3 Best ATV Tours in Kauai for the Ultimate Adventure
Are you considering taking an ATV tour in Kauai but don’t know which one to choose? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the best ATV tours on the island.
Kauai is known as the “Garden Island” for its lush tropical landscapes and breathtaking scenery. And what better way to explore its beauty than on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV)?
ATV tours are one of the best things to do in Kauai and a popular way to get off the beaten path and discover the island’s hidden gems. There’s something for everyone, from rugged terrain and majestic waterfalls to historic movie sites.
Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a first-time adventurer, these tours offer a unique way to experience Kauai’s beauty and thrill-seeking opportunities
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Don’t have time to read about all the tours on this list? No worries—we have shortlisted the best ATV tours in Kauai below to make things easy for you.
Kauai ATV Backroads Adventure Tour
Offers an exhilarating off-road experience that allows you to explore stunning landscapes and famous filming locations. You’ll be immersed in the beauty of Kauai as you navigate through its picturesque trails. This tour is perfect for couples, families, and groups.
(1) Kauai ATV Backroads Adventure Tour
Duration: 3 hours (approximately)
Meeting Point: 3477 Weliweli Rd. Koloa, HI 96756
Discover the best of Kauai on an exhilarating off-road ATV tour that will take you through stunning landscapes and famous filming locations.
Lasting approximately 3 hours, with around 40 minutes of actual drive time, this adventure-packed experience is not to be missed.
Your journey begins with a safety overview and driving instructions provided by knowledgeable guides. You will then get on a premium Polaris off-road vehicle to explore the beauty of Kauai.
During the tour, you will stop at scenic points, including the picturesque Maha’ulepu cliffs, the breathtaking Waita Reservoir, and the iconic Wilcox Tunnel.
Weather permitting, you can participate in catch-and-release fishing for bass at the Waita Reservoir using traditional bamboo poles. It’s a chance to connect with nature and enjoy a unique experience during your tour.
As you navigate the plantation trails, you’ll pass by Kauai’s most southern point and witness famous movie sites that have graced the silver screen for years. Some of the movie sites include Pirates of the Caribbean, Jurassic Park, and Jungle Cruise.
You’ll also hear captivating tales of Kamehameha and an inactive volcanic crater.
This thrilling off-road ATV tour takes you on an unforgettable adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, exciting activities, and a glimpse into the island’s rich history.
Requirements
- No back, neck, or knee injuries, allergies to bees or dust, pregnancies, or recent surgeries
- 320 lbs or less per person
- The minimum age limit is five years
- The minimum age limit to drive is 18 years old with a valid driver’s license or permit
- Minors must be accompanied by an adult that is 25 or older
- Closed-toe shoes are required.
Tour Times: Kauai ATV offers four tour times: 7:00 am, 8:00 am, 12:00 pm, and 1:00 pm.
(2) 3-Hour ATV Waterfall Tour at Kipu Ranch
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Meeting Point: 235 Kipu Rd, Lihue, HI 96766
The Kipu Ranch Adventures Waterfall Triple Trail Expedition offers an exceptional ATV tour experience in Kauai.
With well-maintained and high-quality vehicles, this tour takes you on an epic adventure through open views, mountains, and jungles, combining the best sections of all three trail systems into one exciting trip.
Guests will enjoy a first-class tropical 4×4 off-road adventure aboard the Kawasaki TERYX4 or the Kawasaki Platinum Mule Pro-FXT Ranch Edition, capable of accommodating the whole family.
Experienced guides will lead you through a 3,000-acre trail system on a working cattle ranch, showcasing breathtaking scenery, famous movie locations, cultural history, and Hawaiian legends. Some of the movies filmed at Kipu Ranch include The Descendants, Jurassic Park, and Pirates of the Caribbean.
We have been to Kipu Ranch multiple times, and it never ceases to amaze us. We even took a zipline tour, and the views were incredible.
During the tour, you’ll navigate your vehicle through various trails and obstacles, leading to a private waterfall, beautiful bamboo jungles, and more while learning about Kauai’s majestic landscape.
The tour is designed to provide an exhilarating experience suitable for beginners to intermediate levels of off-road enthusiasts.
It’s important to note that this tour includes a swimming component, so remember to bring towels and wear a swimsuit under your riding clothes.
Note: Waterfall and stream conditions are subject to the weather. Heavy rains may make swimming unsafe, while droughts can significantly reduce water flow.
Requirements
- Minimum age limit to drive is 18 years old with a valid driver’s license
- No recent surgeries, neck/back/knee problems, pregnant women, or any serious health conditions
- Covered closed-toe shoes are required, including during water activities
- Minimum age limit is nine years
Tour Times: Kipu Ranch Adventures offers four tour times: 8:00 am, 8:45 am, 1:30 pm, and 2:10 pm Tuesday-Friday.
Side note: Going to Kauai and need recommendations on what to do? Check out our review of the Best Sunset Dinner Cruises in Kauai, Smith’s Family Garden Luau, and 5 Best Luaus in Kauai.
(3) 3-Hour ATV Ranch Tour at Kipu Ranch
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes (approximately)
Meeting Point: 235 Kipu Rd, Lihue, HI 96766
The 3-Hour ATV Ranch Tour is another tour offered by Kipu Tours, designed to get you off the beaten path to explore a hidden paradise on Kauai.
This tour will also take you on an unforgettable journey through Kipu Ranch, where lush green pastures, tropical Hule’ia Valley, and the majestic Mt. Ha’upu create a breathtaking backdrop.
This 3-hour off-road adventure offers diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and stunning views, making Kipu Ranch a top eco-tour destination in Hawaii. Along the way, you’ll also encounter famous movie locations adding to the allure of the experience.
The tour begins with instructions and practice time, ensuring that beginners and experienced riders are comfortable. You will then be accompanied by knowledgeable guides and explore the ranch’s diverse terrain and rich history, which has served as royal land, a sugar plantation, and a captivating eco-tour destination.
You will get up close with the local wildlife, including cattle, wild pigs, pheasants, peacocks, and wild chickens, adding an element of excitement to the journey.
The main difference between this tour and the waterfall tour mentioned above is the paths and trails each tour takes. This tour also has less downtime and is more of a classic stop-and-go, and it does not include the waterfall swimming option.
Requirements
- Minimum age limit to drive is 18 years old with a valid driver’s license
- No recent surgeries, neck/back/knee problems, pregnant women, or any serious health conditions
- Covered closed-toe shoes are required
- Minimum age limit is nine years
Tour Times: Kipu Ranch Adventures offers two tour times: 9:30 am and 1:00 pm, Tuesday-Friday.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do You Wear on an ATV Ride in Hawaii?
Since you’ll be outdoors, wearing comfortable and durable clothing is important, as ATV trails are often muddy and dusty. We recommend wearing long pants and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Closed-toe shoes are also required. We also suggest wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to keep the sun at bay. A light jacket or raincoat is also a good idea since the weather in Kauai can change quickly.
Also, we recommend bringing a change of clothes if you plan to do other activities after the ATV tour.
Do You Need a Driver’s License to Drive an ATV?
Yes, tour companies will require you to have a valid driver’s license to drive ATVs.
Who Owns Kauai Backcountry Adventures?
Karin Carswell, a six-generation member of a Hawaiian family, owns Kauai Backcountry Adventures.
Who Owns Kipu Ranch?
Kipu Ranch Adventures has been privately owned and operated by the Rice family for four generations.
Final Thoughts
ATV tours in Kauai are a great way to explore the island’s lush landscapes and hidden gems. From rugged off-road trails to tranquil waterfalls, there is something for everyone, regardless of experience level.
Kauai ATV Backroads Adventures and Kipu Ranch Adventures offer ATV tours in Kauai with experienced guides and quality equipment to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
So if you’re looking for an exciting way to explore Kauai’s natural beauty, don’t miss out on the chance to take an ATV tour!
Happy adventuring!
