Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
best surfing, according to many. This is decidedly not a beginner's break - the
waves crash right up on some rough rocks.
In Kaʻu, locals brace a rough paddle out to catch long rides on the nearly perfect
left-break at Kawa Bay. Newbies take lessons and test the waves at Kahaluʻu Beach
Park (
Click here
)
.
Top bodyboarding and bodysurfing spots include Hapuna Beach (
Click here
)
,
White (Magic) Sands Beach (
Click here
)
, near Kailua-Kona, and the beaches at
Kekaha Kai State Park (
Click here
)
.
Diving
The area's snorkeling and diving tours are gathered here, so you can see the range of op-
tions on offer.
Near the shore, divers can see steep drop-offs with lava tubes, caves and diverse mar-
ine life. In deeper waters there are 40 popular boat-dive areas, including an airplane
wreck off Keahole Point. Visibility is typically 100ft, with the best conditions prevailing
April through August.
Two-tank dives cost around $150. One-tank night dives and manta-ray dives are simil-
arly priced. The larger five-star PADI operations offer certification courses for between
$475 and $650 (the price goes up for smaller groups). If you're already certified but
haven't been out in the water for awhile, refresher courses cost around $30.
Some snorkel outfits accommodate divers; conversely, some dive companies accom-
modate snorkelers.
Jack's Diving Locker
DIVING
(
800-345-4807, 329-7585;
www.jacksdivinglocker.com
;
75-5813 Aliʻi Dr, Coconut Grove Market-
place)
One of the best outfits for introductory dives and courses, with extensive pro-
grams for kids. Housed at a 5000-sq-ft facility, with a store, classrooms, a tank room and
a 12ft-deep dive pool, it offers boat and shore dives, as well as nighttime manta-ray
dives; snorkelers are welcome on many trips. Jack's has a reputation for environmental
preservation and ecofriendly moorings.
Big Island Divers
DIVING
