Outrigger paddling clubs are traditionally created to compete in paddling regattas. Keauhou Canoe Club also offers a strong recreational paddling program so members can paddle daily in a non-competitive, community-focused way.

All recreational paddlers must follow these guidelines:

Safety First

Evaluate your own fitness honestly. Paddling sessions last about one hour and cover 3–6 or more miles, depending on the crew. Make sure you can sustain an hour of moderate exercise.

Safety is the most important thing when you paddle.  Follow directions from your steersman, keep your eyes and ears open, and stay safe.

• Review the Safety Guidelines before participating.
• You should be able to tread water unassisted in the open ocean for at least 10 minutes and up to 30 minutes.
• You should be able to enter and exit a canoe without assistance. While other paddlers may help if needed, you are responsible for getting in and out of the canoe safely.

Apparel and Belongings

Paddling is a water sport. Expect to get wet. Wear clothing that allows free movement, withstands salt water, and wicks moisture.  Most paddlers wear yoga pants or shorts, and a non-cotton t-shirt that dries fast.  Here on the Big Island you’ll need water shoes or slippers.

• Absolutely no shoes in the canoe. You may wear water socks, easily removable slippers, or lightweight footwear that floats.
• Leave valuables at home. If you bring a cell phone or other items, use a waterproof dry bag to protect them. 

Teamwork and Canoe Handling

Single hull canoes weigh about 400 pounds and double hull canoes weigh 800 pounds. Both are expensive, and take a long time to fix.  KCC paddlers are taught to take good care of our canoes.  

• Always be careful with the canoe, and listen to your steersman's directions.
• Do not pull on a canoe's seats or parts of the canoe when moving it.  

Huli Safety

KCC is now suggesting that every single member sign up for huli drills. We are holding drills every month or so and it’s great practice.  It helps you understand the mechanics of a canoe, gives you practice in huliing and getting back into the canoe, and is strongly recommended.  

• If you are not an experienced paddler, start with a double hull canoe.  
• Recognize that single hull (OC-6) canoes are less stable in rough conditions.
• Know that double hull canoes are very stable but can still huli in some weather and water conditions.

Conduct and Equipment

Your job in the canoe is not talk, listen to your steersman, and follow directions.  Stay positive, respecting the mana of the canoe. 

• Paddle as directed by the steersman at all times.
• Do not use cell phones or video equipment while paddling. If the steersman stops for a break, ask permission before taking photos or videos.
• Ask permission before jumping or getting out of the canoe.
• Use club paddles temporarily if needed, but plan to buy your own equipment as you continue

Scheduling and Availability

Our recreational sessions on the website open for signups one week in advance.  You can paddle at 6:30 every day, or at 7:30, on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday.  Schedules may change.