The Ultimate Nā Pali Coast Private Tour: Snorkel, Sightsee, and Small Tackle Trolling
If you're visiting Kaua‘i and looking for an unforgettable way to experience the island’s wild beauty, our most popular private group tour is the perfect choice. Designed for adventurers who want to do and see it all, this exclusive experience combines the best of sightseeing, snorkeling, and small tackle trolling — all set against the stunning backdrop of the legendary Nā Pali Coast.
Why This Tour Stands Out
Our private tour isn’t just a boat ride — it’s a curated experience that brings together everything people love about Kaua‘i’s rugged north shore. You’ll cruise beneath towering emerald cliffs, explore hidden sea caves, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life. And while you're soaking in the views and snorkeling in secluded spots, there’s always the chance for some fishing action to keep the excitement high.
What is Small Tackle Trolling?
Small tackle trolling is a guest favorite — and for good reason. We use custom-ordered 4–6 inch lures to target prized Hawaiian reef and pelagic species such as:
Ulua and Omilu – powerful members of the Trevally family
Papio – the younger version of the same prized fish
Uku – also known as Grey Snapper, delicious and fun to catch
Kahala – or Amberjack/Kampachi, a hard-fighting deep-water species
This light tackle style keeps things fun and manageable for all skill levels. Whether you’re an experienced angler or it’s your first time fishing, the thrill of the bite never gets old.
Don’t Forget Your Fishing License
Hawai‘i has joined other coastal states in requiring a recreational ocean fishing license for non-residents. The process is simple and affordable — licenses can be obtained quickly online through the Department of Land and Natural Resources - Division of Aquatic Resources (DLNR-DAR) website: https://fishing.hawaii.gov/.
1-day license: $20
7-day license: $40
Annual license: $70
Non-resident youth under 15 years old and all active-duty military personnel and their families are exempt from this requirement.
We recommend purchasing your license before your tour to avoid delays and ensure you're ready to fish!
The Best Part? You Keep Your Catch!
We’re proud to be one of the few tour companies on the island that allows you to keep your catch. If you land something edible, we’ll help you get it cleaned and ready to cook — whether that’s back at your vacation rental or at one of the local restaurants that offer “catch and cook” options.
A Tour to Remember
From sunrise lighting up the Nā Pali cliffs to the splash of a Papio on the line, this tour is full of moments you’ll never forget. Perfect for families, friend groups, celebrations, or just a day of indulgent fun on the water — this is your chance to see Kaua‘i from a whole new perspective.
Ready to reel in adventure?
Click here to view State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources website
Click here to view State of Hawaii Division of Aquatic Resources website
Direct from Hawaii DAR:
Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License (NRMFL) – Frequently Asked Questions
(updated: 05/29/25)
Who needs a Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License (NRMFL)?
Nonresidents who wish to recreationally ocean fish in Hawai’i. Recreational fishing for residents
is still free and has no registration requirements.
When did this requirement become law?
In June 2021, Act 48 was passed into law, requiring nonresidents of Hawaiʻi to obtain a
recreational marine fishing license to fish in Hawaiʻi. This law has been codified at Hawaii
Revised Statutes (HRS) §188-72. The Department of Land and Natural Resources subsequently
adopted administrative rules to implement the NRMFL, Hawaii Administrative Rules (HAR) § 13-
74-11, which took effect on May 2, 2024.
Where can I apply for the Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License?
The Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License is only available online at:
http://fishing.hawaii.gov
What ages are required to have a Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License?
• Not Required: 14 years old and under
• Required: 15 years old and up.
How much does the Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License cost?
• 1 Day* - $20
• 7 Day - $40
• 1 Year - $70
Please note, this fee schedule does not include the online processing fee.
*one day is from 12am to 11:59pm on the day selected.
Is there an exemption for members of the military?
Yes, members of the U.S. armed forces on active duty in the State, as well as their spouses and
minor children, are exempt from having to possess a NRMFL when recreational marine fishing.
Is there an exemption for non-fishing passengers on a charter fishing trip?
All nonresident passengers on a fishing charter boat are advised to have a license, even if they don’t
intend to fish.
Can I change the day I purchased the Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License for?
Yes, you may change the effective date of your permit under these conditions:
• Deadline to make updates: 11:59 PM HST the day before your license's Effective Date.
• Changes are not permitted on the day your license goes into effect (Effective Date)• Once the initial license's Effective Date passes, the "Change License Date" button will
disappear.
• You cannot change the date retroactively.
This is a one-time courtesy; be sure to verify the date before proceeding. No other exceptions
are allowed.
Is a screenshot or download copy in my mobile phone okay to carry?
A screenshot, pdf copy, or printed out hard copy are all acceptable forms to carry if asked to
show your license.
If I’m a Hawai’i resident, how to I prove my residency?
The easiest way to demonstrate residency is to have a valid State ID, such as a Hawai‘i driver's
license. You can also demonstrate residency if you have a state tax return or an official
document issued to you at a Hawai’i address within the previous thirty days (for example: mail
from a government agency, financial institution, insurance company, or utility company).
Does the Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License cover fishing in streams, lakes, and
reservoirs?
The Nonresident Recreational Marine Fishing License is for fishing in ocean waters surrounding
the state. If fishing in freshwater for gamefish, you will need a Freshwater Game Fishing License.
Please refer to the Division of Aquatic Resources website below.
Where can I find all the fishing rules and regulations?
The Division of Aquatic Resources website: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dar/