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Kayaking

Kayaking is quickly becoming a top choice for visitors to the Islands. Kayaking alone or with a partner on the open ocean provides a vantage point not afforded by swimming and surfing. Even amateurs can travel long distances and keep a lookout on what's going on around them.

This ability to travel long distances can also get you into trouble. Experts agree that rookies should stay on the Windward side. Their reasoning is simple: if you tire, break or lose an oar, or just plain pass out, the onshore winds will eventually blow you back to the beach. The same cannot be said for the offshore breezes of the North Shore and West O'ahu.

Kayaks are specialized: some are better suited for riding waves while others are designed for traveling long distances. Your outfitter can address your needs depending on your activities. Expressing your plans with your outfitter can lead to a more enjoyable experience.

Best Spots

The hands-down winner for kayaking is Lanikai Beach (Past Kailua Beach Park; street parking on Mokulua Drive for various public-access points to beach) on the Windward side. This is perfect amateur territory with its still waters and onshore winds. If you're feeling more adventurous, it's a short paddle out to the Mokes. This pair of islands off the coast has beaches, surf breaks on the reef, and great picnicking areas. Due to the distance from shore (about a mile), the Mokes usually afford privacy from all but the intrepid kayakers. Lanikai is great year-round, and most kayak-rental companies have a store right up the street in Kailua.

For something a little different try Kahana River (Empties into Kahana Bay, 8 mi east of Kane'ohe), also on the Windward side. The river may not have the blue water of the ocean, but the Ko'olau Mountains, with waterfalls aplenty when it's raining, are magnificent in the background. It's a short jaunt, about 2 mi round-trip, but it is packed with rain-forest foliage and the other rain-forest denizen, mosquitos. Bring some repellent and enjoy this light workout.

If you want to try your hand at surfing kayaks, Bellows Beach (Near Waimanalo town center, entrance on Kalaniana'ole Hwy.) on the Windward side and Mokule'ia Beach (Across from Dillingham Airfield) on the North Shore are two great spots. Hard-to-reach breaks, the ones that surfers exhaust themselves trying to reach, are easily accessed by kayak. The buoyancy of the kayak also allows you to catch the wave earlier and get out in front of the white wash. One reminder on these spots: if you're a little green, stick to Bellows with those onshore winds. Generally speaking, you don't want to be catching waves where surfers are; in Waikiki, however, pretty much anything goes.

Equipment Rentals & Tours

Go Bananas. Staffers make sure that you rent the appropriate kayak for your abilities, and they also outfit the rental car with soft racks to transport the boat to the beach. The store also carries clothing and kayaking accessories. Full-day rates begin at $30 for single kayaks, and $42 for doubles. 799 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu. 808/737-9514

Prime Time Sports. This is one of many stands renting kayaks right on Waikiki beach. The prices among the different stands are pretty much the same. The convenience of Prime Time's central location is their primary drawing card. Hourly rates begin at $10 for single kayaks, and $20 for doubles. Fort DeRussy Beach, Waikiki. 808/949-8952

Surf 'N Sea. This outfitter is located right on the beach, so you don't have to worry about transporting your boat -- just rent it and start paddling. They also offer everything from paddleboats to windsurfing lessons. Keep in mind that their yellow boats are great in summer when the ocean turns peaceful, but winter on the North Shore is hazardous for even the hard-core fan. From spring to fall, however, kayaks are great for getting to outside reef-snorkeling spots or surfing the reduced waves. Full-day rates begin at $35 for single kayaks. 62-595 Kamehameha Hwy., North Shore. 808/637-9887

Twogood Kayaks Hawai'i. The one-stop shopping outfitter for kayaks on the Windward side offers rentals, lessons, guided kayak tours, and even weeklong camps if you want to immerse yourself in the sport. Guides are trained in history, geology, and birdlife of the area. Kayak a full day with a guide for $89; this includes lunch, snorkeling gear, and transportation from Waikiki. Although their rental prices are about $10 more than average, they do deliver the boats to the water for you and give you a crash course in ocean safety. It's a small price to pay for the convenience and for peace of mind when entering new waters. Full-day rates begin at $49 for single kayaks, and $59 for doubles. 345 Hahani St., Kailua. 808/262-5656. www.twogoodkayaks.com