Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
past Laie and follow the signs to Malaekahana State Recreational Area. Or take TheBus no. 52
(Circle Island). Another good swimming beach is Lanikai; secluded and calm, this beach is
great for families. From Waikiki, take TheBus no. 56 or 57 (Kailua), and then transfer to the
shuttle.
See also “Beaches,” where each description mentions the relative calmness of the waters.
Water-Skiing
To learn to water-ski, or to just go out and have a good time, call the oldest water-ski
company in Hawaii, Hawaii Water Sports, Koko Marina Shopping Center ( & 808/395-3773;
www.hawaiiwatersportscenter.com ; TheBus no. 22). Lessons and boat rental are $49 for 20
minutes and $69 for a half-hour, including the boat and all equipment rental (maximum of
five people).
Whale-Watching
From December to April, 45-foot humpback whales—Hawaii's most impressive visit-
ors—come to spend the winter. They make the journey from Alaska to calve and mate in
Hawaii's calm, warm waters. Once nearly hunted to extinction, humpback whales are now
protected by federal law. The mammals may not be approached by any individual or water-
craft within 300 ft.
Whales can frequently be seen off the island on calm days. If you spot the familiar spout
of water—a sign the mammal is exhaling—there's a good chance you'll see the whale on the
surface. If you're in a car, please pull over, as many accidents have occurred when visitors try
to spot whales and drive at the same time.
For whale-watching cruises, see “Boating”.
Windsuring
Windward Oahu's Kailua Beach is the home of champion and pioneer windsurfer Robbie
Naish; it's also the best place to learn to windsurf. The oldest and most established wind-
surfing business in Hawaii is NaishHawaii/NaishWindsuringHawaii, 155-A Hamakua Dr.,
Kailua ( & 800/767-6068 or 808/262-6068; www.naish.com ). The company offers everything:
sales, rentals, instruction, repair, and free advice on where to go when the wind and waves
are happening. Private 90-minute lessons start at $75 for one, $100 for two; beginner equip-
ment rental is $40 for 4 hours and $45 for a full day. Kitesurfing lessons are also available ($125
for 1½ hr.). Kiteboard rentals are $25 a day (boards only). KailuaSailboards&Kayaks, 130
Kailua Rd., a block from the Kailua Beach Park ( & 808/262-2555; www.kailuasailboards.com ),
offers 3-hour small-group lessons in windsurfing ($129 per person, including all gear, plus
lunch) and rentals of kitesurfing boards, windsurfing equipment, surfboards, snorkel gear,
and ocean kayaks.
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