6 Best Kayak & Outrigger Tours in Wallis and Futuna

If you're looking to explore Wallis' stunning lagoon, we highly recommend A Vaka Heke, a paddle sport association ready to show you the ultimate day out on the water!

You'll love their range of options: kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, surfskis or traditional va'a (outrigger canoes), perfect for guided adventures that range from one-hour taster sessions to full-day adventures.

The team launches from three strategic points around the island, carefully selecting routes based on weather and tides.

You can paddle to stunning motu (islets) whilst hearing ancient legends from your guide, explore the peaceful mangroves at Ha'afiuasia, or glide to the private Kulu'ui Beach with its traditional fale and perfect picnic spots.

Don't miss this authentic way to experience Wallis' incredible marine environment. All safety equipment, dry bags and expert guidance are included, making it perfect for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.

With a butter-flat lagoon and balmy tradewinds right on their doorstep, Association Vaka La are in the perfect place for paddling adventures.

Simply hire a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard and head out on the lagoon waters to the nearby Kaviki islet, or even further afield to Nukuhifala and Nukuhioe if you have it in you.

This community-based watersports operator has everything you could want for exploring Wallis' stunning lagoon, from catamaran tours and kayak rentals to snorkelling adventures and unique full moon experiences.

What we love most is how welcoming and flexible they are. The friendly operators will arrange personalised tours even for small groups, whilst their relaxed booking approach means you can often secure a spot with just a phone call or by walking in.

Don't miss their taxi boat service; it's your ticket to exploring secluded islets like Tekaviki, Nukuhifala and Nukuhione. From what we've experienced, these hidden spots are some of the most peaceful you'll find.

They run tours to various islands throughout their opening hours (closed Mondays only), with standout snorkelling at Devil's Hole and Turtle Hole - two dramatic deep-water spots.

Over on Futuna, join Avamoana Va'a for a taste of the territory's "national sport", if you will, with an outrigger canoe tour.

You'll get to be part of the paddling team for a few hours, and you'll be surprised at how quickly you fall into the rhythm of Polynesian paddling.

Unlike commercial tours, this local club welcomes visitors to participate in paddling sessions that are almost like their "national sport" but are also a nod to Futuna's maritime heritage.

A popular option is a 3-4-hour paddle along Futuna's main coast, past coral formations, villages, churches and coastal roads. The highlight is crossing 3-4 km (1.8-2.4 mi) to Alofi Island (about 30 minutes paddling), where you'll stop for swimming and relaxation before returning via the same route.

Sessions accommodate two to five people per boat with a guide, lasting from short outings around the harbour to full-day adventures. High tide offers the best conditions, providing stunning mountain views, while low tide reveals intricate coral formations below.

Every Sunday afternoon at Leava Bay, structured sessions run from 3 pm to 4 pm for children and 4 pm to 5:30 pm for adults, offering expert instruction in handling these traditional racing vessels.

Experience the magic of traditional Polynesian outrigger journeys with Havili Siliva on their magnificent "pirogue" adventure to the enchanting northern motu.

These immersive full-day excursions combine modern convenience with ancient traditions, switching the sails for motor power to navigate between Wallis' northern motu (islets) while sharing stories.

Your adventure begins with a safety briefing and life jacket distribution before boarding the traditional pirogue. Journey to remote islets where a fresh fruit breakfast awaits featuring seasonal tropical delights like grapefruit, papaya, mango and pineapple. Learn traditional skills including coconut milk preparation and participate in creating an earth oven, locally known as an umu.

Explore archaeological sites on foot whilst your guide weaves scientific data with traditional stories. Afternoon activities include flower lei making, shellfish gathering, traditional dancing demonstrations and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters. The experience concludes with relaxation time for swimming and soaking up the surroundings of paradise.

Note that a minimum of six people are required for tours to depart, so prepare to be on stand-by until minimum numbers are reached.

Although not a "kayaking tour" per se, Afiafi Hotel offers kayak rentals for guests to experience the golden coastline along Toloke.

For those looking for a place to stay in paradise, here's what you're in for...

The boutique hotel boasts just four rooms, while the stunning long beach serves as the hotel's crowning feature. Ground-floor rooms open directly onto private patios leading straight to the sand.

Make the most of the beach out front, with free snorkelling gear available and aquarium-like conditions near the reef (though bringing your own gear is recommended). Kayaks are available for hire for an hourly fee, best utilised at high incoming tide.

There's free WiFi, and a homemade breakfast is included. The hotel's restaurant serves lunch from 11:30 am to 2 pm and dinner from 7 pm to 10 pm, with reservations recommended. The bar operates from 6 pm Tuesday to Friday, and Friday nights come alive with dance parties running from 11:30 pm until the early hours.

With amazing sunset views and the occasional turtle nesting on the beach, Afiafi Hotel offers one of the more enviable positions on Futuna.

Over on Wallis, FugaUvea is one of the only accommodations offering kayak rentals for guests. Although this delightful homestay is located inland, they also have the vehicle rentals needed to transport yourself to the lagoon.

This family-run guesthouse features two cosy guest rooms, each sleeping up to three people with a thoughtful mix of double and single beds plus a sofa bed.

What we found truly special during our visit is the genuine cultural immersion on offer. You'll be welcomed into local traditions through hands-on experiences like traditional mat weaving, tapa painting and sarong making, available if you let your host, Samantha, and her family know you are interested.

We're big fans of the relaxed home-style environment here. You'll have access to a fully equipped shared kitchen, complimentary bikes and the option to hire vehicles and kayaks, if you wish.

Don't miss asking your hosts about arranging picnic equipment; they can set you up with tables, chairs and mats for perfect outdoor dining adventures around the island.