Daytime Adventures at Keauhou Bay

Daytime Adventures: Exploring Keauhou Bay Under the Sun

While the manta rays are the stars of the show at night, Keauhou Bay is a fantastic playground during the day. The water is generally calm and protected, making it perfect for paddling and exploring the stunning Kona coastline from a different view.

Paddling Through History: Kayak and Stand-Up Paddleboard

One of my favorite ways to spend a morning is by paddling Keauhou Bay. You can rent both kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) from several operators right at the bay. Ocean Safaris Kayak Adventures, located near the boat ramp, is a great option where you can get your gear and be on the water in minutes.

Once you've got your gear, here's my favorite route: paddle south from the boat ramp, hugging the coastline. The shore here is a dramatic landscape of black lava rock cliffs. After about 15-20 minutes of steady paddling, you'll start to discover incredible sea caves carved into the cliffs by the ocean's power. Peeking into these grottos from your kayak feels like you've found a secret part of the island that few people get to see.

If you're new to stand-up paddleboarding or just want a more guided experience, many companies offer tours. Ocean Safaris, for example, has a two-hour guided SUP tour that is perfect for beginners. It combines basic instruction with stories about the area's history and marine life.

A Truly Hawaiian Experience: Outrigger Canoeing

To connect with the bay in a truly authentic way, I highly recommend trying outrigger canoe paddling. The waʻa (canoe) is the cultural heartbeat of Polynesia. It's the vessel that brought the first people to these islands and has been a source of food, exploration, and community ever since.

While the Keauhou Canoe Club is a vibrant part of the bay's community, it's a private club for local members and their guests. So it's not a visitor drop-in activity. However, you can still have an amazing visitor-friendly experience. Companies like Anelakai Adventures offer guided tours in traditional double-hull canoes right from Keauhou Bay.

On these tours, you become part of the crew, paddling together as your guides share the bay's history and the culture of canoeing. It's a fantastic workout and a powerful way to connect with the traditions of this place.