HANALEI BAY & PIER
KAUAI
• No moorings at Hanalei Pier • Use Restrictions
• Off-shore moorings in Hanalei Bay available seasonally
(May - October, Permit Required)
Welcome to Hanalei Bay and Pier on the north shore of Kauai. Here, lush emerald mountains meet crescent-shaped beaches, and one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks stretches gracefully into the calm waters of Hanalei Bay.
Originally owned by the State of Hawaii, the base of the pier sits within Black Pot Beach Park, a Kauai County beach park beloved by residents and visitors alike. Just to the north flows the Hanalei River, where a public boat landing provides recreational and commercial access to the water — making this area a vibrant hub for ocean activities and exploration.
Beyond its scenic charm, the Hanalei Pier is a living piece of Hawaiian history. After shipping operations ceased in 1933 — when cheaper rice production shifted to California — the pier evolved into a cherished gathering place for the Hanalei community. In 1979, it was officially recognized on the National Register of Historic Places in Hawaii.
Originally constructed of wood prior to 1892, the pier was extended to 340 feet in 1912. In 1921, the Hawaii legislature authorized $25,000 to replace the difficult-to-maintain wooden deck with durable concrete better suited to the island’s tropical climate. A distinctive roofed pavilion was added to the far end in the 1940s, creating the picturesque silhouette visitors admire today.
Though heavily damaged by Hurricane Iniki in 1992, the pier endured. In 2012–2013, the canopy at the end of the pier was beautifully restored after the Hanalei Rotary Club raised more than $170,000 through its “Save the Pier” campaign — ensuring this beloved landmark continues to inspire future generations.
Today, Hanalei Pier is more than a historic site — it’s your gateway to unforgettable island experiences. Through HanaleiPier.com, you can book live, secure reservations for tours and activities. Your North Shore adventure starts here with real-time availability and safe, easy online booking.
Climb aboard our open, motorized catamaran for the absolute best Nā Pali Coast experience Kaua‘i has to offer—direct from Hanalei Bay. Forget crowded docks and long rides: you’ll board easily through ankle- to shin-deep water right from the bay or river mouth, and within minutes, you’re cruising along the iconic cliffs of Nā Pali.
Our experienced captain selects the optimal route each day, giving you exclusive access to hidden sea caves, towering emerald cliffs, and cascading waterfalls unreachable by larger vessels. Our crew’s clear, engaging narration hits just the right note—no fluff, only highlights—so you stay fully immersed in the scenery unfolding around you.
HANALEI BAY & PIER
End of Weke Road, Hanalei, Hawaii 96714
Harbor Office: (808) 241-3114
Email: dbor.kauai@hawaii.gov
• 22° 12′ 41″ N, 159° 30′ 00″ W
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HAWAII ISLAND
CRUISES & TOURS
NA PALI CATAMARAN
Live, Secure Reservations
HANALEI CHARTERS
Live, Secure Reservations
NA PALI TOURS
Live, Secure Reservations
Begin your morning with a journey along Kauaʻi’s iconic Nā Pali Coast. Departing from Hanalei Bay, you’ll reach the coastline within 15 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore sea caves, waterfalls, hidden valleys, and secluded beaches aboard our custom-built 35-foot catamaran.
On our morning tour, you’ll be among the first on the Nā Pali, with naturally calm waters ideal for a smooth ride — perfect for those concerned about seasickness. The tour returns before noon, giving you the rest of the day to relax or explore. Along the way, our crew shares insights into the area’s history and culture while pausing for wildlife encounters — dolphins, sea turtles, monk seals, rays, and goats. Snorkeling and a fresh deli lunch are included.
Experience the Nā Pali Coast in the afternoon, when the cliffs are bathed in the perfect light — ideal for photography and capturing the coastline at its most dramatic. Departing from Hanalei Bay, you’ll reach the coastline within 15 minutes, leaving plenty of time to explore sea caves, waterfalls, hidden valleys, and secluded beaches aboard our custom-built 35-foot catamaran.
Start your day off right with a stunning morning cruise along the Nā Pali Coast. As the sun rises over Kaua‘i’s lush valleys and towering sea cliffs, you'll be treated to breathtaking views and a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere. With fewer crowds and calm waters, the morning tour offers the perfect setting to relax, enjoy the beauty of the coastline, and possibly spot some early-morning wildlife like dolphins or sea turtles.
Experience the Nā Pali Coast in the afternoon when the sun is at its brightest, casting vibrant colors across the cliffs and ocean. This tour provides a laid-back, leisurely vibe as you cruise along the coastline, with plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos, enjoy snorkeling*, and learn about the island's fascinating history.
*weather and ocean conditions
Photos courtesy of Na Pali Catamaran
Exclusively departing once daily right from Hanalei Bay, our 2‑hour Golden Hour adventure sails the Nā Pali Coast aboard a sleek power catamaran as the sky erupts in sunset colors. Glide past towering emerald cliffs, explore hidden sea caves, and watch those hues bathe the cliffs and cascading waterfalls in liquid light—each scene more breathtaking than the last.
Photo courtesy of Na Pali Tours
You’ll experience the very best of the Nā Pali Coast—from iconic photo spots to unforgettable encounters with marine life. Our captains are known for exploring hidden sea caves when conditions allow, and it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, or even rays along the way.
Explore one of the most breathtaking coastlines on Earth aboard an adventure raft custom-built for the Nā Pali Coast. Our Afternoon Nā Pali Adventure Tour is perfect for photography lovers—the golden afternoon light illuminates the cliffs, making for the most stunning views and unforgettable shots of the coastline.
You’ll experience the very best of the Nā Pali Coast—from iconic photo spots to unforgettable encounters with marine life. Our captains are known for exploring hidden sea caves when conditions allow, and it's not uncommon to spot dolphins, Hawaiian monk seals, sea turtles, or even rays along the way.
Photos courtesy of Hanalei Charters