LIHUE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Paddling Back in Time: An Afternoon Through the Motor-Free Hanalei River to Hanalei Bay
A guided afternoon kayak tour (2:30–6:00 pm) from Hanalei Town that threads the motor-free Hanalei River into Hanalei Bay, with guided snorkeling and a secluded beach lunch.
Paddling Back in Time: An Afternoon Through the Motor-Free Hanalei River to Hanalei Bay.
Embark on a personalized kayak adventure through the serene Hanalei River and the sweeping expanse of Hanalei Bay, where commercial motorized boats are banned. Led by a local guide who narrates Kaua‘i’s history, legends and folklore, the outing includes snorkeling among reef life and sea turtles and a relaxed lunch on a secluded beach—no prior kayaking experience required.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
A Motor-Free River Route
Paddle the only river on Kaua‘i where commercial motorized boats are not allowed, moving from tranquil river backwaters out into Hanalei Bay for sweeping coastal views.
Reefs and the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle
The tour stops at reef snorkel sites and visits the home of the Hawaiian green sea turtle, offering close views of abundant marine life in protected waters.
Personalized, Narrated Small-Group Tours
Tours are completely personalized and narrated by a knowledgeable local guide who shares history, legends and folklore before a relaxing lunch on a secluded beach.
What the day feels like
What the Afternoon Feels Like
Begin at the quaint Hanalei Town shop and slip into double (or occasionally single) kayaks for a guided paddle through calm river channels and out into the sweeping bay. The guide weaves history and local stories into the trip, then leads a reef snorkel to observe marine life and green sea turtles before a laid-back lunch on a secluded beach. The outing is fully supported with snorkel equipment, waterproof bags and snacks and drinks.
THE WATERWAY
A Motor-Free River Route
Paddle the only river on Kaua‘i where commercial motorized boats are not allowed, moving from tranquil river backwaters out into Hanalei Bay for sweeping coastal views.
THE WILDLIFE
Reefs and the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle
The tour stops at reef snorkel sites and visits the home of the Hawaiian green sea turtle, offering close views of abundant marine life in protected waters.
THE GUIDE
Personalized, Narrated Small-Group Tours
Tours are completely personalized and narrated by a knowledgeable local guide who shares history, legends and folklore before a relaxing lunch on a secluded beach.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits—and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The operator provides all snorkel gear (corrective lenses available on request), waterproof bags, and snacks & drinks. Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted; plan on wearing or bringing sun protection and swimwear.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
When and where do I check in?
Check in at the shop in Hanalei Town at 2:00 pm.
How long is the tour?
The tour runs from 2:30 pm to 6:00 pm.
What is the minimum age to participate?
Children ages 5 and up may join the tour.
Is snorkel gear provided?
Yes—snorkel gear is provided, including corrective lenses upon request; waterproof bags, snacks and drinks are also provided.
Are full-face snorkel masks allowed?
Full-face snorkel masks are not permitted.
How are kayaks arranged?
Double kayaks are provided; a limited number of single kayaks are available for odd-numbered group bookings.
Is there a weight limit for participants?
The standard weight limit is 225 lb per person, with an exception up to 250 lb if the participant is 6' or taller.
When is this tour available?
This kayak tour is available March through November on select afternoons.
What is the listed price for adults and children?
The listed rate is $135 for adults and for children ages 5–12.