Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Captain Cook
POP 3429
As Hwy 11/Mamalahoa Hwy winds southward, the greenery thickens and the ocean
views become more compelling and it can be hard to tell where towns start and stop.
Captain Cook is signaled by the historic Manago Hotel, which began in 1917 as a res-
taurant catering to salesmen on the then-lengthy journey between Hilo and Kona. The
stout building remains a regional touchstone for travelers and residents alike.
Captain Cook is also where you access Kealakekua Bay, plus a great selection of
B&Bs and down-home cooking. Sinewy Napoʻopoʻo Rd, which eventually becomes
Middle Keei Rd, webs between the mountain and the ocean and is a pretty place to drive
without an agenda. The many 'No Spray' signs are put up by organic farms (or even just
homeowners) that are warding against state pesticide spraying.
SOUTH KONA RENTAL & TOURS
Outfitters along Hwy 11/Mamalahoa Hwy rent kayaks and snorkeling kits, as do a
few free agents around the parking lot. All outfitters should include paddles, life
jackets, backrests and scratch-free pads for strapping the kayak to your car; make
sure to get a dry bag for your things.
akekua; single-/double-kayak full day $47/67, tours $125-250; 7am-5pm)
This laidback
yet professional watersports outfit is the area's largest. Its kayak tours include
private and group paddles to secluded Pawai Bay, sunset paddles and overnight
camping.
79-7248 Mamalahoa Hwy, Honalo; single-/double-/triple-kayak full-day $35/60/85, half-day
$25/45/60, tours $90-130; 7:30am-5pm)
This popular, Hawaiian-owned outfit
knows local waters, has half-day rentals (noon to 5pm) and rents glass-bottomed
kayaks. Kayak tours go to Keauhou Bay and other destinations, seeking out sea
caves and cliff jumping.
81-6367 Hwy 11, Kealakekua; single-/double-/triple-kayak full day $35/60/75, tours $80;
8am-4pm)
Friendly and professional, this outfitter makes sure beginners know what
they're doing.
