Kauai Kayaking

Explore the Garden Isle's stunning landscapes from the water with an unforgettable Kauai kayaking adventure! Paddle down serene rivers like the Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii, or take to the ocean and glide along the breathtaking Na Pali Coast. Guided kayaking tours offer incredible views of lush valleys, hidden waterfalls, towering cliffs, and sea caves - all while getting up close to the island's vibrant marine life. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced paddler, Kauai's calm waters and expert guides make kayaking accessible and enjoyable for all skill levels.

Kauai kayaking tours often include opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring remote beaches, offering a full day of adventure and discovery. Many excursions are family-friendly, and options range from half-day river paddles to full-day coastal expeditions. With its mix of natural beauty and peaceful waters, kayaking in Kauai offers a unique, eco-friendly way to experience the island's rich landscapes and the timeless spirit of aloha.

Explore Kauai Kayaking Tours

Kauai Adventure: Kayak & Hike to Secret Falls with Expert Guide

Explore Kauai on a family-friendly guided kayaking and hiking tour of the Wailua river valley and Uluwehi falls a.k.a. Secret Falls. A professional tour guide will take you paddling through some of Kauai's most sacred waterways and hiking through some of the most...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
5h
4.8 (1324)

Secret Falls Kayak and Hike in Kauai

Contrary to the name "Secret Falls" Uluwehi Falls has become the most popular waterfall destinations on Kauai. The paddle and hike will take some physical effort but we make everything else easy. We will provide the best hassle-free service on the river, No having to...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
4h 30m
4.8 (1249)

Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks

Experience the incredible Wailua River on this 5-6 hour, guided kayak tour on Kauai.  We are the only tour company on the Wailua river that does not conduct afternoon tours. This means we can truly take our time and enjoy the day without rushing back to host another...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
6h
4.8 (1161)

Wailua River & Waterfalls Kayak Tour: Expert-Guided Adventure

Rainbow Kayak Tours has been providing guided tours of the Wailua River for 20 years. Our experienced guides are well versed in the flora and fauna of the area, as well as the history of this incredible place.

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
4.8 (746)

Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Falls Hike With Lunch

Enjoy an idyllic kayaking and hiking adventure on Kauai’s Wailua River. Paddle down the tranquil river and admire the lush jungle landscapes on shore. Your guide will lead you on a hike to a remote waterfall, where you can soak in the splendor of this peaceful and...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
5h
4.8 (730)

Kauai Sea Kayaking 10 mile tour - Na Pali Iki (Polihale to Milolii)

A rigorous adventure is recommended for the very active. Polihale State Park to Miloli'i is a 10-mile round trip paddleA one-day 10 mile guided sea kayak adventure along the South-West portion of Kauai’s Na Pali Coast. This will be a long, impressive day of warm...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
4.9 (22)

Hanalei Bay Morning Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Our Hawaiian family takes great pride in sharing Hanalei’s rich history and culture with you. Our ocean-river combo tour departs from our private dock and will take you to a hidden beach. Learn to snorkel in the clear blue Pacific amongst our abundant marine life. Or...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
5h
4.9 (541)

Hanalei Bay PM Kayak & Snorkel in Kauai

Our Hawaiian family takes great pride in sharing Hanalei’s rich history and culture with you. Our ocean-river combo tour departs from our private dock in Hanalei and will take you to a hidden beach. Learn to snorkel in the clear blue Pacific amongst our abundant...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
4h
4.9 (72)

Hanalei River Paddle and Bay Snorkel Tours (LUNCH INCLUDED)

During your time on Kauai, enjoy a four-hour guided kayak and snorkel tour along the picturesque Hanalei River and in Hanalei Bay, which is home to the beautiful Bay Reef Lagoon. Admire the dramatic Makana Peak (Bali Hai) and get up close to tropical reef fish. As you...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
5h
4.7 (208)

Hidden Valley Falls Kayak and Kauai Hike Adventure

For a fun kayaking Kauai activity, paddle tandem kayaks along the Hule'ia River and travel deep into the heart of the Kauai island jungle. Kauai hiking, a 3/4-mile (1.2km) trek up the valley to an enchanting area of waterfalls and swimming holes. On the way back, be...

🌴 Kauai
🍍 Kayaking
3h 30m
4.7 (148)

Frequently Asked Questions

📍 Where can I go kayaking on Kauai?

Top kayaking spots include the Wailua River, Hanalei River, Hule'ia National Wildlife Refuge and Na Pali Coast sea kayaking (for experienced paddlers).

🛶 Do I need kayaking experience?

No, most guided river tours are beginner-friendly and include basic instruction. Ocean or Na Pali tours are more strenuous and best for experienced paddlers.

🐦 What wildlife or sights might I see?

You may see waterfalls, lush valleys, ancient Hawaiian temples (heiau), tropical birds and native plants along the riverbanks or shoreline.

🎒 What should I bring on a kayaking tour?

Bring water shoes, a dry bag, sunscreen, insect repellent, drinking water and a hat. Tour providers typically supply the kayak and life jacket.

👥 Are tandem kayaks available?

Yes, most tours offer both single and tandem kayaks. Tandem kayaks are ideal for couples, families, or beginner paddlers who want to share the effort.