Recreation & Activities 168 WATER ACTIVITIES BODYSURFING The Diamond Head end of Kuhio Beach lures with some of the top conditions in town. Away from Waikiki crowds, Makapuu Beach–the hot spot across from Sea Life Park on Kalanianaole Highway–is Oahu’s most popular site. The sand is firm, it’s free of offshore reef and there’s limited rock exposure. That’s what you should seek even above good wave action. Sandy Beach is also popular, but it’s somewhat dangerous due to often-wild conditions and dangerous shore break. FISHING While Hawaii Island’s Kona Coast is celebrated as the “Billfish Capital of the World,” Oahu also lures with ocean treasures to satisfy anglers from novice to expert. You’ll find charters operating from the North Shore’s Haleiwa Boat Harbor, Kewalo Basin across from Ward Village on Ala Moana Boulevard, and from Ko Olina Marina and Waianae Boat Harbor on the Leeward Coast. For regulations, information or a freshwater license, you may contact the Division of Aquatic Resources (808-587-0100). Also check out on-base marinas at MCBH-Kaneohe Bay and Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam. The latter’s Aikane Sport Fishing (808-423-1113) lets you test your skills at hauling in blue marlin, yellowfin tuna and mahi mahi aboard air-conditioned 38-foot and 42-foot Bertram ocean yachts. Aikane allows you to “keep your catch.” Stand up paddling (SUP) is a favorite on the North Shore’s Anahulu River. SNORKELING You’ll never truly appreciate the ocean until you explore it from below the surface. One of the most popular (and crowded!) spots for snorkeling is East Oahu’s Hanauma Bay. Waikiki’s San Souci Beach across from Kapiolani Park is also a sure bet. During the summer, the North Shore’s Waimea Bay and Pupukea are calm for snorkeling. Check our “East Oahu” and “North Shore” sections for details. Along Leeward Coast’s Farrington Highway, Kahe and Nanakuli beach parks deliver pleasant conditions right offshore. Consider borrowing or renting gear for your first snorkeling adventure. If you get hooked, purchase a snorkel, fins and mask at your base exchange. SUP, SURF & FOIL Blue Planet Surf is known as Hawaii's SUP & FOIL Headquarters with the largest selection of quality surfboards, stand up paddleboards, FOIL and accessories you will find anywhere. With two locations, one in Honolulu and their newest store in Haleiwa, Blue Planet Adventures offer rentals, lessons, clinics, services, and much more for all your water activity needs. They also offer a "try before you buy" lease type program on any new board in the shop with a full credit if you purchase the board. Their experienced instructors will help you sign in, give you instructions and help you launch right into the river. Paddle up the beautiful Anahulu River near the famous Rainbow Bridge where you will often see Honu (sea turtles) or paddle out into Haleiwa Bay. MWR Outdoor Recreation Center (808-449-6870) offers lessons for surfing, SUP and sailing. Learn from top instructors at Hickam Beach, where you’ll also find lifeguards, restrooms, showers and a surf shack with affordable rentals.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTcxMjMwNg==