Kauai Na Pali Coast: Sunset Catamaran Tour & Dinner Drinks

Summary

Na Pali cliffs sea caves sunset dinner cruise with open bar

You’ll set out along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast by catamaran with a local crew, catching sight of dolphins and waterfalls while enjoying dinner and drinks on deck. There’s no swimming—just time to soak up shifting light on ancient cliffs before sunset brings everyone together in quiet awe.

What’s the experience like?

We kicked off from Port Allen just as the sun was still high, shoes ditched at the dock (barefoot rule — I kinda liked it). The Lucky Lady felt sturdy but not stuffy, and our captain, Kaleo, had that easy way of talking story that made everyone relax. Within minutes, salt spray hit my face and that wild green wall of the Na Pali Coast started to show itself. I’d seen photos before, but being out there — wind in your ears, the weirdly sweet smell of plumeria somewhere on the breeze — it’s different. Someone spotted dolphins off port side and suddenly everyone was leaning over the rail, laughing when they darted away. No swimming on this tour, which honestly was fine by me since I’m not exactly graceful getting back on a boat.

Kaleo pointed out these sea caves carved into the cliffs — he said some are only reachable certain times of year when the water’s calm enough. He had stories for every peak and valley we passed (I think he called one “Cathedrals”?) and you could hear pride in his voice. The light kept shifting; sometimes golden on the ridges, sometimes shadows so deep it almost looked painted. At one point we got close enough to see waterfalls tumbling straight into the ocean — no idea how tall they were but it felt like something out of a movie. Dinner was a taco buffet — pulled pork with this citrusy salsa that surprised me (in a good way), plus tofu for my partner who doesn’t eat meat. Open bar too; Mai Tai in hand, feet braced against the deck as we drifted near those crazy cliffs.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with strangers — maybe it was the drinks or just that feeling when you’re all watching something beautiful together. The sun finally dropped behind those spiky peaks and everyone went quiet for a minute. That orange glow on water is stuck in my head now. We headed back as dusk settled in, salt still on my lips and hair tangled from wind. It’s not polished or perfect out there — Kauai keeps you honest like that.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Afternoon Na Pali Coast Catamaran Tour

• Board luxury catamaran Lucky Lady
• Tour Na Pali coast scenery
• View sea caves and waterfalls
• Spot dolphins and whales
• Relax and enjoy warm breeze
• Watch spectacular sunset

Top questions

Is swimming or snorkeling included on this Na Pali Coast sunset tour?

No, this tour does not include any swimming or snorkeling stops.

What kind of food is served during the cruise?

Dinner includes a taco buffet with pulled pork, chicken, tofu options, sides like beans and rice, plus dessert.

Are drinks included on board?

Yes, beer, wine, Mai Tais, juice, soda, and water are included throughout the cruise.

How long does the Na Pali Coast sunset catamaran tour last?

The tour lasts about 4-5 hours from departure time until return.

Is there an age limit for children?

The minimum age is 3 years old; infants are not permitted.

Do I need to bring anything special?

Bring non-spray sunscreen, sunglasses with straps, camera protected from water, and any personal medications needed.

What happens if ocean conditions are rough?

If conditions aren’t safe for Na Pali Coast cruising, the route may be changed to head south instead.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at Port Allen Harbor for check-in.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes cruising along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast aboard a luxury catamaran with a USCG-licensed captain and local crew trained in safety. Enjoy an open bar with beer, wine, Mai Tais plus soft drinks; appetizers and a full taco buffet dinner with dessert are served onboard before returning after sunset.