Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Kona

It's the hottest new water sport in America, and the best place to do it is right here in Hawai‘i.

Stand-up paddlers appreciate the calm, clear waters of Kona, where there is plenty of opportunity to view marine life from above while exploring the bays and beaches of the Kona coast. If you are a beginner, one of the best places to learn stand-up paddling is at Kahalu‘u Beach on Ali‘i Drive. This premier snorkeling spot features easy access from the sandy beach to the water. Across the street, you will find board rentals and other kinds of equipment for rent, including snorkel gear, kayaks and surfboards. There's also Kailua Bay right in town by the pier, where you can rent boards and cruise around the ancient Ahu‘ena Heiau overlooking the water.

Kona Boys rents stand-up paddleboards

Down the highway about 20 minutes south of town, Kealakekua Bay offers a pristine marine sanctuary brimming with beautiful tropical fish, green sea turtles and more. Sheltered by the towering pali (cliffs), the bay is also the best place to see spinner dolphins in action as they put on an amazing aerial display jumping and spinning out of the water. You can rent stand-up paddleboards at Kona Boys, located up the hill above the bay. Stand-up paddlers also enjoy making the trek to Kona Coast State Park (Kekaha Kai) near the airport, or down to the beautiful South Kohala beaches at Puako, Hapuna Beach, and Kaunaoa Beach at the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.

Holualoa Inn is ideally situated for easy day trips to the beaches of the Big Island. In fact, you can even see the surfbreak from our beautiful backyard. Spend your next romantic Hawai‘i vacation at our Kona boutique hotel inn overlooking the Kona Coast.

Innkeeper Holualoa Inn