Na Pali Coast Super Raft Review- A Must Do!

Get ready to be blown away by the beauty of the Na Pali coast of Kauai! I know I was while on a rafting adventure with Captain J’s. This is one of the best ways to get close to the coast on a half day tour. Don’t be fooled by other tour operators, this is the most comfortable, fast, and fun way to take in the cliffs made famous by the movies.

The Boat & Boarding

All tours for the Na Pali coast leave from a marina about 30 minutes away from Poipu, in the town of Eleele. After parking in the designated lot, continue to Captain J’s office for check in. There can be a crowd here because all the tour operators have offices next to each other, but they are all clearly marked and have staff assisting everyone outside. Be sure to arrive early to avoid any mishaps.

Best Time to do the Rafting Adventure

I do recommend the morning tour, despite its very early 7:30 AM start time. This will ensure you get the calmest seas and cooler weather before the intense heat of the middle of the day. The ocean can be very tumultuous around this area, so be aware of any communications from the tour operator in case of cancellations, and take precautions against sea sickness.

Why Book Captain J’s Tour

On this rafting boat you’ll get actual seats! This is a huge factor in your experience and comfort on this tour, and for this reason I think Captain J’s is the best tour on the Na Pali coast.

I could not imagine being on the other tour operators’ boat, just holding on the side, sitting on the edge, bumping in the waves for hours. Catamaran tours did not have much better reviews, with very limited seating and rough seas causing seasickness for many based on the rolling motion of the catamaran.

Captain J’s offers the best boat, service, price, and is easily bookable through Viator.

Super Raft Adventure Ride

Around 7:30, we were led to the dock to board the boat and left our shoes behind with them for the duration of the tour to ensure the boat stayed clean. We were let know which were the best seats in the house for more adventurous types (front) and for those who like to play it safe (back).

Sights Along the Way

At this point you’ll want to lather on the sunscreen or make sure you have sun protective shirt on, because you are in for long but fun ride to the Na Pali coast. We were so happy to find spinner dolphins along the way, and our captain gladly gave us lots of time to watch as they played near the boat.

As we continued on our journey, our captain explained all about the scenic small islands and inlets we saw. He described whether they were accessible, inhabited, or protected. It was nice to hear some of the history behind how this area developed and how it continues to be used.

Admiring the Na Pali Coast

Soon we came up to the towering cliffs of the Na Pali coast. We cruised by as he pointed out which areas had been used for scenes in different movies, the beaches that were worth the hike, and the scars of waterfalls long dried up. Ample time was given for pictures at various points.

Since the tides and the waves were just right, our skilled captain was able to take us through some caves as well. It was thrilling to be within the landscape and be maneuvered around jagged cliffs with the push and pull of the boat throttle.

Swimming and Snorkeling

It was now time for a swim break. The crew handed out goggles and fins for any who wanted to snorkel. I was one of the first ones off the boat and couldn’t wait to see what was under the water. Plunging off the side into crisp, clear water, I saw straight to the bottom. Huge smooth rocks littered the sea floor and little fish danced in between. It wasn’t anything like a coral reef, but it was an interesting area to explore and spot the occasional sea turtle.

After swimming around for a while, I decided the best view was from floating at the surface, studying the crevasses of the cliffs towering above me. In that moment, I couldn’t believe I was there at one of the most beautiful natural formations in the world.

Returning to the Marina

At this point it was time to boogie back to the marina. I felt a tinge of sadness at the experience being almost over, but I was filled with immense gratitude at having had such a perfect day out on the water in Kauai. We all came back a little burnt and tired, but we were so happy.

While we weren’t too hungry, thanks to some drinks and snacks the crew had for us onboard, I was really excited to try this little cafe I found online. After a quick change at the bathrooms by the Marina offices, we loaded up in the car, and drove to the next town over, Hanapepe.

Things to do After Rafting on the Na Pali Coast

If this town sounds familiar, then you may have recognized it as the town portrayed in Lilo & Stitch. Hanapepe has a cute little Main Street lined with a few shops and restaurants. There, you’ll also find the best lunch spot, Ku’uleis Gourmet. We tried a variety of menu items such as the sushi, sandwiches, soup, and lemonade. Everything was homemade and tasted incredible.

From here we drove up to see Waimea Canyon, and stopped at the Kauai Coffee Company for a self guided tour on the way back to Poipu. However you could easily end your day back at the resort after such an exciting morning and delicious lunch.

Make planning the rest of your Hawaii trip easier by consulting my 4 day itinerary for Kauai, or see how you can visit Oahu with a few more days too.