Napali Day Trip – Hā'ena
Trip Highlights
- Spectacular Coastal Views
- 17-Mile Paddle Adventure
- See wildlife and explore sea caves
Description
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.
Itinerary
Departure from Hā'ena Beach Park
Meet at our Hanalei location, launch from Hā'ena Beach Park
Paddle Along the Na Pali Coast
Leaving the North Shore early in the morning we will paddle the entire Na'Pali coast. We will pass the valleys of Hanakapai, Hanakoa, Kalalau and Honopu. If conditions permit we will explore the many Sea caves en route to Milolii. We will stop for a big lunch and much needed break at milolii, this is about 4 1/2 hours into our journey. Once we depart milolii, we have another hour and a half paddle to Polihale, where our van and trailer will be waiting. At Polihale we will portage the kayaks, load the trailer, take a quick shower and the road trip back to our shop in Hanalei begins.
Lunch Break
We will stop at the truly remote beach and valley of Milolii, just over 10 miles from our launch site. A large catered lunch and drinks will be served in the shade, we are generally here a few hours.
Return to our shop in Hanalei
After lunch we have about another hour and a half to the conclusion of the paddle, where our vans and trailers are waiting. We will portage kayaks, load the trailer, take a quick shower and start the long road trip home to Hanalei.
Tour info
“I was honestly prepared to suffer physically from this 17 mile kayak trip, but we had perfect conditions and riding with a guide probably prevented a lot of of it. Honestly, I was barely sore the next day.”
“We had an eclectic group that included folks of various paddling skills and physical ability, who, from various parts of the country, ranged in age from the early 20s to 66 years old (me).”
Why take this tour?
Join us for an unforgettable adventure along the Na Pali Coast, where you'll paddle through some of the most breathtaking scenery in Hawaii. Our Napali Day Trip from Hā'ena offers a perfect blend of excitement and adventure, making it an ideal choice for both seasoned kayakers and fit adventurers. With our expert guides and top-notch equipment, you're guaranteed a safe and enjoyable experience. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the natural wonders of Kauai's northwest coast. Book your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Included
- Fully Outfitted Tandem Kayak
- Dry Bags
- Life Vests
- Award-Winning Catered Lunch
- Cold Refreshments
Excluded
- Transportation to Pickup Point
- Personal Expenses
- Sea Sickness Medication
- Sun Protection Gear
- Waterproof Camera
“We felt safe and cared for the entire time, even though it was a windy day — rain, sun, rainbows, wind — we had it all.”
“The safety briefings and instructions were extremely thorough. The shuttle van was clean, and the ride was quick.”
Frequently asked questions
Bring a change of clothes in a separate bag, 3 liters of water(preferably a reusable refillable container), sun protection, a hat, shades, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera.
Yes, though it is a challenging and physically demanding paddle, fit adventures without a lot of paddle experience can make the journey.
Cancellations must be made 72 hours in advance for a full refund.
Yes, a large catered lunch and cold refreshments are included, your choices are Turkey, Ham or veggie, although we can usually accommodate special requests
Although we think this trip is best for active fit adults some younger folks are appropriate, 14 year old minimum age if the child is appropriate for such a strenuous activity.
The total weight limit of our big double kayaks is 500lbs. If your at or close to the max combined weght of 500lbs please call before signing up.
Things to know
- Duration
7 hours in our kayaks total
12+ hours including lunch and shuttle time- Seasonal Availability
Available from April 15th to October 15th.
- Age Requirement
Suitable for ages 14 and above
- What to Bring
Bring 3 liters of water, sun protection, a hat, shades, sunscreen, and a waterproof camera.
- Cancellation Policy
Cancellations must be made 72 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Weather Conditions
Tours are subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled if necessary.
Recent Reviews
Showing 24 of 527 verified reviews
Katie Cezo
August 15, 2024 · Google
Awesome time paddling 17 miles of the Na'pali coast. It was my first ocean kayak experience and it was a blast. Mitch, our guide, was knowledgeable about the history of the region and the local wildlife. And he took great pictures to help us remember the trip. The homemade sandwiches at Miloli'i Bea…
Jon Busdeker
August 15, 2024 · Google
This is a must-do adventure for anyone traveling to Kauai. This day-long kayak adventure is worth every penny. It is a very vigorous day, but the views of the Napali Coast are breathtaking and something you'll only see from a kayak. Our guide, Hannah, was so great and had some many wonderful stories…
Justin Burr
July 15, 2024 · Google
Love these dudes, they went above and beyond to make sure I had an awesome time kayaking the Napali coast. Was an unforgettable trip and I'm super stoked for their wisdom in helping me complete it safety and successfully.
M Robertson
July 15, 2024 · Google
We had an amazing time celebrating our anniversary with a kayaking adventure. The Nāpali coast was gorgeous and Mitch and Hannah were fantastic guides. They kept us safe and Mitch was full of interesting information. Thank you!
Destrey Enders
May 15, 2024 · Google
We did the 17 mile kayak down the coast and it was the highlight of our trip! Amazing views and very fun to paddle into the sea caves. Mitch knew so much about the island biology and history. But this is a hard day so expect to be tired the next day and bring lots of snacks.
Bunker B.
August 9, 2026 · Yelp
Na Pali Kayak led me on a 17-mile paddle from Hāʻena to Polihale that remains one of the coolest, most beautiful, and most exhilarating days of my life. I have been extraordinarily fortunate to see some remarkable places, and I can confidently put this experience near the very top. We met at the sho…
Adam T.
August 9, 2026 · Yelp
This is a very unique trip in the world of commercial tour companies who typically put a large number of individuals on a boat ride to an overpopulated place for a few minutes of snorkeling. This Na Pali coast kayak tour is different in that they do not hold back on the adventure. Let us start by sa…
David G
August 2026 · TripAdvisor
Breathtaking Experience!
We had an incredible day paddling the Napali Coast! The team at Napali Kayak was great from start to finish! It was an early start but they made sure we had the gear we needed and were prepared for the adventure ahead of us. It was a team effort to get unloaded, to the beach and launched. Our guides…
Steve E.
July 16, 2026 · Yelp
From start to finish this company gave me the most fantastic kayaking experience that I've ever had. From the most amazing sea caves to shear cliff walls- nothing fell short of just plain jaw-droppin. My guide Mitch was solid and very well experienced. All concerns were addressed with lots of extras…
eric k
July 2026 · TripAdvisor
Go do this !
Top notch! We saw a herd of goats and had endless time splashing around in a sea cave. The guides really know their stuff!
Mike M.
June 29, 2026 · Yelp
Great trip all went as expected and guides were excellent. We had calm seas but were prepared for the more typical energetic waters.
Jan M.
June 7, 2026 · Yelp
Iggy was an amazing expert guide on our June 6 outing who made our trip safe, fun and interesting with stories about the history of the Napali Coast while we paddled past incredible scenery and into a couple of stunning caves. Even with the wind at our backs, it's a very strenuous adventure - more t…
Lucy D.
June 2, 2026 · Yelp
My husband and I had an amazing trip. The guides (Mitch and Rory) were so knowledgeable and so helpful. We went on the tour group 2nd trip of the season, and the seas were pretty rough, but the views were incredible, and the guides made sure we were well taken care of. We didn't get motion sick, but…
JanMcdMV
June 2026 · TripAdvisor
Stunning adventure on the Napali Coast while
Iggy was an amazing expert guide on our June 6 outing who made our trip safe, fun and interesting with stories about the history of the Napali Coast while we paddled past incredible scenery and into a couple of stunning caves. Even with the wind at our backs, it's a very strenuous adventure - more t…
Ethan C.
May 24, 2026 · Yelp
We had a fantastic trip down the Na Pali coast! With a huge group and choppy conditions, they handled us like pros. We saw beautiful things, no one got sick, and they kept us laughing and informed the whole time. Could not recommend more highly.
Mark R.
May 16, 2026 · Yelp
Napali Kayak tours led myself, my wife and son on an amazing trip down the Napali coast with guide Mitch!! It was the tour groups first trip of this season and the sea was rough but we went to unbelievable places highlighted by caves with waterfalls and the washing machine!! Unreal and made me feel…
Ethan C
May 2026 · TripAdvisor
Stunningly beautiful coastline
We had a fantastic trip down the Na Pali coast! With a huge group and choppy conditions, they handled us like pros. We saw beautiful things, no one got sick, and they kept us laughing and informed the whole time. Could not recommend more highly.
Adam S.
September 4, 2025 · Yelp
Awesome experience. We've been wanting to do this for years and finally booked it. We are so glad we did; truly the highlight of our trip. Our guide, David, was incredible. My wife was a little timid about paddling closer to shore near Ke'e beach. David assured her all would be fine and to lean on h…
Art W
September 2025 · TripAdvisor
So worth it!
This was the highlight of our trip to Kauai! Our day paddling along the Napali coast will be what we remember when we think back on this trip. Some key points: - The guides were terrific. Friendly and knowledgeable. - It takes effort to paddle that far in the ocean. But it's very, very doable. We ha…
Abbey W.
August 18, 2025 · Yelp
Great experience! My friend and I (both 30 year old girls) did many of the activities in Kauai (boat tours, hikes, paddle boards, etc) and both agreed this was by far our favorite. You will not get this experience or the views any other way, nor will it be as rewarding. Highly recommend. We were luc…
Drew A
August 2025 · TripAdvisor
Best kayak trip ever
Ivan and Josh are amazing. These guys clearly been at this for a while and it really shows. What a great adventure Highly recommended
Elle M.
July 5, 2025 · Yelp
Never had anything but a great experience kayaking NaPali with this outfitter. Great guides and camping equipment for rent to stay overnight on the beaches along the coast. Chee hoo!
Amber N
July 2025 · TripAdvisor
Epic Adventure!
We had an amazing day of kayaking, swimming and taking in some of the most spectacular views we've ever seen! Our guide, David, truly made our adventure special and unique. His experience as a guide was evident, as he showed us every cave, valley and swim spot along the coast so we didn't feel like…
Travel788282
July 2025 · TripAdvisor
An Awesome Adventure!
Incredible way to experience places along the coast that you can only see by boat. Hung out with a pod of spinner dolphins and a variety of seabirds along the way. So glad I finally got to do this. Mahalo to the fabulous guides.
