Koloa is a fantastic spot for exploring Hawaii’s underwater and outdoor thrills. Its calm, clear waters and lush surroundings make it perfect for a variety of tours. We’re especially fond of the Kauai: 3-Tank Boat Dive for Certified Divers because it offers an in-depth dive experience with the chance to explore exclusive sites like Amber’s Arches. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just looking to add some underwater excitement to your trip, Koloa’s diverse tours won’t disappoint. Plus, the options for ziplining and night diving give travelers plenty of ways to enjoy the island’s natural beauty from different angles.
If you’re planning your trip, think about what kind of experience appeals most. Are you after underwater adventures, aerial thrills, or a mix of both? Our list below highlights the best options, including detailed descriptions, so you can pick the perfect tour for your style and budget.
Quick Overview
Koloa’s best tours include boat dives, zipline adventures, and night shore dives. For underwater exploration, there are options for both certified and non-certified divers, with trips ranging from 4.5 to 8 hours. Those seeking an adrenaline rush can try the longest zipline tour in Kauai, soaring over 22,000 acres of sugar plantation land. For a unique experience, the twilight and night dive offers a chance to see nocturnal marine life in their natural habitat.
Now, let’s explore each tour in detail to help you decide which fits your interests and schedule.
1. Kauai: Morning 2 Tank Boat Dive for Experienced Divers
This morning boat dive is tailor-made for experienced divers looking to explore Kauai’s underwater world at depths of 80 to 100 feet on the first dive, then 60 to 70 feet on the second. The fleet at Seasport Divers is renowned for its reliability and safety, offering a professional experience for certified divers. The tour lasts about 5 hours and typically departs early in the day, making it perfect for those who want to get their dive fix before the heat of the afternoon.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on drift dives with plenty of critters, from barracudas to parrotfish, in clear waters that showcase Kauai’s marine diversity. The dive sites are carefully chosen to maximize underwater encounters, and the guide’s expertise ensures a safe, smooth experience. The price is $259 per person, which reflects the high-quality gear, boat, and small group atmosphere.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for certified divers who love exploring at depth and want a professional, well-organized morning adventure. It’s perfect if you value good gear, expert guides, and the chance to see Kauai’s vibrant critters.
2. Kauai: 2 Tank Afternoon Dive
For about $259, this afternoon 2-tank dive offers a more relaxed schedule compared to the morning trip. It lasts roughly 4.5 hours and caters to both certified and non-certified divers, making it one of the more flexible options. The tour dives into Kauai’s lively reefs, with shallow sites that are ideal for those who prefer a less intense, more leisurely underwater experience.
The highlight is the opportunity to encounter colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life, all in a setting that’s accessible for divers of various skill levels. The guide team emphasizes safety and fun, ensuring that even those newer to diving can enjoy the ocean’s treasures. Some reviews mention the friendly, knowledgeable staff and the calm, beautiful waters that make the whole experience enjoyable.
Bottom Line: This tour is a good choice if you want a shorter, more relaxed dive experience or are traveling with a mixed group of certified and non-certified divers. The focus on shallow reefs and marine diversity offers excellent value.
3. Kauai: 3-Tank Boat Dive for Certified Divers
At 8 hours long and costing $373 per person, this 3-tank boat dive is the ultimate experience for certified divers seeking an all-day adventure. The tour includes dives at some of Kauai’s most exclusive sites, such as Amber’s Arches and Mana Crack, which are known for their dramatic formations and abundant marine life.
The dive technicians and guides are highly experienced, ensuring safe navigation through varied depths and techniques, including drift and deep diving. Guests often comment on the diverse marine encounters—from turtles to reef sharks—and the stunning underwater scenery. This tour is ideal for those who want to explore beyond the usual spots and are comfortable with longer, potentially more challenging dives.
Bottom Line: If you’re an experienced diver craving a full-day, multiple-site exploration, this is the best option. It’s pricey but offers unmatched access to Kauai’s top underwater sites with expert guidance.
$373 per person
4. Koloa: Kauai’s Longest 8-Line Zipline Tour
For adrenaline lovers, the Longest 8-line Zipline Tour in Kauai offers a 3-hour thrill ride across 22,000 acres of Hawaii’s first sugar plantation. Starting with a ground school session, you’ll learn the basics before soaring through the sky on ziplines that vary in style—from tandem to superhero. The tour’s highlight is the panoramic view of Kauai’s South Shore, with plenty of chances to stop and appreciate the scenery.
The tour is priced at $166 per person, making it a good value for a full outdoor adventure. While the reviews are not provided, the combination of length, unique zipline styles, and the scenic backdrop make this a standout activity for outdoor enthusiasts. Snacks and drinks are available, so you can recharge after your flight.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking an active, high-flying experience with fantastic views. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and offers a unique perspective of Kauai’s landscape.
$166 per person
5. Kauai: Twilight/Night Shore Dive Experience
This night dive at Koloa Landing is a rare chance to see the ocean’s nocturnal side. For $215, the 4-hour Twilight/Night Shore Dive immerses you in an entirely different world. You’ll witness how marine life changes after sunset, with creatures like octopuses, eels, and nocturnal fish taking center stage.
The tour is designed for certified divers, with a focus on safety and observing marine behaviors under the cover of darkness. The experience is especially captivating as you watch the transition from day to night, with the last light fading over the horizon. Many divers find this a magical, almost surreal experience that adds a new dimension to their underwater adventures.
Bottom Line: Ideal for experienced divers wanting a memorable, less common experience. It’s perfect if you’re curious about marine night life and enjoy peaceful, atmospheric dives.
$215 per person
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your budget, experience level, and interests. If you’re an experienced diver eager to explore Kauai’s top sites, the 3-tank dive offers the most comprehensive experience. For those new to diving or preferring a shorter trip, the afternoon 2-tank dive provides plenty of marine encounters at a relaxed pace. If you want a break from underwater activities, the longest zipline tour gives a thrilling aerial view of Kauai’s landscape.
For night owls or those curious about marine behaviors after dark, the Twilight/Night Shore Dive is a must. Check each tour’s reviews and details to see what fits your schedule, fitness level, and interests best. Booking early is always recommended, especially for popular excursions like the zipline or full-day dives.
Final Thoughts
Koloa offers a diverse array of tours for all kinds of travelers. For underwater explorers, the 3-tank boat dive is unbeatable if you want a full day of marine adventure. If your time is limited or you prefer something more relaxed, the afternoon dive provides lively reefs without the long hours. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the longest zipline tour, while night divers can add a touch of mystery with the twilight/night dive.
No matter what you choose, these tours provide memorable ways to see Kauai from above or below. Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, and prepare for a range of exciting experiences that showcase the true beauty of this Hawaiian island.