Huaka'i Waʻa Pe’a: Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Experience in Kailua
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness; able to paddle while sitting or kneeling and comfortable spending time on water.
Overview
Set sail on a private Hawaiian sailing canoe tour in Kailua, Hawaii, and explore the ocean like ancient Polynesian voyagers. Learn the rich history while paddling through stunning coastal waters.
Huaka'i Waʻa Pe’a (Hawaiian Sailing Canoe)
3 hours • Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Voyage • Most popular! • Ages 3+
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Tour
Duration
3-hour Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Adventure
About
Sail beautiful Kailua on a Waʻa Peʻa (Hawaiian Sailing Canoe); a cultural craft designed and used by the Hawaiians to navigate and sail the ocean. Join our watermen, learning about the history and cultural significance of the canoe and Kailua to the Hawaiian and Polynesian people, as we journey to our offshore islets. It's a Hawaiian experience unlike any other!
During the tour, explore the ecosystem as we move through the glistening, clear coral reefs of Kailua with honu (sea turtles) and other native species of fishes. Enjoy the views of the Ko’olau range surrounding us as our watermen tell the mo’olelo (stories) of various Ahupua’a (land divisions) that make up Kailua and the Ka Iwi coastline. View and learn of the indigenous seabirds, such as ‘Iwa (Great Frigate) and ‘Ua‘u kani (Wedge-tail Shearwater), that call the sanctuary island home.
• Participants required to arrive & check in with guide 15 minutes PRIOR to tour departure time • Participants required to sign electronic liability waiver • Paddling is required • You WILL GET WET
Max allotted number of guests per canoe - 6. For parties larger than 6, you will be placed in two separate canoes.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to complete safety briefings and get comfortable with the canoe.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on sunny days out on the open water.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the fragile marine environment by using reef-safe sunscreen during your trip.
Dress Appropriately
Wear quick-drying, lightweight clothing and non-slip water shoes for comfort and safety aboard the canoe.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Spinner dolphins
- Hawaiian green sea turtles
History
Traditional Hawaiian sailing canoes like the waʻa peʻa were essential for ocean navigation and inter-island connection in Polynesian culture.
Conservation
Kailua Ocean Adventures prioritizes eco-friendly practices to reduce impact on marine ecosystems and uphold Hawaiian cultural values.
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Adventure Hotspots in Honolulu
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight Quick-Dry Clothing
Stays comfortable and dries quickly after splashes or sweat.
summer specific
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and Hawaiian marine ecosystems.
Water Shoes
Provides grip and protects feet on slippery canoe surfaces and rocky shores.
Wide-Brim Hat
Offers extra sun protection while on open water.
summer specific