Are You Looking For a Simple Way to Meet New Friends in Hawaii?

Leaving your friends and family to relocate to another state or island can be a big but exciting adventure. One of the things that makes Hawaii unique is that the ancient Polynesian sport of outrigger canoe paddling continues to allure families, neighbors, and friends together year after year. Kai Opua, a canoe club located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, has a founding history dating back to 1929, prior to statehood.

Historic Image Provided by Kai Opua Canoe Club

The Benefits of Canoe Paddling

What I love about paddling is that, once you join an outrigger canoe club, you become a part of an incredible paddling community that is focused on fitness, family, camaraderie, and of course, competition. Canoe clubs can be found all over the Islands. Regardless of where you live in Hawaii, it is easy to find an outrigger canoe club at a location that is near you. The sport’s popularity has inspired private communities, such as Kukio and Hualalai, to incorporate canoe paddling into their club activities.

Kawaihae Canoe Club Annual Long Distance Race

Canoe clubs are a vital community resource for both children and adults. You are never too old or too young to enjoy the benefits of this fantastic sport. Pure Light Racing offers individuals from around the State of Hawaii, who are physically challenged, the opportunity to participate in outrigger canoe racing. Today, you can find Pure Light Racing teams competing in events here in Kailua-Kona and around the world!

Pure Light World Sprints Racing Team

Live the Hawaii Life

If you desire to quickly become a part of your Big Island community, join an outrigger canoe club and start paddling. The regatta race season kicks off this weekend, May 17th, at the Kailua-Kona Pier. Keep in mind that it is never too late to join.