Seeing the Na Pali Coast with Blue Ocean Adventures
Magic Moments
The Na Pali Coast just might be the most magical place on earth. Home to unreal sea cliffs + waterfalls, turtles, dolphins, and sea caves for starters. I truly think it is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and seeing the coast with Blue Ocean Adventures is the best way possible.
I have been looking forward to this day for years... literally! I started following @goblueadventures well over a year ago on my personal account because I didn't even have my @saltwatervibesblog one!! Ever sense then I would dream of being on there boat every pic they posted. When I finally got to book our tour you couldn't wipe the grin from my face.
This day was seriously the most magical day of my life. We were about 20 miles out at sea when it dawned on me that I had LEFT my camera battery in the glove compartment. We had been camping for 2 days and sat at Starbucks allll morning so I could charge up. I felt sick to my stomach knowing that I wouldn't be able to take amazing images but - I only let it get me down for a second because I had an iPhone, Polaroid, and my eyeballs - which lets face it are the best possible camera in a moment like this. Without my camera I really got to enjoy every single moment for what it was worth, which was pure magic.
Our captain, J-sea, is honestly the coolest person ever and I can't rave about her enough. If you are lucky enough to book a tour with her, you are guaranteed a good day!! She catered to everyones needs and wants. She would spin the boat around in sea caves like this so everyone could get the perfect picture - and even take it for you if you need! (how many sea captains are that nice huh!?) Not only that but all of the staff is so down to earth, helpful, and knowledgeable. No question is a bad question on this boat!
Hearing about old lava formations, villages and schools and the history of the Na Pali was one of the most humbling and inspiring moments here in Hawaii. If you have been following along you know that seeing lava on Big Island has been my favorite thing in Hawaii, but this tour just mighttt take the lead :)
This coast is filled with unreal waterfalls at almost every turn. Waterfalls felt like far out dreams to me before moving to Hawaii but Blue Ocean Adventures will make dreams come true by exploring some of these coastal gems. Some come with some specail blessings so be carful ;)
No picture could ever do the Na Pali Coast justice it is just so unreal. This mountain right here is well over 100 stories TALLER than the empire state building. Even seeing it on boat is hard to take in but these cliffs are just breathtaking.
I had no idea so many movies were filmed here. I want to go back and watch a few like Pirates of the Caribbean 4 and King Kong! You will get all the details and full 411 on the tour but one crazy thing I must share is that planes and helicopters used to fly through that arch...
When Jsea told me that my jaw dropped! As if this coast could be any more mind blowing. Also I know we are so spoiled here in Hawaii with amazing waters but the Na Pali is holding onto some of the best! I kept looking at Rashawan and saying this is SaltWaterVibes blue!! The water was unreal. Jsea also let us jump in a few times and it was some of the deepest free water swimming I have done. The water was so clear and felt like a dream.
After seeing the beautiful Na Pali Coast you will anchor in a stunning bay to get to some of the best snorkeling in your life. I still think Two Step Beach is the best snorkeling I have ever done here in Hawaii and my life, but this was a close second. We got to freely explore reef that was 20ft+ deep and see incredible fish. If you choose not to snorkel then you can stay on board the boat while the captins prepare some yummy snacks!
about the tour
Call me bias, but Blue Ocean Tour is the best way to see the Na Pali Coast. It is a true adventure and sooo much fun. For starters the prices are the best out there and I guarantee you are getting way more for your money here than any other tour. A tour is complete with:
- a ride on a Navy Seal Boat
- Deep sea snorkeling (snorkel, fins, mask, life jackets can all be provided for you)
- Li-hing Pineapple, local juices, and other snacks
- Personal photographers (thanks Erin & J-sea!)
- Magical moments going through waterfalls, sea caves, and other Na Pali secrets
- Tons of history and information about Kauai and Hawaii
- A waterproof bag for all your goods
- Unforgettable memories :)
What Should I Bring?
You will be given a waterproof bag for all you belongs so you can truly bring almost anything but I recommend just bringing the essentials to eliminate as much stress as possible. Grab your camera, sunglasses, snorkel gear if you have your own, and wear a good swimsuit!
are their age restrictions?
Blue Ocean Adventures wants the whole family to have fun! Kids as young as 5+ can hop on board the raft. Any other age is welcome as long as their are no medical conditions or someone had surgery within 4 months.
what kind of tour is this?
Blue Ocean Adventures is just that - an adventure! If you are looking to sit back and relax on a sightseeing trip than this tour may not be for you. Blue Ocean Adventures allows you the unique opportunity to see the Na Pali Coast up close and personal. This tour is for the true adventure seekers!
what boat will we be on?
You will be given the unique opportunity to ride a navy seal boat! It will make you feel like a complete badass flying over waves in this thing. There are no seats so get ready to work your grip strenghth! Sitting in the front of the boat is so much fun becuase you will feel airborne crashing over the waves, but it does come at the coast of getting a big wet. Sitting in the back of the boat is much calmer, so if you are prone to sea sickness sit in the back!
Have some more questions? Check out there FAQ's! If you still have questions feel free to email Blue Ocean: reservations@goblueadevntures.com or me: saltwatervibes@gmail.com
To book your tour head here: http://www.goblueadventure.com/napalicoast
I am already planning my next adventure with Blue Ocean (this time with my camera ;)) and can't wait to experience the Na Pali by sea again. I also got the chance to hike further on Na Pali Kaulauu trail and will be updating this post soon so stay on the lookout!
pin gallery
how to get here
Booking with Blue Ocean Adventures can all be done online! Once you have made your reservation and filled out the necessary wavers you will meet your boat and crew at the Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor in Waimea. The boat will be attached to the harbor and you will meet your crew by the boat or underneath the picnic tables to check in.
warning
This tour is not for the faint of heart or someone looking for a relaxing day at sea. You will take on waves, sea bumps, jump into the ocean, go beneath waterfalls and more. They will not take anyone with head, neck, or back injuries or any female who is pregnant for safety procautions.