7 Best Kauai Kayak Tours You Must Try In 2023

Are you looking for the best Kauai kayak tours?

Searching for the best Kauai kayak tours? You have come to the right place!

Embarking on an epic kayak tour of Kauai is the perfect excursion to get outside and enjoy the magical scenery that the island has to offer. 

Whether you are planning a Kauai adventure as a couple, going solo, or bringing along friends or family, a kayak tour guarantees an unforgettable experience for everyone!

We love vacationing to Kauai and know that there is a slew of activities to choose from when visiting the island.

Kayaking is one of our favorite activities to do because its a great way to spend time outside, an opportunity to get a little bit of exercise in, and a fantastic way to take in the surrounding views.

After doing hours of research on the best kayak tours of Kauai, we came up with the ultimate list for you to enjoy!

Continue reading down below to discover the best kayak tours on the island of Kauai. 

In a rush? Check out our top pick! The Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai is the best Kauai kayak tour. This tour has 5/5 star reviews from 720+ people on Viator and Tripadvisor and is the perfect excursion for those looking to explore Kauai by kayak.

The Best Kauai Kayak Tours

Keep diving in below as I highlight the best kayak tours in Kauai for a memorable excursion around the island.

1. Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai

This Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai is another phenomenal option for those looking for the best Kauai kayak tours. 

This 5 hour tour takes you along the Wailua River and to the Secret Falls waterfall. This adventure is perfect for those looking to learn about the wildlife, history, and stories behind the island of Kauai.

⏰ Total Duration: 5 hours

📍Meeting Location: 4-361 Kuhio Highway, Kapa’a, HI 96746

“It was all super fun! When I realized I didn’t have to swat mosquitoes and other bugs away was just the icing on the cake! I would highly recommend this tour. Everything was so beautiful, and Zach was a fantastic guide. If this 62 year old, not in shape woman did it, anyone can.” – Amy (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai here!

2. Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks

Another fabulous option for kayak tours in Kauai is the Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks. This 6 hour tour takes you along the Wailua River as your local guide explains the ancient history behind the island of Kauai and the importance of the Wailua River. 

Plus, this tour provides you with snacks and drinks as you journey along the river. 

⏰ Total Duration: 6 hours

📍Meeting Location: 4-484 Kuhio Highway, Kapa’a, HI 96746

“We had a wonderful guide who took the time to make sure we all felt included. He spent time talking with us about the culture and history of the water and trail. He inspired me to hike barefoot through the trail and I felt incredibly grounded! Spectacular activity to do!” – Carissa (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Guided Secret Falls Tour with Snacks and Drinks here!

3. Secret Falls Kayak Hike In Kauai

Looking for one of the most popular kayk tours in Kauai? This Secret Falls Kayak Hike In Kauai is an incredible option!

This 5 hour kayak and hike tour combines a 4 mile kayak adventure with a 1.5 mile hike through a rainforest with views of Secret Falls. 

⏰ Total Duration: 5 hours

📍Meeting Location: 3-5971 Kuhio Highway, Kapa’a, HI 96746 (Smith’s Tropical Paradise)

“We were in Kauai for a week and did several tours. This was by far the most enjoyable tour we did, especially considering the length of this tour vs other tours. It is a full day experience. Our guide, his dog and his assistant were fun, we learned a lot about Kauai and had an amazing time. The hike was fun and the falls was the coolest place on the island. 100% recommended.” – Ryan (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Secret Falls Kayak Hike In Kauai Tour!

4. Hanalei Bay AM Kayak and Snorkel Tour

Experience the best Kauai kayak tour on this Hanalei Bay AM Kayak and Snorkel Tour. This 5 hour adventure will take you on a journey from Hanalei Bay down the Hanalei River. 

We love that this tour is the perfect two-in-one and combines kayaking with snorkeling. You will begin your excursion on a kayak and then exchange your kayak for snorkeling gear. 

As you kayak and snorkel in the Hanalei area you will be able to take in the spectacular views of the island and hopefully catch some glances of wildlife including various fish and maybe even some sea turtles.

Plus, this tour includes lunch on the beach! 

⏰ Total Duration: 5 hours

📍Meeting Location: 5-5070A, Kuhio Highway, Hanalei, HI 96714 (Kayak Hanalei)

“The trip was excellent and was made so by experienced, knowledgeable and friendly guides. They worked hard to ensure that everyone had a great time. Would recommend this trip.” – David (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for this Hanalei Bay AM Kayak and Snorkel Tour here!

5. Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch

For those searching for a unique kayak and waterfall journey, this Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch option is the right pick for you!

As you paddle down the Wailua River, your guide will teach you all about the various local flora and fauna that surrounds you. 

Once you make it to the waterfall you can hike around and even take a dip in the water if you wish to cool off. We love that you get to enjoy your lunch at the waterfall so that you can take in its majestic view. 

This is a great option for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine a kayak and hiking experience. 

⏰ Total Duration: 5 to 6 hours

📍Meeting Location: 440 Aleka Place, Kapa’a, HI 9746

“This was an absolutely awesome tour!! I loved it!! The kayaking was so much fun! The hike was so interesting and I learned so much about local flora. The Queen’s bath and the Secret Falls were stunning and so cool to see. If I ever come back, I’m definitely doing this again!! Helm was a fantastic guide and we had so much fun!!” – Karisa (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for this Half-Day Kayak and Waterfall Hike Tour in Kauai with Lunch here!

6. Hidden Valley Falls Kayak and Kauai Hike Adventure

For those looking to explore Hidden Valley Falls and the Hule’ia River, this Hidden Valley Falls Kayak and Kauai Hike Adventure tour is for you! 

We love the shorter duration of this tour, which is only 3 hours and 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore more of Kauai afterwards. 

Additionally, we love that this kayak and hike tour includes a picnic lunch with snacks and drinks.

⏰ Total Duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes

📍Meeting Location: 2494 Niumalu Road, Lihue, HI 96766

“The three of us enjoyed the kayak trip and the hiking. Our guides Ryker and Tiny were excellent. We highly recommend this trip.” – Kirsten (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for the Hidden Valley Falls Kayak and Kauai Hike Adventure Tour!

7. Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Fall Hike (Includes Lunch)

For those searching for a unique kayak tour that includes a waterfall hike, look no further. This Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Fall Hike Tour is the perfect way to spend 5 hours exploring the infamous Wailua River and hiking around a beautiful waterfall. 

This 5 hour tour is a fantastic option for those looking to paddle down a river, go on a mile long hike, and take in the lush green landscape that Kauai has to offer. 

One of the added features that makes this tour stand out is that it includes a lunch so that you can eat while you are out exploring.

⏰ Total Duration: 5 hours

📍Meeting Location: 3-5971 Kuhio Highway, Kapa’a, HI 96746

“Steve was an awesome tour guide. Very knowledgeable and professional at all times. I felt he was genuinely interested in our experience. He took time to get to know us. He had great restaurant recommendations that we have used and are extremely appreciative. Well done from check in to exit.” – Brad (see more reviews)

👉🏼 Check rates and availability for this Wailua River Kayak and Sacred Fall Hike (Includes Lunch) Tour here!

Is Kauai worth visiting?

Kauai is totally worth visiting due to its lush green landscape, distinct Na Pali Coast, beautiful beaches, delicious cuisine, and so many outdoors excursions that can be embarked on including kayak tours, helicopter adventures, snorkeling experiences, and so much more.

How To Get To Kauai

To get to Kauai you will fly into the Lihue Airport. We recommend renting a car from there so that you can experience all that the island has to offer!

Where To Stay In Kauai

There are countless options to choose from when picking where to stay in Kauai. Check out our list of favorites down below!

• Budget Friendly: Sheraton Kauai Resort – This hotel is an awesome option for those looking to stay near the South Shore near Poipu Beach.
• Mid-Range: Marriott’s Waiohai Beach Club – For those looking for a mid-range option, this hotel is excellent due to its great location and phenomenal amenities. 
• Luxury: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – This is a fantastic place to stay for those looking for a luxurious experience with awesome amenities and beaches nearby. 

Best Time To Visit Kauai

There truly is not a bad time to visit Kauai. However, one of the best times to visit the island is during the winter months due to awesome weather and the ability to escape the chilly temperatures that occur in the mainland United States.

FAQs About The Best Kauai Kayak Tours

Continue reading below as I answer a few frequently asked questions about Kauai kayak tours.

Is kayaking the Wailua River worth it?

Kayaking the Wailua River is totally worth it because of the beautiful scenery and tranquil waters you get to experience.

Where can I kayak in Kauai?

The best places to kayak in Kauai include the Wailua River, Hanalei Bay, and the Na Pali Coast.

How do you kayak to the secret waterfall in Kauai?

The best way to kayak to the secret waterfall in Kauai is by taking a kayak tour so that a local guide can take you there. 

Where is the best place to kayak on Kauai?

The best place to kayak on Kauai is the Wailua River. 

Final Thoughts On The Best Kauai Kayak Tours

Going on one of the best Kauai kayak tours is an awesome excursion to experience the island of Kauai on a whole new level. Kayaking lets you enjoy the water and soak in Kauai’s lush green landscapes at the same time.

If you are searching for the very best option, we recommend the Wailua River and Secret Falls Kayak and Hiking Tour on Kauai for a truly memorable excursion.

Whether you are visiting the island for a week or a few short days, you must add a kayak tour to your must-do list while exploring Kauai.