Kauai Canyon Explorer: Private Tour Featuring Waimea & Kokee
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Our tours are lead by a small local family owned business with over 20 years of experience in the field. This is not your ordinary tour. We crafted this experience as if we were in your shoes. We believe in quality over quantity, and we hope to deliver more than what you expect. Make sure to let us know if you want to customize your experience. Our tours support small Kauai owned businesses.
On this excursion you will explore some of the most beautiful places on Kauai; Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park in-depth. In addition you will visit the largest coffee plantation in the US to sample the freshest beans. From Canyons to verdant sea cliffs you will marvel at the beauty and power of nature. You will step back in time to visit charming towns like Waimea and Hanapepe, and try delicious foods made with locally sourced ingredients along the way.
Magnificent stories will be shared but most importantly we will make you laugh and enjoy the day.
Let us show you Kauai from local eyes.
Available options
Small Group Tour
Pickup included
What's included
10 percent off food at the Kokee Lodge restaurant
Letter size map of Kauai
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Entrance fee to Waimea and Kokee State Park
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
We will visit the largest orchard of coffee growers and roasters in the US. Sample about 5 varieties for free. Stroll through part of the orchard on a self guided tour, and learn all the stages of growing coffee from seed to cup. Do some shopping for Kauai grown coffee beans, and local souvenirs. You don't like coffee? Enjoy a cold beverage or ice cream at their snack shop.
2
We will sweeten your day with a brief stop at Aloha Sweet Delights Bakery where can purchase locally and home made goodies such as our famous malasadas and manju.
3
In Waimea town, Kauai, we will make a brief stop where the first Western explorer, Captain James Cook, landed on the islands.
We will share the incredible stories of his journey and his death.
4
Stop 4
Waimea Canyon State Park is one of Kauai's natural wonders, known as the mini Grand Canyon of the Pacific. Marvel at this geological gem from various lookouts as we ascend the mountain to about 3800' in elevation. We will get out of the van in various locations for amazing picture ops. The main Canyon lookout is closed for restoration until December 2025. Please know the Canyon is about 15 miles long and 2 miles wide, therefore you can still enjoy phenomenal views from many spots as you go up the Canyon road.
Majestic beauty at its finest!
5
Stop 5
In the Koke'e State park we will enjoy a leisure lunch at the Koke'e Lodge Restaurant. Their food and drinks are locally sourced, homemade and delicious (Not included on tour price).You get 10% off your meal, and at their retail shop. After lunch you will have free time to explore the Koke'e museum of natural cultural history, take a stroll through the beautiful grassy field surrounded by Sugi and Redwood pines, go on a short and easy nature walk to learn about the native flora, and/or feed the chickens.
6
Stop 6
Known as the valley of enlightenment, Kalalau is the largest and most beautiful in the famous Na Pali coast. Although the views are not guaranteed, we will try our best for you to marvel at this natural wonder.
7
Last in our agenda is a visit to the old historic and charming town of Hanapepe, where you can support small locally owned businesses, do some shopping for Hawaii MADE souvenirs and art, cool off with a delicious locally made fruit popsicle, visit to the famous Talk Story Bookstore for some rare and antique books, and walk across the swinging bridge built in 1912, if you dare!
What's not included
We will make a 1 hour stop at The Kokee Lodge for lunch. We will be contacting you the day before the tour to provide tour details. Make sure to provide a good phone number so we can contact you.
Infant and toddler car seats. if you have one please bring it.
Gratuities
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
ES
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
44 reviews
5★
42
4★
2
3★
0
2★
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1★
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Tripadvisor
5.0
102 reviews
5★
101
4★
1
3★
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2★
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1★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We provide pick up on all properties in Kapaa, Lihue, Koloa and Poipu town. Also at the airport and harbor. Provide a good phone number to contact you when booking. We will be contacting you the day before the tour via text with tour details, and to verify your pick up location
Wear comfortable clothing, good walking shoes, hat or cap, and sunglasses.
No refunds pass the 24 hours prior to the start of the tour.
If you are concerned about your health or have an underlying health condition we encourage you to book a private tour on our website**
Meeting point
8:00 am pick up for guest staying on properties located on the North side of the island. Park anywhere by the fence of the ball park on the intersection of Niu st and Kuhio Hwy or in the street.
Important notes
We will be sending you a text message the day before your tour to check in with you, and provide details about your activity such as our pick up locations and times, what to bring and any changes if applicable. We have two pick up locations for this tour; one on the east side at 8am and one on the south side at 8:45am. Make sure to provide us with a good cell phone number for US travelers or a WhatsApp number to contact you.
If you have any questions and/or need to reach us immediately send us a text message at +1 (808) 652-2247
About Kauai
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island is less developed than its neighbors, providing a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Top Attractions
Waimea Canyon
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through its vibrantly colored cliffs and lush valleys.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, parking fees may apply
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It can be explored by hiking, boat tours, or helicopter tours.
Nature
Full day
Free for hiking, boat tours and helicopter tours range from $150 to $300 per person
Wailua River State Park
This state park offers access to the Wailua River, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, activities have separate fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, usually tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free if soy sauce is replaced
Loco Moco
A Hawaiian comfort food made with white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Ziplining
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Hula performances
Cultural tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is lush and green.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kauai is generally safe, but travelers should be cautious of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strong ocean currents and rip tides
- • Carry enough water and sunscreen when hiking
- • Secure valuables in rental cars
Getting there
By air
- Lihue Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from Lihue
By bus
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville
Getting around
Public transport
The Kauai Bus system connects major towns and attractions but has infrequent schedules. Plan your trips accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lihue
Kapaa
Princeville
Day trips
Niihau
18 miles (29 km) from Kauai • Full day
Known as the 'Forbidden Island,' Niihau is a privately owned island with a rich Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to experience the island's traditional way of life.
Hanapepe
12 miles (19 km) from Lihue • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, historic sites, and enjoy local dining.
Festivals
Kauai Moolelo Festival • June
Kauai Coffee Festival • May
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast for stunning landscapes and hiking trails
- Try local dishes like poke and loco moco for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Respect the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following the 'Leave No Trace' principle
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
