Skip To Main Content Skip To Footer

Venture to the sea Kainalu Ocean Sports

man diving in Hawaii
man diving in Hawaii
Inquire & Reserve

Kainalu, meaning “ocean wave” in Hawaiian, honors the relationship between the mauka (mountain) and the makai (sea). By encouraging active experiences on natural terrain, Kainalu is rooted in a deep love for our oceans and with it, a newfound respect for its powers.  Our world-class team of Kainalu watermen and women are anchored at Surf Shack, where the Great Lawn meets the beach. Embark on a journey of self-discovery by paddling, snorkeling, boating, and surfing along our legendary coast.

Coastal Adventures

Deep admiration for the ocean is rooted in necessity. From early navigators who traversed the Pacific using only the stars to famed Olympian Duke Kahanamoku, the ocean is a central force that links generations. Honoring the connection between the planet’s natural elements, Kainalu imparts time-tested wisdom to accompany transformative experiences from land to sea. Learn to love the ocean across 1,000 feet of idyllic beaches, protected reefs brimming with tropical marine life and three celebrated surf breaks.
  • Canoe with Kainalu Ocean Sports

    The outrigger canoe first arrived on the Hawaiian islands circa 200 A.D. Respected for their craftsmanship and spirit, outrigger canoes are integral to the fabric of Hawaiian culture. Now, outrigger canoe paddling is Hawaii’s official team sport, symbolizing its preservation over the last several centuries.

    • Located at Surf Shack
    • Reservations required
    • Athleisure or swimwear recommended
    • No prior canoe experience necessary
  • Snorkel the Kohala Coast

    While you may cross paths with a Green sea turtle or two in Mauna Lani’s protected cove, the snorkeling spots beyond the reef hold an abundance of natural wonder. Lose yourself in stretches of coral reefs, where eels, pufferfish, Yellow Tangs and more swim freely beneath the water’s surface. Snorkel with our Kainalu Pros, keep an eye out for their signal that something spectacular is happening beneath – an octopus, a pod of spinner dolphins or even a friendly reef shark – and dive into the turquoise below.

    • Located at Surf Shack
    • Reservations required for guided snorkel tours
    • Snorkels, masks and fins included
    • Complimentary snorkel gear available at Surf Shack for those who wish to explore on their own
  • Stand Up Paddle Boarding

    Stand up paddleboarding is an accessible way to explore the coastline while engaging in a light arm and core workout. Paddle in tandem with Kainalu Ocean Sports, or rent your own board to paddle solo.

    • Located at Surf Shack
    • Available daily upon request; weather permitting
    • Private experience; advanced reservations required
    • Stand up paddleboard included
    • Rentals available for those who wish to paddle on their own

Young explorers learn to be mindful, aware and confident in and around the ocean Kainalu Junior Watermen Program

Learn More

Go Home with a Story

All Experiences

Mika, Our Cherished Four-Legged Host

A natural swimmer and overall athlete, Mika loves spending time with our Kainalu Pros at the Surf Shack. When she's not stand up paddle boarding along the coast, sipping a Mika Mai Tai at CanoeHouse, or talking story with Uncle Danny, Mika can be found mingling with guests from the Front Drive to the Great Lawn.

Experiences at Mauna Lani