Napali Day Trip – Hā’ena

Northwest Side Na Pali Sea Kayaking Tour

This 17-mile paddle traverses the spectacular northwest coast of Kauai. This journey is only accessible by water or air, with kayaking being the most magical way to experience Kauai’s mystical, visual feast. The coastline is splayed with razor carved cliffs, deep valleys, and waterfalls – all in collection of tropical greens and blues. We’ll paddle at the base of 4000-foot cliffs, explore legendary sea caves, mosey past (or through) cascading waterfalls, and see the majestic Kalalau and Honopu valleys.

Our guides not only have a wealth of paddling experience, but they will share their vast knowledge of Hawaiian history, flora, fauna, and sea life. If the conditions are right, you may even get a dose of their free, unsolicited advice.

You do not need to be a seasoned athlete to enjoy this trip, but we recommend being in good physical condition.

Tour Details

Your day starts with a 6am check-in at our Hanalei headquarters. From there, you will be shuttled 15 minutes to our launch location, Hā’ena Beach Park. Our team (that includes you) will unload gear and kayaks and organize them on the water’s edge. Lastly, our guides will provide a paddle and safety orientation. Then we launch!

Being in a kayak in open water may be a new experience. We know it can be intimidating. Relax. Breath. Take it easy on yourself and your partner and give it a few moments to find your rhythm. Listen to your guides. We’ve got you!

The first part of the paddle is four to five hours on the water. We will take breaks every 20 – 30 minutes (on the water) to let you rest your paddles, eat a snack, look at the breathtaking scenery, snap a few photos, and remind your partner how much you appreciate him or her. You may see a sea turtle, an endangered Hawaiian monk seal or a pod of spinner dolphins.

After the first leg, we’ll land at Milolii. Here you can explore this state park that is only accessible by water, enjoy a catered lunch, beach comb, or take a nap. You can even use a toilet. We’ll spend at least an hour on land before launching for the final part of the journey. Having already completed most of the journey, the second half is a quick jaunt to Polihale beach. Here you’ll be guided into a safe landing one kayak at a time. This can be the most memorable part of the trip! The team started together and will end together with high-fives and a dip in the ocean for those who aren’t salty enough. Then the team will rally to get the gear and kayaks up the beach and to the shuttle. There are showers and bathrooms to freshen up before you enjoy the company of the crew on the shuttle ride home. We generally return to Hanalei headquarters between 6:30 – 7:30pm.

Before we part and say our alohas, make sure to check out our sweet logo wear. It is also customary but not mandatory to tip your guides. If you feel they did a good job you are welcome to say thanks the old fashioned way. Thanks for paddling with Na Pali Kayak. You are now our new friend.