Honolulu, HI

My wife and I occasionally go kayaking right off different parts of Waikiki Beach. Any part of the beach can be fun and interesting. We have a two-person inflatable kayak that we set up on the beach and launch into the waves. Note that I say “we” kayak but it is actually me who does the paddling! One of our favorite spots to go is right off of Queen’s Beach in Waikiki. This is near the popular body boarding spot known as “Walls,” named for the prominent seawall there.

There are many interesting kayak spots around the island, but it is fun to paddle out from Waikiki and get a look back at the city from out on the water. It is a most impressive view, and oftentimes we can hear the music from Kapiolani Park or the hotels drifting out across the water. Once we even heard the theme song from Hawaii Five-O as we paddled over the face of an oncoming wave. It’s also fun to wave at the other kayakers, outrigger canoers, and boaters who pass by. Just be sure to check the surf and make sure it’s not too large. Even if there are waves, as there usually are during the summer months, it can still be safe to kayak as long as you stay inside the reefs where the large surf breaks. Actually surfing the waves with your kayak is dangerous and not recommended except for experienced kayakers with the proper equipment.

There are many things to do out on the water while in the kayak. We like to bring snorkeling gear along (see my 1KTODO piece on snorkeling Waikiki by clicking here) to hop out of the kayak and see what lies below. We have seen green sea turtles a few times. Sometimes they even swim up to the kayak. We also bring a camera along (preferably waterproof) to capture some awesome panoramic views of the island from far out on the water. We don’t usually go more than a half a mile or so offshore—not quite as far out as the sail and power boats are. It’s nice to look back on the island instead of always looking out to sea from land. Fishing is also possible, but make sure you are in compliance with all state regulations, e.g. having a permit.

If you don’t own your own kayak, there are several kayak rental operations along Waikiki beach and elsewhere on the island.

Tips and cautions:

-bring along a lifejacket for each kayaker

-always use sunscreen when out on the water

-sunglasses (preferably polarized)

-keep a sharp eye out for other watercraft and swimmers

-be wary of large surf—flat conditions are best—when in doubt, don’t go out!

-ask lifeguards about any current warnings

-watch out for waders and swimmers when launching and landing

-don’t go too far from shore—follow the coast

-bring some drinking water, and a cell-phone in a watertight case

So get out there and paddle, be safe and have fun!