Which Na Pali kayak trip is easier?

Polihale. It is a 10-mile out-and-back rather than a 17-mile one-way crossing, and you turn around at Miloli'i rather than committing to the full coast. It is still a physically demanding day — this is open ocean either way.

Can I do the Polihale trip with fewer than six people?

The scheduled trip runs for groups of six or more. If you are a smaller party, call us — we can look at joining you to an existing group, or at a private trip.

Do I need to drive to Polihale myself?

Yes. Transport to the meeting point is not included on the Polihale trip; we meet you on the west side at Pa'ula'ula in Waimea or at Polihale State Park. The Ha'ena trip includes shuttles at both ends.

Guided kayak tour beneath the North Shore sea cliffs of Kauai

Na Pali Guides

Ha'ena or Polihale? Choosing Your Na Pali Day Trip

Book Ha'ena if you want the whole coast in one day and you are genuinely fit — 17 miles, one way, North Shore to west side. Book Polihale if you want the same water in a smaller dose: 10 miles out and back to Miloli'i Beach, and a far more forgiving day.

Last updated August 2026 · Na Pali Kayak, Hanalei

Side by side

	Ha'ena day trip	Polihale day trip
Distance	17 miles, one way	10 miles, out and back
Duration	7 hours in the kayaks, 12+ hours door to door	8 hours
Where you start	Check in at our Hanalei shop, 15-minute shuttle to Ha'ena Beach Park	Meet on the west side — Pa'ula'ula in Waimea, or Polihale State Park
What you paddle	The entire Na Pali Coast, west with the wind	Polihale to Miloli'i Beach and back — the southern half
Group size	2 to 12	6 to 12 — this trip runs for groups of six or more
Season	April 15 to October 15	May 15 to September 15, Tuesdays and Thursdays
Getting there	Shuttle included both ends	You drive yourself to the meeting point
Cancellation	72 hours for a full refund	48 hours for a full refund
Difficulty	Hard. The full commitment.	Still demanding, but forgiving — you turn around at halfway

Book Ha'ena if...

You want to paddle the whole coast — every valley, every sea cave, Kalalau Beach from the water — and you want to have done it, not sampled it.
You are genuinely fit. Six or seven hours of paddling is not a thing you can talk your way through.
You are staying on the North Shore. Check-in is in Hanalei at six in the morning and the launch is fifteen minutes away.
You want the trip that National Geographic picked as one of America's best adventures.
You are traveling as a pair or a small group — this one runs from two people up.

Book Polihale if...

You are a less experienced paddler, or you are honest about your fitness and 17 miles is a stretch.
You have six or more people. This trip is built for groups.
You are staying south or west — Poipu, Waimea, Kekaha. You are already on the right side of the island.
You want time on the beach, not just a lunch stop. Polihale trips get a few hours at Miloli'i.
It is a Tuesday or a Thursday.

On the difference in price

The Ha'ena trip costs more, and it is worth being straight about what that buys.

It is nearly twice the distance — 17 miles against 10 — and it is a one-way crossing, which means shuttles at both ends and a support van waiting at Polihale rather than a car you left there yourself. Your day starts in Hanalei, fifteen minutes from the launch, instead of with a pre-dawn drive across the island to the west side. And you paddle the sections of coast the shorter trip never reaches.

If the shorter trip is the right trip for you, book the shorter trip. Paying more for a day you cannot enjoy is not a better holiday.

“The only complaint I have about this trip is that I missed my window on my trip to do it again.”

Emily M. · Local Guide · 250 reviews · Google

Frequently asked questions

Ready when you are

Duration7 hours

Group Size2 to 12 people

Napali Day Trip – Hā'ena

Embark on the most popular Napali Day Trip from Hā'ena to Polihale, a 17-mile paddle that takes you along the breathtaking northwest coast of Kauai. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life of the Na Pali Coast. Whether you're an experienced kayaker or a first-timer, this trip promises an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and excitement.

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Duration8 hours

Group Size6 to 12 people

Napali Day Trip – Polihale

Experience the beauty of the Na Pali Coast with our exclusive Napali Day Trip to from Polihale to Milolii and back. This trip is designed for groups of 6 to 12, offering a personalized adventure along one of Hawaii's most stunning coastlines. Enjoy the tranquility of Polihale Beach and the thrill of kayaking through crystal-clear waters, all while being guided by our experienced team. This is considered the mini NaPali coast trip, better suited for less experienced kayaker.

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