Makana Charters (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Makana Charters?
What makes it 74% Kids-Friendly: Children 4–12 may board larger boats with life jackets, restrooms, deli lunches, and easy snorkel spots, yet the 4.5-hour ride and ocean swells require attentive adult supervision.
Positives:
- Complimentary Amenities: Lunch, drinks, snorkel gear, life jackets, onboard restroom, and freshwater shower are all included.
- Kid-Friendly Boat Features: Wide decks and flotation devices help kids feel secure during activities.
Challenges:
- Age Restriction: Standard tours require all passengers to be at least 4 years old; contact Makana for a private charter to include younger children.
- Sun and Wind Exposure: Limited shaded areas on deck; pack hats, sunscreen, and windbreakers.
- Sea Conditions: Rough waters in winter may cause motion sickness; bring remedies just in case.
What is Makana Charters?
- A charter boat company that operates a fleet of catamarans and motor yachts along Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast
- A family-owned business providing private and shared charters aboard vessels such as the Makana, Na Pali Kai III, and Hina‘ea
- A U.S. Coast Guard–certified operator that equips each vessel with onboard restrooms, freshwater showers, snorkel gear, and flotation devices
What is so special about Makana Charters for with kids?
- 4.5–5 hour Shared Family Tour on Na Pali Kai III or Amelia K with lunch and snorkel gear included
- Kids enjoy exploring sea caves and snorkeling in calm bays with flotation devices
- Complimentary amenities reduce planning; on-board restroom and freshwater showers help families
- Age 4+ required; families with younger kids should consider a private charter
- Morning tours offer smoother seas and better visibility
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 day
Why 0.5-1 day visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 4.5–5 hour tour gives families time to see sea caves, snorkel, and enjoy lunch without rushing.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Makana Charters
Shared Family Na Pali Coast Tour:
Cruise the Nā Pali Coast on Na Pali Kai III or Amelia K; enter sea caves and spot dolphins.
Tip: Book the morning tour for calmer water and clearer snorkel conditions.
Snorkeling at Nuʻalolo Kai:
Swim in a calm bay full of coral and tropical fish.
Tip: Use the provided snorkel gear and flotation belts for safety.
Explore Sea Caves:
Glide into sea caves carved into the cliffs and hear Hawaiian legends.
Tip: Lean in during calm stretches and listen to the crew’s stories.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Makana Charters
- Choose Morning Slots: Book an early tour for smoother seas and better snorkeling visibility.
- Contact in Advance: Call Makana Charters to confirm boarding options for children under 4.
- Bring Snacks and Water: Pack extra water and snacks for picky eaters between lunch and activities.
Reviews of Makana Charters
Cindy Kitade
GREAT Charter Tour - Highly Recommend! Fantastic experience from beginning to end! Makana, Charlie and Mike made up our crew and they were personable, professional, knowledgeable, had good senses of humor, and were focused on everyone's safety. Not only was the Napali Coast even more beautiful than we imagined, their stories brought the ocean, caves, cliffs, waterfalls and valleys to life. We were...
abhilash Sasidharan
Amazing Nā Pali Coast Experience with Makana Charters! We had an unforgettable time with Makana Charters on their Nā Pali Coast tour in Kauai. The views were absolutely breathtaking, and the crew was friendly, knowledgeable, and made everyone feel safe and comfortable throughout the trip. Seeing the dramatic cliffs, sea caves, and pristine coastline was incredible—but the highlight was spotting ...
Kelly Campbell
We had a great experience with Makana Charter, from the first call with Hili to the helpful text and email confirmations with clear and accurate directions. Our day out was especially calm and sunny for a late December excursion. Everyone in our group, from my 81-year old dad to my 4-year-old nephew, had a blast. The guides were knowledgeable and shared information on the early Hawaiians who lived...
Rebecca Burkhalter
This boat tour of the Nā Pali coast was the highlight of our trip! The views were so beautiful and the staff (Makana, Charlie, and Eli) were so nice and knowledgeable! Makana was the boat captain and he got us up close and personal with the caves. It was super cool!! I know other tours didn’t get nearly as close and they were surely feeling jealous of us. We had a great time and would 10/10 recomm...
kshama Shah
Exceptional Experience with Makana Charters! Makana Charters gave us an unforgettable Napali Coast boat tour in Kauai. The captain and staff were absolutely amazing—so caring, respectful, and genuinely attentive throughout the entire trip. We were blown away by the breathtaking Napali mountains, the stunning coastline, and the beautiful waterfalls. The team shared so many interesting details and...
When is the best time to visit Makana Charters (Hawaii, United States)?
Summer (May–Oct) brings calm seas and clear snorkeling; winter (Nov–Apr) can be choppy but offers whale sightings from deck.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult ticket (per person) | USD 199 |
| Child ticket (ages 4–12, per person) | USD 169 |
| Total Estimated | USD 736 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Makana Charters
Address: 4516 Alawai Rd, Waimea, HI 96796, USA
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About Makana Charters
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-338-998010 BEST nearby Activities
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