Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

The awesome Na Pali Coast, definitely a Kauai "must see," is a scalloped mass of valleys among a rocky bulwark 4,000 feet high. It is one of the most picturesque places in Hawaii, and outfitters provide many options for viewing its many wonders.

You can cruise along the shore in a kayak, sail along in a catamaran with widely spaced hulls take a cruise boat or hop in a motorized rubber raft, called a zodiac. Some trips include hikes and whale-watching adventures. Cabin cruisers take you in style and comfort and sometimes include snorkeling. Like Zodiacs, they sometimes pull into small sea coves along the rocks.

Along the way in any craft you're likely to see colorful fish and green sea turtles. Some kayak rentals and other outfitters rent boogey boards, masks, fins, and even camping gear.

Hint: Pregnant women are advised not take the Zodiac trips, which can be quite bumpy at times.

May to September is by far the best time for trips along the coast, when the water is calmer than in winter.