Anyone who has been there knows that Kauai's Na Pali Coast is one of the true wonders of the world. The best way to take in this majestic coastline is to take one of the boating adventure tours. You can also view the coastline from a helicopter, but it is much more costly.
The Napali coast is a fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore of Kauai literally means "the Cliffs." Much of Na Pali Coast is inaccessible due to its characteristic sheer cliffs that drop straight down, thousands of feet into the ocean. Sailing, rafting and hiking are the best ways to experience Na Pali's myriad of natural wonders.
The History of the Napali coast is part of it's intrigue and allure. Navigating double-hulled outrigger sailing canoes across more than 2000 miles of ocean, early Polynesians used the constellations to help them arrive to Kauai's Na Pali coast. It is estimated the first occupants came to this remote stretch around 1200 AD. Over hundreds of years, Tahitians began migrating to Kauai, becoming the dominant people influencing religion and culture. Their impact became the basis of Hawaiian society.
Because of the remote location of the coastline, only accessible by water or strenuous foot trails, the people that lived in these valleys were well protected. Outrigger canoes provided convenient travel by water in the summertime's small surf. Over hundreds of years, Polynesians, and eventually the Tahitians, migrated to Na Pali by canoe, bringing influences that became the basis of Hawaiian culture. Outrigger canoes are still a part of Hawaiian culture today.
Fishing and Farming?
With abundant rivers and flowing waterfalls, fresh water was in plentiful supply. Fish, as well as Kalo, or taro, provided sustenance along with sweet potatoes and breadfruit, which were cultivated through sophisticated irrigation systems in hanging valleys and along the shorelines. The small ruling class of ali'i (royalty) held the power and enjoyed any luxuries that may have come from a lifestyle that was demanding for most living on the isolated Na Pali. Traces of this lifestyle still remain today in the rock walls and terraces found in places along the Na Pali, like Nu`alolo Kai. Exploration of Nu`alolo is by permit only and accessible solely by boat. Visitors can discover restored archeological sites and snorkel the sheltered reef that once sustained the lives of the ancient Hawaiians. Western influences brought diseases that decimated the Hawaiian population on the Na Pali and throughout the Hawaiian islands. As an influx of missionaries began infiltrating Kauai in the 1820's, nudity, hula and other Hawaiian traditions were banned. This began a steady decline of Hawaiian culture, and eventually cattle ranching and the lure of an easier lifestyle drew many away from the remote Na Pali. The final Hawaiians left the region sometime at the beginning of the 20th century.
Experiencing the sight for yourself and realizing how amazing the place is and the people who lived here were, makes this one of the most memorable sights in all of Hawaii. The Napali coast is something out of a fairy tale book brought to life.
There are a few companies running boat tours on the Napali Coast but HAWAII FUN TOURS offers an affordable boat tour with benefits. The destination is enhanced only by the voyage aboard the 65. Holo Holo power catamaran, serving a full gourmet buffet-style lunch and complimentary water, soda, beer and wine. Built by the owners specifically for Hawaiian waters, the Holo Holo is considered the fastest and one of the most comfortable tour boats on Kauai. Less time traveling means more time for you to enjoy these fascinating destinations.
After snorkeling you will have lunch waiting for you. They offer a full buffet-style lunch with your choice of deli meats, cheeses, and of course all the fixings for a sandwich work of art. They also have pasta, potato salad, fresh island fruits, and veggie-wraps to round out your meal.
The Napali Coast tour is exotic and unforgettable. The price is well worth the experience and you'll have a great time. This makes it a favorite activity for visitors and a must do Kauai activity.