Na Pali Coast Tour: Caves, Waterfalls & More
The Nā Pali Coast must be experienced to be believed. From its exotic web of marine life to hidden coastal caves, crystalline waters, and breathtaking terrain, Nā Pali Coast State Park is one destination you’ll pine for the instant you leave.
An ocean expedition around the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands carries all the mystique you might fathom and more. Nā Pali Riders is pleased to play a role in your unfolding adventures. If migratory whale watching and exploring island alcoves at the edge of the Earth sounds like a dream come true, join us on a boat tour during the winter season (Dec-Apr).
Exploring Nā Pali’s Coastal Caves
It isn’t easy to traverse Nā Pali Coast State Park’s 17 miles of coastline in a single, well-spent afternoon, and not all boats are built to enter hidden sea caves and truly explore the coast.
Our experienced captains have spent years scouting the Nā Pali Coast, and are well-informed on navigating to the best spots to go along the coast. Seeing the impression it leaves on newcomers warms our hearts every time. Perceiving the Nā Pali Coast from the ocean is a breathtaking sight to behold for anyone.
Nā Pali’s coastal caves are so varied and awe-inspiring that we developed two separate Nā Pali coastal cave tours:
- Our ever-popular snorkeling adventures, with 30-45 minutes at swim-friendly basins flanked by majestic rock outcroppings, picturesque waterfalls, and endless glistening waters. To keep everyone safe the destination will determined by the ocean conditions each day and we do not offer snorkeling inside of the nearby sea caves. Snorkelers often have the chance to swim with sea turtles and other marine life, an experience that easily becomes the highlight of the trip.
- It’s important to note that state regulations say to stay 10 feet away from turtles both on land and in the water as they are a protected species.
- Our sea cave expedition is entirely focused on exploring as many coastal caves in and around Nā Pali Coast State Park as possible. Along the way, you will be treated to the incredible scenery of the Nā Pali Coast, including magnificent beaches, towering cliffs, verdant valleys, thundering waterfalls, and mysterious sea caves. With a greater focus on sea cave exploration than zipping around the coastline, it is our goal to give you a real adventure.
Whale Watching Off the Nā Pali Coastline
Kauai is fortunate to be ideally situated to intercept several species of migratory whales seeking refuge from the Alaskan winters. Being situated farther out into the Pacific than the rest of the Hawaiian islands, the Nā Pali Coast becomes a second home for humpback whales during mating season between December and April.
It provides the perfect opportunity for a once-in-a-lifetime whale-watching experience, which peaks in January through February. When the water’s calm, you may even witness a whale breach, or hear the humpback’s enigmatic song, which carries for up to 20 miles.
Humpback whales aren’t the only sea creatures to keep your eyes and cameras primed for. Nā Pali Coast State Park also hosts several whale species, including melon-headed, short-finned pilot, and false killer whales. If we’re fortunate, we may even catch a glimpse of the elusive sperm whale.
Of course, it’s almost impossible to embark on a whale-watching tour without inexplicably finding oneself on an enlivening dolphin tour, as well! Known for their cheerful, frolicking acrobatics, dolphins in Kauai are almost unnervingly bold. They often swim excitedly next to our raft in a spirited display (called “mugging”) that’s almost playfully mocking.
Timeless Adventures Await, With Nā Pali Riders
Nothing compares to the thrill of experiencing Nā Pali Coast State Park and firsthand partaking in its natural splendor. With Nā Pali Riders, you’ll weave the memories of a lifetime, partaking in an unforgettable coastal adventure accompanied by the ocean’s ceaseless waves.
We live to share the limitless bounty of Hawaii’s hidden gem with our life-affirming Nā Pali Coast raft adventures – from sensational snorkeling tours and sea cave expeditions to serene private charters. If you’re looking for an idyllic getaway and a chance to explore the natural wonders of Kauai, book the tour of a lifetime, and contact us with any questions.
Image Source: Scope Images / Shutterstock