10/10 experience!!! A must do when visiting! Especially with captain Chellan and crew member Casey…read more Unforgettable!

We couldn't have been happier with the tour that we chose for our na Pali coast tour…read more We went with a bigger boat that could still fit in the caves, which ended up being the best choice. It had a little bit of cover, so as a ginger that burns, I sat towards the front and was able to stay mostly out of the sun the entire trip We were able to learn so much about the land, cruised next to a massive pod of dolphins and went in two caves. It was amazing. When we got to the snorkel spot they brought out some drinks and snacks. Snacks included fresh pineapple, chips and granola bars. They do have a bathroom on board for emergencies....but they let you know straight up it's not something you WANT to use if you can avoid it. My only complaint is that they didn't urge people to stay seated on the ride back. This older gentleman decided to come up and stand right next to me to jump and ride the waves? And kept slamming into me and stepping on my feet. Our bench was full so I had no room to move over. I asked him nicely to stop and he ignored me, and the guides ignored him. There are signs all over saying to stay seated when the boat is moving.

We had such an amazing cruise along the NaPali coast. Captain Kelly, Luke and one other crew member…read moredid an awesome job. We were greeted by a pod of spinner dolphins riding the waves of our bow. They served up a delicious breakfast and lunch. We got to snorkel up against some majestic sea cliffs and sail along remote valleys and waterfalls on a beautiful turquoise ocean . This is an adventure to experience. We will be back!

Priceless. If you love being on the water, this is the excursion for you. The crew was phenomenal…read more We never needed or wanted anything. We saw many whales, spinner dolphins, and a baby monk seal. The views & water at the Napali coast were breathtaking. Cap Kevin took us right up to the waterfall & cave where Hawaiian royalty bathed. It's also a little thrill ride at times, as Cap is masterful at getting you around to see everything and still be back on land in a timely manner. The sunset was gorgeous and the food and drink was phenomenal. This was the highlight of our trip to Kauai and we did some pretty magical things!

Without a doubt, the best experience I've had on the island. It was a blast from start to finish…read more If you're more into adventure and thrill, this is the ticket. They take you into caves and aren't afraid to squeeze in. What we didn't expect, getting MAJA island stories and information while the captain/DJ plays some great music and choreographed movie scores to go with the vibes. We met hundreds of SPINNA dolphins and during the one hour snorkel stop, we were escorted by a beautiful Honu across the reef. The wife and I talk about this trip all the time. The jokes and good conversations are something to remember from the staff as well.

Easily One of the Best Experiences of My Life - 10/10 Would Do Again…read more If you're debating whether or not to book with Nā Pali Pirates, just do it. Hands down one of the coolest things I've ever done. Captain Dom was the perfect mix of chill, knowledgeable, and safety-conscious--dude knew exactly how to handle the boat, even when we got up close and personal with some pretty intense waves near the cliffs and caves. And Chaz? Absolute legend. Kept the vibes light with some solid (and delightfully cheesy) jokes, plus he snapped a ton of pics so we could actually enjoy the moment without worrying about our phones. But the real highlights? Getting insanely close to the cliffs and feeling the sheer power of the ocean, then just floating out in the middle of nowhere, taking it all in. Oh, and did I mention we saw THREE whale breaches and a bunch of dolphins? Unreal. If you're on the fence, take this as your sign to book it. Zero regrets, just pure adventure.

This was the Best Day Of Fishing Ever!! This Skipper & Crew are so fun and really know how to HOOK…read moreEM!! We Caught 6 Skip Jack, & 3 150 LB Plus Yellow Fin Tuna! Book A Trip Out with Imua, You Will Be Grateful You Did!!!

What an awesome trip. Ikena and Randy are awesome. I highly recommend this crew…read more As a boat guy I am very picky about the boat I take on the ocean. The boat was very clean and probably the nicest boat here in Lihue. Caught a huge 250lb marlin and what an experience. I will absolutely go out with them again when we come back. The guys are super friendly and easy to talk with. If you want to go fishing this is the place. Thanks for an adventure none of us will ever forget.

I have no words to properly describe what an absolutely magical experience it was being guests on…read moreCaptain A'a's boat with Liliana as crew. A'a and Liliana are so hospitable and knowledgeable about Kaua'i, and the best part of the tour for me was listening to their stories and the rich history of the island. Captain A'a is an impressive captain. He knows his stuff! I felt completely comfortable and confident in his abilities as he effortlessly navigated the NaPali Coast and the sea caves!! We went inside two caves, and it was an incredible experience. The boat was very comfortable with all the amenities. We were on Seiko 1 with a total of 15 guests. It was lovely! I could have stayed on the boat enjoying A'a's stories, the sunshine, the gorgeous NaPali coastline, watching the spinner dolphins dance and jump around the boat all day! I've been coming to Kaua'i for 20 years (along with Maui, Molaka'i, Oahu, and the Big Island) and have been on MANY boat tours. This tour with Makana Charters was by far THE VERY BEST. If you are considering doing a tour while on the island of Kaua'i, you absolutely MUST book with this company. Everything was perfect. We will definitely be back - you've got customers for life, Makana Charters!! Mahalo!!! Allie and Scott San Diego, CA

While vacation planning for Kauai, one of the things I wanted to do was see the Na Pali Coast. I…read morewas scared to hike as I'm not physically fit for that and helicopter rides were a no for me. So I opted for a boat tour! I chose makana charters because of how detailed they were in their information as different tours tour the coast in different areas. With this tour, included lunch and snorkeling. What I didn't want was a fancy lunch because what I'm really there for is to see the Na Pali Coast and everything else was just an extra for me. The lunch was very simple which I like especially because it can get very nauseous. I wanted to do the snorkeling part, but I also wanted my husband to do it, but he's not a confident swimmer so I stayed with him and watched people snorkel which was totally fine. We did the early morning tour and it was beautiful! The weather was perfect! Our tour guides went around us as we were enjoying the way to the coast and asked us where we were from. They also showed us the forbidden island and told us some history of the island and how certain areas locals would camp but a permit would be needed. They also tried to get into caves as deep as they can go and also showed us where Mary J Blige recorded her music video for everything. We also saw some dolphins going and come back from the coast! The coast was just as magical and beautiful!

We can't recommend Kauai Sailing Charters enough - it's a truly unique and very personal…read moreexperience, impossible to get anywhere else (doesn't compare to the crowded touristy catamaran cruises). It was just 5 of us on a beautiful new 41-foot sailboat Beneteau Oceanis that Karen and Woody recently brought from Seattle with their crew. All of us who wanted to try taking the helm of this gorgeous vessel got plenty of opportunities to practice our skills (and get some guidance from the captains as my skills haven't really included steering such a big boat in an open ocean). It was exhilitating, engaging and fun! Others enjoyed the breathtaking views, fresh ocean breeze, turquoise-emerald water and friendly conversations. The highlights of the sail of course were close encounters with majestic humpback whales. We saw a number of mothers with their calfs, breaching and playing in safe proximity of us. We enjoyed some of the big whales waving at us while leaning on their backs and exposing their lovely while bellies. It was all surreal and breathtaking! As we approached the port on the way back, captain Karen served us a delicious aperitif (I should say a feast!) with delicious healthy snacks and chilled beer and wine (that never tasted better after a day at sea). We'd love to take Woody and Karen for their immense hospitality and Pam for taking gorgeous pictures. We can't wait to be back!

Wonderful time at sea with Karen and Woody. Highly recommend this private sail. Wonderful nibbles…read moreapres-sail.

We three adults had the most lovely calming cruise on the river here in Kauai lasting around an…read morehour and a half at sunset - Calm water, incredibly gorgeous greenery - Captain Stevie was welcoming and joyful and shared all the history of the area to enlighten us - His mate Becca took care of us beautifully with drinks and snacks My family and I had such an incredibly enjoyable time - I recommend this for anyone visiting the island of Kauai

From the owner: Founded in 1983 in Lihue Kauai, our company Kauai beach boys has Specialized in the boating and…read morewater sports business for 40 years. We’re very proud to introduce our newest product, a 50 foot power beach catamaran. Built new in 2018, we offer historically narrated sunset cocktail cruises up the Hule’ia River and Kalapaki bay. With no motion sickness worries this is a one of a kind tour.

One of the best boat trips ever taken! Captain Cole & Crew were AMAZING on every level as was the…read moreride. Being Kamaʻāina, been on plenty boats but this one is definitely not to be missed! MAHALO & A hui hou kākou

For most recreational sailors, 20-knot winds with 5-foot seas would be considered moderately rough…read moreto challenging, depending on the boat and the crew. Here's a practical classification: * Wind: 20 knots (23 mph) * Fresh breeze (Beaufort Force 5) * Whitecaps are common. * Reefing the sails is often recommended. * Experienced sailors generally enjoy these conditions. * Beginners may find them intimidating. * Seas: 5 feet * Moderate waves with regular swells. * Boats will pitch and roll noticeably. * Spray over the bow is common. * Can become uncomfortable, especially for smaller boats. Overall rating * For a 20- to 30-foot sailboat: Challenging. Suitable only for experienced sailors. * For a 35- to 45-foot cruising sailboat: Moderate to moderately rough. Manageable with proper sail handling. * For beginners or passengers: Rough and potentially uncomfortable. If you're asking about a sailing excursion in Kauaʻi I'd classify 20 knots and 5-foot seas as: * Marginal to poor for a leisurely sightseeing sail. * Acceptable for experienced crews on larger, well-equipped catamarans. * Not ideal if your goal is a smooth, relaxing cruise or if you have balance issues or are prone to seasickness. Given what I know about your mobility and balance, I would recommend waiting for conditions closer to: * Wind: 10-15 knots or less * Seas: 2-4 feet Those conditions are generally much more comfortable and enjoyable for most passengers. This a money making joke. I tried to get a refund because I walk with a cain. There response tuff luck I should not have booked.

DRAMAMINE, y'all…read more You're choosing to do the Na'Pali coast from the North Shore, which means smaller boats, and choppier waves. I took one Dramamine, the night before. Then another, an hour before our departure. AND THE BOAT RIDE WAS GREAT. I was all smiles and adventure and breathing -in the ocean air and wind! Unlike, a few folks, who were NOT doing so well. (One or two barfed over the side, but thankfully I didn't notice. Know how your body handles boats and waves. Don't do tours like this, without proper prep. It will NOT be fun if you underestimate it.) Check-In staff was super friendly, and personal. They remembered me from my original email. Sweet. Parking was easy. Shuttles team was super friendly. The strangers we rode with, all turned out to be cool. 2 boats go out (mini-catamarans, with cover from the sun). They expertly traverse the waves, and cliffs, and the caves, giving you some amazing first-hand visuals and photos. But yeah, that boat will be a rockin', during those up-close cave moments. Spoiler: You probably won't see whales, unless you're there before May. But we DID see a cute pod of Dolphins, who cozy'd up to our boat for a while. Our boat had Casey and Spencer. They were wise beyond their years, in all things Kauai. Funny and friendly. Spencer navigated the heck out of those waves, while Casey handled the nauseous passengers with MOTHERLY CARE. Spencer was 50/50 on allowing us to snorkel, based on conditions and a previous scare, a few weeks prior. But he ultimately made the call to GET IN THE WATER. He wisely kept us on a leash (not literally), whistling at swimmers when they got too close to a reef (with waves that could wash you onto the reef). It was fun and chill. Saw a HUGE, MASSIVE KING DADDY SEA TURTLE. He did not enjoy us as much as we enjoyed him and he bounced. Followed by a JR. Turtle, who stuck around a bit longer. Tons of fish. Spencer & Casey gave us good food and hike recommendations, and everyone treated us like friends / family. Highly recommend this team if you're going out. And you already know I highly recommend some Dramamine.

I had an amazing experience doing the Na Pali Coast tour with them. Had to reschedule the tour due…read moreto some rough weather but glad we got a better slot with calmer conditions. The captains were very informative, knowledgeable and engaging. They gave great background and history about all the spots we saw. We even saw some dolphins up close. We got to sit at the bow of the boat on the way back. They gave us snorkeling gear and allowed us to go out in the water and explore. We saw some amazing sea life and coral reefs. They gave us lunch, snacks and soda after. The ride there and back was also very smooth. I would highly recommend booking a tour with them!

I grew up here. It started when it was Kauai Surf. Then the Westin. I believe the area near the…read morecliff at the lighthouse was called "Donkeys". Near the wall closest to the foreground is wear I stepped on a sea urchin in the 8th grade. And the shore at the hotel was where I leisurely swam.

The Kalapaki Beach is located in front of the Royal Sonesta Resort, and it provides convenient…read moreaccess to dining and shopping. I like the protected and calm water, although it's often overwhelmed with tourists from cruises.