It’d be an understatement to say that Napali Coast is a “paradise” on Kauai. There are no words to describe the sheer beauty, magnitude, and awe-inspiring landscapes along Kauai’s coveted coastline.
Thousands of tourists flock to Kauai every year to see and experience the Napali Coast in particular. So why does the Napali Coast stand out compared to the many prominent tourist locations on the island? And what’s the best way to access it?
Let’s find out.
Why See The Napali Coast
Mountains
The words “Na Pali” literally mean “The Cliffs”. Millions of years of erosion have carefully sculpted the fluted razor-sharp cliffs we see today. Some cliffs of these cliffs go up to 4000ft in height.
Valleys
Napali coast has a history attached to it. The beautiful fertile valleys were home to ancient Hawaiians who lived here until western contact. Historic remnants are still available for you to see during your trip.
Waterfalls
There are plenty of them on Napali Coast. And most of them finish right in the ocean. Imagine how exceptional would it be to have a waterfall shower as our boat passes underneath!
Caves
The same forces that carved the Napali cliffs created the intriguing caves in the region. As with the coast, these caves are indescribable and are best experienced when our boats take you inside.
Wildlife
Kauai has abundant marine life. It is no different at Napali Coast. As there is no human life on the island, you can find marine life in abundance. You can swim alongside the gorgeous creatures during the swimming/snorkeling session on a boat tour.
Even if you haven’t visited the Napali coast before, it might seem familiar. All thanks to the Jurassic Park Movies for glorifying this paradise on the world stage. If you love the Jurassic Park series, you can see the location come to life and relive the cherished experience.
Napali Coast Sunset Cruise: Best Way To See The Napali Coast
A boat tour is not the only option to access the Napali coast, but it’s the best one. It is more economic and intimate than an air tour, and a lot less stressful than hiking the dangerous Kalalau Trail.
Our Napali Coast boat tours usually last 5 hours and are packed with activity. We say that because this is not just a sightseeing tour. The intention is to get you close and personal with the Napali Coast and give the experience of a lifetime. When it’s over, you’ll wish the tour was longer.
En route to the coast, you’ll learn educational, yet entertaining, stories of the Napali coast and the rich history associated with it. If that’s not enough, how about spotting a school of playful spinner dolphins? The coast has plenty of them (and sea turtles too!) Hawaiian spinner dolphins love company and will enthrall you with their acrobatics. If you take the tour during the wet season, you will probably see Humpback whales too.
We will soon scan the perimeter of Kauai’s coveted coastline, swim underneath waterfalls, and explore the intriguing sea caves on the Napali coast. When you’ve savored the beauty above water, we’ll stop for a 30-minute snorkeling session. You can relax, swim alongside colorful marine life and feel proud to be snorkeling in one of Kauai’s best beaches, Nualolo Kai.
When you’re done, hop on-board for refreshing drinks. The time cannot be perfect to grab a glass of Mai Tai and watch the beautiful Napali sunset. When you’ve savored every bit of the experience, we head back to the port.
Napali Sunset Cruise: Best Lighting for Photographers
Did you know that images of the Napali Coast are sold and published all across the world? The coast has some of the most unbelievable scenery on the planet.
If you wish to capture it, you not only need the right lighting conditions, but also the RIGHT BOAT. Our Napali Kai III afternoon tour is specially designed for the purpose. While the dramatic afternoon light can lead to some outstanding photos, the custom-built NaPali Kai III will give the stability and height to keep your equipment safe from salt sprays.
For professional photographers, our boat tour gives the opportunity to spend quality time with the spectacular views of the Na Pali Coast. Makana Charters is definitely the way to get the right shots for your unique take on this magnificent landscape.
Your Napali Coast Sunset Tour Includes…
- Gourmet Deli Lunch, Chips & Snacks
- Complete top of the line snorkel equipment
- Cold beverages mix of local juices, bottled water, and a mix of soft drinks
- Cushioned Seats
- Fresh Water Shower
- Shaded Cabin
- Floatation Gear
- Restroom
Book a Private Napali Sunset Cruise
Private tours mean smaller crowds and a better experience. And that’s why private tours are very popular with us. This is ideal for couples, groups of friends, business and wedding groups to relax and have undisturbed vacation time on the Napali Coast.
We offer both our catamarans, the Makana and Napali Kai III, for the purpose. We also have our new first-class private charter (Hina’ea) for up to 6 passengers. Please contact us to discuss or plan a tour for you and your group.
Why should you choose us?
When several tour companies are offering boat tours to the Napali Coast, why choose Makana Charters? Here are some reasons that’ll help you make an informed decision:
1. Native Hawaiian Owned
Our family has ancient roots on the Napali Coast and have been showing visitors on Kauai for hundreds of years. We know the place in and out.
Our crew are long time locals who share their love of the island and the ocean with you. They are happy to talk story and answer your questions along the way, sharing insight and Hawaiian history that is only gained through years of doing what they love.
2. Ideal Sized Boats
Not too big, and not too small. Our boats are the perfect size for traveling the Na Pali coast in comfort, yet small enough to navigate inside the many sea caves safely.
Our largest boat Na Pali Kai 3 was built specifically for taking guests onto the Na Pali Coast. Makana is the perfect size for small groups up to 12. Both catamarans have cushioned seats and offer a comfortable ride, especially for pregnant women and the elderly (when the weather permits)
3. Great Value
We know that traveling to Kauai is expensive. We are in business for the love of the ocean and the Na Pali Coast. For this reason we are proud to keep our prices very reasonable, ensuring that you feel you got excellent value for your money.
4. Closest Year-Round Departure Point
We depart from Kekaha harbor, which is the closest point that boats can safely travel the coastline year round. Many boats on the south shore leave from Port Allen, which can be up to an extra hour closer than from our location. Spend more time on the coast and less time accessing it!
Final Thoughts
Got more questions about the Napali Coast Sunset Cruise? Do check out our FAQ section. We have got everything covered for you.
The Napali Coast is gorgeous when the sunsets. The place responds in kind to the evening colors and is best captured during this time of the day. Make sure you get a camera on the Napali Sunset Cruise and shoot the exceptional location to cherish for a lifetime.
We are currently offering a 10% discount on our award-winning Napali tours. Give Makana Charters the privilege to help you get the most out of your visit to this little slice of paradise!
