When I visit the Big Island of Hawaii, I’m always excited to see the different beaches it offers. Each location feels unique, with calm waters, clear views, and beautiful natural surroundings.
Kayaking lets me explore these spots in a fun and peaceful way.
I have found that the Big Island has some of the best beaches for kayaking. These spots are perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Whether I want a quiet place to enjoy the ocean or hope to spot marine life, I can always find a beach that suits my needs.
Ho‘okena Beach Park
I loved my visit to Ho‘okena Beach Park. The beach has soft, gray sand mixed with bits of coral.
When I arrived, I saw canoes lined up, many still used by local fishermen. If you come at the right time, you might catch them setting out or coming back with fresh fish.
Most days, the water stays calm and clear, which made it perfect for kayaking. I rented a kayak right at the beach.
Paddling over the reef, I could see schools of colorful fish below me. The views of the coastline from the water were beautiful.
Sometimes, the waves pick up and locals boogie board near shore. The park offers camping, so you can stay longer and enjoy the sunset or wake up to the sound of waves.
It’s a peaceful spot with an authentic Hawaiian feel.
Rating: 4.6 (1311 reviews)
Location: Ho‘okena Beach Park
Contact: (808) 328-8450
Website: Visit Website
Waikōloa Beach
I went to Waikōloa Beach and found it great for kayaking. The water was calm, which made it easy to paddle out and enjoy the open space.
There was plenty of room for everyone, even with swimmers and snorkelers around. When I was out on the water, I saw a lot of marine life.
Colorful fish swam below my kayak, and sometimes sea turtles popped up near the surface. The sunsets from the beach lit up the sky with reds and oranges.
Access to the beach was simple. There was enough parking when I arrived early in the day.
It felt clean and cared for, and I noticed a friendly mix of locals and visitors enjoying the area. If you like a relaxing kayaking trip and the chance to see sea life, you will enjoy Waikōloa Beach.
I felt safe and welcomed the whole time I was there.
Rating: 4.6 (178 reviews)
Location: Waikōloa Beach
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Hawai’i Surf and Kayak
I had a great time with Hawai’i Surf and Kayak on the Kohala Coast. The staff made everything easy, whether I wanted a guided kayak and snorkel tour or just rented a kayak for solo exploring.
The guides know the local waters well and shared tips with both beginners and experienced paddlers. I felt safe the whole time because all guides were friendly and certified in CPR, First Aid, and lifeguarding.
Their focus on safety let me enjoy the ocean and relax. The coral reefs here looked beautiful, and I enjoyed kayaking in a quieter area away from the busy Kona crowds.
I saw colorful fish while snorkeling and got good advice about where to go for the best views. They delivered the kayak right to my rental house, which was very helpful.
Evan and the team were reliable and gave me great pointers about the tides and conditions. I felt welcome and well taken care of from my first call to the end of my trip.
Rating: 5 (198 reviews)
Location: Puako Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 741-7768
Website: Visit Website
Reeds Bay Beach Park
I really liked my time at Reeds Bay Beach Park. The area felt calm and welcoming.
The bay is protected, so the water stayed gentle even when the wind picked up. This made launching my kayak easy and stress-free.
The beach is narrow and simple, but once I was on the water, it didn’t matter. I paddled along the shore and watched small fish swim below me.
I saw other people fishing and kids swimming close to the shore. Kayaking here felt safe because there were always other people around enjoying the park.
After paddling, I sat in the shade for a bit before heading on my way.
Rating: 4.5 (933 reviews)
Location: 225 Banyan Dr, Hilo, HI 96720
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Mauna Lani Beach Club
I visited Mauna Lani Beach Club and found it to be a great spot for kayaking. The bay is calm and the water is usually very clear.
I didn’t have to worry about strong waves, so it felt easy and safe to paddle around. The area is beautiful, with palm trees and soft sand along the shore.
From my kayak, I could see fish swimming beneath me and sometimes even sea turtles. The beach has a relaxed atmosphere, and it never felt too crowded.
Renting a kayak was simple, and some visitors brought their own gear. The staff at the beach club were friendly and helped answer my questions.
There are also showers and restrooms close to the sand, which made it convenient after spending time on the water.
Rating: 4.6 (272 reviews)
Location: Mauna Lani Beach Club
Kahalu’u Beach Park
I stopped by Kahalu’u Beach Park on my recent trip to the Big Island and was glad I did. The water felt calm even when the waves picked up elsewhere nearby.
There’s a small beach, and the reef close to shore helps keep the waves down most days. It was easy to launch my kayak from the sandy edge.
The area near the reef is a favorite spot for snorkelers, so I had to be careful and give them plenty of room. I saw fish and even a sea turtle while paddling over the clear water.
Facilities were simple but helpful. There was plenty of shade under the trees when I needed a break.
The beach is popular and can get busy, especially on weekends, but everyone seemed friendly. If you want to try other activities, there are programs for kids and teens during the summer, and the park often offers new recreational events.
I liked how easy it was to enjoy different water sports all in one spot.
Rating: 4.6 (3923 reviews)
Location: Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 961-8311
Website: Visit Website
Kekaha Kai State Beach
When I got to Kekaha Kai State Beach, I first noticed how wide and sandy the shore was. The beach sits between dark lava flows, making the white sand and blue water stand out even more.
The area is usually dry and hot, so I made sure to bring lots of water since there’s none available at the park. The water here is usually pretty calm, especially in the morning, so launching a kayak felt simple and safe.
I liked paddling just past the shore, looking out for the rocky points and gentle waves. When the surf is up, though, it’s best to stay out unless you’re really experienced.
Signs warn about dangerous rip currents and there are no lifeguards on duty. I also tried the 4.5-mile coastal trail that goes north through the park.
Halfway along, I hiked up Pu’u Ku’ili for a great view of the coastline. The beach has a picnic area with a few tables, so I relaxed before heading back out for more kayaking.
The north end, called Maniniʻōwali or Kua Bay, has clear water and soft sand. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and sometimes bodysurfing if the waves pick up.
I found kayaking here was best when the water was flat and calm.
Rating: 4.6 (2140 reviews)
Location: Kekaha Kai State Beach on Google Maps
Website: Visit Website)
Magic Sands Beach Park
I visited Magic Sands Beach Park recently. It’s a great spot for kayaking, especially if you like being close to both sand and surf.
Sometimes the water gets choppy, but on calm days, it’s perfect for paddling out and enjoying the views along the coast. Lifeguards watch over the beach, which made me feel safer as I launched my kayak.
The white sand beach looks beautiful. I saw people snorkeling and swimming near the rocky shoreline.
Surfing is also popular here, so I kept an eye out for surfers while kayaking. Magic Sands is easy to find along Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona.
I met friendly locals and a few tourists, and the overall vibe felt welcoming. It’s a busy spot, so I came early to find a good place to park and set up my gear.
Rating: 4.5 (4771 reviews)
Location: Magic Sands Beach Park
Website: Visit Website
ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach
When I visited ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach, I found the water calm and perfect for kayaking. The wind can pick up, but in the morning, paddling is usually smooth and relaxing.
I saw many families and couples launching kayaks from the wide, sandy shore. The scenery is beautiful.
There are a couple of ancient fishponds near the beach. I explored them after spending time on the water.
The coastline offers great views, and the clear water lets you spot fish and sea turtles if you look carefully. The beach is easy to access, with plenty of space to set up for the day.
After kayaking, I walked a short hiking trail nearby. The palm trees offered nice shade.
Restrooms and showers make it easy to rinse off after being in the ocean. Kayak rentals are sometimes available at shops nearby, so I didn’t have to bring my own.
The spot is also good for swimming or relaxing on the sand. It’s easy to spend a whole afternoon here.
Rating: 4.6 (742 reviews)
Location: ʻAnaehoʻomalu Beach
Website: Visit Website
Honokohau Beach
When I arrived at Honokohau Beach, the area felt peaceful and a bit hidden from the usual crowds. The sand is a natural mix of coral pieces, black lava rocks, and small shells.
This unique shoreline looks different from most other beaches. Walking barefoot made me notice all the unique textures under my feet.
The water was calm when I visited, and it felt perfect for launching my kayak. I had enough space to get my gear together without bumping into other people.
I liked how quiet it was, letting me focus on the gentle waves and the distant sound of birds. Once I started paddling, I saw clear blue water stretching out ahead and sometimes tiny fish swimming near the surface.
The coastline here is pretty, especially with the black lava and pockets of green trees. I didn’t spot many other kayaks, so I could enjoy the scenery at my own pace.
Rating: 4.5 (58 reviews)
Location: Kaiminani, HI 96740
Kayaking Safety Tips on the Big Island
Before heading out, I always take some time to prepare for Hawaii’s unique conditions. Having the right knowledge and gear helps me feel confident and enjoy my adventure.
Weather and Ocean Conditions
I always check the latest weather reports before kayaking. On the Big Island, wind, rain, and waves can change quickly.
I look out for calm mornings, as winds usually pick up in the afternoon. Strong currents and large swells sometimes happen, especially in summer on the south side.
I pay extra attention to beach warning signs and listen to local advice. If I am unsure about the sea state, I talk to local guides.
If I see signs of rough water, I wait for safer conditions. Here’s a quick checklist I use before heading out:
- Check the weather forecast
- Notice wave height and tide times
- Avoid kayaking alone, especially when the ocean seems rough
For advice on safe kayaking routes and local ocean conditions, I read tips from Hawaii kayaking experts.
Recommended Gear and Equipment
Safety gear is a top priority for me. I never kayak without a life jacket, also called a Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
Some tours provide them, but I like to bring my own if possible. A long sleeve dry-fit shirt or a long-sleeve bathing suit top protects my skin from sun and wind.
I always pack plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, and wear a hat and sunglasses. Here’s a table with my must-have equipment:
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Life jacket (PFD) | Keeps me safe if I capsize |
| Long-sleeve shirt or rashguard | Shields from sun and chafing |
| Water bottle | Keeps me hydrated |
| Reef-safe sunscreen | Protects my skin and reefs |
| Hat and sunglasses | Guards my face and eyes |
Some tours or shops help with gear, but I double-check to make sure I have what I need. Local guides like Kona Boys offer more tips on picking the right gear and staying safe.
Wildlife Encounters While Kayaking
When I go kayaking on the Big Island, I get the chance to see many kinds of sea creatures up close. It is important to enjoy these sights and protect their natural home.
Marine Life You Might See
While paddling in the bays and along the coast, I often spot sea turtles, colorful fish, and sometimes even spinner dolphins. Kaneohe Bay and Mokoli’i are great places to see a mix of marine life.
Kealakekua Bay is known for clear water and fish near the Captain Cook Monument. During the winter, I sometimes see humpback whales from my kayak.
People have also seen dolphins resting in sheltered bays with sandy bottoms on the Big Island. Swimming with wild dolphins is not allowed, but watching them from a safe distance is always exciting.
Here is a list of animals I might see:
- Sea turtles
- Spinner dolphins
- Reef fish like butterflyfish
- Humpback whales (in season)
Respecting Local Ecosystems
When I kayak in these areas, I take responsibility to leave no trace.
Getting too close to wildlife can stress them out.
I watch animals from a distance and never try to feed or touch them.
I stay in marked areas to protect both myself and the reef.
If I anchor on coral or trample the shore, I can hurt the ecosystem.
I always pack out my trash.
I use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid polluting the water.
