Kayaking / Paddle Sports in Hawaii

If you want to see Hawaii beyond the usual beach scene, hopping in a kayak or grabbing a paddleboard lets you explore at your own pace. The islands have so many calm spots perfect for paddling, especially early morning when the water’s glassy and the crowds haven’t shown up yet.

On Maui, paddling around Makena Landing gives you a front-row seat to vibrant coral reefs and, if you’re lucky, sea turtles bobbing right beside you. Oahu’s Kailua Bay is a local favorite for paddleboarding because the water is usually smooth, and you can paddle out to nearby islands. I’m partial to the North Shore too , the summer months bring calmer waters there, perfect for trying something new.

Pro tip: bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag with your phone or GoPro , the underwater world around here is something you’ll want to remember. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a sunset paddle; it’s stunning how the sky turns shades of pink and orange while you’re floating out there. Just check the tides and wind conditions before you set out, especially if you’re new to it. Hawaii’s kayak and paddleboarding spots have so much to offer if you know when and where to go.