Hanalei Bay Sea Kayak

The small beach along the east side of Hanalei Bay has a few watercraft for rent from the activities desk at the St. Regis Hotel in Princeville. You don't need to be a guest to rent the stand-up paddleboards or kayaks that easily allow you to access the Hanalei River or paddle through the bay out to the open ocean. If you want to avoid crashing waves and shallow reefs, head south along the coast toward the river. The river takes you along the taro fields near town and under the large bridge that brings you into Hanalei. Another option is to head out the thin channel between the reef. Watch for where the waves break and use your location and your timing to get out between sets safely. Two-person ocean kayaks are not the best for catching waves, but there is a chance to have some fun on the small sets. Stay outside if you are catching anything big enough to ride; you can get pushed inside quickly, and a clean up set is bound to come before long. Once you are past the break you'll begin to get to reach the dark blue open ocean while the shelf tapers off. Keep an eye out for green sea turtles (Honu) while you are out there. This is a great way to view the area without crowds and to get some sun and exercise while doing it.