Catch some rays and get a little exercise! Kayaking is a great way to become acquainted with the waters around Hawaii Island, and it's easier than you think. Paddle in a six-person canoe, cruising the coast and riding a wave into shore. Paddle at your own pace in a kayak or on a stand-up paddle board along the shores in Hilo Bay or the numerous coves that line the Kohala Coast. Lessons are available at select locations for beginners.
Cruising
A cruise will give you a new perspective of Hawaii Island. From lunch and sunset cruises to whale watching and snorkel cruises, you'll find plenty of opportunities to get on the water. Volcano boating tours offer the unique, up-close perspective of viewing the lava from Kilauaea flow into the ocean. Submarines provide another way to look at the underwater scenery, without getting wet!
Snorkeling & Diving Hot Spots
Hilo Side
Wai 'Opae Tidepools Marine Life Conservation District in Kapoho
Very shallow pools, however, watch out for sudden large waves
Leleiwi and Richardson Beach Parks
Shallow, protected beach parks good for beginners who stay near shore. Ask the lifeguards how to get through the reef to deeper waters.
Kohala Side
Mahukona
The rocky shoreline attracts fish, but waters can be choppy.
Kona Side
'Anaeho'omalu Beach
Usually good visibility in this protected bay fronted by resorts.
Kahalu'u
This popular snorkeling spot also offers good shallow-water diving often calm with very good visibility.
Kealakekua Bay
Great visibility on calm days, especially on the north side of the bay closer to the Captain Cook monument.
Ho'okena Beach Park
Stay close to shore for best viewing and safety.
Honaunau Bay (South Kona)
Beautiful living coral formations and lots of fish in these usually clear, but deeper, waters just outside the park entrance.
Fishing
If you're serious about fish, you'll really enjoy deep-sea fishing in Hawaii. The Kona Coast is a great place to hook big mahimahi, ono and 'ahi, and many experienced skippers know exactly where they are biting. The Pacific Blue Marling, the ultimate big game fish, is found in the waters off Kona year-round. Most charter fishing boats put to sea from Honokohau Harbor outside Kailua Village. You can also fish from piers, jetties and shore, or along streams.
