FAQs

We are located near Waikiki next to the Ala Wai Community Park across of Mcully Shopping Center. Our site is closest to the soccer field along the canal, where you'll find our red/blue/yellow striped canoes.

Pinned location on Google Maps

Practices are held during the weekdays with men and women/kids practicing on different days. Practice runs are generally held within the Ala Wai canal and out into Waikiki Beach up until Diamond Head. Please show up promptly.

Click here for more practice info.

While the Ala Wai canal has a reputation for not being the most clean water (especially after stormy weather), we encourage paddlers to take extra precaution if they have open/exposed injuries. Always be sure to shower down (with soap, if necessary) after practices. Otherwise, the canal is generally safe to paddle in, for us and many of the other paddle clubs that use it.

At the very least, you must be able to swim. Even if you are not in the best of shape, our coaches will help your transition into paddling etiquette and form. Don't be intimidated - everyone who paddles come in different shapes and sizes. We accept everyone - and most importantly, we have fun!

Practices are usually 1.5 - 2 hours long but may vary.

Wear light, comfortable clothes that can get wet. For men, board-shorts or compression pants with a dry-fit/active-wear shirt will suffice. For women, athletic leggings or ladies board-shorts with an active-wear top will suffice. Bikinis bottoms are not recommended.

Also, bring a paddle, slippers, running shoes (if your coach requests), sunscreen, and a bottle of water.

If this is your first practice, speak to your coach. They or a fellow member may lend you a paddle. However, if you plan to commit to paddling, we encourage that you pick up your own. We recommend buying a used paddle for yourself before purchasing a brand new paddle, as they do get expensive. Talk to the coach about what kind of paddle you should look for.

Craigslist is a good starting place to find a used paddle. Island Paddler (on Kapahulu Ave) sells new paddles.

Absolutely! However, for your safety, you must first fill out a waiver and submit it to Kim Martinez at the beginning of practice.

Paddling is a commitment - it's very important that you make it to your practices. However, if there are unavoidable reasons that you can't make certain practice days, we recommend that you communicate with your coach as soon as possible.

See our Membership page. Note that membership dues include a mandatory fundraising responsibility. If you have a fundraising idea, let us know!

The Oahu Hawaii Canoe Racing Association (OHCRA) schedule splits race paddling into 3 seasons: Pre-Season Distance (March - early April), Regatta Season (early April - early August), and Long-Distance Season (late August - September). Together, Regatta and Long-Distance are considered Regular Season. Paddlers are NOT required to participate in all seasons.

Pre-season Distance races are generally 4+ miles long and only require one crew of 6 paddlers for entire race.

Regatta races are sprints between two flags (1/4 of a mile long) where competing koa canoes make (depending on division) 1-5 turns on the flags at each end of their lanes. Regatta crews are made up of 6 paddlers. Click here to learn more info about Regatta racing.

Long-Distance races, much like pre-season, are longer distance races generally 20+ miles long from one location to another, usually requiring an escort boat to make crew changes in the water. Long-distance crews are made up of 6 paddlers + 3 extra paddlers to change out with.

OHCRA regatta races generally take place on Sundays during Regatta season, usually lasting most of the day to complete all divisions. Pre-Season/Long-Distance races take place on a Saturday or Sunday depending on the race and can last anywhere between 3-6 hours.

See our Calendar.

First year paddlers are considered "Novice B" division and eventually graduate to "Novice A" the following season. For a more detailed breakdown on divisions, ask your coach.

Each seat in a traditional 6-man canoe has its own specific responsibility. Your coach will ultimately determine which seat you will sit in and may even switch you up between practices/races. Ask your coach if you have questions about a seat responsibilities.

Please contact or inform Kim Martinez when you register or visit us at practice so we can transfer you before you start racing.

Coaches are listed here or visit us at practice.