TLDR: Paddling to Captain Cook was a blast and we got to see an abundance of wildlife on what felt like a super curated tour by our amazing guide, Nina! If you're considering taking the Historical Hawaiian Outrigger tour with Ehu & Kai, consider this a sign to DO IT! From start to finish, this felt like an experience tailored for our group, supported by the friendliest, chillest staff. A special shout out to the friendly helpers on land who were incredibly fun and out-of-this-world friendly! Our tremendous guide, Nina, went above and beyond to curate an exceptional experience. From the lively banter and building camaraderie between a group of strangers sharing an outrigger to maximizing the amount of wildlife we got to see, being out on the water with this crew felt like being out with a group that's known each other for ages. Along the way, we got historical facts about the area, got to snorkel with an abundance of wildlife, and even enjoyed a visit from a pod of dolphins! Nina--you're truly one of a kind and I cannot thank you enough for being so friendly and thoughtful in your approach to this tour. Sadly, our tour was Nina's last before she heads out for a bit. Here's hoping we'll see her back at Ehu & Kai before we know it! read more

Memorable, unique, exciting experience with a friendly, helpful attendant to get you on your way. We saw dolphins and tons of fish. It took us about 30 mins each way to get there and back. Five stars with the caveat that no one was there when we arrived at 9:00 am (the time we booked online). After about 10 minutes or so, the employee appeared (didn't get his name, unfortunately). As other reviewers note, this place is just a table at the end of a road with a bunch of kayaks and a guy who will rent them to you. Don't expect storage for your belongings or bathrooms. Parking is along the street. All that being said, they give you this info in advance, so you should be prepared. We had our own snorkel gear (or did before I lost mine in the ocean later that day ha ha) so we only needed the kayak and dry bag. A dry bag is necessary (see "lost my gear in the ocean"). The employee gives you all the info you need to find your way to the snorkeling area and back. He said they "lose" about one party a day who overshoots the entrance to the cove when returning and they have to go rescue them. Don't be that person! Once at the snorkeling spot near the monument, you'll see lots of other people and boats, but once you're underwater, you won't notice them - it's like swimming in an aquarium. You need to keep your kayak with you at all times, so if you're paddling with someone else, consider taking turns holding the kayaks and snorkeling. You aren't allowed to dock or approach the shore (this is a hard rule - surly tour guides will yell at you if you get too close). Keep in mind that getting in and out of a kayak in the open ocean is not the same as doing that on the shore or in shallow water. There's no shallow water here at all, so practice in advance or consider taking a tour boat if that's not something you're comfortable with. read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

We went on several excursions during our week on the Big Island and my husband and I agree that the Historical Hawaiian Adventure was by far the best. Online booking was a breeze and communication was excellent prior to the trip, but what made it truly exceptional was our tour guide, Nina. She was knowledgeable, friendly, professional yet warm, and we felt completely comfortable in her care the entire morning. Her positive aloha spirit brought out the best in our group of five strangers and by the end of our time together we were sad to say goodbye. She gave us insight into some Hawaiian culture, brought us to fabulous snorkeling at the Captain Cook monument, and guided us into Kealakekua Bay where dolphins swam right up to us and under our boat! When we returned to shore, a sea turtle came up to the boat to greet us. The next time we're in Hawaii, we are definitely doing the same tour all over again. Five stars aren't sufficient. To whomever makes the hiring decisions, you need to give Nina a big raise! She represents your company in the best way possible. read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - The beautiful little bay where you put in - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

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We rented a kayak here to get out to Captain Cook Monument and had such a great experience. The shop was super easy to find, check-in was quick, and even when we accidentally booked the wrong day, they fixed it with zero hassle. They set us up with everything we needed, including waterproof bags, and gave really clear directions on the paddle route, landmarks, where the best snorkel spots were, and how to make sure we found our way back. Made the whole trip feel stress-free. The paddle out was beautiful, the snorkeling was amazing, and honestly renting from here just made it all so much smoother. Pro tip: bring snacks -- there's nowhere to eat around there once you're out on the water. Highly recommend them if you're planning to kayak to Cook's Monument. Easy, friendly, and super helpful. ‍ read more

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Great location and easy access to Kealakekua Bay, home to lots of really cool marine life. We've rented kayaks a dozen times from Ehu and Kai and it's always a great time read more

Captain Cook Monument is only accessible by water or by a long hard hike. I'm an old dude so we decided the water route would be best for us. Ehu & Kai came recommended so we tracked them down. Online reservations were super easy. We booked the night before and had no problems. The launching point is in a small secluded cove. Our Double Kayak was waiting for us when we got there. Thorough instructions, life vests even water proof bags for your stuff. The paddle to the monument is not hard but it's also not easy. The day we went the bay was smooth so my wife wasn't freaking out. Men. Be a good husband and avoid the inevitable arguments. Tell her to relax and you do all the paddling. She won't paddle in sync with you. She will constantly splash you. So be the man and do all the paddling. Take it from an old wise dude. Anyway, Ehu &Kai is the only kayak rental we recommend. Afterwards read up On Captain Cook. Crazy history lesson if you research it. read more

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Super friendly staff got our group of 14 including grandpa and all the little ones into kayaks within a few minutes so we could go find the dolphins. So much fun and thrilling to see the dolphin pods swimming and flipping out of the water. What a convenient way to explore the bay and enjoy the clear waters! Mahalo for a great time! read more

The equipment was great and the service was fabulous. They were so friendly! They were very helpful getting us in and out of the kayaks. read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - Spinner dolphin from our kayak. - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

Our guide Nina was delightful! At 8am the water was still and calm. We paddled out to Captain Cook monument and, as the first to arrive, had the bay to ourselves for a moment. I'm a beginner snorkeler. Nina was really helpful, giving me tips and helping me in and out of my fins. We saw such a beautiful variety of fish, coral and sea urchins. A lovely experience. read more

Perfect ocean access. The young man helping me was fantastic and very professional. Can't believe I messed up and didn't look behind me to take a mental note of where to return! (I was so excited to finally get to kayak to the monument that I forgot that important detail) I say to anyone; do that because it's deceiving. Not like the rivers and lakes back home. Kayaking in the ocean was epic! So; got a nice phone call guiding me to where I should be heading! They look after you! This coming from an experienced kayaker! Beautiful trip to the monument sadly no dolphins kinda hard dragging the kayak around and avoiding many people from the tour boats. But the exercise felt great with an amazing view and gorgeous water. Easy to jump in and back onto the kayak by yourself. Highly recommend renting from them! Don't forget to take a dry bag; they had those also. read more

Our guide was awesome! We loved the kanoe boat, bid enough but not too much. it felt a genuine Hawaiian way to get to the monument. The snorkeling was great. read more

all around great experience! the kayaks were good, the guy helping was very knowledgeable and friendly and an auntie had made delicious cookies for anyone who wanted one. read more

This was our second time using Ehu & Kai Adventures and our third time kayaking the bay. These guys are super easy to book, and quick to get you into the water after reviewing tips and rules. Their equipment was in excellent shape as well. We plan to return again and again and these are our preferred rental guys. read more

Day 3 of Vacation - The adventurous activities continue! I booked a kayaking experience same day through their website. There were 5 of us in total, so I rented two 2 seated kayak and one 1 seated kayak. Parking: There is no parking lot. You cannot park near the location bc it's private property. We noticed there was an extremely small street parking alongside the dirt and trees down the road. After driving back n forth for 15 min, we finally found a spot after someone left. Ambiance/Environment: After struggling for parking, we walked to the actual location. There were many homes, and this specific location was basically in the front of their house. They had a beautiful view of the ocean. The shore was rocky, so watch your step. Service: We checked in with one of the two persons that was assisting with the kayaks. After we checked in, they informed us they didn't have another 2 seated kayak, and they didn't have a 1 seated kayak. Pretty disappointed, but we settled for a 2 seated kayak and a 3 seated kayak. Experience: This was our first time kayaking. They gave us a water bag for each kayak to place our items in. It's a large bag, so you'll be able to fit some pieces of clothing, electronics, shoes, etc. They also have life jackets if needed. One of the workers gave a detailed explanation on how to find their location and what to do & not do with the kayaks. He didn't really explain how to kayak, but we basically self taught ourselves. Prepare your arms and shoulders bc you'll be needing them! The Captain Cook Monument is far. If you plan on leaving your kayak, make sure you're not near the rocks bc you'll have a difficult time getting out. After 2 hours of kayaking, we were ready to head back. It was a difficult time finding our way back. The distinction of the dark banana tree was not enough bc everything started looking the same after a while. We eventually found our way back to the location after being lost for 30 min, but I'd suggest for them to place a more obvious landmark. Pricing: I spent $232.50 for the kayak rentals. Despite them not having the kayaks we originally rented and getting lost otw back, I think this experience is worth it. Kayak rentals are all day, but we only had them for a couple hours. read more

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I can't fully convey how wonderful the staff or how beautiful the kayaking were, other than saying they have my highest recommendation if you're looking for an epic adventure is a gorgeous setting! read more

We had a wonderful time kayaking with Ehu and Kai. We saw dolphins and the amount of kayaking was just right. I felt there were less fish at Captain Cook then the last time I was there. Not sure why. I actually felt there were more fish to view on other parts of the island. Still it was a fun time and I would recommend Ehu & Kai for this experience. read more

Excellent service. Staff was super helpful getting our family of four equipped and in the water headed to Captain Cooks first thing in the AM. Very memorable experience. Recommend kayaks over a boat trip any day! read more

Jamal and Kevike made our kayak adventure amazing!! Jamal knew everything about the local wildlife and his confidence and professionalism made us feel completely at ease getting through the waves in the cove. He told us about the mother and baby whale in the next bay and we were able to watch them for a while--unbelievable! The snorkeling was absolutely the best we've seen ever--out of all the islands. Watching the parrot fish was a highlight. So glad we did this instead of a charter boat. The water was so blue and warm. Thank you Ehu and Kai!! read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - My teenager was happy the whole time! - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

Wanting to venture out to the Captain Cook monument on our own and snorkel, I discovered this kayak rental company, that allowed you to do just that. We decided not to make reservations and were told a tandem kayak was available when we arrived. Total cost was $60 for two people. We received instructions on where to go and not to go. Renting these kayaks does not allow you to step foot on land to see the monument. After the overview, you're settled into your kayak with a dry bag. I thought this company rented snorkel gear. Well, I thought wrong. He was kind enough to lend us some. Make sure you bring your own snorkel gear. I suggest also bringing water shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and water. Make sure you wear sunscreen. You'll see the area near the monument which shallows out a bit with other tour boats and kayaks in the area. Since you can't dock your kayak, snorkeling is done by getting out of the kayak into the water. You'll have to take turns doing this. We only used the goggles and saw many fish swimming around us. Getting back into the kayak was a bit challenging. This area can also get pretty busy, so watch where you're swimming. This was definitely a fun adventure worth doing. I appreciated the guidance by the gentleman that took care if us. Great customer service. Parking can be challenging. There is a small parking lot at the top of the road and some alongside the road. Do not attempt to drive all the way down. There is no parking below. Once you pass the vehicles parked alongside the road, you've passed the last of the available parking. Again, keep in mind this is an on your own adventure. read more

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Went with our 10 and 13 year olds in two double kayaks. Fun. Safe. Well worth the drive down the winding hill.

Easy website. Fair price. No hassle w loading and unloading. Loved going down to water and just getting right in the kayak. Kudos to Jamal. He was super helpful. read more

Took a 3 hour outrigger tour with our exceptional guide Tayden! He took us all over the bay and we snorkeled with manta rays and tons of beautiful fish! Everyone, Nina, Jamal and especially Tayden were so helpful and friendly. It made for a special day. read more

They provide everything you need for a build-your-own adventure! We've used them twice and had great experiences both times! This bay kayak and snorkel is a great time! read more

The only thing in drop down is outrigger tour. I took a solo kayak. I think it will be helpful for people to know there is no building here. No parking, no bathrooms and the attendant may not be available. You need to be comfortable in a kayak and with the safety of same before going out. There was a young man (in his 20's) at the site about 30 minutes after scheduled time, then another there, maybe high-school age (vaping) when I came in. Then they both left. They didn't have enough kayaks for the day at 9 am. It's okay, but people need to know this. It's not for your typical tourist. read more

Great location to kayak to the Captain Cook monument. Only about 20 minutes of paddling across an awesome bay. Ehu & Kai adventures were all ready for us even though we were late, gave us a good explanation of where we were going, what to do, and how to get back. Very friendly service! Snorkeling near the monument was AMAZING! read more

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Being on the water is good. Not having much parking, not having a bathroom, & not being able to get off on any other piece of shore is NOT good. We aren't first time kayakers, but some reminders of how to best paddle, etc would've been helpful. read more

Great adventure! We found Ehi and Kai online and headed down from our Kona hotel. Their location in in a cove off the beaten path and we weren't sure what to expect. The guys that helped us were amazing! Got us situated with a kayak, snorkel gear, and dry bag . Then gave us a lay of the land and where to go. They were great, highly recommend!! read more

Great experience. Called over the phone to book. Was fast and easy. Directions were fairly simple. It's hard to find parking in this area though. You get five hours worth of kayaking and snorkeling for $45+. It's a little bit more if you don't have your own snorkeling gear. It's such a beautiful bay with dolphins and lots of fish. I highly recommend this company. They provide a wet bag as well but just bring your own. Double kayak can fit a cooler so bring some lunch. read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - Launching of kayaks - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

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Convenient, responsive, and reasonable. That's how I'd describe their operation. If you're looking purely for a kayak rental (and not for a Kayak/snorkel tour) for Kealakekua Bay/Captain Cook Monument, there really isn't any reason not to rent from this place. They picked up the phone and answered all my questions promptly. If you're concerned that they may not be permitted by the State to operate in Kealakekua Bay, fear not. I called the parks office and confirmed that they are indeed on the up and up. It was smooth sailing from there. What makes them convenient is the fact that you can enter the bay from a convenient beach location. Other companies are further away and you will have to strap the kayak to your car, lug it to the beach and then lug it back and re-mount it to your car when you're done. Not to mention that the rates at Ehu and Kai are $20-$25 less expensive than the others. It's a no brainer at this point. The employees working out there were mostly friendly and helped everyone get in and out of the water. They offer life vests and dry bags at no additional cost. Snorkel rentals seem to be an extra $10 right now. Before heading out, they review a map with you and go over safety and where exactly to go. From where they're situated, it's about a 20-25 minute paddle to the Captain Cook Monument. The rental is good for 4-5 hours which is more than enough time to explore the area. The process could not have been easier and I would rent from them again. read more

Ehu & Kai Adventures - Rafting/Kayaking Near Me - Captain Cook, Hawaii

We had a rental booked 8am - 1pm and figured we could show up around 10am after breakfast. We tried calling twice to let them know but no answer. All of a sudden at 9am we get an aggressive text message saying we needed to arrive now or lose the reservation. We pre-paid for the time slot so not sure what the issue was as this was not a tour. The guy proceeded to be aggressive so we decided to skip our planned breakfast and pick up the kayaks. He continued to be rude when I asked how long the reservation was for. Obviously it made no difference when we arrived. I would have rather just kayaked through our hotel and not get accosted. read more

We had a great time, they guys who run it were awesome! We didn't have a reservation and they were able to set us up in spite of being booked up. The paddle out to the bay was beautiful and the snorkeling top notch! Make sure you book ahead of time, they fill up fast! read more

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kayaks were great, 2 & 1 person. paddle location terrific. water clear! winner!!! We would definitely do this again. Bring your snorkel gear along. read more

Had an amazing time! Kayaks were in great condition. Staff is super nice and very helpful! It was a great location to kayak and love the leisure of coming and going on our own time. I definitely recommend this company. I would love to do it again when I'm back on the big island. read more

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Most definitely! Saw a pod of spinner dolphins kayaking to Captain Cook's snorkel area. Amazing. The water was calm and clear. Life experiences! read more

Best snorkeling spot we've done. Kids loved it. Smooth kayaking out. Staff were friendly and helpful.

This was a super cool experience. The parking is a pain but Not nice you find the parking, you walk down to where the boats are and launch and kayak for about 20 minutes to the spot (monument). There were tons of boats there so the snorkeling was limited. You e got to have one person sit with the boats in the water or you have to pull them along with you. The whole experience was about 3 hours. I'd highly recommend this experience. read more

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Five Stars for equipment and location; three stars for unpleasant staff interactions, so I averaged it at four. If you don't mind being treated as an inconvenience, this is probably the best option for renting a kayak in this bay. Bottom line: we would endure the unpleasantness and rent here again. The equipment was in good repair and the location is ideal for exploring Kealakekua. We read the rules of the area, and as experienced kayakers, we had no trouble navigating and the snorkeling is truly fantastic. However, we received exactly zero welcome, instructions, tips or recommendations, and were yelled at for "taking too long" when we attempted to ask a question before entering the water. (Note: zero other customers arrived on site between our arrival and launch.) We were also yelled at for applying sunscreen in the launch vicinity, so be sure to do that at the car! The young man who confirmed our reservation was polite, but unavailable for assistance because he was running up and down the road trying to make additional rental sales. The woman who sat near the kayaks was pleasant enough as long as you didn't ask questions about the bay or let her see you using sun screen! read more

Organized easy and friendly experience! This is our favorite way to experience Captain Cook area!

Amazing day and experience. Thanks Jamal! Highly recommend. Advice: park just up the street and book online prior.

Located right next to Bay Side Adventures, they are essentially the same business as they share the same equipment and prices are identical. It's a no frills business that is essentially a tent near the rocky beach. We didn't have any reservations and they had plenty of kayaks to rent. Tandem kayaks were $60 for the entire day. They provide complimentary life jackets and dry bags to use, which is super nice. We brought our own snorkels, but they may have some cheap ones to rent. Kayaking to Captain Cook Monument/Kealakekua Bay took about 20-30min. Water is a bit choppy so keep that in mind when deciding if kayaking is the choice for you to get to this location. Main downside is the location as parking is extremely limited in the area since there isn't a parking lot. There is also no restroom on-site. read more