Overview

Experience America’s fastest growing outdoor sport, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), which originated in Hawaii. Easier than surfing, SUP boards are wider, thicker, and longer, and there’s no having to jump up onto a moving board!

Enjoy the calm, clear waters of Kona from the unique vantage point of standing on a large, sturdy board. You’ll not only get a nice workout, but you’ll explore the historic and scenic Kailua Bay from the water and learn some interesting history from your knowledgeable and friendly guide. Whether you are a beginner or more experienced, your 1.5 hour lesson will be personalized to you. For those experienced or who learn fast, your tour will venture further to explore a wider area of the bay. Check-in is conveniently located at a shack right on the beach in the heart of Kona.

You may also want to consider our ultimate water sports experience that includes kayaking and snorkeling.

Booking Tips

If you sign up for a "public lesson", your party may be combined with other people, although often that is not the case and it ends up being private. If you want to guarantee your group is private, then sign up for private. If your group wants 1-on-1 lessons, then sign up for private for each person and make a note at checkout. Due to staffing constraints, it may mean the 1-on-1 lessons would be at different times.

Need to book within 24 hours? There may be availability, even though it is not showing in our online booking form. Please contact us.

If possible, we recommend the morning when the water conditions tend to be calmer and the marine life is more active.

TravelShack's Choice

Why we recommend this option over others

Guides are with you the entire time, coaching and pointing out interesting things about the area
First-rate location — calm protected bay, convenient central Kona location, and historic setting
Private 1-on-1 lessons available

Traveler Ratings

TravelShack Customer rating:

5.0 out of 5 stars

Also rated on:

TripAdvisor

Yelp

Guidebook Reviews

Hawaii Big Island Revealed Guidebook:

Stand up paddling is extremely popular with residents and visitors. It really pays to take a lesson to learn proper techniques.

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

SUP, the latest trend, takes coordination to learn, but it’s a lot easier than regular surfing. It’s a sweet blend of intense exercise, aquatic adventure, and marine-biology lesson. It delivers a core workout accompanied by dolphins, turtles, tropical fish, and very meditative, Zen-like paddling techniques. It’s the perfect way to slow down and drink up the mana (spiritual essence) of the Big Island.

Fodor's Guidebook:

Kona Boys: Fodor’s Choice

It’s available for all skill levels and ages, and even novice stand-up paddleboarders can get up, stay up, and have a great time paddling around a protected bay or exploring the gorgeous coastline. Kailua Bay: Best Spots for SUP. Great for kids; the water here is especially calm and gentle. If you’re more daring, you can easily paddle out of the bay and along the coast for some great exploring.

Moon Guidebook:

Stand up paddle boarding is the newest and hottest sport around.

Location

Kona

Kailua Bay in downtown Kona

Driving Distances
45 min from Waikoloa
1 hr 30 min from Hilo

Frequently Asked Questions

Adopted the West Hawai’i Voluntary Standards for Marine Tourism to improve environmental performance
Actively involved in the community, including sponsoring local surfers, surf competitions, and other events

Terms and Conditions

Cancellation Policy

After 48 hours prior to activity time, cancellations, changes, or no-shows will result in 50% payment

Tax added at checkout

4.712% Hawaii sales tax (GET)

Minimum Weight of Participants

30 lbs

Standup Paddle Board Lessons / Tour

Highlights