Paddle Your Way to Menehune Shores in Kihei

When I moved back to Maui, it was with intentions of doing things that I never and always wanted to do….sort of like a pakekek (bucket) list. So, I decided to give the Maui Canoe Club a looksee. I went online to discover that they do not compete (that’s a plus), they accept provisional memberships (no long term commitments) and they were close to where I live. So, one early Tuesday morning, I packed my truck and headed towards uncertainty.

Canoes getting ready to push off.

When I got there, a couple of people were waiting, so I knew I was at the right spot. What I also discovered was that I brought the median age of the club down by about 10 years (and I am no spring chicken). I knew that this was good news as I had always been intimidated by what I thought a canoe paddler should look like!

Before I knew it, I was being taught the rules of canoe paddling by Rafi, an ex Israeli army commander. Jump in butt first and get out feet first. Shortly after, we dragged the canoe down to water then we got the command to jump in. I was a little clumsy but not too bad. The paddling part was tricky because after a certain number of paddles, we had to change sides. I am an ex-professional dancer so I knew if I could think of any physical activity in terms of choreography, I would be okay. The changing went okay but the only thing that scared me was that wet wood paddles get pretty slippery. Fortunately for me, I didn’t lose my paddle.

What a wonderful experience that was. I got to see a number of whales. A couple even crested about 150 feet ahead and we saw a couple of full breaches about a half a mile away. There were many turtles out there. In fact, we saw something that looked to be a monk seal. Upon closer inspection it was 2 turtles being “frisky”…get a room!

I learned to love the word lava as it meant time to rest. I was a little anxious during the rest of the ride since I knew my dismount would have to happen soon. We got into position and started back paddling into shore. Once we hit sand, the command to get out was shouted. Glad to say that I did remember to get out feet first, however, Rafi neglected to tell me that we dismount to the left so I dismounted on the wrong side. That definitely knocked my score down to a 7.5. Nonetheless, what an awesome and amazing experience only to be had in beautiful Hawaii.

Looking at Menehune Shore from above. Menehune Shores condos for sale →

On my way there, I drove past one of my favorite condominium complexes on the island. It’s called the Menehune Shores. I watched this building being constructed when I would drive to and from work as an accountant at my best friend’s family business. I also found out from one of the members of the team that the Menehune Shores has it’s own canoe and it’s own club. How great that would be to live there and have your own private canoe!  I’m there, sign me up. Here is a gallery of some available listings in the complex. Contact me if you would like more information on these listings or information on canoeing on the island.