Discover the rich maritime heritage of Hawaii on a paddling adventure in Kihei with Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society. This 90-minute experience combines cultural immersion with fun on the water, making it perfect for all ages and skill levels.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal paddling experience needed
Wildlife
History
The paddle chants and navigational techniques used in the activity are rooted in centuries-old Polynesian seamanship, preserving vital cultural practices.
Conservation
The organization emphasizes low-impact paddling and reef-safe sunscreens to protect Hawaii’s delicate marine ecosystems.
Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society
Discover the rich maritime heritage of Hawaii on a paddling adventure in Kihei with Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society. This 90-minute experience combines cultural immersion with fun on the water, making it perfect for all ages and skill levels.
Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society is a Kihei, Hawaii–based organization that preserves and shares Hawaiian voyaging and paddling traditions. The society offers hands-on outrigger canoe experiences that combine active paddling with cultural education, including chants, stories, and demonstrations of traditional practices. Its primary outings include the Cultural Canoe Experience, a 90-minute daytime paddle that introduces participants to Hawaiian chants and heritage while on the water; the Hawaiian Star Navigation Paddle, an evening program that teaches how ancient Polynesians used stars and celestial cues to navigate the Pacific; and the Full Moon Paddle, a 1.5-hour nighttime voyage that pairs moonlit paddling with traditional chanting for a memorable coastal experience.
Featured on The Adventure Collective, the organization focuses on authentic cultural interpretation and community-based voyaging knowledge. Programs emphasize participant engagement, encouraging guests to learn paddling techniques, join in cultural chants, and gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian maritime history. The society operates from Kihei and schedules both daytime and nighttime outings to showcase different aspects of Hawaiian tradition and ocean navigation.
Bookings are suitable for visitors seeking experiential cultural activities in Maui. Clear trip summaries outline durations and cultural themes so guests can choose the paddle that best fits their interests. Safety protocols and paddling instruction are provided during each outing to support participant comfort on the water. For travelers prioritizing cultural immersion, authentic chants, and traditional star navigation stories, the Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Voyaging Society offers focused, experience-driven paddles in Kihei, Hawaii. Advance reservations recommended for evening and moon paddles often.
Location
Kihei, Hawaii
Based in Kihei on Maui
Trip Lengths
90 min · 1.5 hr
Varying day and night adventures
Tours Offered
3 Experiences
Cultural and navigation paddles
Cultural Focus
Hawaiian Traditions
Chants, star navigation, moon paddles
Choose a 90-minute cultural paddle, a star navigation night, or a full moon voyage — book ahead to secure space.
Wear sun protection
Apply waterproof sunscreen and bring a hat to stay comfortable during sunny paddling sessions.
Stay hydrated
Carry enough water, especially during warmer weather, to keep hydrated throughout the activity.
Use a waterproof camera
Capture your experience with a waterproof device to preserve memories without worry of water damage.
Arrive early
Check in a few minutes ahead of your scheduled start time to ensure a smooth experience.
Sun protection
Helps prevent sunburn during long hours on the water.
summer
Waterproof camera
Capture the vibrant ocean and cultural moments without worry.
Light hat or cap
Provides shade during sunny paddling.
summer
Light, quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable while paddling and dries quickly if splashed.
summer