Posts Tagged ‘Tranquil Waters’
Kayaking the Big Island – A True Hawaiian Adventure!
Simply put, kayaking the Big Island refers to kayaking adventures around Hawaii. While Hawaii is known for its white sandy beaches, emerald-green waters, active volcanoes, and tropical plants, it’s also the perfect location for kayaking. The Big Island provides opportunities for everyone to enjoy kayaking, regardless of your age or ability level. You can choose to paddle through either extreme or tranquil waters, both of which offer an amazing glimpse at some of Hawaii’s wildlife and beautiful scenery. The common places for kayaking around the Big Island are Kauai, Oahu, and Maui.
Kauai is sometimes referred to as “the emerald island,” and for very good reason. Not only is it one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands, Kauai has some of the most stunning and active rainforests known to Hawaii. The waterfall terrain along the Na Pali coast provides excellent photography opportunities for those kayaking the Big Island. These waterfalls gently flow into the ocean and set the ultimate conditions for kayaking. Keep your eyes peeled for sights of Hawaiian wildlife along the coast, such as sea lions and other manatee. You may even want to consider snorkeling in this area of the Big Island, as you will find beautiful tropical fish swimming beneath the surface.
The island of Oahu is the most populated of the Big Island and serves as an ideal location for calm kayaking. Along the west coast of Oahu, you will find dolphin activity on a daily basis. Here, you will be given the chance to dock your kayak and swim with these amazing aquatic creatures. Also in this area is the infamous Pearl Harbor. Feel free to take pictures and video tape this historic battle site as you kayak around the Big Island. Oahu is also known on the Big Island as a great spot to scuba dive, so be sure to take advantage of all the opportunities Oahu has to offer.
Although the island of Maui is only forty-eight miles long, it is one of the most famous places of the Big Island. It’s often referred to “Valley Isle” because of the massive valley between its two volcanoes. The shoreline of Maui provides some great kayaking and is most popular for whale-watching. Kayaking in this area of the Big Island is sure to bring you up close and personal with the humpback whales that inhibit the Hawaiian Island. It is recommended to kayak in the early morning hours to see the whales, and it should be noted that the waters surrounding Maui are typically rough and not as easily navigable. Therefore, you should go on a guided tour to kayak this area of the Big Island to help ensure your safety.
The Big Island is full of kayak opportunities as well as scuba diving, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and many other thrilling water activities. If you ever plan to visit Hawaii, kayaking is your best bet to seeing all of the beauty and wonders of the Big Island.
Where to Take a Guided Kayaking Tour in San Diego
Take a look around the city of San Diego, and you’re likely to see everyone getting around on bike or by trolley. While it’s true that San Diego is full of sites and attractions, very few people realize that it’s also an ideal location to experience some great kayaking. In fact, some of the best scenery of San Diego is only seen from the water, and kayaking is an excellent way to take in all of the sights and sounds of this “big little city”.
Start your kayaking adventure in San Diego by taking a tour of the La Jolla Sea Caves. While it sounds like it may be an intimidating experience, it’s actually a very pleasant and fun outdoor adventure! Beginning at the La Jolla Shores, you can paddle your way through an outdoor paradise while you view areas of San Diego’s coast. Before reaching the historical sea caves, you’ll have a chance to get up close and personal with sea lions, stingrays, and other aquatic life that reside within these canals. In fact, it’s even said that harbor seals sit perched among the rocks of the water and “wave” at their visitors who pass by!
However, kayaking in San Diego is just as fun in the fall and winter as it is in the summer. Winter is known to be a season of hibernation and mating, and that’s exactly what you’ll find as you explore Baja’s Pacific Coast! During the colder seasons, gray whales leave their homeland of the Arctic Ocean and make their way to the inviting warmth of Baja. In the months of December and January, the whales mate and give birth. Take advantage of a guided tour from La Jolla Shores during this time, and experience the thrill of viewing these amazing animals in person.
If you plan to visit San Diego with small children, there are opportunities for them to experience the fun of kayaking as well. In areas of Monterey and Elkhorn Slough, there are very calm and tranquil waters that are perfect for children and families. Monterey
Bay offers fascinating history and abundant marine life, while Elkhorn Slough is an excellent kayaking route for the nature and wildlife lover. (Often, you can spot several breeds of exotic birds.) The children will love the feeling of paddling through the water on a boat, and adults will enjoy the quiet ride while taking in some sightseeing.
If you’ve ever dreamed of catching the biggest fish among your friends and family, then look into opportunities for kayak fishing around Monterey Bay. While this area is known for its calm and peaceful surroundings, it is also home to some of California’s best fishing. There are several classes offered in the area and guided tours and trips directed towards kayak fishing.
With so many amazing opportunities for kayaking in San Diego, you are sure to find the water adventure that’s right for you and your family!
