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Hawaiian Ocean Sports
Hawaiian Ocean Sports
5
Scuba & SnorkellingDolphin & Whale WatchingNature & Wildlife ToursKayaking & Canoeing
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Full view
About
We invite you to relive a part of Hawaiian cultural history and walk in the footsteps of the Ali'i as you experience a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe tour! Let our experienced guides demonstrate the Aloha way by making your time with us the highlight of your trip with uniquely Hawaiian ocean tours. Get up close to take amazing pictures of marine life. Humpback Whales come to bask and play in the Hawaiian waters off Maui for their Winter migration through the Pacific. We offer whale watching roughly November-May. Sea Turtles can easily been seen year round. You may get a chance to meet Sir Charles; he is the resident sea turtle which is estimated to be over 60 years old. We offer great fun for the entire family!
Wailea, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
397 reviews
Excellent
385
Very good
4
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
4
bigisland7
1 contribution
Feb 2025 • Solo
I highly recommend booking Hawaiian Ocean Sports for their outrigger whale watching tour. I was staying at Grand Wailea and from my balcony I could see the boats going out each morning. They seemed to be seeing lots of action so I decided to book online for the 7:30am tour for the next day. They were easy to find on the beach and the guys working could not have been nicer. Our guide was Terrence and he was awesome. We got some quick lessons on getting in the boat and paddling and we were on our way. Terrence shared lots of facts about whales, the neighboring islands and the local area. It was one of the more quiet mornings with whale activity, but we were lucky enough to have several encounters with a single juvenile whale. The whale would come up for a breath and then hang out in the water below the boat. The water at 40-50 feet deep was clear enough to see the whale from the boat. Terrence also got some great video from his iPhone that he shared with us via airdrop after the tour. As we headed back, Terrence took a route that allowed us to see several sea turtles. All in all it was an amazing trip. I wouldn’t hesitate to book another tour with Hawaiian Ocean Sports. Thanks for the great experience!
Written February 15, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bryan
Rancho Cucamonga, CA4 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
My wife and I had an absolutely amazing time on our cultural outrigger trip! Kevin is a fantastic guide with an extensive amount of knowledge on Hawaiian culture and history. He was also appreciative for the business given the impact the Lahaina fire had on the island. It was a perfect way to start my Maui trip.
Written May 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Becky98
Cornelius, NC572 contributions
Mar 2025 • Couples
My husband and I had an excellent time on the outrigger canoe trip with Jesse. It was cool rowing the canoe and learning about the history, geography, nature, turtles, and whales. He took a picture of us at the start and one while out on the ocean which I appreciated. I would definitely recommend this activity.
Written March 12, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lee and Amy G
Traverse City, MI2 contributions
Nov 2021 • Couples
The day my husband and I spent with Kevin is one of the best days we’ve ever had. Kevin picked us up from the hotel for our private tour of the road to Hana and from the first few minutes it seemed like we were long lost friends just getting back together for an adventure. Being Hawaiian, Kevin has an amazing knowledge of the land, history, and politics affecting his people and was willing to share a lot of it with us.
There are 1,000 places that you could stop on the road to Hana and Kevin chose a handful based on our interests, letting us set or change the itinerary whenever we wanted to. (Note: I’m not going to write the names of where he took us so they continue to be primarily native secrets and remain unchanged and beautiful rather than becoming tourist attractions and getting overcrowded and full of garbage.)
Some of the places Kevin took us we were only able to get to because he was a native Hawaiian, making the trip with him that much more amazing than if we had driven ourselves (not recommended) or gone with a regular tour group.
At the first place we stopped, Kevin did a native chant to ask permission for us to be there and to show gratitude, which he does every time he enters the ocean. It was awesome to hear him sing the chant that was passed down by his grandmother, who was 1 of 12 Hawaiians (ever!) chosen to learn all of the history of their people through chants, songs, and hula and pass it on to others!
During our trip to Hana, we saw many, many waterfalls (and hiked to one), tried to pet wild goats (they don’t like people, apparently), viewed many wild deer, cows, and mongoose, had huli huli chicken and ribs on the side of the road for lunch (which looked super shady and ended up being delicious), and stopped at a beautiful location to swim in the ocean. The swimming spot ended up taking the award for my second favorite place in the entire world! And at the very end we got the most delicious pie at Maui Pie company (see? I told you one of our secrets 🙂).
What really made the trip, though, was Kevin himself. I would have had (almost) just as great of a day if we had stared at the same tree all day talking about Hawaiian culture and history. Kevin is so knowledgeable, personable, and very genuine (and also a very safe driver on the 620 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges on the road to Hana), my husband and I are recommending him to anyone we talk to wanting to go to Maui for any sort of adventure!
There are 1,000 places that you could stop on the road to Hana and Kevin chose a handful based on our interests, letting us set or change the itinerary whenever we wanted to. (Note: I’m not going to write the names of where he took us so they continue to be primarily native secrets and remain unchanged and beautiful rather than becoming tourist attractions and getting overcrowded and full of garbage.)
Some of the places Kevin took us we were only able to get to because he was a native Hawaiian, making the trip with him that much more amazing than if we had driven ourselves (not recommended) or gone with a regular tour group.
At the first place we stopped, Kevin did a native chant to ask permission for us to be there and to show gratitude, which he does every time he enters the ocean. It was awesome to hear him sing the chant that was passed down by his grandmother, who was 1 of 12 Hawaiians (ever!) chosen to learn all of the history of their people through chants, songs, and hula and pass it on to others!
During our trip to Hana, we saw many, many waterfalls (and hiked to one), tried to pet wild goats (they don’t like people, apparently), viewed many wild deer, cows, and mongoose, had huli huli chicken and ribs on the side of the road for lunch (which looked super shady and ended up being delicious), and stopped at a beautiful location to swim in the ocean. The swimming spot ended up taking the award for my second favorite place in the entire world! And at the very end we got the most delicious pie at Maui Pie company (see? I told you one of our secrets 🙂).
What really made the trip, though, was Kevin himself. I would have had (almost) just as great of a day if we had stared at the same tree all day talking about Hawaiian culture and history. Kevin is so knowledgeable, personable, and very genuine (and also a very safe driver on the 620 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges on the road to Hana), my husband and I are recommending him to anyone we talk to wanting to go to Maui for any sort of adventure!
Written November 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ian
Radlett, UK4 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
We went out with my family of four on what was booked to be a 1 hour outrigger tour. One of my teenage daughter’s had to sit backwards for half the trip as there were too many people (8 including Kevin) on board so she just had to sit without paddling until I swapped with her when we reached a point we could do so. There was no real chanting or much liveliness during the trip. Just Kevin at the back barking orders to the group when to swap sides rowing. Nothing like what I thought it was going to be and it was just really disappointing. We saw some turtles which was nice but on the whole it was fairly boring and I left very frustrated that I had paid a lot of money for something that felt like a big let down. It also lasted only 45 minutes. And it was pretty hard to find on the beach. I was asked to find an orange umbrella but this was almost hidden at the back of the beach so it was no wonder I was running around hunting for it and there were other orange umbrellas around that weee more visible. Photos were also taken during the trip which were air dropped to us at the end. Much appreciated to do that but they were largely the backs of heads so little point in having that.
Written August 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha Paradise,
Mahalo for your valued feedback! I would have preferred that speaking with you directly post trip as it is clear you were dissatisfied with your experience. I would have gladly remedied the issues.
If i recall accurately, you were adamant regarding your family remaining in one canoe despite having 4 other canoes present for the tour. I am interested to know your qualifications or experience in evaluating Hawaiian culture and “chants?” Multiple pictures and video are provided as a free gift to all valued guests at the end of experience and unfortunately we have to allow time at the end of the tour to transfer 100 plus pictures and video. Directions are clearly provided with GPS coordinates. No signage is permitted due to County and State ordinances. No evidence of barking orders is ever practiced.
Feel free to request a full refund as i will gladly authorize a refund.
It remains clear to me you are demonstrating issues far beyond the subjective comments or personal judgements outlined in your rant. Hawaii and perhaps the world would greatly benefit from one less interaction with individuals like you.
Mahalo,
Kevin Pi’ilani Hoke
Written November 2, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nancy Allison
San Diego, CA52 contributions
Mar 2022 • Solo
What an amazing morning! I have been whale watching before with some success, but have never experienced anything like what happened today. Our talented guides filled us in on some of the history of the island as we paddled the outrigger canoe about 1.5-2 miles offshore. Once there, our efforts were rewarded with multiple whale sightings! Our guides knew just what to do to encourage the whales to come to us and stay near us. While a large group of kayaks and rowboats tried to chase them, we stayed still and because whales are comfortable with canoes they relaxed and played all around us. We even heard their songs echoing though the canoe without the help of an underwater microphone. The canoe itself picked up and amplified the sounds. You could almost feel the vibrations of those beautiful whale songs. The experience was transformational. Highly recommend.
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nico
2 contributions
Feb 2021
Kevin and Randy took us on an amazing whale watching outrigger tour off of Maui. It may well have been the highlight of the trip for us. Kevin was incredibly knowledgable, sharing with us the significance of outriggers and ocean awareness to the Polynesian people. He gave us a history, geography and biology lesson that was way more fun that any class. Paddling the outrigger in the morning sun across the blue water, with an eye to the horizon looking for signs of whales was a great experience. I could not have asked for a better morning, being in the ocean, a modest workout, learning about a fascinating culture and seeing whales close to us.
We brought along a waterproof camera and our phones in a waterproof case but were delighted to get pictures and videos from Kevin who was watching for whales, informing, steering and taking great pictures for us the entire time. I cannot recommend this company and tour enough, I have told all of my friends about it in the few days I have been home.
We brought along a waterproof camera and our phones in a waterproof case but were delighted to get pictures and videos from Kevin who was watching for whales, informing, steering and taking great pictures for us the entire time. I cannot recommend this company and tour enough, I have told all of my friends about it in the few days I have been home.
Written February 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha Nicoinsd,
Mahalo for you review and thoughtful response! We are fortunate to meet so many wonderful people from all over world and share Hawaiian culture and Wao Moana; all the people of the ocean! I hope you keep those memories in your heart and continue to make your way back to this island paradise!
Malama Piha,
Kevin Piilani Hoke
Written March 28, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
NAFoley
11 contributions
Apr 2021 • Family
My wife and boys (age 11 & 13) booked a canoe snorkeling package after reading about this company and Kevin. Kevin and team did not disappoint. We had a blast. It is conveniently located near all the resorts in Wailea. Short walk from the Dairmont where we stayed to the beach in front of the Four Seasons. They provide all the gear. The crew out numbered us 5 to 4. 2 of them were dedicated to guide us through the local reef. We saw schools of fish and many turtles (honu). The crew made the experience though. The guides spent an hour swimming with us pointing out sea life.
Kevin’s family lineage goes back generations. He shared stories of Hawaii’s history and the importance of respecting the sea. He and his crew led us with a few chants and tight us a few Hawaiian sayings. As an added bonus his team took many photos in and out of the water and sent us a video at no cost. Highly recommend.
Kevin’s family lineage goes back generations. He shared stories of Hawaii’s history and the importance of respecting the sea. He and his crew led us with a few chants and tight us a few Hawaiian sayings. As an added bonus his team took many photos in and out of the water and sent us a video at no cost. Highly recommend.
Written April 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlohaAlli
1 contribution
Dec 2022
There are so many activities all over the internet that can feel overwhelming but I’m here to tell you, this is the one to commit to. Although a Maui vacation is for relaxing and sunshine, I think it’s so important to learn about the history and culture of this island. The whale watching canoe tour with Kevin is absolutely life changing. The amount of whales we saw was remarkable and something I know I will never forget! Kevin also brings his phone along and takes a ton of photos and videos and sends them to you after the tour, as well as makes a video for you! There’s also a special microphone that gets dropped into the ocean so you can hear the whales; it truly made my jaw drop. The history and education Kevin provides truly comes from his heart and his love for his home and it really is moving. If you’re coming to the island, the best thing you can do to respect it is to learn about the people and the culture, this is a great way to have a fun and educational experience and support local. You do not want to miss this I promise you!
Written January 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danielle
Redondo Beach, CA2 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
My husband and I came to Maui for our honeymoon. We booked a kayaking tour on 1/20/2020. Kevin, the owner quickly called to let us know that they would be closed, but he upgraded us for canoeing & whale watch tour; for free mind you! This experience could not have been anymore perfect. Randy, our amazing and knowledgeable guide knew so many things about the islands and whales. While out in the middle of the calm ocean, whales came right up to our canoe and literally swam underneath us. It was an experience that my husband and I will never forget. This experience made our honeymoon! I want to thank Kevin and Randy! Next time we come to Maui we definitely be reaching out for another tour! You guys made us feel like family and my love for the ocean grew on an entire new level. Mahalo!
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha Danielle,
Mahalo Nui Loa for your thoughtful comments! Congratulations to you and your husband on your marriage. We wish you a healthy and happy journey together in life! We strive to create a unforgettable experience with all our guests! We are so blessed to live on Maui! Can you believe we get to share the beauty of Maui with others and meet hundreds of wonderful people like you! We are Blessed! Please keep in touch. Welcome to our Ohana!
A hui hou (until we meet again, never goodbye),
Kevin Hoke
Written January 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I am late-deafened. I lost my hearing 20 years ago. I want to do the outrigger tour. Can u provide information regarding hawaiian history and chants ahead of time ror me to read.
I just want to canoe in an outrigger.
Thanks!
Written May 20, 2018
Aloha and mahalo for contacting Hawaiian Ocean Sports. Please provide an email to receive the information requested.
Mahalo nui loa,
Kevin Hoke
Written May 21, 2018
Hi there! We’re thinking about booking one of the calmer outrigger tours but we have a non-swimmer in our party. Is this advisable/safe?
Written January 13, 2018
Aloha and Mahalo for your question. 2 of our canoes have double Ama and Iakos which means it cannot flip over. Please contact me at 808-633-2800 re: questions.
Mahalo,
Kevin
Written January 20, 2018
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