Big Island · KEALAKEKUA KAYAK & OUTRIGGER PADDLES
10 reviewed
The good kealakekua kayak & outrigger paddles fill up fast on the Big Island. Here are the 10 best, with current prices and what sets each one apart, so you can lock in a spot before the calendar closes.
Small-group kayak and snorkel in Kona with sea caves, spinner dolphins, and reef fish. Early start, strong guides, and real adventure.
“Such a fun experience and Ryan was an awesome guide. We learned how to get in and out of the kayak, saw a ton of dolphins, and ended the trip snorkeling over a reef. Excellent time!”
Kealakekua Bay guided outrigger canoe with small group, local family history, snorkeling gear, early 8am calm water, dolphins and turtles.
“We saw Dolphins as we paddled across to Captain Cook Monument. Jamal our guide (sorry if I spelled wrong)was exceptional.”
Early kayak and snorkel in Kealakekua Bay with local guides, dolphins in season, The Coffee Shack lunch, and gear included.
“Worth it, 100% get up early and do this tour. We had a fantastic guide, Grant. 10/10 would just hang out with him again but besides getting along with our guide this tour felt really special and we were beyond so informed about the area and the history and the wildlife. Very respectful and respectable guide. We lucked into being a very small group so we made good time getting across and got so much time to snorkel, could've stayed in there all day looking at coral and fishes and out on the kayak chatting about anything and everything. It was a dream, thank you Grant and Kona Boys.”
Kayak Kealakekua Bay and snorkel Ka'awaloa cliffs near Captain Cook. Small-group midday trip with gear, snacks, and safety-first guides.
“It is totally worth it! Evan is an excellent guide, very patient and helpful. Byo water bottle & snack. Don’t forget underwater camera or case for your phone.”
Hourly clear-bottom kayaking in Kailua-Kona. Wheel from Saltwater Soul to your launch point and spot fish and spinner dolphins below.
“Check in and check out was a breeze. Very friendly business and owner was super helpful. It is a bit of a walk to the boat launch but worth it. Clear bottom kayaking is the way to go!”
Feast and Fire Luau at OUTRIGGER Kona Resort on Keauhou Bay: dinner buffet, unlimited open bar, pre-show games, and fire finale.
“The performers were great! We enjoyed making flower bracelets before and grabbing a drink. Grab two! The drink line was long and drinks stopped during dinner. We really enjoyed the dancers and the story telling. There were some fun things added to the show as well. We were very disappointed that the show was located in a banquet room without us being told beforehand. The pictures and description felt very misleading. In the description we were under the impression that the show would be outdoors no matter what, since it said ponchos would be provided in a light rain. We had no rain at all and were shocked to see…”
Guided kayak in historic Hilo Bay with a stop at Coconut Island and downtown culture at Lili’uokalani Gardens for $160.
“I would not recommend this tour. We had to pull our own kayak across the street to the water. You paddle to the island, relax and/or swim and then paddle back to their facility. I NEVER had to haul my own equipment on a tour especially when they charge over $100 per person.”
Row an outrigger canoe in Kona and hear real island history, from Ahuena Heiau to Hulihe'e Palace. About 1 hour for $69.
“The guide was extremely professional, and very knowledgeable about Hawaiian history and culture. Grant was an amazing guide!”
Kayak Hilo’s Wailoa River to the King Kamehameha statue under Japanese bridge arches. Calm paddling, fish, birds, snacks, small group.
“We loved this kayaking activity. Our guide was really cool and laid back- he explained a few Hawaii facts to us as we went down the river. The river was calm and we went at our own pace. It was relaxing yet fun! If we go back we will probably do this tour again with the same gentleman who guided us. Overall great experience!!! Highly recommend !”
Kayak Wailoa River to the King Kamehameha Statue in Hilo: small-group wildlife spotting, Japanese bridge views, and local history.
“Tour was great. Danielle the tour guide was awesome. Enjoyed the experience. Very Peaceful and Scenic”
