Join a full-day sea kayaking adventure along Kauai’s wild northwest coast. Paddle 17 miles along one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world on this full-day kayaking tour of the Na Pali Coast. Launching from Hā’ena Beach Park and ending at the remote sands of Polihale, this journey offers towering cliffs, sea caves, waterfalls, and encounters with marine wildlife. Led by expert guides and supported with top-tier equipment and a catered lunch, this tour blends raw adventure with knowledgeable storytelling. It’s an unforgettable way to experience a side of Kauai accessible only by sea.

What to Expect

The day begins early, with a 6:00 AM check-in at our shop in Hanalei, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow paddlers. After loading up, you’ll shuttle about 15 minutes to Hā’ena Beach Park, your launch site for the day. Here, the group unloads gear, preps the kayaks, and receives a safety and paddle briefing before setting off into open water.

The first stretch of the paddle follows the jaw-dropping coastline of Kauai’s northwest shore. Towering sea cliffs rise nearly 4,000 feet from the ocean, their surfaces carved by time into dramatic folds and ridges. You’ll pass by famed valleys such as Hanakāpīʻai, Hanakoa, Kalalau, and Honopū, each revealing a new layer of the island’s natural grandeur. Expect to see waterfalls plunging directly into the sea and, if ocean conditions allow, you’ll carefully navigate into ancient sea caves hidden within the rock face.

Every 20 to 30 minutes, the group will pause to rest on the water. These moments are perfect for rehydrating, snapping photos, and soaking in the sweeping vistas. Marine life is often part of the experience. Keep an eye out for Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, and pods of spinner dolphins dancing in the waves.

Roughly 4.5 hours in, you’ll land at Miloli‘i, a remote beach and state park only accessible by sea. This tranquil stop is where you'll take a well-earned break. A catered lunch of turkey, ham, or vegetarian sandwiches is served in the shade, alongside cold refreshments. There’s time to explore the beach, wade in the water, or simply relax and recover before the final leg of the journey.

After lunch, it's back on the water for the last 6-mile paddle. Though shorter, this segment can be exhilarating as you near the wild, isolated stretch of Polihale Beach. Guides assist each kayak with a safe beach landing, followed by a celebratory group moment, often with high-fives and a splash in the ocean.

Back on shore, everyone helps portage the kayaks and gear to the van and trailer. There are showers and bathrooms to freshen up before the 1.5–2 hour shuttle ride back to Hanalei. You’ll return to the shop around 6:30–7:30 PM, tired but fulfilled, with salt on your skin and stories to share.

Included

• Fully outfitted tandem sit-on-top kayak (with rudder)
• Werner paddles and padded seat backs
• Life vests
• Dry bags
• Award-winning catered lunch (turkey, ham, or vegetarian options)
• Cold refreshments
• Expert guides with local knowledge
• Shuttle transportation to and from Hanalei

Requirements

• Seasonal Availability: April 15 – October 15
• Age Requirement: Minimum age is 14 (must be in good physical condition)
• Experience Level: Suitable for fit adventurers; no prior kayaking experience required
• Physical Demand: Approximately 7 hours total paddling time across 17 miles

What to Bring:

• 3 liters of water per person
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen)
• Waterproof camera
• Seasickness medication (recommended)
• Change of clothes for post-tour comfort