The Absolute Best Tours In Kauai, Hawaii

Wailua River Kayak Tours in Kauai

Welcome to the breathtaking island of Kauai, where lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and pristine beaches create a paradise like no other.  Kauai has a number of fabulous tours that let you truly experience the island’s beauty!  From helicopter rides soaring over the dramatic Na Pali Coast to hiking adventures through the enchanting Waimea Canyon, Kauai offers  experiences that will leave you in awe. Join us as we explore the absolute best tours in Kauai, Hawaii. 

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Helicopter Tours

There are two tours that I think are absolute must-dos in Kauai.  The first one is a helicopter or airplane tour.  Seeing Kauai, and in particular the majestic Na Pali coast, from the air is a bucket list, jaw dropping, indescribable experience.  The helicopter tours take you right over the top of the jagged peaks of the Na Pali Coastline, right down into Waimea Canyon, and along side majestic waterfalls like Wailua Falls.  This is truly a once in a lifetime experience that I highly recommend!
 
All helicopter and airplane tours depart from Lihue, near the airport.  This is about 25 minutes from the South Shore of Kauai, 40 minutes from the North Shore and about 20 minutes from the East Side. 
 

Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

The other must-do tour in Kauai is a boat tour of the Na Pali Coast.  The Na Pali Coast is just spectacular from the water–you feel so small against its massive beauty.  
 
There are a few options for Na Pali Coast boat tours.  Several of the boat tours include snorkeling and swimming.  The raft and small boat tours can take you inside incredible sea caves along the Na Pali Coast, which is truly an amazing experience.  Read about our experience exploring sea caves in The Most Incredible Na Pali Coast Boat Tour.  
 
The small boats and rafts are bumpier, so if you are prone to motion sickness, take precautions. Large boat tours are available for those who are seeking a smoother ride.  The large boat tours stay farther away from the coast and do not include the sea caves. 
 
The tours below are the top-rated boat tours in Kauai, which all leave from the south shore. 
 

Whale Watching Tours

Whale watching season is November through early April in Kauai.  If you will be visiting Kauai during whale watching season, consider booking a whale watching tour for the chance to see the beautiful whales up close!

Kayaking & Paddle board Tours

Kayaking and paddle board tours are available on the Wailua River as well as in Hanalei Bay.  The most popular kayak and paddle board tours are the tours that include the hike to the beautiful Secret Falls.  The Wailua River tours are located on the east side of Kauai and the Hanalei Bay tours are in the North Shore.

Wailua River Cruises

Spend the day on a boat cruising up the Wailua River in Kauai!

Kauai Waimea River and Canyon Cruise

 
Wailua River Cruise in Kauai, Hawaii

Zipline and ATV Adventure Tours

For those who love adventure, there is plenty of it to be found in Kauai!  Drive ATVs & FUVs through the backcountry of Kauai, rappel down waterfalls in Lihue, or ride a zipline with breathtaking views!  There is something for every everyone!
 

Sightseeing Tours

Check out my Ulitmate 8 Day Kauai Itinerary for all of the must-see beaches and best restaurants in each region.   Looking for a place to stay? Check out The Top-Rated Vacation Rentals in Kauai, Hawaii.

Wondering what to pack?  Check out my post The Top Things People Forget to Pack For Hawaii and be sure to visit my Amazon storefront for the most fabulous island vacation necessities!

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