SEA CAVE TOURS IN THE USA

The 15 Sea Cave Tours in the USA That Earn the Descent

24 tours  ·  from $72 a head

The 15 best sea cave tours in the USA you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and how far down it goes. Number one is first for a reason; start there.

Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup - Getting fitted for the river
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Cave Tours with Hotel Transfer, Half-Day, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup

1.Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 4,978 reviews · 5 to 6 hours (approx.) · from $99Our pick

Paddle four miles through Black Canyon from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave, a grotto where sunlight turns the water green. A guide such as Michelle, Preston, or Gabby leads the small group, provides gear, snacks, water, and photos. Beginners are welcome, but expect sun, wet feet, and a short hike.

“Great experience. Ryan was a great guide. Fun, exhilarating. The waters were calm, really cool cave we went into. Would do it again.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle with Optional Shuttle - Choosing the Mandalay Bay shuttle or self-drive option
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle with Optional Shuttle

2.Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle with Optional Shuttle

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 2,858 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $89

Leave Las Vegas for a relaxed 5-mile paddle from Willow Beach through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave. Guides such as Juston, Kwame, and Robby teach beginners, share local history, and take photos. Choose a single or double kayak, with shuttle service from Mandalay Bay or self-drive access.

“Be prepared for the cool water temperature and the time spent in the sun. Traveling with our guide, Juston, lets you learn more about the history of the area. He was the best on and off the river.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave Express Kayak Tour with Scenic & Historic Stops - Paddling the Colorado River through Black Canyon
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Historical Tours, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave Express Kayak Tour with Scenic & Historic Stops

3.Emerald Cave Express Kayak Tour with Scenic & Historic Stops

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,522 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $99

Paddle a stable single or tandem kayak four miles along the Colorado River from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave. Guides such as Ryan, Jeff, Calvin, Maggie, and Faith provide instruction, history, wildlife notes, snacks, and water. Add hotel pickup, lunch, or a Hoover Dam tour if needed.

“Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Sunscreen! Lucky to be blessed with Faith as the tour guide. Right at the tale end of our day, I lost my balance looking for my daughter, tipped over my kayak and became immersed in the extremely refreshing river. I’m a good swimmer so I didn’t panic, however, I was curious as to how I was going to get back into the kayak. Long story short, Faith talked me through everything, she’s very knowledgeable and extremely fun to be around. I recommend you kayak with her.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves - The ride from Kailua-Kona to Kealakekua Bay
Cave Snorkeling & Swimming, Cave Snorkeling and Swimming in the USA, Cave Tours, Dolphin Watching, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

4.Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,411 reviews · 2 hours 45 minutes (approx.) · from $71Best value

Ride a fast Zodiac RIB from Kailua-Kona to Kealakekua Bay with guides such as David, Chip, Sage, or Danielle. Snorkel near the Captain Cook Monument, then cruise past lava tubes and sea caves. Pineapple, water, and basic snorkel gear are included. Dolphins and whales are possible, never promised.

“Danielle and David took us to where Finding Nemo and Moana got their inspiration and we can see why. The water was so calm and pristine, our best camera couldn't capture the beauty of it. You just have to be there truly. They were rather knowledgeable and told lots of stories and history tidbits about the region. My parents came to visit from China and don't swim very well. They were beyond patient and kind making us feel comfortable. This was the highlight of our 10 day Hawaiian trip honestly. PS: If David's mother is reading this, David is a terrific captain and really great at his job!!! 🌴”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave & Black Canyon Kayak Tour with Vegas Pickup - Black Canyon by kayak
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave & Black Canyon Kayak Tour with Vegas Pickup

5.Emerald Cave & Black Canyon Kayak Tour with Vegas Pickup

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 1,266 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $149

Trade Las Vegas lights for a guided paddle through Black Canyon. You’ll kayak about 4 miles on calm Colorado River water, stop for snacks and swimming, and visit Emerald Cave when conditions and river traffic allow. Guides such as Chelsea, Jeff, Lauren, and Eugene add local history, wildlife spotting, and patient instruction.

“What a wonderfully perfect day away from the city. Eugene and Melissa served as our tour guides and know how to accommodate all skill levels. The trip is organized well so participants can just relax and enjoy. The natural beauty of the Black Canyon contrasted against the emerald green water is astounding. As a doctor and kayak instructor, I noted the team focused on safety and then fun. Great adventure!”

Check availability →Read our full review

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak) - Paddling through the kelp beds
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak)

6.La Jolla Sea Caves Kayak Tour For Two (Tandem Kayak)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 1,205 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)

Paddle a tandem kayak from La Jolla Shores toward the sea caves and ecological reserve with a guide such as Alex, Hannah, or Cassidy. Expect safety coaching, rocky coast views, kelp beds, sea lions, seals, and possible dolphins or leopard sharks. Cave entry depends on waves and your guide’s call.

“Jake and Ryan were very knowledgeable about the history and lore of the caves. They were helpful and friendly and made the tour very enjoyable.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two - From 2261 Avenida De La Playa to the water
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two

7.Original La Jolla Sea Cave Kayak Tour for Two

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 871 reviews · 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)

You’ll spend about 90 minutes kayaking La Jolla Ecological Reserve with an English-speaking guide such as Sawyer, Hannah, or Lydia. Expect ocean views, wildlife, a short look into Emerald Cave when conditions allow, and plenty of spray. Equipment is included, but bring quick-drying clothes and a waterproof phone case.

“Fun trip, nice guides and worth the time. The operation is well ran and they offer many extras to make your experience more enjoyable and comfortable.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Lunch & Las Vegas Shuttle Option - Emerald Cave, a photo stop with modest proportions
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Lunch Experiences, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Lunch & Las Vegas Shuttle Option

8.Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Lunch & Las Vegas Shuttle Option

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 733 reviews · 7 hours (approx.) · from $149

Leave Las Vegas for a guided 4 to 6 mile paddle through Black Canyon to Emerald Cave. Guides such as Faith, Ray, Maggie, and Jayden lead beginners and experienced paddlers, with lunch, snacks, water, wildlife spotting, and optional hotel transport.

“It was a wonderful experience. The transport from the hotel was very pleasant. Kayaking was peaceful and fun. Our tour guide Jayden was outstanding. She made sure everyone had a good time and was very knowledgeable. The lunch was delicious.”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayaking Tour - Getting set up at Willow Beach
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Guided, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayaking Tour

9.From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayaking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 456 reviews · 4 hours · from $143

Leave Las Vegas by van for Willow Beach, where guides such as Michelle, Adam, Preston, and Julia lead a 4-mile kayak trip on the Colorado River. Expect cold, clear water, birds, possible bighorn sheep, a short hike, snacks, and a photo stop at Emerald Cave.

“Great for those who like to kayak. about 4 miles in total, and just over an hour drive to get there. but the scenery is stunning and the water is refreshing if you choose to partake.”

Check availability →Read our full review

From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayak Tour with Shuttle - Getting set up for the Colorado River
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Guided, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayak Tour with Shuttle

10.From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Guided Kayak Tour with Shuttle

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 334 reviews · 6 hours · from $139

Leave Mandalay Bay at 9am for Willow Beach, then paddle 8 km upstream through Black Canyon with guides such as Kwame, Robby, Johnny, or Zen. Expect calm water, desert wildlife, Hoover Dam stories, a small Emerald Cave, snacks, and a refreshing swim stop.

“great activity. would definitely do it again. our guide Zen lived up to his name and was very enjoyable to talk with.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Las Vegas: Colorado River to Emerald Cave Half-Day Kayak - Launching at Willow Beach
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Half-Day, Las Vegas Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, USA Cave Tours

Las Vegas: Colorado River to Emerald Cave Half-Day Kayak

11.Las Vegas: Colorado River to Emerald Cave Half-Day Kayak

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 241 reviews · 4 hours · from $119

Escape the Las Vegas Strip for a guided kayak trip from Willow Beach to Emerald Cave. Guides such as Don, Paul, Isaac, and Johnny provide instruction, local stories, snacks, photos, and steady support. Expect a calm four-mile paddle, a swim stop, and cold, clear river water.

“Me and my wife had the best time. the scenery was beautiful and so peaceful out there. Johnny our guide was amazing. He told us so much interesting information about the place. Definitely a highlight of our holiday in Vegas. Would 100% do again.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle - Self Drive - Emerald Cave and the changing light
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle – Self Drive

12.Emerald Cave Kayak Tour: Scenic Paddle – Self Drive

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 222 reviews · 3 hours 15 minutes (approx.) · from $108

Meet at Willow Beach for a guided 3 to 3.5 hour paddle through Black Canyon. You’ll kayak 4.5 miles round trip to Emerald Cave, stop at a historic gauging station, and hear local stories from guides such as Gio, Don, or Dave. Gear, snacks, water, and digital photos are included.

“Don was a fantastic tour guide! We got to see amazing views and he was very inclusive and helpful. BJ was very helpful reaching out via phone call and text to make sure we were set and ready for the tour. Thank you!”

Check availability →Read our full review

Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Snorkel Combo in Kealakekua Bay - The fast ride along the Kona coast
Cave Snorkeling & Swimming, Cave Snorkeling and Swimming in the USA, Cave Tours, Dolphin Watching, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, USA Cave Tours

Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Snorkel Combo in Kealakekua Bay

13.Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Snorkel Combo in Kealakekua Bay

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 220 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $83

Ride a Zodiac RIB along the Kona coast, snorkel coral reef at Captain Cook Monument, and explore sea caves when conditions allow. Guides such as Danielle, Chip, Dave, and Patty share local history and wildlife facts. The trip lasts about 2.5 hours and includes gear, flotation devices, water, and pineapple.

“Fun tour. Great guides which make for great company. Lots of interesting facts about the area, history, etc. Would definitely recommend.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Emerald Cave Deluxe Kayak Tour with Catered Lunch & Guide - Black Canyon and the river’s 1920s story
Cave Kayaking Tours, Cave Kayaking Tours in the USA, Cave Tours, Guided, Lunch Experiences, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, Tours, USA Cave Tours

Emerald Cave Deluxe Kayak Tour with Catered Lunch & Guide

14.Emerald Cave Deluxe Kayak Tour with Catered Lunch & Guide

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 188 reviews · 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $163

You’ll paddle from Willow Beach into Black Canyon, learning about local wildlife, plants, and 1920s river history from guides such as Faith and Jadyn. The small Emerald Cave makes a memorable photo stop, while lunch, snacks, water, kayaks, and life vests keep the half-day outing simple.

“We had a wonderful time. Faith was our guide and she is the BEST. We learned so many new and fascinating things due to her vast knowledge of the history and wildlife. Definitely worth taking the time to experience and explore this amazing tour.”

Check availability →Read our full review

Kauai: Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Sea Caves + Snorkel - Check-in in Waimea, then the harbor
Cave Snorkeling & Swimming, Cave Snorkeling and Swimming in the USA, Cave Speedboat Tours, Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours, Sea Cave Tours in the USA, Tour Reviews, USA Cave Tours

Kauai: Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Sea Caves + Snorkel

15.Kauai: Nā Pali Coast Zodiac Raft Sea Caves + Snorkel

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 166 reviews · 4 hours · from $237

You’ll ride a 30-foot Zodiac from Waimea to Kauai’s Nā Pali Coast, entering sea caves when conditions allow, stopping to snorkel or swim, and watching for dolphins, turtles, monk seals, and winter whales. Captains such as Brandon, Troy, and McKayla have led recent trips, with snacks and drinks included.

“We loved the wild ride, in and out of sea caves & the snorkeling spot.”

Check availability →Read our full review

New in Sea Cave Tours in the USA

★ 5.0Las Vegas: Guided Kayak Tour from Willow Beach to Emerald CaveFrom $7942 reviews
★ 4.8From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Hotel PickupFrom $11922 reviews
★ 5.0From Las Vegas: Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Shuttle PickupFrom $17318 reviews

Keep browsing

Cave Boat Tours455Cenote Tours & Swims256Blue Cave & Grotto Tours241Salt Mine Tours96Catacombs & Underground City Tours101Benagil Cave Tours174
Scroll to Top

Pick your way underground

By boat, by ladder, by staircase or on a rope.

By boat

Cave Boat TripsBlue Caves & GrottoesSea CavesSpeedboat RunsHalong Bay Caves

In the water

Cenote SwimsCave SnorkellingCave KayakingCave TubingPyramid & Cenote Days

Down the stairs

Salt MinesCatacombs & UndergroundsUnderground CitiesBatu CavesCave Temples

Cold and dark

Ice CavesGlowworm CavesPostojna CavePrivate Cave GuidesWith Hotel Pickup

Cave tours by country

PortugalMexicoItalyCroatiaVietnamGreeceSpainPolandIcelandthe USAMaltaMontenegrothe Dominican RepublicThailandTurkeyNew ZealandMalaysiaAlbaniathe UKIndonesiaIndiaGeorgiaCzechiaFranceSloveniaAustraliaCambodiaPeruLebanonBarbadosPuerto RicoTanzaniaJapanRomaniaCanadaBelize

Cave tours by city and island

RomeCancunHanoiKrakowthe AlgarveTulumPortimaoPunta CanaKotorPlaya del CarmenDubrovnikSplitMallorcaZakynthosEdinburghNaplesReykjavikKuala LumpurVloreLagosMexico CityAlanyaMumbaiSorrentoCapriAthensAucklandAlbufeiraCorfuParisFaroVikPragueLas VegasNinh BinhHofnPulaLjubljanaDong HoiIbizaLecceZanzibarPolignano a MareKo LantaBeirutLagoaMeridaHvarYogyakartaNiagara FallsSicilyHeraklionPhuketBattambangCreteKrabiGoremeCozumelKutaisiSyracuseLisbonUbudGranadaSan Juan