The leeward west coast areas of the Big Island are protected for the most part from the Northeast Trade Winds, making for ideal near-shore kayaking conditions. There are literally miles and miles of uncrowded Kona and Kohala coastline to explore, presenting close-up views of stark raw lava rock shores and cliffs, lava tube sea caves, pristine secluded coves, and deserted beaches.

Ocean kayakers can get in close to shore—where the commercial snorkel and dive cruise boats can't reach. This opens up all sorts of possibilities for adventure, such as near-shore snorkeling among the expansive coral reefs and lava rock formations that teem with colorful tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and more. You can pull ashore at a quiet cove for a picnic and a plunge into a deep turquoise pool. With a good coastal map and some advice from the kayak vendor, you can explore inland, where you might find ancient battlegrounds, burial sites, bathing ponds for Hawaiian royalty, or old villages.

Kayaking experiences can be enjoyed via a guided tour or on a self-guided paddling excursion. Either way, the kayak outfitter can brief you on recommended routes, manageable currents, and how you can help preserve and protect Hawaii's ocean resources and coral reef system.

Kayak Safety

Whether you're a beginner or experienced kayaker, choose appropriate water and weather conditions for your kayak excursion.

Ask the outfitter about local conditions and hazards, such as tides and currents.

Beginners should practice getting into and out of the kayak and capsizing in shallow water.

Before departing, secure the kayak's hatches, etc., to prevent water intake.

Use a line to attach the paddle to the kayak to avoid losing it.

Always use a life vest or jacket.

Wear a helmet if kayaking in and around rough water and rocks.

Carry appropriate amounts of water and food.

Don't kayak alone. Create a float plan; tell someone where you're going and when you will return.

Best Spots

The likelihood of seeing dolphins makes Kealakekua Bay (Bottom of Napoopoo Rd., south of Kailua-Kona) one of the most popular kayak spots on the Big Island. The bay is usually calm, and the kayaking is not difficult—except during high surf. If you're there in the morning, you're likely to see spinner dolphins. Depending on your strength and enthusiasm, you'll cross the bay in 30-60 minutes and put in at the ancient canoe landing about 50 yards to the left of the Captain Cook Monument. The monument marks the landfall of Captain James Cook in 1778, the first European to visit Hawaii. The coral around the monument itself is too fragile to land a kayak, but it makes for fabulous snorkeling.

There are several rental outfitters on Highway 11 between mile markers 110 and 113. There's also one unofficial stand at the shore, at the house on the corner just across from the parking lot. After you've loaded your kayak onto the roof of your car, follow the 2-mi road down the rather steep hill to the parking lot below. There are usually local guys who will set up your kayak and get you into (and out of) the water; tips of between $5 and $10 are encouraged, expected, and appreciated.

Oneo Bay (Alii Dr., south of Kailua-Kona) is usually quite a placid place to kayak. It's easy to get to and great for all skill levels. If you can't find a parking spot along Alii Drive, there's a parking lot across the street near the farmers' market.

Hilo Bay (2349 Kalanianaole Ave., about 4 mi east of Hilo) is a favorite kayak spot. The best place to put in is at Richardson's Ocean Beach Park. Most afternoons you can share the bay with local paddling clubs. Stay inside the breakwater unless the ocean is calm (or you're feeling unusually adventurous). Conditions range from extremely calm to quite choppy.

Dolphins at Rest

Kealakekua Bay is a designated marine refuge where the dolphins return to rest after feeding. Kayakers occasionally pursue the dolphins in an aggressive way. Because of the actions of a few, some environmental activists are working to close the bay to all kayakers. Those who charge after dolphins may be videotaped and have complaints filed against them (as well as suffer the ephemeral but very real consequences of behaving without the aloha spirit). If you behave in a calm, nonthreatening manner, the dolphins are likely to come to you.

Equipment, Lessons & Tours

Aloha Kayak Co. This Honalo outfitter offers guided Wet-N-Wild Kayak Snorkel/Cave Tours—a four-hour morning tour ($79 per person) and a 2½-hour afternoon version ($59 per person). Morning tour includes sandwich lunch, snacks, and cold drinks; afternoon tour includes snacks and drinks. Tours depart from Keauhou Bay. Daily kayak rental rates: single $35, double $60. Ask about renting one of their glass kayaks, for a clear and close-up view of the marinelife below you. 79-7428 Mamalahoa Hwy., Honalo. 808/322-2868 or 877/322-1444. www.alohakayak.com.

Kona Boys. On the highway above Kealakekua Bay, this full-service outfitter handles kayaks, boogie boards, and related equipment. Single-seat kayaks are $47 daily, doubles $67, weekly single $150, double $275. Dive kayaks with a well for an air tank are also available. The Boys also lead a guided trip to Kealakekua that includes kayaking, snorkeling, and hiking around a lava rock point (½-day starting at $159 per person, includes lunch, snacks, and drinks), a Sunset Kayak & Snorkel Tour for $125 per person, as well as customized overnight camping-kayaking trips to Milolii, Pololu, or our favorite, Waipio Valley. 79-7539 Mamalahoa Hwy., Kealakekua. 808/328-1234. www.konaboys.com.

Ocean Safari's Kayak Adventures. On the guided 3½-hour morning Sea Cave Tour that begins in Keauhou Bay, you can visit lava tube sea caves along the coast, then swim ashore for a snack. The kayaks are on the beach, so you don't have to hassle with transporting them. The cost is $64 per person. A two-hour Early Riser Dolphin Quest Tour leaves at 7 AM on Tuesdays. It's $35 per person. Kayak daily rental rates are single $25, double $40. End of Kamehameha III Rd., Kailua-Kona. 808/326-4699. www.oceansafariskayaks.com.