Hanalei Bay Kayak And Snorkel

Hanalei Bay Morning Kayak and Snorkel Tour runs through Kayak Hanalei. Rated 4.9 across 626 reviews. Runs 5 hours (approx.). From $160.49.

Overview

This half-day outing from Kayak Hanalei paddles the river out toward Hanalei Bay, then puts you in the water with a snorkel to explore the reef close to shore. The whole experience runs about 5 hours, starting and ending at the operator's base on Kuhio Highway in Hanalei Town, the second building on the right just past The Dolphin Restaurant. Expect a mix of easy paddling, stops where the guides explain the river, the reefs and the island's history, and a beach stop for swimming and lunch.

Tandem kayaks are the standard setup, with singles provided for odd-numbered groups, and the group is capped at 16 travellers. Guides come up repeatedly in reviews for being knowledgeable and friendly, and several travellers mention music on the beach.

It suits families and reasonably fit first-timers, with a minimum age of 5 and a one-to-one adult-to-child ratio required for children under 12. It is not a fit for anyone who cannot paddle and get in and out of the kayak unassisted, and it is not wheelchair accessible.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Meet at Kayak HanaleiCheck in at 5-5070A Kuhio Highway in Hanalei, the second building on the right as you enter Hanalei Town, just after The Dolphin Restaurant. Parking is free and ample in the front and back areas.
2. Paddle the Hanalei RiverThe group kayaks down the river toward the bay, with stops along the way so the guides can share information about the area, the river and the reefs.
3. Snorkel the bayAt the bay you snorkel close to the reef from the shore. Traditional two-piece snorkel and mask sets are provided, and personal gear is welcome except full face masks, which are not permitted.
4. Beach lunchLunch is served on the beach. You choose a turkey or vegetarian/vegan sandwich at the time of booking, with gluten free options available, plus Hawaiian style chips, cookies, juice and bottled water.
5. Paddle backThe group kayaks back up the river to the meeting point, where the tour ends.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will make the day smoother, based on the listing and on what travellers report.

• Sun protection. Hours pass on open water and the beach, so sun protection matters. Bring what you need to cover up for the whole outing.
• Rain layers. Bringing layers is a sensible precaution if rain is in the forecast.
• Fitness and pace. The listing asks for moderate physical fitness, and every participant must be able to paddle and get in and out of the kayak without assistance. Reviewers who had never kayaked before said they managed fine, though the paddle back is noted as harder.
• Watch the reef. One reviewer cautions that the water is a little shallow getting out to snorkel and to be careful of the reefs. Water shoes or care wading help here.
• Lunch choice. Sandwich choice, turkey or vegetarian/vegan, is made at the time of booking, with gluten free options available. Chips, cookies, juice and bottled water come with it.
• Arrive early. Parking is free and ample on site, so arriving early gives time to park and get ready before the group heads out. The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point.

Common issues. The tour requires a minimum number of travellers, and if that minimum is not met it can be cancelled, with the choice of a different date or experience or a full refund. Weather matters too: poor conditions can cancel the day, though you would be offered a different date or a full refund. There is no hotel pickup, the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and anyone with back problems or a serious medical condition is advised against it. Each participant must be able to paddle and enter and exit the kayak unassisted, and there is a weight limit of 225 pounds per person, or up to 250 pounds for someone 6 feet or taller.

Which Tour Matches Your Plans