By Stephanie Namahoe Launiu
If you’re looking to add items to your bucket list, be sure to add “snorkeling in Kauai”.
Kaua‘i has some of the best white sand beaches on the planet. The ocean temperature of Kaua‘i waters is between 71° to 81°. The coral reefs and underwater marine life make snorkeling one of the first ocean activities that Hawai‘i visitors seek out after landing on the gorgeous island of Kaua‘i.
While I know that cost is always an issue for visitors to Hawai‘i, here are so many activities to choose from. How do you know when to venture out on your own or buy an organized tour?
Why choose a snorkel tour in Kauai?
If you’re not a highly-skilled snorkeler, reserve a spot on an organized tour. It’ll be well worth it, of course. You’ll get local knowledge on the best snorkeling spots, plus you’ll also have the snorkeling equipment you’ll need finally, you’ll know that you’re snorkeling in the safest way possible.
Of all of the major Hawaiian islands, Kaua‘i has an ancient and special vibe. It’s older than all of the other islands south of it. The Nā Pali Coast area is breathtaking, especially when seeing it from the ocean. And Kaua‘i’s nearest neighbor is Ni‘ihau, the privately-owned island nicknamed The Forbidden Isle.
Choose between the two most popular Kaua‘i snorkeling tours on your Hawai‘i vacation. You can’t go wrong with either one!
Our best-selling Kauai Snorkel Tours Comparison
| Tour Features | Na Pali Coast Snorkel Sail | Niihau & Na Pali Super Tour |
|---|---|---|
| Tour Length | 5 Hours | 7 Hours |
| Tour vessel | Leila, a 50-foot sleek sailing catamaran | Powerful & comfortable catamaran— Holo Holo— has lots of covered seating & is Kaua‘i’s fastest tour vessel |
| Food (included) | Continental breakfast and gourmet deli lunch provided. For lunch, design your own sandwich from a large selection of cheeses, deli meats, pickles, condiments and vegetables. Fill up your plate with salad and pasta dishes. | Continental breakfast with a selection of pastries, eggs, vegetables and fruit, coffee, tea, and more. Gourmet Deli-Style Buffet Lunch with a selection of cheeses, deli meats, bread, and fresh fruits and vegetables are served deli-style. Also choose from a selection of pasta dishes and dessert. |
| Drinks (included) | Soft drinks and water; wine and beer served after snorkeling | Free beverages all day with beer and wine served after snorkeling. |
| What do you see? | The captain chooses the best spot depending on the conditions the day of your adventure. Experience the beauty of Napali above and below the surface. Snorkel and explore the colorful reefs. See local marine life including Hawaiian green turtles, dolphins, and more. The chance to see humpback whales (in season) | You’ll have the rare experience of viewing Hawai‘i’s most remote shores and reefs on this unforgettable adventure in the channel between Kaua‘i and Ni‘ihau, Hawai‘i’s Forbidden Island! See Lehua Crater, Ni‘ihau’s North Shore and the Napali Coast. The chance to see humpback whales (in season) |
| Where will you snorkel? | Leila takes you along the magnificent Napali coast with a stop for snorkeling in a secluded spot by the breathtaking cliffs. | On the hidden reefs of Ni‘ihau, explore clear waters and a breathtaking kaleidoscope of abundant local sea life. |
| What else is included? | All snorkel gear (including flotation devices)—as well as thorough, professional snorkeling instruction and guidance—is included in the tour. | The operator provides all gear for your voyage into the colorful underwater world. Inexperienced snorkelers are given personal instruction from the friendly crew. |
| Refund policy | Must cancel 24 hours in advance to receive a 100% Refund. For parties of 6 or more people, reservations must be cancelled at least 72 hours in advance to avoid charges. | Parties of 5 or less— we hold to a 24-hour cancellation policy. Parties of 6 or more— we hold to a 7-day cancellation policy. All no-shows or tour cancellations not compliant with the above cancellation policies are held to a 100% charge of full fare. All rescheduling within 24 hours of the scheduled check-in time will be held to a late reschedule fee of $25 per person (plus tax). |
| Good to know | Bring eco-safe sunscreen and a change of clothes. It’s a good idea to book this tour for early in your vacation stay. In case unfavorable weather conditions cause us to reschedule a day, you’ll still have time to take the tour. | This tour is usually booked up several days in advance, so be sure to reserve ahead of time. You can even book a tour before you leave home.As the cruise and the snorkeling depend on weather conditions, we recommend booking this tour during the first days of your visit. That way, you’ll be able to reschedule in case conditions require cancellation. |
| Adult Price* | $240 | $310 |
* At time of publishing, subject to change