Do you want to explore Kealakekua Bay while experiencing the thrill of riding in an outrigger canoe? If so, you just need to sign up for a guided tour with Ehu & Kai Adventures. A family owned and operated company, their tours promise to show you the history, culture, and beauty of the Big Island. Want to head out on your own? They also offer kayak and standup paddleboard rentals year-round, plus all the other gear you might need, including snorkeling masks.
Their outrigger canoe tours are a great way to kick off your Kealakekua Bay adventures. You’ll want to sign up well ahead of time to secure your spot though, because they’re wildly popular all throughout the year. Thankfully, they make it easy to sign up for the tour using the online system on their website or by simply giving them a call. You’ll then just need to show up at their launch zone on Kahauloa Road on the selected date and time.
After that, you’ll get a rundown on what to expect, how to put on your lifejacket, and tips on using the snorkel equipment. The guide will then help your whole group hop onboard their double-hull canoe. Then, you’ll head out onto the water to experience all the beautiful sights and sounds of paradise. Your guide will tell you all about the history of the bay, show you its mysterious caves, and point out all the marine life in your midst.
At the end of the tour, your guide will take you over to the Captain Cook Monument for a final history lesson and a chance to snorkel around. You can then get into the water and put on your snorkeling mask as instructed. Once you do that, dip your face in the water for a glimpse at all the wonders beneath the waves. Depending on the conditions, you may get to see tropical fish, eels, and sea turtles. You could even see an octopus if you’re lucky.
If you have an underwater camera with you, it’s even possible to snap a bunch of fun photos to share with the world. Otherwise, just soak in the sights all around, capturing them in your memory forevermore. You can always do it all over again in the future if you want to come back with a waterproof camera in tow.
After returning to shore, you’ll undoubtedly want to do it all over again. Thankfully, you can do just that on your own by renting one of their kayaks or standup paddleboards. They also have snorkel masks and other gear available to rent by the day. You may need to wait a day or two to come back, however, because their limited rentals are always in high demand. When it’s your turn to use them, you’ll just return to the launch site on the given date and time.
If you’re new to using paddleboards and kayaks, you’ll get instructions on how to proceed and stay safe out on the water. Make sure to wear the provided lifejacket while you’re out. Otherwise, you’re at risk of a rogue wave knocking you into the bay.
Insider Tips:
-Store your keys, wallet, and other valuables in the supplied dry bag for safekeeping on your tour.
-Bring cash, so you can tip your guide after the tour ends.
-If you lose your bearings on the way back to shore, set your sights on the big banyan tree ahead.
-While on the guided tour, you’ll get snacks to enjoy after snorkeling to help restore your energy for the rest of the day’s adventures.