Adventure brief
All Day Rentals - up to 8 hours! You decide how long to rent.
Unlock the Big Island’s coastal treasures with all-day kayak and stand-up paddleboard rentals from Kona Kayaks in Captain Cook. Experience Hawaii’s unique shoreline at your own pace with reliable gear and essential safety equipment.
Located on the southern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, Captain Cook offers an inviting shoreline that blends rugged lava rock formations with calm, crystal-clear waters perfect for paddling. Kona Kayaks provides flexible all-day rentals—up to eight hours—to experience this unique coastal environment by kayak or stand-up paddleboard (SUP). Whether you’re seeking solitude or quality family time, their range of single, double, and triple kayaks caters to diverse paddling styles and group sizes.
Kona Kayaks stands out not just for its convenient rental options but also its commitment to well-maintained, reliable gear. Every kayak and SUP undergoes daily inspection and cleaning, paired with essential safety equipment like life jackets and dry bags to ensure a secure outing. This attention to detail creates a seamless experience where paddlers can focus completely on the vivid sensations of the Hawaiian coast: the turquoise transparency of the sea, the textured shadows cast by lava reefs, and distant seabirds gliding overhead.
With the freedom to chart your own course, you might paddle along towering cliffs or drift near vibrant coral assemblages teeming with tropical fish. The rental setup encourages newcomers and seasoned paddlers alike to carve out their own itinerary, providing a level of independence rarely matched in guided tours. Arriving early is key to securing the best launch times and taking full advantage of the calm morning waters.
Kona Kayaks is an essential element of the Big Island’s outdoor scene, serving as a gateway for visitors and locals to connect with Captain Cook’s distinctive marine landscape. Situated at 82-6036 Napoopoo Rd, the company offers a practical, visitor-friendly base from which to experience one of Hawaii’s most dynamic coastal playgrounds. Whether you aim to glide quietly through protected bays or race the trade winds on a SUP, these all-day rentals provide a straightforward, authentic way to engage with Hawaii’s ocean frontier.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Arrive Early for Best Launch Timesessential
To maximize your rental period and enjoy calmer morning waters, plan to get to Kona Kayaks early, especially since the last rentals go out by 11:00 AM.
- 02Life Jackets Are Required for Kayaksessential
Safety is paramount; life jackets are provided and mandatory for kayakers, so be prepared to wear them throughout your time on the water.
- 03Use the Provided Dry Bag for Essentialsinfo
Keep your phone, snacks, and other small items secure and dry by utilizing the dry bag included with your rental gear.
- 04Know Your Limits and Local Conditionswarning
Assess your paddling skills before heading out, and watch for shifting winds or currents common near exposed lava coastlines in the afternoon.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Waterproof Sunscreen
Protect your skin from intense Hawaiian sun during long hours on open water.
summerEssentialHat and Sunglasses
Shield your eyes and face from glare and UV rays to maintain clear vision and comfort.
summerEssentialWater Shoes
Useful for safely entering and exiting rocky shorelines and slippery lava formations.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout your paddle, especially in Hawaii’s warm climate.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park nearby for cultural context, Secluded coves accessible only by kayak to spot sea turtles
Local fauna
Green sea turtles (honu), Spinner dolphins
Historic heritage
Captain Cook area is home to sacred Hawaiian grounds and was near the site of Captain James Cook’s first landing in 1778.
Mindful exploration
Kona Kayaks supports environmental stewardship by maintaining and cleaning gear regularly to protect ocean habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Along the lava cliffs bordering Napoopoo Bay, From the kayak paddling near tide pools, Shoreline near Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau
- Subjects
- Tropical fish and coral, Sea turtles surfacing, Volcanic rock textures
- Best times
- Early morning, Golden hour (late afternoon), Overcast midday for even light
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
How long can I rent the kayaks and SUPs?
Rentals are flexible up to eight hours in length, allowing you to choose your own start time for the day.
Is previous paddling experience required?
No experience is necessary. The equipment is user-friendly, and staff provide basic instructions at check-in.
Are life jackets provided and required?
Yes, life jackets are provided with every kayak rental and must be worn; they are recommended but not required for SUPs.
Can I bring my own food and beverages?
Yes, you may bring snacks and drinks; however, please use the dry bags provided to keep belongings dry and secure.
Are the rentals available on weekends?
Kona Kayaks is closed on Saturdays and Sundays, so rentals are available Monday through Friday.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Rentals may be postponed or canceled for safety reasons in case of adverse weather. Staff will notify you in advance.