Diving from cliff in Keauhou Bay!

Kayaking, Snorkeling, Cliff Jumping, and Cave Exploration in One Adventure!

People are always asking me about things to do, while in Kona. I always answer with the same response. “It all depends on what you are interested in doing.” There’s an incredible gamut of activities in Kona and the Kohala Coast. For the leisurely types, you could participate in wine tasting, visit a coffee farm,  or tropical plant nursery… But for those that are seeking more of an adrenalin rush, there are things like zip lining, helicopter tours, and parasailing. A really cool physical activity is kayaking!

I recommend Ocean Safaris Kayak Adventure. They pack a lot into this 4-hour outing.

Paddle Kona Waters
Paddling Kona’s clear, pristine waters.

Keauhou Bay is the place where Ocean Safaris Kayak Adventures begin. We met the staff at about 7:30am. After a quick safety briefing, we are in our kayaks and paddling south pass the Sheraton Hotel. Keep your eyes open! There’s a high chance that you’ll spot a group of dolphins, on this trip. Perhaps even swimming right next to your boat!

Kayak Adventures on the Kona Coast

Not only are the group leaders chill and knowledgeable of the area, but they are all lifeguard certified. I was told that they are called on to offer additional water safety support for the IronMan Championship.  That offers peace of mind because I’m not the strongest of swimmers. Haha!

After about 40 minutes of paddling and sightseeing, we arrive at this cool sea cave tucked away just beyond a rocky shore. “Hello-ooo-oo-oo!” (That’s supposed to be my voice echoing in the cave. Lol).

Snorkel Kona waters
Snorkeling session included in an Ocean Kayak Adventure.

After checking out the cave, one of the guides tied all of the kayaks together and anchored them so they don’t drift away as we snorkeled.  One of the other guides proceeded to hand out snorkel gear to the members of the group.  We were able to explore the clear waters, at a very laid back pace.  At no point did the trip ever feel rushed.  After all of that paddling and swimming, I was feeling bit on the hungry side.   We climbed out of the water and set up to have some snacks.  Yes, they brought snacks!  In addition to handing out bags of chips, and bottled waters, they also carved up a nice refreshing pineapple, on the spot.

Kona cliff dive on Kayak Adventure
Ocean Safaris Kayak Adventure includes an opportunity to cliff dive!

So now that we took care of those hunger pangs, and we’re sitting on a 25′ cliff with nice 70-degree water below us- what to do next?  Jump! Big fun!  Haha!

What a great way to explore this beautiful Bay with cool people.  Once you’ve booked with them, and you need transportation to and from, schedule a ride with me!

I hope to see you in the Kona sunshine!

Things to consider for this trip:

  • Prepare for everything you have to get wet. I recommend placing your cell phone in a water-proof case, a ziplock baggy, or perhaps just leave it in your vehicle.
  • The crew will provide you with snorkel gear if you need it, but I would bring my own. You can order a set for under $25.00 at AmazonSnorkel Sets

 

IRONMAN 2017 Descends on Kona-Kohala!

Kailua-Kona and the Kohala Coast is all a buzz!

Up and down the Queen Ka`ahumanu Highway, you’ll see cyclists preparing for this Saturday’s (October 14th) big event- The IRONMAN 2017 World Championship!

Ironman 2017 prep
Cyclists preparing for this Saturday’s 2017 IRONMAN Championship.

Approximately 2000 individuals will be here to take part in this year’s competition.  Hat’s off to each one of these athletes!  I’m fascinated by the intestinal fortitude and courage it takes to participate in such grueling challenge.  No, the IRONMAN competition is not for the weekend runner.  This is for world-class athletes!  These people, from all over the world, have agreed to push their bodies to the limits of their capacity- physically, mentally, and spiritually.  Not only are they going to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles, but do it all under the sweltering Kona sun!  Whether you come in 1st or 2000th place, you are all champions, in my book.

So…  To all you brave men and women, participating in IRONMAN 2017, I raise my beer to you!  When it’s all said and done, and your legs are wobbly, and you find yourself in need of a taxi-cab back to the Kona International Airport, to return to your respective homes, feel free to give me a call.   Call D The Driver if you need a Kona Taxi ride to or from the Kona International Airport!

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Lava Rocks, Ocean, Sunshine, and Goats!

Hualālai, Kohala, Kona, Hawaii
Hualālai volcano on the Kohala-Coast

Hawai’i Island, more commonly referred to as “The Big Island”, is a magical and wonderful place!   Boasting 4 of the 5 major climate zones, and 8 of the 13 sub-zones. On the leeward side of the island is the spectacular Kohala-Coast.  Classified as dry semi-arid (steppe), and dry arid (desert), South Kohala is the hottest area of the island.

The South Kohala-Coast is the home to vast fields of lava rock; kiawe and palm trees; pristine aqua and deep blue waters; and Billy goats.  Yup, Billy Goats! Keep an eye out while driving  Route 19 (Queen Ka’ahumanu Hwy), to or from Kona Airport, and your chances are pretty good that you may spot one.  The Kohala-Coast is also the location of some of the most luxurious hotels in the State.

Goats in grass

Nestled in the middle of lava fields, these resort developments offer a stark difference to the desert like, surrounding area.  Like an oasis of palm tree-lined streets, meticulously manicured lawns and world-class golf courses crafted streams and cascading mini waterfalls, with various shops, restaurants, hotels, and vacation rentals.

On a clear day, you’ll be able to see Maui’s mighty Haleakala smiling at you from across the ocean.  Approximately 11.5 miles north of Kona International Airport, there’s a Scenic Overlook. From there you can, safely, take in the view of the ocean, fields of lava rock, as well as neighboring Maui Island.

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There are many taxi-cab and airport shuttle companies in Kona. All provide service to this area.  If you want to ensure a comfortable, and safe commute with a knowledgeable, and conscientious driver, please book your Kona-Kohala transportation needs with D The Driver today!   Call D The Driver if you need a Kona Taxi ride to or from the Kona International Airport!

The Sun sets in Kona
When the sun sets in Kona, it commands attention.

 

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