Holo Holo Blog

If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding beneath Kauaʻi’s emerald cliffs or snorkeling near a “Forbidden Island,” Holo Holo Charters is your golden ticket. Here’s why they’ve repeatedly made the USA TODAY 10Best list — and why they should top your Kauaʻi must-do list.

Award‑Winning Excellence

For six consecutive years (2019–2024), Holo Holo Charters has been ranked among USA TODAY’s 10Best boat tours by readers’ votes—and they’ve consistently earned top-tier finishes. Not stopping there, they’ve also claimed the #1 spot in Newsweek’s Best Boat Tour in America for both 2024 and 2025. These honors aren’t handed out lightly—they reflect their commitment to top-tier service, safety, and unforgettable experiences.

Designed for Kauaʻi’s Waters

What sets Holo Holo Charters apart? Their fleet: custom-built on Kauaʻi by their founder, a third-generation boat builder. These vessels are crafted specifically for the island’s changing ocean conditions—whether you’re skimming calm waters or powering through swells. In fact, they’re the only local operator to design and build their own boats—landing them on the leading edge of safety and reliability.

Awe‑Inspiring Charters & Tours

Choose from a range of spectacular journeys:

• Nāpali Coast & Niʻihau Super Charter (7 hrs): Combine dazzling cliffside views with snorkeling at Lehua Crater near the “Forbidden Island.”

• Nāpali Coast Snorkel & Sail (5 hrs): A perfect half-day aboard a sleek catamaran, with multiple snorkel stops in pristine waters

• Nāpali Sunset Dinner Tour and Nāpali Sunset Dinner Sail (3.5hrs – 4.5hrs): Sail into the golden hour along the Nāpali Coast, complete with cocktails, local fare, and a champagne toast as the sun dips below the horizon.

Expect thrilling wildlife encounters—spinner dolphins surfing the bow, green sea turtles pausing for a breath, and in winter, migrating humpback whales breaching against a backdrop of emerald scarps.

Aloha & Stewardship at the Core

Holo Holo Charters mission organically blends adventure with aloha. Their pledge includes:

1. Providing the safest, most unique ocean experience

2. Using and maintaining top-notch vessels

3. Delivering exceptional customer service

4. Creating a positive impact on Kauaʻi’s environment and community

They go further—Holo Holo Charters is the first in Hawaiʻi to adopt energy-efficient diesel outboard technology, doubling down on eco-conscious innovation.

What Travelers are Saying

TripAdvisor reviews reflect glowing satisfaction (4.8/5 average from 8,300+ reviews) . Travelers rave about:

“From start to finish this was an amazing adventure… Even our 18 & 16 year old raved about this tour.”

“We saw three separate schools of Hawaiian spinner dolphins… a truly magical experience.”

Reviews shine with praise for the knowledgeable, personable crew, the smooth boarding, and the abundant food and drink options onboard.

The Perfect Charter Awaits You

Seamlessly launching daily from Port Allen—convenient to Koloa, Poipu, Waimea, Kapaa, Hanalei, and Princeville—Holo Holo Charters offers a tour with the perfect mix of ease, excitement, and elegance.

In other words: whether you’re seeking family-friendly snorkeling, romantic sunset sails, rugged cliff exploration, or full-day island adventures, Holo Holo Charters checks all the boxes.

Dive Into Your Kauaʻi Adventure

With an unbeatable record in USA TODAY’s 10Best, Newsweek, TripAdvisor, and an unwavering dedication to Kauaʻi’s land, sea, and people—the choice is clear:

Choose Holo Holo Charters. Book early to secure your spot on a difference-making adventure in Hawaiʻi. Mahalo (thank you) for sailing with aloha.