Makana Charters and Tours, based in Waimea on Kauai's west side, is drawing attention to the logistical advantage of its departure points for Na Pali Coast tours. The company operates from Kikiaola Small Boat Harbor in Kekaha and Port Allen, locations that sit closer to the Na Pali Coast than many other operators. According to the company, this proximity means less transit time and more time spent exploring the coastline itself.
The company's history on the island traces back generations. In its story and background, Makana Charters notes that its family began guiding visitors along the Na Pali Coast in the early 1800s, and by the family's account was the first to guide a foreign visitor along the coast aboard double-hull sailing vessels launched from the same west-side base used today. The family's roles have included early island governance, founding schools and churches, and naming Lihue.
Makana Charters describes its captains as "cultural captains" who connect the geography of the coast to Hawaiian history and the family's own lineage. Rather than treating the coastline as a backdrop, the captains narrate place names, history, and cultural meaning. This approach is a central reason guests cite when explaining why they tour with Makana Charters.
The company's fleet of five custom-built power catamarans runs 4.5- to 5-hour Na Pali Coast tours that include snorkeling, sea cave exploration, and wildlife viewing, with snorkel gear, a deli lunch, and refreshments provided. Sea cave entry and snorkeling are weather- and ocean-condition dependent.
Makana Charters has built a reputation reflected in more than 15,000 combined five-star reviews on Google and Tripadvisor, a 4.9-star rating on both platforms, and recognition on Tripadvisor every year from 2017 through 2026. The company continues the legacy of Liko Kauai Cruises and operates as a Native Hawaiian, family-owned business.
