Experience the steady rush of an outrigger canoe as it rides Waikiki’s gentle swells. In a short, captain-led session from the Royal Hawaiian Hotel you’ll catch two to three waves—an efficient, family-friendly way to connect with Hawaiian canoeing tradition.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The ocean pushes and then pauses, and you feel the canoe answer—wood and vaka-style outrigger slicing into a Waikiki swell as Diamond Head watches from the east. On the pool deck of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel, a licensed captain checks the paddles and calls the crew; within minutes you’re on a low, long outrigger that feels impossibly steady and alive.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
20 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; basic mobility to step into a low canoe is helpful
Wildlife
History
Outrigger canoeing is rooted in Polynesian voyaging and aliʻi canoe traditions; Waikiki’s canoe culture evolved into competitive and recreational forms in the 20th century.
Conservation
Use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral; operators emphasize non-intrusive viewing and minimizing sunscreen runoff to protect shallow reef ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Outrigger Canoe Surfing today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Check-in early
Arrive 15 minutes before launch at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel pool-deck service counter to complete waivers and briefings.
Sun protection
Bring high-SPF reef-safe sunscreen and a hat—the Pacific sun reflects strongly off the water even on cloudy mornings.
Footwear for beach access
Wear reef shoes or sandals that can get wet for the short walk over sand and coral flats to the craft.
Hydrate between sessions
Pack a water bottle to sip before and after; the activity is short but sun and salt can dehydrate quickly.
Reef shoes
Protects feet when launching from sand and rocky reef flats.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and protects local marine life from harmful chemicals.
summer
Quick-dry clothing or swimwear
Dries fast after spray and permits comfortable paddling or riding.
summer
Water bottle (insulated)
Keeps you hydrated between check-in and post-activity cooldown.