Hawaii Ocean Kayak Tour, Kohala Coast, Big Island. Take a guided kayaking and snorkeling adventure along the South Kohala coastline to discover the coral gardens of Puako Reef, a marine sanctuary, where Green Sea Turtles feed among multi-colored, tropical reef fish. See Dolphins and Humpback Whales (in season), too.

Paddle Through Paradise
Participants are outfitted with snorkeling gear and given a brief orientation before launching. Once on the water, the group will paddle about 1 mile (30 minutes) to first snorkeling site. An orientation on how to use snorkeling gear will be given for those needing it. Experienced snorkelers can start on their own.

Expect to see a live coral reef with an abundant variety of colorful tropical reef fish in water about 20 feet deep. Water temperature is 75º from November to March and 80º April to October. Visibility (depending on ocean swell) will be clear. We spend about 30 to 40 minutes at this site exploring the area where resident Green Sea Turtles like to ang out. Once out of the water, a snack is served. Casual discussion on coral reef ecology and questions answered on what was seen will then be held. After snack, we'll kayak about half mile to second snorkel site

Kohala Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling
We use double-occupancy kayaks. Couples will be paired together, and singles will be paired with other singles. If there are no other singles to be paired with, this single person will most likely be with the guide in a double, unless they are an experienced paddler.

Kayaking is not a dry activity, so expect to get wet. There is no shade on kayaks.

Details for Kayaking
Location: Puako Boat Ramp, Kohala
Duration: 3½ hours
Schedule: 7 days a week
Time: Check-in 8:30am
Children: 8-12 pay reduced rate. No babies or infants
Recommended: Hat, sunscreen, bathing suit, sun block and sunglasses. Reef-walkers or sport sandals, Cameras. Because of the wet nature of the activity, waterproof or weatherproof are suggested. Underwater is the best. Leave a towel in the car or transport van for return.
Included: All snorkel gear but no prescription masks. For those needs, you can rent from a dive shop (Kohala or Mauna Kea Divers in Kawaihae). Flotation devices and healthy snacks are also provided. (Free hotel pickup and drop-off is available for exclusive groups of 8 or more.)

Check out another Hawaii Kayaking & Snorkeling activity.