Kayak the Na Pali Coast - the ultimate paddling experience

Haena, Kauai

The Na Pali Coast of Kauai is legendary, featuring 3,000 foot cliffs towering over aqua blue coastal waters. The 17 miles of remote coastline wilderness are unreachable by car and boating, hiking or helicoptering in are your only options to get a glimpse of this hidden natural spectacle. The paddling trek on a kayak is by far the most profound way to experience this wilderness. Though not for everyone, those who sign onto the full day adventure of paddling the coast will have a life long memory of the epic natural rock cathedral spires that tower over head, and the epic blue ocean. At a Glance: Highlights: As you paddle down the coast the peace and quiet sets in as you drift below some of the most extraordinary geological sights on Kauai. When conditions are calm, you can even explore hidden sea caves and beaches that bigger boats can not reach. Activity Level: Moderate-extreme depending on your paddle experience and weather. Paddlers are responsible through there own efforts to make this journey happen. Hazards: Launch and landings require attention to details that your guide will explain. Personal Floatation Vests are provided and recommended. Time Length: 6 to 10 hours paddling 2 hours driving. Cost: $240 plus tax, offered daily weather permitting April through September This ultimate paddle experience is primarily a summertime adventure due to more favorable wind and ocean conditions. When the conditions are unfavorable, the trip will not go out so rest assured your safety and enjoyment is paramount in planning this trip. During the summer trips go out daily starting with a 6 a.m. meet and great at the Kayak Kauai offices at Wailua Marina. Reservations are required. Kayak Kauai are the industry leaders in this trek, their "novice" on our trip had 8 year experience and the other had 15 years. These are the guys you want watching your back for a day on this stretch of ocean. Once you have signed in and are provided personal floatation vests and "wet-dry" bags you begin an adventure that will take you completely around the island in 12+ hours. Serious bragging rights may ensue for all those on board by days end. A 45 minute van ride takes you to past the town of Hanalei to the launch point of Haena County Beach Park. The pre-launch paddle lessons and safety warnings are valuable information, with the #1 rule of the day being, have fun! Though I might also recommend the "don't loose your paddle" as a close second rule. The 1st mile of paddling in your double seater kayak becomes the proving ground. Basically you have a mile to get your head geared into this activity, before passing the point of no return. Two guides work with your group, one in the lead and one in the rear. They are very present in this beginning process to get you aware of the effort and focus needed to make the full days journey. As one guide said, "after we get on the water we have to be real, which is not always bei…