Tomsd

And this is from Songdoc on how to find the tricky turnoff for Tunnels. As I mentioned on his post - we usually just drive a bit further to the parking lots at Ke'e Beach (Haena State Park) - where they also have showers and a rest room.

We usually begin snorkeling at Ke'e - and sometimes will make our way back down the beach to nearby Tunnels. But if those lots are full at Ke'e - it's nice to have/know about the Tunnels option.


"Did some writing then went to Tunnels (Makua) Beach late afternoon. I often have trouble finding the entrance, so this time I made some notes. About 1/3 miles past mile marker 8, turn at telephone pole #144 on the right where the sign says “Private Road.”

Tunnels epitomizes my fantasy of the South Pacific. With those jagged mountain peaks and vivid turquoise water it’s how I always imagined Hawaii would look. We took a long walk in the surf soaking up those views, and snapped some postcard-perfect photos along the way. Tunnels is renowned for its snorkeling, but the surf was too rough for the snorkelers today."

Tomsd

Also as for fins. When I took scuba lessons - waaasasay back in the 70's - they fins were huge - and you also had to wear booties with them. Guess the idea was that with the big fins - a slow-easy kick was the best for longer swims and also not to spook the fish, whatever.

Then bought a smaller, more streamlined pair for diving - and then even bought a smaller pair I use pretty much for body surfing - which are like "ducks feet" - and they are designed for short/quick strokes to help you get on top of the waves when body surfing.

You can body surf without fins - and I have done that a lot - but you really have to time the smaller waves just right.

The fins also help you get up quicker on the big waves and that makes for longer rides.

Tomsd

Actually - slyvia3 - it was you who suggested possibly starting another thread - especially for newbies to Hawaii - and here is my response to that which I just posted on the other thread about Ocean Conditons.

Hope you also enjoy your new "shorty" fins.

xxxxxx

Pardon the delay - but was at a SD Rose Society meeting - which featured a very lively/interesting guest from NYC - who is running for the Board of the American Rose Society and I think she will be a great addition if elected.

Anyhow - yes, Seehag and also responding to a suggestion from semiramis - perhaps it would be best to start another blog on the subject of swimming/snorkeling in Paradise - perhaps entitled - Enjoy Hawaii and use your head - or some such.

For Nanabee - you have actually helped prove what I have been saying, and while I was mainly discussing/responding to comments about Kauai - for the vast majority of the 7 million visitors who annually fly to Hawaii - they have a great time and the vast majority do come back.

However - for the very very very small/fraction who do not - and perhaps most importantly for the first timers enjoying the warm ocean water - some planning ahead and being forewarned will make those tiny odds of a possible mishap even smaller.

sylvia3

Checking back for fin ideas: WTH is tomsd going on about? "your possible concerns about Tunnels" Tunnels? Who asked about tunnels?
All I wanted was to know if someone had tried a piece of equipment!?

Tomsd

Sylvia - sorry if it bothered you - was just trying to be helpful.

If you have a lot of experience in the Ocean - have a blast.