Authentic Hawaiian Sails was an absolute highlight of our time on the Big Island. From the moment we arrived, the crew made us feel welcome, safe, and genuinely cared for. This wasn't a touristy, rushed experience, it felt personal, relaxed, and truly authentic to Hawaii. The boat was spotless and well maintained, the sailing itself was smooth and peaceful, and the views were unreal. There's something special about being out on the water with people who clearly love what they do and respect the ocean. The crew shared great local insight, answered every question with patience, and made sure everyone was comfortable the entire time. If you're looking for a memorable, family friendly experience that feels real, not scripted, this is it. We would absolutely book with Authentic Hawaiian Sails again and recommend them without hesitation to anyone visiting Waimea or the Big Island. read more

This was an amazing experience. They cap it at 6 passengers so my party of 5 felt like we were on a private cruise. You ride on a canoe and can sit in the middle area or on the sides. The boat will go closer to whales if they spot any. The boat goes south for snorkeling off the coast of Puako. The trip takes about 30 mins. We were in the water for 45 mins or so. They have one of their crew go in the water with you to guide you around the reef. They helped us spot a turtle. They provide snorkels, flippers, noodles, and towels. Refreshments are also provided. After your swim, they provide snacks and fruit. They provide a dry bag on the boat if you need to keep anything stowed away (although you shouldn't bring too much unnecessary items on the boat). This is a family run business so the whole crew are family members - friendly people and great stories and conversation. They had a lot of good recommendations on the island such as the secret pond in the Mauna Lani resort, and the fried chicken at the Mini Mart. I highly recommend this. I would do this trip again on our next visit. read more

What a fabulous morning on the water with this family! We learned a ton about Hawaii & the wild life that lives here. The family was a wealth of information. Best of all - we got to see the whales up-close and personal! I couldn't give this crew a higher rating - the best excursion we've ever been on!! read more

Hawaiian Sails is AMAZING and wonderful! Owned and operated by a wonderful Hawaiian family. A real Hawaiian canoe. We go out every time we come to the Big Island. It is a MUST and is different every time. read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Authentic Hawaiian Canoe Tour - Sailing Near Me

Our last night in Kona tonight and we asked our three kids (ages 7, 9, and 12) what their favorite activity and all said the whale watching on the "Moana" boat. Owners are the nicest family, and we learned so much. The beautifully laid out snacks and cold beverages were nice, but the real beauty was the hospitality and warmth of this business. The many whales we got to see was a bonus. Very knowledgeable, and we chose this 90 minute ride because we didn't want to be stuck on a half day boat with a lot of people. Didn't get sick at all was so smooth! Will be back for sure. Thanks for such a wonderful memory. read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Sailing Near Me

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Fantastic whale watching adventure. Family owned and run canoe makes you feel part of their ohana. Knowledgeable captain and crew educate passengers on marine life. We have been on several trips when friends come to visit and has become a treasured memory for everyone. Great year round! We have seen large pod of dolphins, turtles and even a manta ray on various excursions. read more

This boat is beyond gorgeous and the family that sailed us was really great, charming, engaging and eager to educate us and answer all of our questions. We were disappointed though that we never actually got to sail - I guess that was due to weather, and that we didn't get to snorkel either. I still really recommend the experience and would love to go again when sailing and snorkeling are on offer. read more

Whether you are visiting the Big Island for the first time or are a permanent resident like I am this is an experience you should not miss. Every sail is an amazing adventure filled with the fun in the sun, splashing in the sea, a dash of history thrown in and lots of aloha spirit. Schedule a sail as soon as you can and become a part of this ohana. read more

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An absolutely amazing adventure with my family. This family is so kindhearted and the coolest group of people I've ever met. The views out on the boat are breathtaking and they even have a microphone to listen to the whales underwater. We got so lucky with seeing whales and so up close (perfect time was Christmas). They also provide you with delicious food. 1000% recommend. read more

What an incredible excursion!! I can't say enough about this unique experience!! The entire excursion was an experience in honoring the aquatic life & history of Hawaii! Thank you! read more

People say the best experience on the Big Island is swimming with the manta rays, but I COMPLETELY disagree! Our experience on this authentic Hawaiian boat was not only the best thing I've done in Hawaii; It is one of the best experiences of my life. Being in such a small craft, you can actually dangle your feet in the water as you cruise around the ocean. The family that owns and operates the boat are about the kindest people you'll ever meet. They gave us great recommendations of other things to do on the island, and the drinks and snack they provided were delicious. We didn't end up snorkeling, but that's because we saw a mother whale and her newborn calf. We were able to get very close to them, without intruding, and watched as the mother helped the calf stay afloat and learn to swim. This once in a lifetime experience made what was already a fun and relaxing morning unbeatable. Without a doubt, any time we are on the Big Island, my family and I will be back to visit the great people at Authentic Hawaiian Sails. read more

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An adventure not to be missed! If you're looking for an intimate sailing and snorkeling experience with a menagerie of underwater sea creatures on the Big Island, book your trip online with Hawaiian Sails- it's very easy, pick your date and time, make a payment and they'll send you an email confirmation. You'll depart from the shores of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the beach in the residence section. Check in with the boss lady and then you'll be able to board the outrigger right from the shore. Their personable crew : The Captain, Vosse, Robert, and Garrett provided history of the island and great tips as you make your way across the waves to a snorkeling spot. Fins, snorkeling equipment, and floating noodles are provided. On our trip, I saw yellow & achilles tang, sea turtle, hoggie fish, black triggerfish, and a parrotfish, and the crew kept a close eye on everyone in the water. Once finished with our snorkeling, we had snacks including fresh fruit, aloha drinks (strawberry guava is refreshing!), pretzels, chips and brownies and we headed back shore. I thoroughly enjoyed being able to dip my feet in the water and experience sailing on an outrigger. It was great to see Maui, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa from the perspective of the ocean. Many thanks!! read more

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This was one of my favorites during our trip to big island. We went snorkeling, had some snacks, and even saw a lot of dolphins! Our tour guides provided us some education about the island and they were also fun! I definitely recommend this activity to anyone visiting Big island. Mahalo! read more

What an amazing day on the water. A family run business that pays attention to the little details.

A beautiful boat run by a great family. This was a return trip for us, and it was just as great as before. Highly recommend if you want a day on the water in a small group setting. read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Sailing Near Me

Fantastic! Saw sea turtles swimming nearby while snorkeling. Our favorite experience on the Big Island! Great family business. Super friendly and knowledgeable. Plus the boat is so cool! Would definitely do it again! read more

In times gone by I have been out with Captain Koka and family before...and wow, it's been too long away, as THIS is the most STELLAR sailing, snorkeling, whale watching sail in Hawai'i. We just had an epic day with a very close encounter with a whale twisting breach and whales all around us. We visited an underwater hone (turtle) cleaning station and snorkeled and had yummy snacks. It's a handcrafted Hawaiian sailing vessel run by Hawaiians overflowing with aloha from my favorite beach in the world, Kaunaoa Bay. (Mauna Kea Beach Hotel) We are all completely elated...highly recommend them!!!! read more

Wonderful first time experience snorkeling with friendly people, complete with drinks on the way and snacks on the return. November was perfect weather and we got to see a turtle! read more

What an Amazing Day! My two boys and I went on a fantastic two hour sail. The "canoe" was captained professionally and with a focus on safety and fun,and the experience was a once in a lifetime view of Humpback Whales and Turtle "car washes". Thank you for my best experience on the big island. read more

We had the best time with Authentic Hawaiian Sails! I would 100% do this again during my next trip up to the Big Island. Located at the Mauna Kea resort, easy to get to. Mahea was great at arranging everything with my mother in law who bought this trip as a gift for us. My husband and I were blown away by our experience. Easy sailing on a gorgeous Hawaiian cattamaran/canoe. The crew Koka, Vosse and Garrett were extremely skilled, and very knowledgeable. Very kid friendly , the family that sailed with us had two kids under 6. I felt very safe snorkeling, as the team were also experienced swimmers and divers. Vosse even dived to the bottom to pick up a purple sea urchin for the kids! We sailed out on a gorgeous day, views of the island, snorkeled with gorgeous turtles and schools of butterfly fish, angel fish overlooking the coral. They provided a delicious snack of fresh fruit, drinks, chips. Best snorkeling experience I had on the Big Island! I'm bringing my daughter next time. read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Wonderful vacation experience! Picture of the Hawaiian canoe - Sailing Near Me

Our family of five had an amazing sail with Authentic Hawaiian Sails. This family operation leaves from beach at the Mauna Kea beach hotel which was super convenient. We headed north up the coast and the captain gave us an interesting history of the big island. We ran into a huge pod of dolphins. They swam under our boat so close that we got wet when they exhaled from their blowhole. We then got to snorkel with them which was one of the most amazing experiences. I would highly recommend this company. read more

Had an epic day on the boat with Hawaiian Sails! Crew is great, friendly and knowledgeable. We cruised up the coast and found a pod of dolphins to swim with. Couldn't ask for a better couple hours on the water. Well done! read more

we have sailed with Mahea, Koka & crew 3 years in a row now. This year we saw a pod of dolphins, swimming right next to the canoe. it was wonderful. we just love going out with them and count on excellent snorkeling - did not disappoint as we saw a turtle at the "turtle car wash" - you HAVE to go to find out what that means! Truly a delightful and informing experience. read more

This was one of the best experiences I have ever had! The family that owns this company is so kind. During your sail they teach you a little bit about the history of Hawaii and explain the names of the mountains. All while you sit on the boat with you feet in water! Once they get to their snorkel spot they take you to what they call the "turtle car wash" they have different flotation devises if needed to help you swim and after all the swimming they offer light snacks for the trip back. It was a beautiful and memorable trip. Definitely a must do when staying on the big island. read more

Had a great trip with Hawaiian Sails. There wasn't much wind so we motored most of the way. That was okay as the number of whale sightings made up for it. The crew was excellent. They were very knowledgeable about the whales, prepared us a snack of fresh fruit, and shared lots of good stories. It was awesome to be on such a unique boat as well - it was a lot of fun just walking around it and sitting on the pontoons. The boat is very stable and it did not take our 5 year-old long to get comfortable on it. I would recommend this trip. read more

This was by far the highlight of our trip to Hawaii. Truly wonderful to connect with a local family who is passionate about getting on the water, preserving a historic sailing vessel, embracing the Hawaiian language and culture... Loved our smooth ride out to a stunning snorkeling spot with turtles, colorful fish, variegated coral and starfish. The snorkel guide pointed out all sorts of underwater creatures and features. And the ride itself was so relaxing. Loved this adventure which we'd definitely do again! Mahalo! read more

Highly recommend. We took our kids and followed dolphins and swam with turtles. They were great with the kids explaining all kinds of things and making it fun. They really take an interest in making sure you have a great experience no matter what you're looking to do. read more

This is the third year we have sailed on this amazing family run canoe -with Koka, Maher and crew. This year topped last year as we sailed with a pod of dolphins before continuing on to snorkel and see one turtle having his shell cleaned at the "turtle car wash" as they dub it by a school yellow fish. As envinced by our doing this year after year, we thoroughly enjoy our time with them. Next year's goal? Catch a fish! read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Pod of dolphins - Sailing Near Me

This is a very special excursion that I would recommend for everyone! A (beautiful) family owned and run business that bring the beauty of the Hawaiian Culture to life. Our third time sailing with Koka and Mahealani and again a thrilling few hours. Something quite magical about being out on the water surrounded by an enormous pod of dolphins swimming along the canoe, so many new babies! Always have a tear in my eye when the adventure ends. truly not to be missed. read more

My husband and I were staying at the Mauna Kea Beach Resort on the big island of Hawai'i. Early one morning we noticed the unwrapping of a large canoe with mast on the beachfront. We decided on the spur of the moment that we wanted to give this sailing experience a try, mostly because of the small numbers of people onboard and the fact that it is this cool wooden boat. Our amazing sail started with the initial booking with Mahea (wife and co-owner), who was so lovely to work with; to Captain Koka (husband and co-owner), a very gifted sailor and Hawai'i history and ocean informant; and the shipmates (also son and family members) Vasi, Garrett and Haku, who were fun and very experienced on the canoe and in the water. Once we were underway, Captain Koka and crew directed us to a spot where a mother whale was teaching her baby how to breach the water. We spent more than a half hour drifting and watching this spectacle. Then we were invited to snorkel at a local spot known for turtles swimming and feeding. This is by far the best sail we have ever experienced while visiting Hawai'i. I HIGHLY recommend this family business to any visitors (or locals) wanting a unique sailing adventure. We will definitely be doing this again!! read more

Authentic Hawaiian Sails - Sailing away from shore - Sailing Near Me

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Just got back from Hawaii and had an amazing sail with these amazing people last Friday. Everyone was so kind and friendly, and our whole family had a wonderful time. We had my two young nephews, 5 and 8 years old, who were able to go snorkeling out in some deeper water, and were just ecstatic from the experience. Thank you for a wonderful experience! read more

Fantastic experience - and we were so fortunate to swim with dolphins! I saw photos of the beautiful Hawaiian sail canoe and knew this was our adventure. We ended up on the 8am sail and so glad! In search of dolphin we sailed north and found a pod that stayed at our bow for so long. (They are more active in the morning). Instead of going to a snorkel spot Koka gave us the opportunity to slip into the water and swim with them. What a thrill! Enjoyed snacks including fresh pineapple after our swim. Also saw a whale and beautiful shoreline views. Beautifully crafted boat. Super friendly and skilled crew .... loved listening to them share with us history and culture of the islands. WOW swimming with dolphins in the ocean .... amazing lifetime experience! You can't miss this sailing and snorkel adventure ! read more

We lucked into Hawaiian Sails - a family owned and operated outfit with a traditional Hawaiian wooden sailing vessel. The snorkeling is great - the sea turtlea wow!!! - but sailing out to the site and back in that boat with feet over the side in the neon-blue water was amazing. The boat doesn't accommodate a real large group, and the crew - owner Coca, son Vassy and co-sailor Garrett - are so friendly, informative and fun that the whole experience - out on the water and talking and laughing with the crew and others on board - is just a blast. An overall stellar experience...I'd give six stars if I could! read more

This was one of the coolest days ever. We stepped up to the canoe with the help of a very friendly crew and rode out a bit hearing some info about landmarks on the Big Island, then, because of water conditions got to choose between snorkeling or heading north for possible dolphin sightings. We chose the less likely dolphins because we hadn't ever seen dolphins in the wild and I'm SO glad we did! There were 4-5 pods of dolphins that we followed for about an hour (maybe longer, but time flies when you're doing something so awesome!). The dolphins came up right under the boat and all around us. One even brushed against my 8 year old cousin's foot! The crew provided some snacks including chips, pretzels, and fresh cut pineapple as well as juice, water, and soda. We were all super pleased with the whole experience, and we'll definitely come back and do it again! read more

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What a fantastic experience!! We've been coming to Mauna Kea for years and this experience was just great!! The whales we saw were breathtaking. The snorkeling was awesome, great fish, turtles and a blue ray!! Take this excursion, it won't disappoint. The crew was excellent. I can't say enough!! Tom and Amy Mozina!! read more

We had another fantastic day with the Hawaiian Sails family on their beautiful sailing boat. This boat ride is such a special experience. We have been out twice so far and had the good fortune to watch the spinner dolphins leaping and spinning in the air and swimming right under our feet dangling off the front of the boat. The family is so kind and knowledgeable and the Hawaiian sailing boat they lovingly restored is beautiful. Treat yourself to the best boat ride on the island. read more

We had an amazing time with Koka, Mahea, and crew. They are super friendly and embody true aloha in every way. The snorkeling was great. We can't wait till we come back and do it again. read more

My dad and I wanted to go on a boating adventure near Mauna Kea, so we chose Authentic Hawaiian Sails. We set sail in a boat like the kind that carried Polynesians to Hawaii thousands of years ago. The boat was in pristine condition and helmed by an adept crew that guided us from outside the Mauna Kea resort to a secluded snorkeling spot. On our way, we passed by several pods of humpback whales, several of which breached in our wake. It was an incredible sight to stand near the front of the boat and witness the whales gracefully splashing through the water. After a snorkeling adventure that started with a green sea turtle sighting, we ate freshly sliced pineapples and listened to stories about the origins of Hawaiian words. This was a fantastic adventure made all the more enjoyable by a knowledgable and kind crew. I highly recommend this to locals and visitors alike! read more

We had a great time sailing. Family owned. Captain was very friendly and knowledgeable. We had a great time snorkeling. It was overall one of the best experiences on the big island. There were snacks such as fruit and pretzels provided along with fruit juice and water. Would go again and would highly recommend! read more

Wow!! This was an amazing experience. We came across dolphins that surrounded the canoes and swam next to us in close enough proximity that I could see their eyes. We then swam with turtles. The family that runs this business is kind and fun and give you a truly authentic experience. I highly recommend!! read more