Mākaha Canoe Club
Established in 1971, MCC’s mission is to serve Oahu’s Waianae Coast by preserving, teaching, and competing in the ancient Hawaiian sport of outrigger canoe paddling, providing a healthy activity for keiki and families in our community. We accept youth aged 10+ and adults regardless of ethnicity and ability to pay.
Makaha Canoe Club is a 501c3 nonprofit
Upcoming Events
*events dependent on weather
November
- Thursdays, 5:30 – 6:30pm, Poka’i Bay
Adult Long-Distance Paddling Practice - Sat, Nov 8, 6am-12pm, Ke’ehi Lagoon
Ho’i I Ke Kai: Launch of the A’a – the first custom-built, six-seat koa racing canoe of its kind
*more info* - Sat, Nov 15, 8 – 11 am, Poka’i Bay (Nanakuli side)
Community Paddling Lesson – SIGN UP
*flyer here* - Sat, Nov 22, 6:15 pm, Makaha Beach Park
Sunset Movie Night on the Sand – Movie TBD
Annual Calendar
Mar – Apr
Pre-Season
May – Aug
Regatta Race Season
Sept – Dec
Na Holokai Keiki Canoe Club
Adult Long-Distance Paddling
Looking for more ways keep up to date? Join our public information page on online or on the SportsYou app
Code: WLWE-3YJN
Ready to join? Email us for more info!
Common newcomer questions
What if I’ve never paddled before?
No experience is required to join. The only requirement is that you must be able to swim and pass a swimming test.
What kind of shape should I be in?
All are welcome. It would be ideal if you are involved in other sports and have a high level of strength, flexibility, and endurance, however, many people come to us with no athletic experience. Again, you must be able to swim and pass a swimming test.
Are there age restrictions
We have paddlers of all ages from keiki (children) aged 10 and older to kūpuna (seniors) in their 80s. Generally those up to the age of 18 paddle together, as do adults. Keiki crews are often grouped by age, while adult crews are based on years of experience.
What should I wear?
Paddling is an ocean sport. Most paddlers prefer to wear lightweight type of clothing such as, surf shorts, leggings, or bike shorts or dri-fit type of material. Wear clothing that is lightweight, can get wet and will not hinder your ability to swim if you need to. Wearing sunscreen (Reef safe) is encouraged and bring your own water.
Do I need a paddle?
No, the club provides paddles during practice and for regatta races. However, those who commit to the season may want their own paddle. Paddlers who steer may want their own steering blade. Check with your coach to see what type of paddle they recommend and the best place to purchase.
History
Mākaha Canoe Club has served families along the Waianae coast for over 50 years. It was founded in 1971 by community members from within the Waianae moku-the Naone, Abad, Dutro, and Lum Ho ‘ohana. Our mission has always been to perpetuate and promote Hawaiian culture and traditions through the ancient sport of canoe paddling while providing a healthy activity for keiki and families in our community.
In that same year, Makaha Canoe Club was blessed to purchase the koa canoe Hanakeoki from the Outrigger Canoe Club for $1,500.00. To this day, Hanakeoki has been the beacon of the club, always calling families back to paddle, and or just to come visit and say aloha!