Credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority/ Dana Edmunds
Hawaii’s Best Ocean Activities
Kauai
The oldest and northernmost island in the Hawaiian
chain, Kauai is known for the breathtaking cliffs of
the Napali Coast. Take a boat tour and don’t forget
your camera as you witness this spectacular natural wonder. While you’re there, don’t forget to spend
some time relaxing on the picturesque beaches of
the North Shore. And while Kauai may be best known
for kayaking along the tranquil Wailua River, the truly
adventurous should try mountain tubing in the irrigation ditches of Lihue.
Oahu
Oahu is the metropolitan heart of Hawaii. It’s also
known as a mecca for the sport of surfing. The legendary North Shore is home to Waimea Bay, the
birthplace of big wave surfing and every winter, the
best surfers from around the world compete along
the North Shore at the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing. You can also learn how to surf yourself or go on
a canoe ride on the gentle waves of historic Waikiki
Beach. And for snorkelers, the Hanauma Bay Nature
Preserve is one of the most popular snorkeling spots
in the islands.
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Maui
From Kaanapali Beach to Makena Beach (Big
Beach), Maui is famous for its many idyllic beaches. Hookipa Beach is also known as the windsurfing
capital of the world. But Maui is probably best known
as being one of the best places in the world to see
humpback whales. Go on a whale watching tour from
December to May departing from Lahaina or Maalaea Harbor for an unforgettable whale encounter.
Lanai
Just across the channel from Maui, Lanai is a secluded getaway known for its resorts and 4-wheel
drive adventures. But for scuba divers, the lovely
lava caverns off the south coast called the Lanai Cathedrals, cannot be missed.
Molokai
Also a short ferry ride across the channel from Maui,
Molokai is an island firmly rooted in Hawaiian culture. Molokai is best known for fantastic sports fishing. Fishing enthusiasts can take a charter boat from
the charming town of Kaunakakai for the catch of a
lifetime.
Hawaii Island
The calm, clear waters along the Kona Coast make
Hawaii Island a special place for snorkeling and scuba divers. Kona is also known as a great place for
deep-sea sports fishing, with many fishing tournaments held throughout the year.
But one of the most unique water adventures the island has to offer is manta ray diving. Take a charter boat off the Kona coast at sunset and scuba or
snorkel with friendly mantas. Having an otherworldly
manta ray glide within inches of you is an experience
you’ll never forget.
*information source: Hawaii Tourism