Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Cultural and Turtle Tour
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take an adventure and experience an important part of Hawaiian history on this 1-hour canoe tour in Maui. Paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe while learning about the ancient art of Wayfinding and Celestial Navigation used by early Hawaiian voyagers. Departing Wailea Beach, you'll paddle along Maui's scenic south shores and view an abundance of marine life, including endangered green sea turtles! Come see the Kohola, or Humpback whales Nov-April during their seasonal migration!
Available options
Tour
Duration: Tours are 1 hour in duration. Check-in is 20 min prior to departure
What's included
Canoeing equipment
Professional guide
Local taxes
Outrigger canoe excursion
What you'll see
We invite you to relive a part of Hawaiian History and walk in the footsteps of the Ali’i (Chief, Royalty) as you experience a traditional Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Tour! Learn about the illegal occupation of Hawai'i and the overthrow of the Hawaiian Monarchy in 1893. Participate in traditional Hawaiian Chants (oli) as you paddle our canoe (hoe wa’a) along the south coast of Maui…breathtaking views of Haleakala, West Maui Moutains, Lana’i, Kaho’olawe/Kanaloa, and Molokini! Paddle our canoe to Turtletown off Wailea Point and see the honu and honu’ea (Hawaiian Green Sea & Hawksbill Turtles) that frequent this beautiful area! Swim with the turtles if you’d like or watch as they swim alongside the canoe!
Learn about the Polynesian Voyagers as they sailed the Polynesian Triangle (New Zealand to Rapa Nui to Hawaii) using Celestial navigation/wayfinding.
In honoring the wisdom and knowledge passed on by generations from our ancestors, we are inspired to share the wisdom, values and traditions that sustained the Hawaiian culture in the past…and into the future…!
Your journey departs beautiful Wailea Beach, in south Maui! Wailea in ancient Hawaii translated to ”Waters of Sacred Happiness”; Come join us for an unforgettable experience for the whole family!
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Souvenir photos (available to purchase)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.3
31 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.8
32 reviews
5★
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children 5 and younger are not recommended
You must be able to paddle a minimum of a half mile
Check-in is 20 minutes prior to the booked tour start time
Meeting point
There is free public parking at Wailea Beach Park. After parking, walk towards the ocean and take a left at the "Y" along the beach boardwalk and take your first right down the staircase leading to the beach. Look for canoes to your right. You've made it!
Important notes
Please bring your voucher with you to the tour.
About Maui
Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.
Top Attractions
Road to Hana
A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.
Scenic Drive
Full day
Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)
Haleakala National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Nature
Half day to full day
$30 per vehicle (7-day pass)
Molokini Crater
A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Adventure
Half day
$100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)
Lahaina Town
A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)
Iao Valley State Park
A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.
Nature
1-2 hours
$5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.
Loco Moco
A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan versions available.
Malasadas
Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.
Dessert
Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Surfing
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset cruises
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
- • Use reputable tour operators and rental companies
Getting there
By air
- Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului
By bus
Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kihei
Wailea
Lahaina
Upcountry Maui
Day trips
Lana'i
16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day
A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.
Molokini Crater
16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day
A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Haleakala National Park
48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Festivals
Maui Film Festival • June
Maui County Fair • Late September to early October
Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)
Pro tips
- Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
- Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
- Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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