Kalapaki Beach: Outrigger Canoe Surfing with Small Group

Kalapaki Beach outrigger surfing adventure with local watermen guiding every wave

You’ll paddle out from Kalapaki Beach in a traditional outrigger canoe with local guides who know every current and joke on the water. Learn basic paddling skills during a quick safety talk, ride several waves as a team (expect some splashes), and return to shore buzzing from shared effort and salty air.

What’s included

Your day includes expert guidance from local steersmen at Kalapaki Beach, all necessary paddling gear including life vests if needed, a short safety briefing before heading out on the water together, plenty of time riding waves in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe, and shared stories once you return to shore.

Traveler reviews

4.95★★★★★★★★★★

83 verified traveler reviews

Ratings come from travelers who booked this exact experience. We never edit or filter them.

Read all the reviews ›

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Outrigger canoe surfing at Kalapaki Beach

• Attend safety briefing
• Learn paddling techniques
• Board traditional outrigger canoe
• Paddle along Kalapaki Beach coastline
• Catch 3-4 waves surfing
• Paddle back to shore
• Take photos and share experience

The Experience

“Lean left!” That’s what Kimo shouted as we pushed out from Kalapaki Beach, and honestly, I had no idea which way was left for a second — nerves, maybe. The outrigger felt solid under us, but the ocean has its own voice here: soft slaps against the hull, salt on your lips before you even notice. Our guide Kimo grinned like he’d seen this confusion a thousand times. He showed us how to grip the paddle (not too tight), and then we were off — me, my partner, two others, and Kimo steering at the back like it was nothing.

The first few strokes were awkward; my arms already felt it. But paddling along the coastline of Kalapaki Beach, you get these flashes of green cliffs and the sun bouncing off hotel balconies behind us. I caught myself staring at a kid on shore waving a bright towel — or maybe he was warning us? Anyway, there’s something about being in that canoe that makes you feel connected to everyone else in it, even if you just met. When we paused before catching our first wave, Kimo told us how ancient Hawaiians would do this for fishing and fun. He made it sound easy. It wasn’t.

Catching a wave in an outrigger is wild — not scary exactly, but fast and loud. Water sprays up in your face; someone yells (probably me). We rode three or four waves like that, each one a little smoother than the last. There’s this split-second when you’re flying down the front of a swell and all you hear is wind and laughter — I didn’t expect to laugh so much. Afterward, arms burning but happy, we paddled back in together. The sand felt extra warm under my feet when we landed.

Top questions

How many people are needed to book outrigger canoe surfing at Kalapaki Beach?

A minimum of 2 paddling adults is required to book this activity.

Is previous surfing experience needed for this tour?

No surf lesson is required; beginners are welcome as long as they can paddle moderately.

Are life vests provided during the outrigger canoe surfing?

Yes, PFD/life vests are available if needed for all participants.

Is this activity suitable for children or older adults?

The outrigger canoe is stable and suitable for all ages but requires moderate physical fitness.

Where does the outrigger canoe surfing take place?

The activity takes place at Kalapaki Beach on Kauai's east coast.

What should I bring for outrigger canoe surfing at Kalapaki Beach?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and be ready to get wet; all paddling equipment is provided.

How long do you spend catching waves during the tour?

You’ll catch 3–4 waves during your time out on the water after paddling along the coastline.