Sunset Dinner Sail Along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast on the Leila Catamaran
Sail the 4,000-foot cliffs of Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast aboard the Leila: a five-hour sunset dinner cruise with local food, trade-wind sailing, spinner dolphins and seasonal humpback sightings. Practical, scenic and steeped in island stories.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring motion-sickness remedies
Ocean conditions can change; take over-the-counter or doctor-prescribed anti-nausea meds before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness.
Wear reef-safe sunscreen
Spray sunscreens are prohibited—use a lotion labeled reef-safe to protect coral and comply with crew rules.
Dress in layers and bring a light jacket
Even warm afternoons turn cool after sunset on the water; a windproof layer makes the golden hour comfortable.
Arrive 10 minutes early and be barefoot-ready
Boarding requires shoes off on the dock; arrive slightly early, remove shoes, and stow them in your car for easy return.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-season whale blows seen seaward of the main cliffs (Dec–Apr)
- •Windward approach near sea caves gives dramatic silhouettes—ask the crew for the angle that evening
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian spinner dolphins
- •Green sea turtles
Conservation Note
Operators request reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles; no drones are allowed to limit disturbance to wildlife and cultural sites.
The Nā Pali Coast supported dense loʻi (taro terraces) and village life before depopulation; many valley names and stories are preserved through oral tradition.
Photographer's Notes
- • Windward rail for open-ocean silhouettes
- • Foredeck for cliff-facing wide angles
- • Aft cockpit during the champagne toast for warm-lit portraits
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and complies with onboard rules.
Light windproof jacketEssential
Keeps you warm once the sun drops and the trade winds pick up.
Motion-sickness tablets or wristbandsEssential
Helps prevent nausea when seas are rough.
Waterproof camera or phone case
Protects electronics during spray and while photographing wildlife and coastline.
Common Questions
Where do we meet for the tour?
Meet at Port Allen Marina Center, 4353 Waialo Road, Ele'ele; allow time for parking in the designated gravel lot.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
No—per liquor license guests cannot bring alcohol; the crew serves beer, wine and Mai Tais as part of the cruise.
Will we go ashore on the Nā Pali Coast?
No—the tour is a sightseeing sail only; there are no landings on the Nā Pali Coast.
Are children allowed?
Yes—children five years and older are permitted; child rates apply for ages 5–12.
Is snorkeling included?
This sunset dinner sail is focused on cruising and dinner—snorkeling is not part of the standard itinerary and depends on conditions.
What if I’m prone to seasickness or have mobility issues?
Not recommended for guests with recent injuries, back problems, or severe motion sickness; boarding of mobility-challenged individuals is at captain’s discretion.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
5 hours
Location
Ele'ele, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Moderate—able to move on a pitching deck, step up/down a ladder-style boarding, and stand for photo opportunities.
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