Slide from Polo Beach into a traditional Hawaiian outrigger and sail the Wailea coast—snorkel with sea turtles, listen to Hawaiian voyaging lore, and scan for seasonal humpbacks. This two-hour trip mixes hands-on canoeing, guided snorkeling, and cultural insight.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light spills across Polo Beach as the crew secures the yellow outrigger and hoists a red sail. You step from warm sand into the shallow outrigger, palms brushing the hull, and the canoe slips forward on a Wailea breeze that wants to carry you out along the reef.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness recommended: you will board from shore, sit or kneel in the canoe and may paddle or shift weight; ability to swim is required.
Wildlife
History
The Hawaiian outrigger (waʻa) was central to island life for fishing, transport and long-distance voyaging; modern cultural programs often include navigation stories and canoe-building notes.
Conservation
Operators emphasize reef-safe sunscreen, no-touch policies for turtles and fish, and small-group limits to reduce pressure on snorkel sites.
Reserve your spot on the Hawaiian Canoe Sailing Experience in Maui today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to secure parking
Polo Beach parking fills quickly—plan to arrive 20–30 minutes early to check in at the yellow canoe and use the lockbox for valuables.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen before arrival to protect coral and follow guides’ instructions on not touching marine life.
Prepare for variable seas
Summer tends to be calmer; winter brings stronger tradewinds and possible swell—if you get seasick, medicate beforehand.
Wear quick-dry footwear
Water shoes or reef shoes make beach launches and returns safer on rocky or coral-strewn shorelines.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects coral and reduces skin exposure during open-water time.
Swimwear and quick-dry layers
Comfortable swimwear with a lightweight cover-up for sun protection between snorkel stops.
Water shoes or reef shoes
Protects feet during beach launches and rocky exits.
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps essentials dry and secures personal items while on the water.