Hawaii · TOURS IN KAUAI

The 15 Best Kauai Tours & Boat Trips

59 tours  ·  from $63 a head

The best of Kauai has no road to it, so the money goes on a hull or a rotor. The 15 below compare the Na Pali rafts, the catamarans and the doors-off flights on price, season and sea state.

Koloa Zipline in Kauai - Check-in, gear, and the first climb
Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Zip Lines

Koloa Zipline in Kauai

1.Koloa Zipline in Kauai

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6,764 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $169Our pick

Spend about three hours flying through Koloa’s forest and over Waita Reservoir on eight zipline tracks. Guides such as Tristin, Carson, Jaiden, and Malachi help you choose between relaxed cruising, hands-free Flyin’ Kauai’an flights, spins, and upside-down moves. Expect a short uphill walk, safety gear, snacks, and a maximum group of 12.

“We had a great time! Look forward to going back when all 8 tracks are open. Guides did a great job and made sure everyone had fun!”

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Kauai Deluxe Sightseeing Flight - The GA8 Airvan makes the views the main event
Island Highlights Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai

Kauai Deluxe Sightseeing Flight

2.Kauai Deluxe Sightseeing Flight

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,162 reviews · 1 hour 5 minutes (approx.) · from $159

Fly over Kauai for about 65 minutes in a GA8 Airvan with large bubble windows and a guaranteed window seat. Your pilot, often Koa, Marcus, Kamaka, or Kao, narrates the island’s geology, agriculture, and history through Bose headsets. Expect Na Pali cliffs, Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay, waterfalls, Poipu, and Kipu Kai.

“We took this tour before leaving Kauai and we're so glad that we did this! Before this tour we did drive to most scenic spots on the island but many were hard to access by car / by foot (many of those most famous hikes are at hard level), but this air tour just gave us a totally different angle to see the island's nature beauty! Our pilot Kamaka was quite knowledgeable and experienced, he made the ride very pleasant and stable. Jill helped us store the luggages while we were on this tour and she was fun & passionate!”

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Kauai: Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour - Starting over Manawaiopuna Falls in Hanapepe Valley
Helicopter Tours, Helicopter Tours in Kauai, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Kauai

Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour

3.Kauai Eco Adventure Helicopter Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,032 reviews · 50 minutes (approx.) · from $449

Fly over Kauai in a six-seat Eco-Star helicopter with a State of Hawaii certified guide-pilot. In about 50 minutes, you may see Waimea Canyon, Manawaiopuna Falls, the Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Bay, and Mt. Waiʻaleʻale. Bose headsets, two-way pilot communication, and large viewing windows make the flight comfortable and informative.

“Incredible experience! This was the highlight of our entire Hawaii trip! We went to two other islands and this was both our favorite thing we did by far. The pilot was very knowledgeable, friendly and made the flight something we'll never forget. We can not recommend this enough! It's worth every penny!”

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Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats - The GA8 Airvan and your window seat
Helicopter Tours, Helicopter Tours in Kauai, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours, Waterfall Tours, Waterfall Tours in Kauai

Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats

4.Kauai Airplane Tour: Na Pali Coast, Waterfalls & Window Seats

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,964 reviews · 1 hour 5 minutes (approx.) · from $159

Fly around Kauai for about an hour in a slow-flying GA8 Airvan, with large bubble windows, noise-reduction headsets, and narration from an experienced pilot. You’ll see Waimea Canyon, Jurassic Falls, Hanalei Bay, the Na Pali Coast, and Mount Waialeale. The tour leaves from Lihue Airport and returns there.

“We really enjoyed our flight, our pilot was very skilled and made us feel very safe, he was very knowledgeable and told us a lot of facts about the island, and showed us lots of lovely scenery. The hour went really quickly and we felt this trip was extremely good value for money, we would recommend.”

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Kauai: Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters - What the doors-off Hughes 500 feels like
Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai

Kauai: Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters

5.Hughes 500 4-Passenger Doors-Off Helicopters

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,951 reviews · 1 hour (approx.) · from $369

Fly for about an hour from Lihue in a Hughes 500 helicopter with the doors removed and a maximum of four passengers. Your pilot, such as Kate, Felipe, Amy, Adam, or Max, narrates the flight over Waimea Canyon, the Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Valley, and Mount Waialeale. Every passenger has a window seat, but expect wind, cooler air, and a thrilling ride.

“Five stars all the way! Stunning views, friendly staff, and an experience we’ll never forget. If you’re in Kauai, this is a must-do.””

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Kauai: Luau Kalamaku with Buffet Dinner and Show - Understanding the seating choices before you pay
Buffet Experiences, Dining Experiences, Dinner Experiences, Luaus & Shows, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai

Kauai: Luau Kalamaku with Buffet Dinner and Show

6.Luau Kalamaku with Buffet Dinner and Show

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,620 reviews · 4 to 6 hours (approx.) · from $179

Spend an evening at historic Kilohana Plantation with a lei greeting, island buffet, open bar before the show, and a theatrical tale of Tahitian voyagers reaching Hawaii. Add a narrated train ride around the 104-acre estate, hotel transportation, or premium seating when available. Expect live music, hula, fire poi, and a cast photo opportunity.

“I thought the experience was expensive, the food on the buffet wasn't that great. The Hawaiian dancers did a great job. The people doing the dances with the fire were amazing. I enjoyed see all the different costumes.”

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Na Pali Coast Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure - The ride toward Na Pali Coast State Park
Half-Day, Snorkeling, Snorkeling in Kauai, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours

Na Pali Coast Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure

7.Na Pali Coast Half-Day Raft and Snorkel Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,609 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $217

You’ll ride a fast, bouncy 14-person raft from Port Allen with a licensed captain and water-safety-trained crew. Expect sea caves, waterfalls, coastal history, snorkeling at Nu’alolo Kai, food, drinks, and possible dolphins, turtles, and humpback whales. Crews may include captains such as KK, Duffy, Sky, or Jason.

“This was definitely a contender for the highlight of our trip. Beautiful view of the coast. KK was a kick a** captain, navigating the sea expertly and so knowledgeable about the area. The crew member, Hailey was an absolute blast to be with. Both of them had such fun personalities and they worked so well together. Would definitely do again.”

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Kauai: Na Pali Coast Super Raft Snorkel Adventure - Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park from the water
Snorkeling, Snorkeling in Kauai, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours

Kauai: Na Pali Coast Super Raft Snorkel Adventure

8.Na Pali Coast Super Raft Snorkel Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,530 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $235

Ride a 37-foot Naiad Super Raft from Port Allen along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. Expect sea caves, waterfalls, dolphins, possible whales, and a snorkeling stop when conditions allow. Captains such as Andrew, CJ, Landon, and Nohili have earned praise for lively commentary and careful boat handling. The ride can be bouncy, so plan for ocean motion.

“Absolutely the best experience, the ride was fun, the NaPali coast was so breath taking it didn’t feel real. The caves, waterfalls, green. We had CJ and Matt and were personally greeted by Captain J himself. The customer service was phenomenal. Slight advice, skip whale watching. We paid for whale watching a different day but during our 70 mile ocean drive to the coast we saw no less than 10 whales! So worth it!! Snorkeling was epic!”

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Kauai Private Doors-Off Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons - Manawaiopuna Falls, Kauai’s Jurassic Park waterfall
Helicopter Tours, Helicopter Tours in Kauai, Private, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waterfall Tours, Waterfall Tours in Kauai

Kauai Private Doors-Off Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons

9.Kauai Private Doors-Off Helicopter: Ultimate Waterfalls & Canyons

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,510 reviews · 1 hour 15 minutes (approx.) · from $415

Take a 75-minute private, doors-off flight from Lihue with a pilot such as Ross, Travis, Taylor, Aiden, or Stuart. Every passenger gets a window seat and views of Waimea Canyon, Na Pali Coast, Hanalei Valley, Jurassic Falls, Olokele Canyon, and Waiʻaleʻale Crater. Bring a warm jacket, secure your hair, and expect FAA weight checks.

“Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish! Our pilot, Ross, was outstanding—knowledgeable, friendly, and explained everything so clearly throughout the flight. He took us to all the perfect spots, making the entire journey unforgettable. The views brought back amazing childhood memories of Jurassic Park. Five stars for both the pilot and the experience. Highly recommend!”

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Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady - Boarding the Lucky Lady at Port Allen
Sunset Cruises, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours

Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady

10.Deluxe Na Pali Sunset Tour on the Lucky Lady

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,510 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $222

Board the 60-foot Lucky Lady at Port Allen for a five-hour Na Pali Coast sunset cruise. Captain Evan and other local captains share island history and legends while you watch for whales, dolphins, turtles, waterfalls, and sea caves. Dinner, beer, wine, Mai Tais, soft drinks, restrooms, and open-air viewing are included.

“This 5-hour tour was worth every minute! We were lucky enough to see several humpback whales, a pod of dolphins, and the magnificent Na Pali coastline. A word of advice for future travelers: the water can get rough. Quite a few people, including my son, dealt with seasickness. I highly recommend eating a light meal beforehand and taking motion sickness medication. I cannot praise the crew of the Lucky Lady enough. They were incredibly professional and attentive, constantly checking on guests and tirelessly swapping out buckets for those who weren't feeling well. Big kudos to the entire team for their hard work!”

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Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady - What the Lucky Lady ride feels like
Snorkeling, Snorkeling in Kauai, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours

Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady

11.Deluxe Na Pali Morning Snorkel Tour on the Lucky Lady

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,485 reviews · 5 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $233

Cruise Kauai’s Na Pali Coast aboard the Lucky Lady, a catamaran capped at 49 people. Captain Kauai or Captain Evan may share island history as you pass cliffs, waterfalls, sea caves, and valleys, then snorkel, swim, use the waterslide, and enjoy lunch with drinks. Expect changing ocean conditions and possible rerouting.

“Boat was very smooth and comfortable. Captain Evan is a walking encyclopedia for Kauai culture and history! Micah, Ryder and Lauren spoiled everyone! The crew made the trip even better!”

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Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike - Starting at the Wailua River
Canoes & Kayaks, Canoes & Kayaks in Kauai, Hiking & Trekking, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waterfall Tours, Waterfall Tours in Kauai

Kauai: Secret Falls Kayak and Hike

12.Secret Falls Kayak and Hike

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,403 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $125

Paddle about 4 miles on the Wailua River, then hike 1.5 to 2 miles through muddy rainforest trails to Uluwehi Falls. Your guide supplies the kayak and safety gear, shares island stories, and leads the way. Guides such as Cory, Kman, Kai, Mana, and Sam have earned especially warm praise. Bring water, snacks, and strapped footwear.

“My husband and I really enjoyed this experience. Lono was our guide and he did a great job telling us about the river, trees etc. and what it was like to grow up on Kauai. Definitely bring water and a snack and shoes that can get wet. There are a few water crossings.”

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Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide - Learning to paddle on the Wailua River
Canoes & Kayaks, Canoes & Kayaks in Kauai, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waterfall Tours, Waterfall Tours in Kauai

Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide

13.Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,387 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $140

Paddle about two miles each way on the Wailua River, then hike roughly two miles through muddy, rocky rainforest to Uluwehi Falls. Guides such as Zach, Brian, and Mikayla provide instruction, local stories, hiking sticks, and safety help. Bring water and secure shoes you can get wet.

“We weren't able to go because of the high winds. The trip was canceled but the operators and Brian took our number and reached out with updates to see if we could get in with another group. Brian was really concerned about our safety. That's a five star to me!”

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Kauai: NaPali Boat Tour on the Amelia K - Boarding in Eleele and getting settled
Cruises & Boat Tours, Tour Reviews, Tours, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours

Kauai: NaPali Boat Tour on the Amelia K

14.NaPali Boat Tour on the Amelia K

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,240 reviews · 5 hours (approx.) · from $214

Set out from Eleele aboard Makana Charters’ Amelia K or one of three sister catamarans for about five hours along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. Native guides such as Captain Mike, Shawn, Ethan, Ky, and Charlie share island stories, search for dolphins and whales, guide seasonal snorkeling, and steer into sea caves. Lunch, drinks, and snorkel gear are included.

“Unforgettable ride! Great tour guides! An amazing way to see the grandeur of this special coastline. From sea caves to dolphins to whales to cliffs reaching to the sky... Just wow!”

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Secret Falls Kayak & Hike Guided Adventure on the Wailua River - Check-in at Coconut Marketplace
Canoes & Kayaks, Canoes & Kayaks in Kauai, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Tour Reviews, Tours in Kauai, Waimea Canyon & Na Pali Coast Tours, Waterfall Tours, Waterfall Tours in Kauai

Secret Falls Kayak & Hike Guided Adventure on the Wailua River

15.Secret Falls Kayak & Hike Guided Adventure on the Wailua River

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,212 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $145

You’ll paddle 2 miles up the Wailua River, cross streams, and hike through rainforest to Uluwehi Falls. Guides such as Levi, Jonathan, and Nathaniel add Hawaiian history, safety help, and, in Levi’s case, ukulele music. Expect wet shoes, mud, a cool waterfall pool, snacks, and a six-hour outing for $145.03, plus a $5 state park fee.

“Adventure should be capitalized with Kayak Adventures. What an incredible tour. We were fortunate enough to have the islands most sought after guide. “Levi”, pronounced Levy. Not only did he get us all to and from the waterfall safely, he played his Ukulele and sang through hiking portion of the tour. If you are looking for the most picturesque and adventurous tour on the island, look no further. Thank you Kayak Adventures and especially Levi. The Allen’s”

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