Boating Na Pali

If you’re not up for hiking the 11-mile trail from Ke’e Beach to Kalalau Valley, the only way to legally access shore areas in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is by boat.  Personal or rented kayaks and guided kayak tours may land at two permitted areas, and motorized raft tours take passengers on shore at Nu’alolo Kai.  These zodiac tours enjoy a scenic view of the coast, with snorkeling, lunch and a guided tour through an archaeological complex.

One of the nices ways to see Na Pali Coast is by paddling down the coast.  This activity is permitted only during the summer months between May 15 and Labor Day.  Unpredictable sea conditions make it potentially unsafe during the remainder of the year.  The mose popular way to travel by kayak is to start from the Ha’ena (eastern) end of the coast and pull out at Polihale Beach, on the western end.  This takes advantage of the prevailing currents and trade winds.

There are two legal kayak landing areas along the coast.  The first is Kalalau Valley, where landings are allowed with the proper camping and landing permits issued by the State Park.  The second legal kayak landing is at Miloli’i Valley, which is a camping option not available to hikers.  Beyond Kalalau Valley, there are several valleys and offshore reefs, but landing on these beaches are strictly prohibited.  Kayak landings are prohibited at all other beaches in the park, including Honopu and Nu’alolo Kai.

The Hawaii State Parks Division does not rent kayaks, but there are many outfitters on the island of Kauai who provide this service.  However, you will need to call ahead for booking.  Refer to the following short list of zodiac and kayak tours available:

• Captain Zodiac: #1-800-535-0830 or locally #808-335-6833; fun@capt-andys.com
• Kauai Sea Tours: #1-800-733-7997 or locally #808-826-PALI; seatour@aloha.net
• Na Pali Explorer: #1-877-335-9909 or locally #808-338-9999; info@napali-explorer.com
• Kayak Kauai: #1-800-437-3507 or locally #808-826-9844; kayakkauai@earthlink.net
• Na Pali Kayak: #1-866-977-6900 or locally #808-826-6900; info@napalikayak.com
• Outfitters Kauai: #1-888-742-9887 or locally #808-742-7421; info@outfitterskauai.com

Photo courtesy of Eric Lin (Flickr)