I love adventure, and Captain Andy’s Na Pali Cave Expedition was one of the best tours I experienced while visiting Kauai. When planning our vacation, I knew we needed to take a boat tour of the Nā Pali Coast. You can only visit this coast by boat, air, or on foot, and thanks to Captain Andy’s, we were able to experience the beauty of the coastline by sea. We went on this six-hour tour during our trip in May 2025, and I can genuinely say it was one of the highlights of our entire vacation. If you’re planning to travel to Kauai, keep reading to find out why this is a must-do experience.
The Start of the Adventure
Our tour was led by Captains Robert and Keanu. They made a great team, and I appreciated how caring and genuine they were. We arrived at Kikiaola Harbor at 9:00 AM, where we were greeted by Captain Andy’s crew. After a quick check-in, they handed out waterproof dry bags for our belongings—believe me, you’ll want one because it can get splashy on the ride.
I recommend bringing a towel and a water-resistant rain jacket. I get cold easily, so I ended up wearing mine on the way back. If you want to take pictures, feel free to bring a camera or your phone, but be sure to protect it when you go through the sea caves. Please note that drones are not allowed, so leave those at home. You’ll also need to remove your shoes before boarding the raft, and you’ll be sitting side-saddle with your feet tucked under a rope, so holding on is important. There are only two jump seats in the back, so be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride.
Riding the Waves
After a brief safety briefing, we boarded a sleek 24-foot rigid-hull raft and set out to sea. The captain played an energetic mix of upbeat songs and hard rock, which created a lively atmosphere and got us excited for the adventure ahead. I loved the smaller size of the boat; it made the journey feel more personal and incredibly fun. The Nā Pali Coast looked like something out of a dream.
We were fortunate with the weather—it was the first day of summer, and the conditions were perfect. I took Dramamine beforehand, which I recommend if you tend to get seasick, but the waves were calm that day. On our way out, the captain and crew shared fascinating information about the island and its history. We spotted dolphins swimming close to the boat, a few sea turtles, and even a small whale on our return journey. It was truly amazing!
@lexpaigeandtheodore Sea caves and soaking up some Nā Pali Coast magic. 💫♥️ #NaPaliCoast #CaptainAndys #KauaiAdventures #Fyp #Kauai #Hawaii @Captain Andy’s Na Pali Kauai
Taking the Plunge
About twenty minutes in, we stopped the boat, and we were able to jump in for a swim. I was nervous — I’ll be honest, sea creatures scare me a little — but the water was crystal clear, and you only live once, right? Swimming in the deep blue ocean, surrounded by the cliffs of the Nā Pali Coast, was truly magical. The water was incredibly clear, refreshing, and at the perfect temperature. I can confidently say that I have officially cannonballed off a boat in Hawaii into the Pacific Ocean, and honestly, that’s a pretty cool experience.
The Sea Caves
I’ll never forget the caves. Every minute inside them was pure awe. Some we cruised through slowly, and others we sped through — including one with a waterfall pouring down over the entrance. It was terrifying and exhilarating all at once. We got so close to the cliffs and caves, I felt like we were in a movie.
We explored several caves, including Wai’napanapa, Puka Lani, Waiwaipuhi, and my personal favorite, Waiʻahuʻakua. The Double-Door Cave at Waiahuakua Valley is more of a tunnel than a traditional cave, featuring separate entrances and exits. We were fortunate to visit this cave, as access is dependent on favorable weather conditions. It stretches about 1,155 feet long and has a stunning waterfall that cascades through a hole in the ceiling from a height of 3,800 feet. We sped through it, and it was like something out of an action scene. Waiʻahuʻakua means God’s Water Altar, and this part of the tour was easily one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. Huge thanks to the Captain Andy’s crew for making it happen.
A Hidden Village and Snorkeling
Midway through our trip, we stopped at Nu‘alolo Kai, an ancient Hawaiian fishing village nestled in the cliffs. This location is accessible only by permitted boats, like those from Captain Andy’s, and is rich in history. We had the opportunity to explore restored archaeological sites and learn about the village’s history. The atmosphere was quiet, peaceful, and honestly quite surreal. I truly enjoyed discovering the preservation efforts for both the land and its heritage. One special highlight was spotting a monk seal as well. The beach was secluded, making it a wonderful way to spend the day in Kauai.
We also got to snorkel right off the beach in the vibrant reef. They provide all the gear and defogging solution, so you are all set. The water was incredibly clear, filled with fish, and it felt like something straight out of a postcard. After snorkeling, we were served a picnic lunch on the raft, which included a sandwich, pesto pasta, a cookie, and juice. It was simple but delicious, and enjoying lunch with a view of the coastline made it even better.
The Crew Made the Experience
One of the things I appreciated most was the crew. They were not only professional and skilled but also genuinely kind. They made sure everyone had the chance to get photos at all the scenic spots. Whether it was inside a sea cave or along the coast, they gave each group time to capture memories before moving on.
The Lex Paige Reaction
Hands down, Captain Andy’s Na Pali Cave Expedition Best Tour on Kauai is the best! If you’re an adrenaline junkie, this tour is absolutely for you. We had a blast, and I would 100% do it again. I recommend it to anyone visiting Kauai who wants a mix of adventure, nature, and history.
That said, this tour is not for everyone. I wouldn’t recommend this tour for the elderly, those with back or physical conditions, or very small children. The ride can be intense, and the conditions change fast. Captain Andy’s crew checks weather conditions right up to departure and may adjust the itinerary to keep everyone safe and comfortable. If you’re headed to Kauai and want a tour that blends culture, epic scenery, and unforgettable adventure, Captain Andy’s Na Pali Cave Expedition is the one. It’s more than just a tour — it’s a core memory.
With Love,
Lex Paige
