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Napali Coast Boat Tours Kauai

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If you’re going to Kauai, you likely know that the #1 thing to do there is see the Napali Coast. If you’re done any research at all, you probably know that it’s not just something you can drive up and see. Kauai’s Napali Coast is so isolated and rugged that it can only be seen by air, from sea, or on foot. You’ll find information about the pros and cons of seeing it each way here, but this post is all about seeing it from the water!

The best time to do a boat tour down the Napali Coast is during the summer months (April to October). This is when ocean conditions are calmest. Tours are offered (only leaving from the south side) during the winter months, but they’re frequently cancelled due to high surf.

There are a TON of companies that offer boat tours down the Napali Coast, so narrowing it down can be a little tricky. I strongly suggest picking a tour operator that leaves out of Hanalei instead of Port Allen (or anywhere on the south side). When you leave out of Hanalei, your whole tour is up and down the Napali Coast. When you leave out of Port Allen, you have to sail for almost an hour before you even get to the Napali Coast, and to make it back within the four hour allotted tour time, the boats often turn back early and you don’t even get to see the entire coast. Leaving out of Hanalei is only an option during the summer months though due to weather. If your trip is during the winter months, your only choices will be to leave from the south shore.

You’ll also have to narrow down what kind of boat you’ll take on your tour. Boats range from small ocean rafts to large catamarans. When you have an option, always go out on a smaller boat. The big catamarans (although cheaper) can’t venture into the sea caves and that’s one of the best parts of the Napali Coast. Most of the tours on Zodiacs (ocean rafts) are advertised as “snorkel cruises” or “snorkel adventures,” but don’t go in expecting too much. These are definitely boat tours of the Napali Coast to revel in the scenery of one of the most magnificent parts of Hawaii with a (sub par) snorkeling spot thrown in. It’s not terrible, but I’ve done a few different tours that stop at different spots and it has never been anything to write home about. You’re going to see the scenery and enjoy being out on the water.

Like I mentioned before, there are so many tour operators to choose from. If you follow the criteria I’ve outlined above when looking, you’ll end up having a great time. I can’t speak about every single tour, but here are a couple I recommend:

Kauai Helicopter Tours: Who Is the Best Company?

Kauai was pretty much made to be seen from the air. Only 20% of the island is developed which means that most visitors only see a tiny fraction of its splendors. And boy does it have splendors. I personally think that Kauai is the most beautiful of the Hawaiian Islands. Sadly, many of its most beautiful sites are so remote and difficult to reach that they remain unseen by all but the most intrepid hikers.

There are a TON of companies that offer helicopter tours of Kauai, so how do you know which one to pick? First of all, I don’t believe this is something you shop around the find the best deal. Helicopter and small airplane crashes aren’t unheard of in Hawaii and it’s usually a result of inexperienced pilots or ill maintained equipment. This is a time when paying more to go with a reputable company is a necessity. While I’m not going to do a rundown on every helicopter company in this post, I’m going to let you know my top three and you can pick based on what you’re looking for.

Blue Hawaiian: Blue Hawaiian is the granddaddy of all the tour operators. They fly on every major island, and their fleet is modern and impressive. I think they offer the most comfortable flight conditions available. They only fly doors ON flights. Their flights start at $269/person. Read reviews and search for discounts here.

On my last trip to Kauai, I flew on an 8:30AM departure with Blue Hawaiian on their 50 minute circle island flight. Their flights leave out of the Lihue Heliport, which is right next to the airport. Blue Hawaiian’s headquarters are in a nice building with a check-in desk, gift shop, restrooms, and safety briefing area. When you check in, they take your weight really discretely (I didn’t even know that’s what they were doing!) and this is how they determine seating assignments. About a half hour before our flight, we watched a safety video and got our personal flotation devices (a small pouch you wear strapped around your waist). This is also where we got our pilot’s name and seat assignments (there were three helicopters leaving at our departure time).

Next we went outside and waited on the lanai and watched the helicopters land from the previous tour, unload, and get refueled before we were loaded on. This flight was on an ecostar, which is known for being one of the more “comfortable” aircrafts you can fly on. It had four seats in the back and three in the front (including the pilot). I was seat #1 which is front middle right next to the pilot so I was the first one loaded. The flight crew led us out to the helipad one by one, buckled us in, and handed us our headsets. Once I was loaded, I could talk to the pilot through my headset.

Although I was a little nervous beforehand, I got a little psyched out once I was buckled in, but as soon as we were in the air I was completely fine. I’m not crazy about heights and was worried I might have some anxiety/panic being up that high, but it didn’t bother me AT ALL.

The Best Tour Operators for Biking Down Haleakala (Maui’s Dormant Volcano)

One of the most popular tourist attractions on Maui is Haleakala, a large dormant volcano whose slopes are the heartland of Maui. While tons of people ascend to the summit each morning to watch the sunrise, the lucky ones get to follow it up with a downhill bike ride from summit to sea.

In my opinion, biking down Haleakala is one of the best ways to experience the crater and Upcountry Maui while getting a little dose of excitement (van tours can be sooooo boring!). You don’t even need to be in great shape to do the bike ride…it’s all downhill! When I’ve done it, I probably pedaled less than about 10 rotations the entire time (this might vary depending if you’re ending in Paia or Haiku).

There used to be dozens of companies that offered some version of a sunrise/bike tour down Haleakala, but in efforts to minimize the impact of visitors to the National Park, starting in 2018 only four companies where awarded permits to operate road tours within the park.

So while many companies used to take you up to the summit in a van so you could see sunrise, and then put you on your bike at the entrance to the National Park (no bike rides are available WITHIN the park), the options are now much fewer. There’s only one company that offers sunrise tours at the summit with the option to bike down. There’s another company that offers the same but it also includes ziplining. And there’s also the option of going with a company that will take you up midmorning (no sunrise), and put you on bikes just outside of the National Park entrance. Depending on what you’re looking for (and what your budget is), all three can be good options. I’ll detail the three companies I recommend below, but first I would caution to look out for companies who promise sunrise at Haleakala with a bike tour but don’t have a permit. If you go with them, you’ll be watching sunrise from about 6,700 feet (outside the National Park entrance), not the summit. And if you’re going to go through the trouble of getting up that early and trekking all the way up there, you really ought to see it from the top.

RELATED: Not very familiar with Maui? Read up on the lay of the is(land) and where to stay plus my favorite beach resorts, budget hotels, Airbnbs, honeymoon resorts, family friendly resorts, luxury resorts, and boutique hotels plus my area specific guides (including where to stay, eat, and things to do) for Wailea and Ka’anapali.

Bike Maui: Bike Maui is the only company that has a permit to offer van tours to the summit for sunrise in conjunction with a bike ride down. They’re pretty much the easiest route if you want to see sunrise (as a tour) and bike down. They have options for either self-paced or group tours. For me, I knew I didn’t want to ride down the mountain with a pack of people and be confined to where the guide chose to stop and their time constraints. So I definitely prefer a self paced tour. Many people pick the group led tour because they think they’ll be on their own if something happens along the way on a self-paced ride. Don’t let that be a deciding factor. Bike Maui will provide you with DETAILED instructions for how to contact them if you need roadside assistance (this covers everything from a flat tire to being too tired to finish to having one too many margaritas at lunch). They’ll also provide you with everything you need (i.e. full-face helmets, rain suits, backpacks, locks, and maps). I would suggest bringing water, sunscreen, and a jacket (especially if you’re doing the sunrise tour, in which case you’ll want PLENTY of layers). The only thing I dislike about Bike Maui is that on the self guided tour you end your ride in Haiku instead of Paia. It’s a cute little town on the north shore (more inland), although not as walkable and appealing as Paia. Guests must be at least 12 years old for this tour. Pickup from resort areas in West and South Maui is included in guided tours and is an additional $25/person for self guided tours. Self guided sunrise tours can be booked starting at $160/person (with an online early booking discount). Guided tours (with stops at Kula Marketplace and Paia) can be booked starting at $200/person. Read more reviews and search for discounts here.

5 Best Spas on Oahu

Hawaii is home to some of the world’s best spas and resorts and while Oahu doesn’t do luxury and relaxing experiences quite as well as some of the other islands (mainly Maui), there are still quite a few noteworthy spas on the island. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious setting, a connection to ancient Hawaiian culture, lavish treatments, or convenience, you’ll find something that suits you at these Oahu spas:

Moana Lani Spa (Moana Surfrider): The best spa in Waikiki is located in the heart of the strip in the most historic hotel in Hawaii while still feeling a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There’s a huge menu of offerings available at lower prices than you’ll find at the spas in Ko’olina and Turtle Bay. You can also purchase a spa day pass to use the facilities (lockers, steam room, whirlpool, sauna, and lounge overlooking the ocean. Find more information here.

Nalu Kinetic Spa (Turtle Bay): If you’re staying on or near Oahu’s famed north shore, this is your best spa option. The oceanfront facility offers a wide range of treatment options including traditional Hawaiian practices. They offer the unique option of a sunset massage as well as weekly happy hour specials (Monday through Friday) which include special deals on treatments that all include a glass of bubbly. Find more information here.

16 Best Breakfast Spots on Maui

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day, and with the time difference in Hawaii, I ALWAYS find myself ready for a big breakfast early in the morning. Here are some of my favorite breakfast spots on Maui, divided up by each part of the island. Also check out my post on my favorite local spots to eat on Maui as many of them serve food all day long and have great breakfast menus.

West Side

808 Grindz: If you want to chow down on some local Hawaiian favorites, you’ve got to come to 808 Grindz. Their menu features a selection of local favorites that are $8.08 all day long. It’s definitely the place to try a loco moco…in fact there’s a whole menu with variations of them.

Plantation House: Head to the Plantation course at Kapalua, for breakfast with a view. With an ocean view and set back into the quiet resort community, this is a spot for a special celebration or just a leisurely breakfast.

Gazebo: Located right on Napili Bay overlooking the beach, this is probably the most popular breakfast spot on the west side. It’s tiny and there’s always a line for a table (they don’t take reservations) but the food is delicious and it has a good ole mom and pop vibe. This place wins for best breakfast on the west side.

Leoda’s Pie Shoppe: Actually it’s located in Olowalu (next to a roadside fruit stand and across from one of Maui’s best snorkeling spots). This is a great little all around restaurant but they’re known for their pies. The chocolate mac-nut one is my go to. Also, they’re mini sized get several different kinds and make your own sampler.

South Side

Kihei Caffe: This is my favorite spot for breakfast on the beach. It’s a total dive but the food is GREAT and you can’t beat the location. Go early or be prepared to wait in line. The pancakes are amazing and you can get them with a variety of toppings. This place wins for best breakfast on the beach.

WowWow Lemonade: I cannot rave enough about this place! Locally made, fresh to order lemonade in a mason jar??? Yes please. But I think the real star here are the acai bowls. This is the best smoothie bowl I’ve had anywhere in Hawaii. They’re made fresh (not frozen!) so they’re very accommodating to both allergies and tastes.

11 Best Fine Dining Restaurants on Maui

If you’re anything like me, your vacations may occasionally (alright, often) revolve around food. There’s nothing wrong with planning your days around meals right? Right?? Anyways, if you’re going to be on Maui, you’ve got to squeeze in at least a couple of nice dinners. So here are my 11 favorite fine dining restaurants on Maui:

West Side (Lahaina/Ka’anapali/Kapalua)

Merriman’s: THE spot for fine dining in West Maui. Merriman’s overlooks Kapalua Bay and if you’re there around sunset, you’ll more than likely witness a wedding or two. The cuisine is farm to table Hawaii regional cuisine.

Lahaina Grill: Located on Front Street, Lahaina Grill is one of the best restaurants in Lahaina. It’s not on the water and its atmosphere is simple but elegant but what you’re really coming here for is the food. It’ll cost you a pretty penny but it just may be one of the best meals of your trip.

Pacifico: This seafood restaurant is about as beachfront as dining gets on Maui. It’s conveniently located in Lahaina just off Front Street, but it’s tucked away a bit so it feels miles away from the noise of all the bars and restaurants further down. This is a great spot of a nice sunset dinner and then a stroll through town.

23 Best Local Restaurants on Maui

Are you heading to Maui and looking for some off the beaten path local spots? I’ve rounded up some of the best places to eat in Maui including my favorite places for plate lunches, seafood, loco mocos, and more! They’re sorted by different parts of the island, and not only do these places have good grub, but they’re high on local charm as well.

West Maui

Aloha Mixed Plate: Located right on the water (and right next to the Old Lahaina Luau), this is the perfect spot to try local style food, but with an atmosphere that’s more appealing to tourists.

Star Noodle: Star Noodle is one of the most popular restaurants in Lahaina and gets consistently good ratings for the quality of the food. It’s also not located on Front Street (the touristy part of town) so the prices are decent. This is a great place to experience local food in a classy but low key environment. This place wins for best food in Lahaina.

Joey’s Kitchen at Whaler’s Village: Most of the best local food spots on Maui aren’t in touristy areas which means if you’re staying at a resort, it’s hard to find options nearby. Joey’s is the answer to that problem on Ka’anapali Beach. Find local favorites to go at this spot at Whaler’s Village.

Ono Kau Kau: One of the best spots for a quick plate lunch in West Maui. Hawaiian, Chinese, and seafood specials are all served at this counter service spot that’s open all day.

808 Grindz Café: If you’re looking for good, hearty food at a reasonable price, you’ll find it here in Lahaina. Think fluffy pancakes in a variety of flavors and plenty of local plates (like loco moco). It’s in a little strip mall and there’s no view, but it’s definitely one of Maui’s top breakfast spots (they’re also open for lunch).

Down the Hatch: It’s hard to find a restaurant on Front Street (Lahaina) that’s not a total tourist trap, but this spot combines great island inspired seafood specialties with a fun atmosphere. They’re open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner plus they have good happy hour and late night specials. Also check out Breakwall Shave Ice next door which is home to the first “adult” shave ice in Hawaii.

Guide to Ka’anapali, Maui: Where to Stay, Where to Eat, & What to Do

Ka’anapali is a resort area in West Maui that’s anchored by the ultra nice Ka’anapali beach. Originally developed in the 1960s, it remains the most popular place to stay and play on Maui. The old whaling village of Lahaina is nearby so you’ll be right in the middle of the majority of dining and accommodation options on this side of the island. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the airport (in Kahului) to the Ka’anapali resort area.

If you’ve just started researching where to stay on Maui and you’re stuck between whether south Maui (Wailea and Kihei) or west Maui (Ka’anapali/Lahaina/Kapalua) is better, read this post.

Where to Stay

Ka’anapali Beach

Westin Maui Resort & Spa: This is my number one hotel recommendation for families visiting Maui (especially if you want to be on the west side). It’s located right on Ka’anapali Beach (which is great for swimming and snorkeling) next door to the Whaler’s Village, which has a lot of shopping and dining options. There are also snorkel catamarans that pick up right on the beach. The resort has a huge “aquatic complex” with five pools (one for adults only) and a great waterslide. There are parrots and flamingos on the grounds and there’s a kid’s club as well. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Sheraton Maui: Most Sheraton resorts are pretty family friendly and this one is no different. It’s located on Ka’anapali Beach (just a few doors down from the Westin) right in front of Black Rock (one of Maui’s most popular snorkeling spots). It has a nice pool area and several dining options. You can also walk down the bike path to the Whaler’s Village for shopping and dining. Pricing starts at $240/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort: This recently renovated resort also sits on Ka’anapali Beach (the opposite end of the Sheraton) and has a lovely pool area and kids club. The real selling point of this resort though are the penguins! Seven African black-footed penguins have taken up residence in the hotel’s atrium lobby and they’re a sight to see! They have feedings every day. Stop by and check them out if you’re in the Ka’anapali area. Pricing starts at $250/night. Click here to check pricing and availability during your stay.

Marriott Ocean Club: The Marriott has a great location on Ka’anapali Beach that will keep you in the middle of the action while still staying at a familiar property (if you track points through Starwood or Marriot, that may be of interest to you). Click here to check pricing and availability.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: Located right on bustling Ka’anapali Beach, the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel is the perfect place to stay on Maui’s west side. Located on the Ka’anapali beach walk nearby the Sheraton, Westin, and Hyatt, you’ll enjoy being in west Maui’s gorgeous resort area at a fraction of the price. This charming “old Hawaii” hotel starts at $149/night. Click here to check pricing for your dates.

The Whaler on Ka’anapali: This condo resort is right on the beach and has all of the amenities of the big resorts (nice pool area, gardens, beach rentals) at a fraction of the price with the added bonus of getting much more space. Check individual rentals through Airbnb (use this link for $40 off your first stay) or Vrbo.