Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii
Big Island of Hawaii, United States

Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions

Outty Ranking 66 4.9 · 25 traveler reviews1 hoursFrom $69

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September 2026

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Adults

Age 13 and over

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Age 12 and under

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From, per person$69
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Outty Ranking

66/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.9/5

Based on 25 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions worth booking?

Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions is a 1-hour experience in Big Island of Hawaii, United States, from $69 per person. It scores 66 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice, based on a 4.9/5 rating across 25 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
66 / 100
Rating
4.9/5 (25)
Duration
1 hours
From
$69 per person

Paddling a Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe or Wa'a from the site where King Kamehameha united the Hawaiian Islands and watched over his kingdom is a chance to connect with the Hawaii's history and culture. We teach you the basi

What you get

    About this experience

    Paddling a Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe or Wa'a from the site where King Kamehameha united the Hawaiian Islands and watched over his kingdom is a chance to connect with the Hawaii's history and culture. We teach you the basics of paddling a Wa'a and provide a steersman/woman to guide you through a historical tour of Kailua Bay, sharing some of the significant sites and events of the area. One of our absolute favorite activities to provide and a traditional way to experience Hawaii.

    What's included

    Included

    • we provide the canoe, lifejackets, paddles, and curated tour.

    What you'll see and do

    1. Ahuena Heiau

      This Hawaiian temple is still in use today and represents much to the Hawaiian people and culture.

      15 minutes here · Admission not included

    2. Hulihe'e Palace

      Site of the Queen's quarters in the early days of western contact

      10 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. Mokuaikaua Church

      First church in Hawaii

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Kailua Pier

      center of the ocean activity in the heart of Kailua-Kona

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Big Island of Hawaii

    We are next to the Kailua Pier on Kamakahonu Beach, behind the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    We are next to the Kailua Pier on Kamakahonu Beach, behind the King Kamehameha Kona Beach Hotel.

    Options you can book

    • Private Wa'a Charter

      Private Wa'a Charter

    • Wa'a Ride

      Duration: 1 hour Canoe

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 6 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Kona Boys

    Know before you go

    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

    Photos

    Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 2Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 3Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 4Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 5Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 6Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions in Big Island of Hawaii, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 25 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    25 verified traveler reviews for Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    23
    4 star
    2
    3 star
    0
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    0
    Sort
    377nicholeb · May 2026

    More floating history than canoe ride

    The history was interesting but just be aware, they don't really take you anywhere, you paddle directly into the bay, maybe 5 minutes? Then you hang out there for a while, paddle maybe another 5 minutes to the other side of the bay (It felt like we really didn't move) and then back in. We had it in our head there would be more canoe ride around the area than just sitting in a boat listening to history. If that's what you're looking for this is a great choice! If the actual canoe ride was more the focus, maybe not for you. (On the positive it was only my husband and I, pregnant, and we didn't get too tired paddling the boat so I really think anyone could do it!)

    via Tripadvisor

    chrisrP8672FQ · May 2026

    Kona Trip, May 2026

    Awesome experience, learning some outrigger basics and paddling out on the bay. Grant was a pleasure to speak with just in general (especially about my Ironman experience). My wife sat in front, controlling the pace, and even jumped in the water briefly at our turn around spot. I'd recommend Kona Boys as your Go-to for the paddling experience.

    Response from the operator: Mahalo for the great review. We are stoked that you enjoyed your experience and thankful that you took the time to share your review. Mahalo

    via Tripadvisor

    Hillary_W · May 2026

    Relaxing and Educational

    What a relaxing and educational way to start the day! Grant was an awesome guide. We couldn't have asked for a better morning on the water. Thank you!

    Response from the operator: Hillary, Thank you for the review. We loved meeting you and i will pass you kind words on to Grant. Don’t hesitate to be in touch if we can help with anything on the Big Island. Mahalo

    via Viator

    Tina_O · May 2026

    Canoeing Hawaiian Style

    What a peaceful adventure out on the Pacific. Our guide (Brandon?) really played a part in this adventure. He was super friendly, informative, chill and had a great sense of humor. I didn’t know anyone, yet our guide did a great job of blending us together.

    Response from the operator: Mahalo for taking to time to share your experience. We are stoked you enjoyed your Wa’a adventure and hope you will reach out if we can ever help with anything on the Big Island.

    via Viator

    ArturoGC · April 2026

    Outrigger Awesomeness!

    Hearing about the momentous events that took place in these waters while learning how to paddle an outrigger canoe was an amazing way to start my 63rd birthday adventure on the Big Island. Not only that, there were canoe races going on in the background. Tommy and Grant were great!

    Response from the operator: Aloha and mahalo for joining us for your 63rd birthday. We enjoyed meeting you and really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience in the form of a review. We hope we see you again for 64. Mahalo Nui!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $69 to $249
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    9
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 66

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)88
    Review evidence (18% weight)42
    Booking momentum (14% weight)34
    Value for money (12% weight)54
    Listing quality (10% weight)74
    Local standing (8% weight)60
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Big Island of Hawaii.

    How much does Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions cost?

    +

    Prices start at $69 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Big Island of Hawaii usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions take?

    +

    Plan for about 1 hour from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Big Island of Hawaii is not rushed.

    Is Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 66 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.9/5 across 25 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Big Island of Hawaii, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions?

    +

    Around 9 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Big Island of Hawaii can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Big Island of Hawaii and add a light layer if any part of the 1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Wa'a Rides and Charters - Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe Excursions start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Big Island of Hawaii within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    The Big Island is volcano country: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours, Mauna Kea summit stargazing, night manta ray snorkels off Kona, Waipio Valley lookouts and coffee farm visits. Summit tours have real altitude rules, so we weight safety detail. On Outty we rank every Big Island of Hawaii experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include KONA Manta Ray Night Snorkel - FREE re-ride if no Sightings, Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch, Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    April to October, though the island runs year round. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Big Island of Hawaii?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

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