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Haleiwa Paddle Boarding Lesson

Tour Highlights

Paddle together up the calm Anahulu River in Haleʻiwa, where glassy water reflects palms overhead, laughter carries between boards, and sea turtles glide beneath the group. It’s relaxed, social, and quietly magical with your first strokes unfolding in one of the North Shore’s most peaceful settings.

  • Learn stand-up paddling in a fun, small-group setting
  • Glide beneath Haleʻiwa’s iconic Rainbow Bridge
  • Paddle calm river waters ideal for first-time SUP
  • Spot Hawaiian green sea turtles below your board
  • Share the experience with other easygoing paddlers

Quick Local Tip: As soon as you enter the river mouth, start scanning the edges of the banks. Some of the earliest turtle sightings often happen right there. Staying alert early can mean spotting turtles before the group even fully spreads out.

What to Expect

You'll meet your instructor at the rainbow-colored van parked next to the WWI Memorial in Haleiwa, a local landmark just steps from the water. After a quick check-in, your instructor will outfit you with a paddle, board, and leash, and introduce you to the group. Group lessons typically include up to 10 participants, creating a relaxed and social setting perfect for first-time paddlers.

The lesson starts on land with a hands-on overview of the gear. Your instructor will demonstrate how to stand, paddle efficiently, and turn with control. You'll also go over basic safety tips and learn how to fall (and get back up) the right way, all in a way that’s friendly, approachable, and tailored for beginners.

Once everyone feels ready, you'll carry your boards to the water's edge and begin paddling into the calm, protected waters of the Anahulu River. This is one of the most beginner-friendly SUP spots on Oahu, with glassy, slow-moving water and a backdrop of lush jungle, tropical flowers, and gently swaying palms.

As you move upriver, your instructor stays nearby to offer guidance and encouragement. You’ll paddle beneath the iconic Rainbow Bridge, cruise past mangroves and shaded riverbanks, and likely spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles gliding just beneath the surface. Tropical fish, water birds, and the soft rustle of palm leaves complete the peaceful scene.

Throughout the lesson, there’s plenty of time to practice, rest, and enjoy the view. The pace is relaxed and designed to help you build confidence while having fun. Most first-timers are standing and paddling comfortably by the end of the tour and leave with a big smile and a new favorite activity. After two hours on the water, you'll return to shore with new skills, new friends, and memories of an authentic North Shore experience.


Included

  • Stand Up Paddle Board
  • Paddle & Leash
  • Qaulified Paddling Instructor
  • Life Jackets available upon Request

- Please check in 10 minutes before departure time.


Duration

2 hours

Address

Haleiwa, Hawaii

  • Meet at the colorful Rainbow Watersports' van in the middle of the bay past The Beach House Restaurant at 62-540 Kamehameha Hwy
  • You will receive a booking confirmation email with exact map and directions of where to meet.

Cancellation Policy

Please give us 24 hr notice. Need to cancel? We're happy to help. Contact us anytime to inquire about cancellations or reschedule. Just give us 24 hours notice to be eligible for a full refund. We do run lesson rain or shine but always do our best to make sure you're comfortable.