Kealakekua Bay Moratorium

Looking to Kayak / SUP in Kealakekua Bay?

Important Note: This information is now out of date and no longer accurate. We have left it here for documentary purposes. Instead, please take a look at the latest information here.

Kayak Kealakekua BayAs of 1/2/2013 Kealakekua Bay is under a moratorium from kayaking, stand-up paddling, and other crafts while the State revises its management plan of the area. We hope that the moratorium will be lifted within 2 to 3 months.

“The state will temporarily ban kayaks, surfboards and other watercraft in waters around Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park while it devises rules to protect the heavily used area.

During the moratorium, people will not be allowed to operate, launch, transit, beach or land kayaks and other vessels from Napoopoo, within the waters of Kealakekua Bay, and at Kaawaloa Flats, DLNR said.

Also prohibited in the closed area will be other floatation devices and watercraft such as stand-up paddle boards, surfboards and bodyboards. Swimming and snorkeling are allowed in the bay, but no landing anywhere or entry at Kaawaloa will be permitted.” – Honolulu Star Advertiser and the Department of Land and Natural Resources

See the DLNR’s post and map of the affected area here.

Where can I go then?

Kamakahonu Bay KayakingFirst, take a look at the most recent information here. Kona has been blessed with several fantastic places for you to kayak, SUP, and snorkel. Check out Kamakahonu Bay, which has great kayaking, SUP, and snorkeling (and we happen to have a beach shack right there to serve you) for one. Or, check out one of about 5 other places along the coastline.

In fact, there are so many good spots to go, you’ll have to give us a call and let us know what kind of day you’re looking to have. We’ll make it happen.

Kona Boys New Tour to Kealakekua Bay

If your heart is set on Kealakekua Bay, we have an awesome, new double-hull outrigger canoe tour and snorkel! Our new tour fits within the moratorium guidelines and is an unbelievable opportunity to experience a small group tour on an authentic Hawaiian outrigger canoe from Keauhou Bay to Kealakekua Bay. Check out more about our new Kealakekua Bay Outrigger Tour here.