Accessible only by boat, helicopter or on foot, the Napali Coast is Kaua’s most enchanting stretch of shoreline. For the best views, take to the water at sunset.
The Sunset Express Tour (Photo: Viator)
Stretching 17 miles along Kaua’s North Shore, the Napali Coast is Kaua’s most magnificent natural setting. The emerald-clad cliffs and razor-sharp ridges tower above the Pacific Ocean to reveal pristine beaches and fairytale waterfalls that sparkle as the sun dips below the horizon. You could try the hike or hop on a helicopter, but for a more leisurely approach, we suggest taking a sunset cruise. Many of these boat trips include dinner and drinks, and also offer the chance to spot dolphins, turtles and humpback whales at the same time. We’ve selected three of the best Napali sunset and dinner cruises based on price, customer reviews and amenities.
Sunset Express Tour
This four-hour tour offers an exhilarating introduction to the Napali Coast. You’ll cut through the waves onboard the Imiloa, an express catamaran that promises to get you to the coastline faster than most. On board, a USCG licensed captain provides narration while a friendly crew serves you at your seats. A light late lunch of turkey or veggie wraps is included in the price, and beer, wine and Mai Tai’s are available too. The tours set off in the mid-afternoon and return just after sunset. From £126.79 per person.
Catamaran Tour with Dinner
A catamaran sunset cruise with dinner (Photo: Viator)
This slightly shorter 3-hour tour is the highest-rated sunset tour online, with nearly 700 five-star reviews. The catamaran departs from Port Allen Marina and sails past 4,000-ft cliffs, steep cathedral spires, deep emerald valleys and waterfalls as the sun sinks into the horizon. Dinner includes craft beer, wine and the boat’s signature Kauai Rum Ginger Mai Tais. Pick your season right and you might even get to spot humpback whales. From £172.90 per person.
Leila Na Pali Sunset Dinner Sail
Set aboard the luxurious ‘50 catamaran Leila, this 4.5-hour tour offers excellent bang for your buck. The tour offers plenty of photo opportunities along the Na pali coastline, as well as time to see Kauai and Polihale from the distance. Dinner is generous, usually comprising charcuterie-style snacks followed by pulled pork or chicken with rice, salad, pasta and a little brownie for those with a sweet tooth. The cruise rounds off with a champagne toast while you watch dolphins and sea turtles dance in the distance as the sun goes down.