Questions, answered
Before you book
Are your tours actually private?
Yes. One group per vehicle, every time. You will never be booked alongside strangers or moved onto a bus.
How does the pricing work?
Each rate covers up to four guests. Additional guests are $95 each, up to a maximum of seven. The rate depends on where you are picked up, because that sets how long the day runs: Waimea Canyon is $650 from Koloa or Poipu (5 hours), $775 from Lihue (6 hours), $875 from Kapa'a (6 hours), and $1,095 from Princeville (8 hours). The North Shore and movie locations tour is $900 from either Lihue or Koloa and Poipu (7 hours).
Is a tip expected?
There is no gratuity built into the rate and none is expected. Guests who have enjoyed their day often tip, but it is entirely up to you.
Is there anything else to pay during the day?
No. You will not be paying anything at the parks: Elizabeth is a Kauai resident and you go in with her. Lunch is the only thing you would spend money on while you are out, unless you choose to tip.
Can the tour be guided in Spanish?
Yes. Elizabeth guides in English or Spanish, whichever you would rather hear it in. Just say which when you book.
What happens if we need to cancel?
Free cancellation with a full refund, up to 24 hours before your tour starts.
How do we book?
Book online from any tour page, or call (808) 365-3035 if you would rather talk it through first.
On the day
Who will our guide be?
Elizabeth, the owner. She guides every tour herself. There is no roster of drivers and no chance of getting whoever was free that morning.
Where do you pick up from?
Your hotel or vacation rental, in Princeville, Kapa'a, Lihue, Koloa or Poipu.
What is the vehicle?
A Ford Expedition with three rows, room for up to seven guests and space for gear.
Can we change the plan once we are out?
That is rather the point of going private. Stay longer somewhere you are enjoying, skip something that does not appeal, or add a stop Elizabeth suggests along the way.
Is there anything to eat or drink along the way?
Bottled water and snacks come along, and often a loaf of Elizabeth's homemade banana bread.
Is lunch included?
No. The tour stops somewhere you can buy lunch, and Elizabeth will steer you toward the places locals actually eat rather than the obvious tourist stops. Bottled water and snacks travel with you either way.
Planning your day
How long are the tours?
Between five and eight hours, depending on where you are picked up. The further from the west side you start, the longer the day.
What should we bring?
Layers are the main thing. The canyon rim sits above 3,000 feet and runs noticeably cooler than the coast, and the weather up there can change fast. Otherwise: sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera.
Is there much walking?
Most stops are lookouts and short, easy walks. The day can be shaped around what everyone is comfortable with, so say if that matters to your group.
Are the tours good for families?
Yes. A private tour means you set the pace, stop when you need to, and are not holding up a bus full of strangers.