Fernando de Noronha: Hawaiian Canoe Paddle & Swim Tour

Summary

Noronha canoe adventure with islander guide, swim stops and GoPro pics

You’ll paddle along Noronha’s wild coast in a Hawaiian canoe with an islander guide, stopping to swim at beaches like Dog Beach and Conception. Snorkel in clear water, laugh over GoPro photos (which you get for free), and soak up the quiet moments between strokes. It’s less about speed—more about feeling part of this place.

What’s the experience like?

We met our guide, Paulo, right by the sand where the canoes waited—he’s lived on Fernando de Noronha his whole life and knows every curve of this coastline. I could smell sunscreen and seaweed, that mix you only get on islands like this. The sun was already hot but not harsh, just enough to make me squint as we pushed off from the shore. Our group was a mix—two couples from São Paulo, one family with a kid who kept asking if dolphins would show up (they didn’t, but he stayed hopeful). Paulo handed out jackets and dry bags for our phones. He joked about my paddling style—apparently I splash more than steer.

We paddled past places with names I’d never heard—Air France, Biboca, Roar of the Lion. The cliffs looked almost painted in that morning light. At Dog Beach we stopped for a swim; the water was cold at first but then just perfect. Paulo had a GoPro strapped to his wrist and snapped pictures while we tried to look cool underwater (I failed spectacularly). There was this moment where everyone went quiet except for the sound of paddles tapping and some distant seabirds—I remember thinking how far away city noise felt here.

After floating around Middle Beach we drifted toward Conception for snorkeling. The current was gentle but strong enough to remind you who’s in charge out here. I tried saying “va’a” like Paulo did—he laughed and said I sounded French (not sure if that’s good or bad). We weren’t rushed; nobody checked their phone except maybe for a quick photo before tucking it away again. It’s funny how quickly you forget about time when your hands are busy paddling and your eyes are full of blue.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Paddle tour and snorkeling

• Row aboard Hawaiian canoe
• Pass by Air France and Biboca
• Pass Roar of the Lion and Dog Beach
• Stop at Middle and Conception
• Swim and snorkel
• Take photos with GoPro

Top questions

Is this canoe tour suitable for kids?

Yes, children from 5 years old can join as long as they sit with an adult.

Are photos included in the tour?

Yes, GoPro photos are taken during the tour and shared free of charge afterwards.

Do I need previous canoeing experience?

No experience is needed—the guide will help you paddle safely.

Where does the Hawaiian canoe tour go?

The route passes Air France, Biboca, Roar of the Lion, Dog Beach, Middle Beach, and Conception Beach.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are jackets or bags provided?

Yes, life jackets and small handbags for your mobile are included.

Can people with spinal injuries join?

No, it’s not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What’s included

Your day includes all gear—life jackets and dry bags for your phone—plus a local guide accredited by the Brazilian Navy who leads you along Noronha’s coast by Hawaiian canoe. You’ll stop for swimming and snorkeling at several beaches along the way, with free GoPro photos sent to you after the trip so you don’t have to worry about capturing every moment yourself.