Signing up for “Paddle and Outrigger and Learn a Hawaiian Tradition” through travel2change was so simple and I’m happy I did so. After signing up for this free event, I received and email with the details of when and where to meet, what to bring, and what to wear. I had never paddled before so I didn’t know what to expect, but travel2change helped to alleviate the anxiety.
Upon arrival at the Lokahi Canoe Club, I signed a waiver and the instructors taught me the basics of paddling. To my surprise, there was about 50 or so people that showed up to paddle. Everyone was very friendly and helpful. I got placed in an outrigger with five other experienced paddlers. It took me a little while to get used to the commands, switching the paddle from side to side, switching my feet, and get the motion down, but once I did, I felt like part of the team. We all moved as a unit with synchronized strokes. It was powerful and therapeutic.
We paddled from the Ala Wai Canal to the ocean and back again. We started at about 5 p.m. and ended almost at 7 p.m. Watching the sunset on the Waikiki skyline from ocean was one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. I would definitely recommend this event to any and every person seeking an adventure. Thank you to the Lokahi Canoe Club for hosting the event and to travel2change for connecting me to the event.