Gearing Up for Big Island SUP
My take on boards, rentals, and the gear that makes all the difference
Written by a Local SUP Expert
Kalani MillerGearing Up: My Take on Boards & Rentals
Getting the right gear can make or break your day on the water. Here's my advice on choosing a board and my personal recommendations for the best rental shops on the Big Island. This is the kind of practical advice that can be hard to find, but it makes all the difference.
Choosing Your Board for Big Island Waters
Hard vs. Inflatable
I see a lot of visitors with inflatable boards, and I get it—they're convenient for travel. But on the Big Island, the wind can be your biggest challenge, especially in the afternoons. A hard, epoxy board has a more defined hull that allows it to cut through wind and chop much more effectively than an inflatable board, which tends to sit on top of the water and get pushed around. This means a hard board will give you more stability, control, and a better paddling experience overall. If you have the choice, I always recommend renting a hard board.
Types of Boards
There are three main shapes you'll encounter, and the right one depends on what you plan to do.
🏄♂️ All-Around Board
This is the workhorse of the SUP world. Usually between 10'6" and 11'6" long, they are wide and thick, which makes them very stable and user-friendly.
Best for: An all-around board is the perfect choice for 90% of the paddling you'll do at the spots I've described in this guide.
🚀 Touring Board
These boards are longer and have a pointier nose, designed to cut through the water for speed and efficiency. They are great for covering longer distances, like a full crossing of Kealakekua Bay or for trying a downwind run.
Trade-off: Less stable than an all-around board.
🌊 Surf SUP
These are shorter, have a narrower tail, and are much more maneuverable, which is what you need for catching waves. Because they have less volume, they are also the least stable.
Best for: Only rent one of these if you are specifically planning to try SUP surfing at a spot like Kahaluʻu Bay.
My Recommended Rental Shops (Kona & Hilo)
This isn't just a random list. These are the shops I trust, run by good people who know our waters and provide quality gear.
Kona Side:
Kona Boys
These guys are an institution on the Kona coast. They've been around longer than anyone and their knowledge is unmatched. They have a fantastic selection of boards and two locations: their main shop in Kealakekua and a beach shack right on the water at Kamakahonu Beach by the Kailua Pier, which is perfect for a hassle-free paddle in Kailua Bay.
Ehu & Kai Adventures
I have to mention them again because their service is so specific and valuable. If you want to paddle Kealakekua Bay, they are your best bet. As the only legally permitted vendor operating right at the bay, they eliminate all the logistical headaches of permits and board transport.
Kahaluʻu Bay Surf & Sea
The location here is unbeatable for a session at Kahaluʻu Bay. They are situated directly across the street from this premier beginner surf and snorkel spot. They offer a great range of all-around boards and surf-specific SUPs, making it incredibly easy to grab your gear and get in the water.
LightSUP Hawaiʻi
For a truly unforgettable and unique experience, you have to try paddling at night. Kelly and Ray run an amazing operation with custom-made boards that have powerful LED lights and a clear viewing window, illuminating the reef below you in the darkness. Paddling in the quiet of a Puako night, watching the marine life come alive under your board, is pure magic.
Hilo Side:
Hilo Ocean Adventures
This is your one-stop shop on the Hilo side. They are conveniently located on Kamehameha Avenue, right across from Hilo Bay. They offer quality rentals and guided tours for both the bay and the tranquil Wailoa River, covering all your east-side paddling needs.
Hulakai / HYPR Nalu
For those looking for more performance-oriented gear, these brands are worth checking out. They shape their own high-quality boards. While Hulakai's main rental operation is in Waikoloa, they have a presence in Hilo, and HYPR Nalu is a renowned Kona-based shaper.
🗺️ SUP Guide Navigation
Kona & Hilo locations
Current page
SUP surfing & fishing
💰 Price Quick Reference
- Kona Boys $29/hr
- Ehu & Kai $65/5hr
- Kahalu'u Surf $35/2hr
- LightSUP $58/2hr
- Hilo Ocean $45/3hr
🏄♂️ Board Types
- All-Around (Best choice)
- Touring (Speed & distance)
- Surf SUP (Wave riding)
💡 Kalani's Pro Tips
- Choose hard boards over inflatables
- Book early for Kealakekua Bay
- Always wear your leash
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Big Island SUP Rental At-a-Glance
To make your decision easier, here's a quick-reference table. A visitor trying to choose a rental shop needs to balance location, price, and the type of experience they're looking for. Other guides often scatter this information or omit it entirely. This table centralizes the key data, allowing you to quickly compare your options and make the best choice for your adventure.
| Shop Name | Location(s) | Price Range | Key Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kona Boys | Kailua Pier & Kealakekua | $29/hr, $99/day | The original. Best all-around selection and deep local expertise. |
| Ehu & Kai Adventures | Kealakekua Bay | $65/5-hr rental | The only legal on-site rental for Kealakekua Bay. Ultimate convenience. |
| Kahaluʻu Bay Surf & Sea | Kahalu'u, Kona | $35/2hr, $75/day | Perfect location for Kahalu'u Bay. Great for surf SUPs and lessons. |
| Ali'i Adventures | Kailua-Kona | $20/hr, $58/day | Good value option right on Ali'i Drive. |
| LightSUP Hawaiʻi | Kona / Puako | $58/2hr (min 2 boards) | Unique illuminated boards for magical night and sunset paddles. |
| Hilo Ocean Adventures | Hilo | $45/3hr, $75/day | The go-to outfitter for the Hilo side. Guided tours available. |
Remember: The best rental shop is the one that gets you on the water safely and conveniently. Consider your planned paddle location first, then factor in price and any special features you might want. Most importantly, don't let gear choice overwhelm the experience—any quality board from these shops will give you an amazing day on Big Island waters.