Kauai Na Pali Coast Sunset Sail & Dinner with Drinks

Summary

Sail past na pali cliffs at sunset with dinner drinks and stories

You’ll sail barefoot along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast as the sun sets behind those wild cliffs, sharing fresh island food and local drinks on a spacious catamaran. Listen to legends from your guide while dolphins play nearby (if you’re lucky), then raise a toast as golden hour turns everything soft and bright. This is one of those evenings that lingers long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the first thing I’d notice to be the smell — salt, a little sunscreen, and something sweet from the bar (maybe that was the Koloa Rum). We left Kauai’s harbor barefoot, shoes in hand, and honestly I was nervous about getting splashed. But our captain just grinned and said, “That’s how you know you’re alive out here.” The catamaran felt huge but not crowded — people spread out along the rails, everyone quietly sizing up those wild green cliffs. The Na Pali Coast really does look unreal up close; I kept staring at the folds in the rock like they might move.

Our guide, Malia, started telling stories about the valleys — how whole communities once lived where now it’s just birds and waterfalls. She pointed out Polihale far off in the haze. There was a moment when we cut the engines and let the wind take over. It got quiet except for laughter from a couple trying to pronounce “Mai Tai” properly (I didn’t even try). The sun dropped lower and suddenly dolphins showed up, riding our wake like they’d been waiting for us. I tried to take photos but mostly just watched — it felt wrong to look away for even a second.

Dinner happened somewhere between cliffs and open sea: teriyaki chicken, kalua pig with cabbage (so smoky), salads, veggies — all fresh but not fussy. Someone passed me an extra brownie when they thought nobody saw. There was wine if you wanted it, or local beer. When we toasted with champagne as the sky went gold-orange-purple, I realized my hands were sticky from dessert and salt spray but I didn’t care at all. That light on the water — still think about it sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunset sail along Napali Coast

• Board Leila sailing catamaran
• Enjoy appetizers and drinks
• Sail along Napali Coast cliffs
• Listen to captain's legends and stories
• Spot dolphins, whales, and wildlife
• Take photos of coast and sunset
• Dine on fresh nourishing meal
• Toast as sun sets
• Experience safe and original sailing

Top questions

What food is served on the Na Pali Coast sunset dinner sail?

The menu includes mixed green salad, pasta salad, teriyaki chicken, kalua pig & cabbage, stir-fried veggies with tofu, rice, and dessert.

Are drinks included during the Kauai sunset cruise?

Yes, you get Mai Tais made with Koloa Rum, beer, wine (red/white/sparkling), plus soft drinks throughout the cruise.

Is hotel pickup included for this Na Pali Coast tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests meet at the designated harbor location for boarding.

Can children join this Kauai sunset sailing tour?

Children must be 5 years or older to join this tour; child rates apply for ages 5-12.

Will I see dolphins or whales during this Na Pali Coast sail?

Dolphins are often seen year-round; humpback whales may be spotted seasonally from December to April.

What should I bring on board for this sunset dinner cruise?

Bring your own towel, sunscreen (reef-friendly lotion), a light jacket for splashes or breeze, and your camera.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?

No; mobility aids aren’t allowed onboard and boarding is at captain’s discretion if there are physical challenges.

Do you land on shore during this Na Pali sailing trip?

No; there is no landing on shore during this tour — it’s all aboard the catamaran.

What’s included

Your evening includes sailing along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast aboard a 50-foot catamaran with friendly crew guiding you through legends of the land. Enjoy a full island-inspired dinner—think teriyaki chicken and kalua pig—plus fresh salads and dessert. Sip Koloa Rum Mai Tais, wine or craft beer while watching for dolphins or whales in season. All non-alcoholic drinks are included too; just bring your own towel and jacket for comfort on deck.