OAHU
Oahu’s best days out.
The 15 most popular canoes & kayaks on Oahu. A short list of the ones worth building a day around, with prices, run times and where to book.
Kayak Kailua Bay with optional guided help, then snorkel off Lanikai and the Mokulua Islands for sea turtles, birds, and a beach lunch.
Most Popular“Great experience! We had full use of the kayaks, snorkeling gear, and bikes for the full day which was really nice. We especially liked the kayaking experience to Flat Head Island.”
Guided Kailua Bay kayaking with sea turtles, a Flat Island stop, and lunch plus snorkeling, boogie boards, and bikes included.
“Overall- great experience. Due to restrictions on the beach, be aware that you will be taking the kayak on a dolley from the store to the beach. It isnt horribly far but if someone is mobility limited, it might be somewhat challenging”
Paddle Oahu’s Mokulua Twin Islands, hike tide pools to Queen’s Bath, snorkel with gear, and fuel up with lunch on a guided kayak day.
“This was a fun tour! Everyone in the shop was nice and helpful, and our tour guide, Tommy, was exceptional! Getting to the islands is a bit difficult, but worth it. Tommy gave us a great tour of the island, gave us lunch, then had some free time to snorkel! There was also a mom’s…”
Self-guided kayak tour from Kailua to Lanikai and Mokulua bird sanctuaries, with snorkel gear, bikes, and beach perks included.
“The view was great and we loved seeing the seal on the island. You will get your exercise with this excursion, so be prepared.”
Paddle the calm Anahulu River from Haleiwa for 2 hours with SUP or a single kayak, sea turtles, and an easy dock launch.
“So much fun! We were beginners and were given excellent instructions from Julie our guide. She made sure we felt comfortable and secure before launching. The river is beautiful and perfect for paddle boarding. Turtles swam all around us and it was fun watching the fish jumping. There is a rope swing that people swung…”
2-hour Waikiki surf lesson with hotel pickup, small semi-private groups, all gear, and pro photos. Beginners welcome at $118.84.
“Excellent communication prior to the pick up. We knew exactly what to expect and where we would be picked up. The driver was courteous and took us to their surf shop. From there they showed us a video to help us visualize the process. The instructors were all kind, encouraging and fun. We all got…”
Moonlit paddleboarding or kayaking at Polynesian Cultural Center, with LED-lit water and storyteller legends across Polynesia’s islands.
“Great guide! Amazing experience! Good scenery, Loved cruising the paddle boards, would highly recommend!”
Sail Oahu’s Waikiki coast on the Kamoauli canoe at sunset, with ukulele, chants, cultural stories, and a light Hawaiian-style dinner.
“One of the most special experiences my 9 year old and I had during our vacation. I highly recommend this sail!”
Ride Waikiki waves in an outrigger canoe. Family-friendly, safe with a licensed captain, plus Hawaiian royal history. 20 minutes.
“What a great experience Canoe Surfing, my husband and I enjoyed this so much. It will have to be on our list for next trip to the island for sure. It’s a great alternative to board surfing, as a senior that doesn’t swim well, it felt very safe. The staff handling the excursion were awesome,…”
Paddle the Kahana River from a private dock, then head toward Kahana Bay in a kayak or SUP rental with life jacket included.
“The family who run this were so helpful. They are so knowledgeable of the area and conservation is most important to them. So many beautiful sights to see.”
A 3-hour Honolulu combo with local guides: kayak or SUP for turtles, snorkel at Turtle Canyon and a wreck, then surf Waikiki-style.
“This was the best excursion I’ve been on. Anywhere ever. Hands down. Shane and Neal were the best guides. I never thought I’d stand up on a surf board but I did… 3 times! I also saw SO many turtles. I had a fantastic time and would highly recommend to anyone.”
Clear-bottom kayak on Oahu’s North Shore with small groups, snorkeling gear, and a strong shot at seeing sea turtles.
“We had so much fun! Our guide was awesome and knowledgeable. We saw 10 turtles and a little stingray! We will definitely do the clear bottom kayaks again!”
Twilight GLOW SUP on Oahu: paddle with underwater lights, spot turtles on the Anahulu stream, and finish with stargazing and photos.
“Dreadie was a fantastic guide- made the whole experience fun and relaxing. Thanks for the pictures! 👌”
Paddle Oahu’s North Shore on the Anahulu Stream with a turtle sighting promise. Equipment included, small groups, and optional snorkeling.
“We did see turtles but the water was not clear. The distance was about right and quiet down on the river. We did have to carry the boards to and from the water which I think the guides should do as a service. Also, there's no actual building it's just a van that shows up…”
Learn stand up paddle basics on Haleiwa Bay, paddle toward the Anahulu stream, and keep an eye out for sea turtles with certified lifeguards.
“Guide provided great instruction on how to paddle board (we had no previous experience). Guide also provided interesting information on the area. So glad we did this and definitely recommend.”
From Waikiki to the North Shore, and every way to spend a day on the island.
