Kauai Na Pali Coast: Super Raft Caves & Snorkel Adventure

Summary

Na pali coast caves dolphins & snorkeling by fast raft with local crew

You’ll speed along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast by super raft with local crew, slip into sea caves when conditions are right, spot spinner dolphins near Polihale, and snorkel above bright reefs—all with snacks and cold drinks included. Expect salty hair, laughter, and moments you’ll replay long after you’re back on land.

What’s the experience like?

I still feel the salt in my hair from that morning. We met at the dock in Kauai—everyone kind of sizing each other up, clutching coffee or sunscreen. The Na Pali Coast looked unreal from the start, all those cliffs just dropping straight into the ocean. Our captain, Kaleo (he grew up here), cracked a joke about his playlist being “old school Hawaiian only,” and then we took off. I didn’t expect the raft to be so quick—felt like flying low over blue glass. My stomach dropped a few times but in a good way.

The wind whipped hard as we hugged the coastline for what felt like forever but was probably just 30 minutes. The caves were wild—dark mouths in the rock, echoing with water slapping inside. Kaleo eased us right into one; you could smell wet stone and something almost metallic. He pointed out where ancient Hawaiians used to fish here (I tried to imagine it but mostly just gripped the rail). Spinner dolphins showed up near Polihale—one jumped so close I swear it made eye contact before vanishing under the raft.

Snorkeling was later, after we’d already eaten half the snacks (mac nuts and something sweet I can’t pronounce). The water above the reef was colder than I thought—it woke me up fast. Fish everywhere, flashes of yellow and blue against lava rock below. Someone on board lost a fin and laughed it off; nobody cared about looking cool by then. On the way back, sunburned and salty, everyone got quiet for a bit—just watching those green cliffs slide past again. Funny how loud silence feels after all that noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Na Pali Coast Super Raft Adventure

• Board the 37-foot Naiad Super Raft
• Travel along the 17-mile Na Pali Coast
• Enjoy views of Kalalau cathedrals
• Spot Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins at Polihale
• Enter Na Pali sea caves (weather permitting)
• Snorkel above the unique reef system
• Return to departure point

Top questions

How long is the Na Pali Coast super raft tour?

The exact duration isn’t listed, but you’ll spend plenty of time exploring 17 miles of coastline plus time for snorkeling.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, use of snorkeling equipment is included for all guests.

Are snacks or drinks included during the trip?

Yes, light snacks and cold beverages are provided during your Na Pali Coast adventure.

Can children join this Na Pali Coast super raft tour?

Children must be at least 7 years old and accompanied by an adult over 18.

Are there health restrictions for this super raft adventure?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health; expectant mothers can’t join.

Do tours enter sea caves every time?

Entering sea caves depends on weather and ocean conditions; your captain will decide what’s safe on each day.

Is there a restroom onboard the super rafts?

Yes, there is a restroom available onboard each 37-foot super raft.

What’s included

Your day includes speedy travel along Kauai’s Na Pali Coast aboard a custom-built super raft with individual seating and restroom access; guided exploration of sea caves when safe; snorkeling gear for swimming above unique reefs; plus light snacks and cold drinks served throughout your adventure before returning to port sun-kissed and salty.