How to See the Na Pali Coast: Best Ways for Families to Experience Kauai’s Iconic Coastline

There are few places on Earth that live up to the hype, but the Na Pali Coast? It’s not just postcard-worthy, it’s jaw-dropping, heart-thumping, “did we seriously just see that?” kind of beautiful.

The thing is, you can’t just drive up and take a selfie. There are no roads along this wild stretch of Kauai’s northwestern coast. That’s part of what makes it magical—and also a little tricky when you’re hauling snacks, sunscreen, and a couple of kids who keep asking if there’s Wi-Fi.

So if you’re planning a family trip to Kauai (and honestly, good call), here’s a breakdown of the real ways to see the Na Pali Coast. We’ll cover the good, the bad, the salty, and the slightly pricey. Because let’s be honest—some of these adventures aren’t cheap, and you deserve to know what you’re getting into.

What Is the Na Pali Coast?

The Na Pali Coast stretches about 17 miles along the island’s north shore, carved by time, wind, and ocean into massive green cliffs, waterfalls, caves, and valleys that make you feel like you’ve stepped into Jurassic Park. (And fun fact: they filmed parts of it there.)

The Five Ways To See The Na Pali Coast

1. Boat Tours: The Most Popular and Probably Most Fun, Way to See It

One of the most popular ways to see the Nā Pali Coast is by boat. There are a few flavors of tours: catamarans, smaller zodiacs, sailing cruises, snorkeling combos, and sunset dinners.

We took a catamaran tour when my kids were ages 7 and 10, and they loved it. To get an even more amazing view and experience, when my youngest is a few years older, we will definitely take a zodiac tour. 

Cost:

Most tours range from $225 to $375 per adult. Some have slightly lower pricing for kids but not huge discounts.

Pros:

• Stunning views of the cliffs
• Some tours include snorkeling, so if your kids are not impressed by the views, they might enjoy the snorkeling
• Many tours, especially on a catamaran, include meals and drinks
• You’ll probably spot dolphins, sea turtles, and maybe even whales (in season)
• Great balance of chill time and “whoa” moments

Cons:

• Seasickness is real. Especially in the afternoon.
• Not all boats are great for young kids. Zodiacs can be bumpy and have age minimums (5 to 7, depending on the company).
• Morning tours mean early wake-ups, but I’ve read they’re smoother. Totally worth it.

Are Na Pali Coast Boat Tours Family-Friendly?

Yes, but with some caveats. Larger catamarans are the best option for families with young kids. The smaller inflatable boats (Zodiacs) are fun for teens or tweens, but can be a little too “adventurous” if your kiddo’s idea of a good time involves Goldfish crackers and a juice box.

Honest Review of Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

If you do one big splurge activity in Kauai with kids, this should probably be it. We did the tour with Holo Holo and the boys still talk about the dolphins racing the boat like it was yesterday. Pack motion sickness bands just in case, and sit near the back where the ride is gentler. If you take the afternoon tour, bring a sweatshirt for when the sun goes down.

2. Tours from the air

Helicopter tours are popular and thought of as an aspirational activity for a trip to Kauai.  Helicopters also feel differently compared to a commercial airplane that most people are used to.  A doors-on or doors-off helicopter ride over the Na Pali Coast and other parts of Kauai to see waterfalls, valleys, rainbows, and the kind of views that make you say “wow” even if you’re not usually a wow person.

If you want the same “wow” in a slightly more familiar method of air travel, consider an airplane tour.  An added bonus is the airplane tours are usually more affordable than helicopter tours.

Cost:

Usually $250–$450 per person for helicopter or $150-$200 per person for airplane. Yep, it’s a big-ticket item. Some companies offer discounts for kids or special rates if you bundle with another activity.

Pros:

• Views you literally can’t get any other way
• You’ll see way more than just Na Pali (hello, Waimea Canyon and Mt. Waialeale)
• Quick adventure, tours usually last under an hour

Cons:

• Pricey, and no family discounts with most operators
• Not ideal for little kids, noise, tight quarters, and some weight restrictions
• Weather cancellations happen, especially in winter

Are Na Pali Coast Helicopter or Airplane Tours Family-Friendly?

If your kids are older and not freaked out by loud noises or flying, absolutely. Most companies have age or weight minimums, though, so double-check before you book.

Honest Review of Na Pali Coast Helicopter or Airplane Tours

This one’s for families who want to feel something. If you can swing the cost, it’s unforgettable. But maybe don’t do it right after a big plate of loco moco.

3. Hiking the Kalalau Trail

A legendary hike that snakes along the cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. The whole trail is 11 miles (one way) and ends at the remote Kalalau Beach, but most families opt for the day hike to Hanakapi’ai Beach or Falls.

Cost:

Free for the day hike, though you’ll need a parking pass and entrance to Haena State Park (about $10 per car and $5 per person). Permits are required for overnight hikes and sell out fast.

Pros:

• Nothing beats seeing it on foot—you’re in the landscape, not just looking at it
• Hanakapi’ai Beach is a fun reward for the hike
• Waterfalls, jungle, ocean—it’s all there

Cons:

• Slippery, muddy, and steep in spots—especially after rain
• Not stroller-friendly or toddler-approved
• Limited parking unless you book a shuttle but the shuttle is not cheap

Is the Na Pali Coast Hike Family-Friendly?

We’ve only done the first 2 miles of the hike to Hanakāpī’ai Beach and then the 2 mile detour to Hanakāpī’ai Waterfall, and even that portion I would recommend only for older kids who are comfortable hiking and wearing proper shoes (no flip-flops, please!). We wouldn’t recommend it for kids under 13 unless they’re super used to hiking.

Honest Review of Na Pali Coast Hikes

My husband and I hiked in our mid-30s and made it to the falls—it was epic. We packed snacks and water and took numerous breaks. We were covered in mud and fell into the streams.  We are city folk who never hike, so we are waiting until the boys are older before we take them on this hike.

4. Kayaking the Coast: For the Adventurous (and Probably Sore)

I want this article to include all options, but this option blows my mind. I cannot imagine paddling a kayak for a 10-mile paddle along the Na Pali Coast.  Even though the kayak is usually tandem, I have never been in shape enough for something like this. 

In case you are superhuman, I will provide the research on this option. Some tours include stops at sea caves or beaches, and they’re only offered in the summer when the ocean’s calm.

Cost:

About $250–$350 per person. Includes guide, gear, and lunch. Not cheap, but it’s a full-day experience.

Pros:

• You’re as close to the coast as you can get without climbing it
• Incredible sense of accomplishment
• You might paddle right alongside dolphins or turtles

Cons:

• Long. Like… really long. Eight to ten hours kind of long.
• Superhuman physical stamina required—you’ll sleep well, promise
• Not suitable for young kids (obviously). Age minimum 16 or 17 depending on the company.

Is Kayaking the Na Pali Coast Family-Friendly?

Only for superhuman adults and teens who have kayaking experience and can handle a full day on the water. And even then, prepare to be sore the next day.

Honest Thoughts About Na Pali Coast Kayak Tours

This is the one you book when you want to say, “Yeah, we did that.” If your crew is outdoorsy and up for a challenge, it’s unforgettable. If your kids think paddling across the pool is exhausting, skip it.

5. Scenic Viewpoints

If you’re not interested in paying for a boat or air tour and don’t enjoy kayaking or hiking, there’s still an option for you to enjoy the Na Pali Coast.

You cannot drive to a place to see the vastness of the Na Pali Coast, but you can drive to a few lookouts that offer stunning views and won’t break the bank and wont require you to break a sweat.

Top Spots To View Na Pali Coast

• Ke’e Beach – This beach is located near the starting point for the Kalalau trail. When we went, it was free, but parking was tough to find.  Now there are restrictions and fees.  All the details at gohaena.com but honestly I suggest you skip this option.
• Pu’u o Kila Lookout in Koke’e State Park on the northwestern side of Kauai. It will take 90 minutes to get here from Lihue and 150 minutes from Princeville
• Pulihale State Park for sunset views from sea level. From this location you can also see the forbidden island of Ni’ihau. 

Cost:

Free-$5 park entry fee.

Pros:

• Great for younger kids with short attention spans
• Easy access for people with less mobility

Cons:

• Depending on where you are staying on Kauai, some of the lookout locations require long drives, and the roads can be windy and bumpy.  If you are prone to car sickness, be prepared; many areas of Kauai are very remote.
• You can see amazing views, but the lookouts don’t show the expanse of the Na Pali Coast as well as the other options.

Are the Scenic Viewpoints of the Na Pali Coast Family-Friendly?

As long as you don’t get car sick, the scenic viewpoints are completely family-friendly. 

Honest Thoughts About Na Pali Coast Kayak Tours

On my first trip to Kauai, we only saw the Na Pali Coast from a scenic viewpoint, and I thought it was amazing.  It wasn’t until I experienced the Na Pali Coast from a Catamaran tour that I knew the view could be even better. 

So… Which One’s Best for Your Family?

Here’s the thing: there’s no “one-size-fits-all” way to see the Na Pali Coast. What’s perfect for your crew might be a hard no for someone else. So let’s break it down:

Activity	Best For	Avoid If…
Boat Tour	Most families, all ages (catamaran)	You get motion sick even on land
Helicopter	Families with older kids, short on time	You’ve got very young kids or a tight budget
Hiking	Adventurous families with older kids	Mud, bugs, and sweat aren’t your vibe
Kayaking	Teens and active families	You just wanted to chill on vacation
Scenic Viewpoint	Easy and free	You want the best views

Best Season For Each Way To See The Na Pali Coast

• Boat tours: April to October for calmer waters
• Helicopters: Year-round, but clearer skies in summer
• Kayaking: Summer only (May–September)
• Hiking: Year-round, but avoid rainy days
• Lookouts: Any time, but mornings and evenings offer the best light

What to Pack for a Nā Pali Adventure

• Motion sickness help (Dramamine, seabands, ginger chews)
• Reef-safe sunscreen, hats, sunglasses
• Water shoes or hiking sandals
• Dry bags and extra clothes (if doing water activities)
• Snacks, especially for kids

Nā Pali Coast with Kids: What’s Realistic?

Let’s be honest: not every option is going to be a win for toddlers. That’s okay.

• Boat tours are great for school-age kids and up. Pick catamarans with space to roam.
• Helicopters are exciting but may be too intense for little ones.
• Hiking is ideal with older kids who like adventure.
• Kayaking is a no-go unless your teens are super fit.
• Lookouts are always a safe bet.

If you have toddlers, consider doing a land-based viewpoint one day and taking turns doing a boat or helicopter tour while the other parent stays back.

Final Thoughts: Memories That Stick

You know what’s funny? Months later, when we asked the boys what their favorite part of Kauai was, they didn’t say the hotel waterslide or the shaved ice (though those were high on the list). They said the boat ride.

That’s what makes the Na Pali Coast special. It’s not just a place you visit, it’s a place you feel. And whether you’re seeing it from a helicopter, the deck of a catamaran, or a muddy hiking trail, it’s the kind of experience that sticks with you long after the sunscreen fades.

So pick your path, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to be wowed.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Na Pali Coast

1. Can you drive to the Nā Pali Coast?
No, you cannot drive to the Na Pali Coast, but there are a few locations to get a partial view. For a full view, you’ll need to hike, boat, fly, or paddle.

2. What’s the best option with young kids?
Morning catamaran tours are your best bet. Avoid zodiacs or rough afternoon seas.

3. Do I need a permit to hike the Kalalau Trail?
Yes and they are limited and go quickly. Book through the Haena State Park site in advance.

4. Are boat tours canceled often?
In winter, yes. Seas can get rough. Try to book early in your trip so you have flexibility.