The Hawaiian Islands have an extensive canoeing history and related water sports, including outrigger canoe racing. The first canoes arrived in the islands over 1,800 years ago, large enough to carry 80 people and transport food and other essential items. Others used canoes to travel off-island for various reasons, such as hunting.

The rugged conditions of the islands and surrounding waters prompted the locals to develop robust and durable watercraft. Modern outrigger canoes continue the tradition, implementing a distinct shape and lack of decorative features.

When Captain James Cook reached Hawaii in 1778, the region was home to as many as 12,000 outrigger canoes. Then, individuals used canoes for less traditional purposes, including races. The growing popularity of gambling on canoe races did not please Catholic missionaries, and they influenced Queen Ka’ahumanu to ban all racing in 1820.

The queen’s decree would stand until 1875, when King David Kalakaua undid it. November 16, his birthday, became Hawaii’s official regatta day. In 1908, establishing the Outrigger Cane Club in Oahu ushered in a new era of outrigger canoe racing for the islands.

While outrigger canoe racing remains popular, the outrigger canoe has a greater importance as a cultural emblem and a unique element of Hawaiian society. In addition to racing, canoes serve other purposes, such as open ocean navigation, and contribute to the state’s construction industry. Hawaiian outrigger canoes are used worldwide, and the state is home to nearly 70 canoe clubs.