The 4 Best Private Kayak Tours in Oahu

1.Family, Private & Group Standup Paddle Lessons in Waikiki

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 143 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $118Our pick

You’ll meet the Ohana Surf Project team at the Waikiki Beach Marriott, watch a short safety video, then head to the water with a board, rashguard, reef shoes, and paddle. Instructors such as Mark, Kai, Kevin, Marcus, and Romeo work with beginners, families, and mixed abilities. Pickup and return service is available from select Waikiki locations.

“Haley, Lawson and Aiden had a wonderful experience. Instructor Miguel had them up on the board quickly. We look forward to receiving videos!”

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2.Private Stand up Paddle Lesson and Tour (for 1 or more paddlers)

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 36 reviews · 2 hours (approx.)

Learn stand-up paddleboarding with Rainbow Watersports on Oahu’s North Shore, then paddle Haleiwa Bay and Anahulu Stream. Your private group gets boards, paddles, bottled water, instruction, and photos. Guides such as Heidi, Kate, Megan, and Ocean are praised for calm coaching, including help for first-timers, children, older adults, and nervous paddlers.

“We got there late and they were great. They helped us get ready for the experience and provided excellent instructions. I would recommend them, great time.”

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3.2 hour tandem kayak rental at our private launch area in Hale’iwa

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 28 reviews · 2 hours (approx.)

You and a partner get two hours in a stable tandem kayak on Haleiwa’s Anahulu River, with a private sloping launch, life jackets, staff help, and access to a calm bay and sandy beach. Blue Planet Adventure Co. also provides a covered deck, changing room, bathroom, hot shower, and drinking fountain.

“Amazing experience, beautiful scenery! Kayaks were ready and the attendant was so nice and helpful! Thank you!”

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4.Private Outrigger Canoe Surfing Experience

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 13 reviews · 2 hours (approx.)

Meet your guide for land-based instruction, then paddle a private Hawaiian outrigger canoe through the surf near Honolulu. Sara and Hanalei provide coaching, steer much of the outing, and help you read wind, waves, and safe routes. Expect about an hour on the water, with views of Diamond Head, possible turtle sightings, water, and a small snack included.

“We loved our time with Sara and Hanalei. The experience itself was amazing. We left the beach at Hickman Field and quickly learned the proper techniques needed to catch a wave. We saw three turtles on our way out. We were able to get a unique view of Diamond Head before catching the first of four waves. They would have stayed out for a few more but we have to get back for dinner. Riding the waves was an exhilarating experience. The feeling of the wave picking up the back of the boat and pushing us along was amazing. It is an experience we will never forget. We also enjoyed…”

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