From a standing stop, the canoe seems way too heavy to move forward fast enough to catch the wave. The beach boy in the back of the boat is waiting for the perfect time. The surf is gentle, maybe 2 foot rollers, breaking in long, soft white pillows and slopes over the shallow reef  and sandbars of Waikiki. The beachboy gives the word. Everyone on board grabs their paddle and pushes the water backwards more or less (probably less) in unison. The wave comes under the stern, gently, gently lifting the canoe from the rear first. Then the momentum takes hold and the boat is careening down the wave face at a stately pace but fast enough to feel like….surfing is amazing. The beachboy in the back keeps a running commentary. All the passengers smile and shriek. It’s just way too much fun. So don’t fight it. Heck, even locals come down and take the Waikiki surf canoe rides from time to time. It’s may be cliched but its still awesome. All the canoe captains are old watermen with great stories and a great patter. Russell at Waikiki Beach Services is one of the best.

Waikiki Beach Services
(808) 542-0608