelievable! Although there are several options, booking a charter with a local company like Makana is the perfect way to learn about the history and culture of the island while enjoying an exciting ride.
Exploring the Na Pali Coast
The breathtaking cliffs and ridges along the Na Pali Coast soar up to 4,000 feet high in some areas. This stunning landscape stretches for 17 miles along Kauai’s North shore and contains several remote beaches, waterfalls, and caves. The best part is that this section of the island is only accessible by boat; keeping the untouched beauty of this majestic coastline preserved.
If you’re a movie nut, you might have some idea of how much Hollywood loves the Na Pali Coast. Can you blame them? It’s been a popular backdrop in several films including huge hits like Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean. The Hawaiian Government as well as the local community have worked very hard to maintain the natural state of this coastline. It’s important to keep that in mind and respect the land as well as the wildlife while visiting.
The Catamaran
The Makana is a comfortable 32′ catamaran with twin 500 hp outboard engines on the back ensuring an exciting ride along the coastline. Being in a smaller boat makes for not only a much more personable experience but also allows you to maneuver more easily. Our captain was able to back us right into some of the sea caves and even under a waterfall! The boat has 4 padded benches which provide plenty of room for 12 passengers and the swim deck off the back made it super easy to get in and out of the water while snorkelling.
Wildlife
During your Kauai boat tour, you’ll likely come across many different sea creatures. From December to March, the warm waters surrounding the Hawaiian islands turn into the breeding and birthing grounds for humpback whales. During these months, whale sightings of mothers with calves are almost guaranteed! If you’re lucky, you might even spot a manta ray or a different species of whale on your tour. Spinner dolphins, monk seals, and green sea turtles are also known to make appearances year round in Kauai.
Snorkeling
A Kauai boat tour along the Na Pali Coast offers some amazing snorkelling opportunities. During the tour, your captain will pick the best snorkel location based on tides and weather. Good quality gear is provided but you’re also welcome to use your own. Chances of seeing sea turtles along with many different types of tropical fish are very high. Make sure to bring a rash guard to avoid a sun burn and pack a towel to dry off after leaving the water!
Food & Drinks
The Makana 12 Passenger Na Pali Coast Tour includes lunch or dinner depending on what time you r tour is scheduled. This consists of your choice of sandwich on homemade bread, chips, soft drinks, and water. Makana is great at accommodating any dietary restrictions, just make sure to let them know ahead of time!
The Staff
The Makana crew were some of the best guides we have ever had on a tour! They were very entertaining, knowledgeable, and many of them grew up on the island of Kauai. Could you imagine having the Na Pali Coast as your backyard!? They were able to tell us a ton of history about the island as well as some local tips and secrets to help us make the most out of the rest of our trip.
Makana’s Na Pali Coast Boat Tour was one of our favorite adventures during our time in Kauai. We would definitely recommend trying it out for yourself! Please feel free to contact us with any questions regarding the tour or comment below with your experience. We’d love to hear from you!
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