Are you looking for the perfect location for some incredible water activities? Then look no further! The Kona district on the big island offers amazing pristine waters and a wide variety of incredible water activities that will make your trip to the area incredibly memorable. From thrilling boat rides, snorkeling excursions, and dolphin spotting tours, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. So read on to explore some spectacular ways to enjoy fun activities and get close to nature without ever leaving your resort town!
Why Kona Is A Go-To Destination For Water Activities
Kona, located on the western part of the Big Island of Hawaii, is a paradise for water activities. The bright turquoise coastline and protected bay make calm waters perfect for serene paddling or gazing beneath the shimmering surface where many tropical fish can play in their enchanting environment. From snorkeling to sea kayaking and so much more in between, Kona offers an unforgettable aqua experience that no other location can replicate.
Kona is a mecca for anyone looking to discover something new through a unique water activity adventure! When night falls, the notoriously inviting current on long sun-kissed days turns into waves that are irresistible to surfers worldwide to experience this remarkable place. And when you’re done playing in Kona’s glimmering waters, various souvenir shops and harbor streets will delight plenty of adventurers.
Incredible Water Activities You Can Do Around Kona
For those new to the island or the world of water activities, there are plenty of possibilities for you to explore. Here is a look at some of the popular activities that you can find in Kona:
Snorkeling With Manta Rays
Snorkeling with manta rays is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to be noticed in Kona. The majestic creatures are known to frequent the waters off the coast of Kona, and several tour operators offer night-time snorkeling trips to view them up close. During the tour, you’ll receive snorkeling gear, including wetsuits and floatation devices. The tours typically begin at sunset, and after a safety briefing, you’ll be taken to a site where the manta rays are known to gather.
Tours typically last around two hours, and you’ll have plenty of time to observe the manta rays and take in the wonder of these amazing creatures. As you enter the water and float on the surface with your snorkel gear, the manta rays will appear beneath you, attracted by the lights shining down into the water. The gentle giants can grow up to 16 feet in length, and it’s an awe-inspiring experience to watch them glide through the water with their wingspans of up to 20 feet.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is an increasingly popular water activity well-suited to Kona’s calm, clear waters. SUP involves standing on a large, stable board and using a paddle to propel yourself through the water. It’s a low-impact activity that’s great for fitness and relaxation, offering a unique perspective on the coastline and marine life.
Several tour operators in Kona offer SUP rentals and guided tours, and there are many great spots to explore along the coast. Kealakekua Bay, in particular, is a popular spot for SUP due to its calm waters and abundant marine life. Watch for dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish swimming beneath you as you paddle along. SUP is a fun, easy activity suitable for all ages and skill levels, making it an excellent choice for families or groups of friends.
Whale Watching
During the winter months, humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around Hawaii to breed and give birth. Kona offers an excellent opportunity to view these magnificent creatures up close, with several tour operators offering whale-watching trips during the season. The tours typically last around two to three hours and are led by experienced guides who know the best spots to find the whales.
Watch for the tell-tale water spouts as the whales come up to breathe as you cruise through the water. You may also be lucky to see them breach, slap their tails or flippers, or engage in other playful behaviors. It’s a truly magical experience to witness these enormous animals in their natural habitat, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
Surfing
Kona is renowned for its world-class surf spots, making it a must-visit destination for surfers of all levels. The surf breaks around Kona offer a range of challenges, from gentle rollers to more powerful waves that are perfect for more experienced surfers. Some of Kona’s most famous surf spots include Banyans, Kahalu’u Beach Park, and Pine Trees.
Surfing is a thrilling and rewarding activity that will get your heart pumping, and Kona’s stunning coastline provides the perfect backdrop for a memorable surf session. If you’re new to surfing, several surf schools and rental shops in Kona offer lessons and equipment. They’ll teach you the basics of surfing, from paddling and popping up to riding the waves.
Kayaking
Kayaking is a beautiful way to enjoy the breathtaking coastline of Kona while getting your heart rate up in a low-impact workout. You’ll find many picturesque locations perfect for kayaking, such as the majestic Kealakekua Bay featuring the iconic Captain Cook Monument and an abundance of mesmerizing ocean life!
Several rental companies and tour operators offer single or double kayaks for rent and guided tours that enable you to explore the best spots in Kona. Kayaking is an excellent activity for families or groups of friends, as it allows you to enjoy the natural beauty of Kona while taking a leisurely paddle around the bay.
Scuba Diving
Scuba diving in Kona offers an exceptional experience of its own. This vibrant destination has something to offer to both experienced and beginner divers alike. You can enjoy fantastic visibility and diverse large and small marine life. Whether you are looking for an adventure or want to sit back and marvel at the beauty of the underwater world, there is something in Kona that will suit your desires.
This is a scuba diver’s paradise with its warm year-round waters, stunning coral gardens, and abundant sea life. Moreover, what makes Kona even more appealing is its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals in almost every corner, and the luxuriant shores of the Big Island provide unequaled tranquility. There may be no place like home, but if you want a remarkable adventure experience – consider scuba diving in Kona.
Enjoy The Incredible Water Activities Near Kona!
Kona offers visitors a wide range of incredible water activities, from snorkeling with manta rays and stand-up paddleboarding to kayaking and scuba diving. With its stunning coastline, warm waters, and diverse marine life, Kona is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore the ocean in a fun and exciting way. There truly is something for everyone here! So if you find yourself in Kona, remember to make the most of its many aquatic activities. You won’t regret it!
