Our favorite day trip on the Big Island is to kayak across Kealakekua Bay, enjoying the Spinner Dolphins playing along the way, and then snorkel in front of Cook's Monument.

You can rent snorkeling gear very reasonably at Miller's, which is on Alii Drive about 1 mile south of Kona Isle. Mark will tell you all the great snorkeling spots in the area.

Our favorite kayak rental shop is Kona Kayak. The owners are very helpful. The kayaks are strapped right on top of your rental car. It's pretty easy. You don't need any special equipment.

There are some local boys that will help you put the kayaks in the water and take them out at the old wharf at Kealakekua Bay. They expect tips, but don't let them talk you into paying for take out until you get back. Usually they are gone when you get back and then you have to tip someone else. The going rate is about $5.00.

Take hats, towels, water, snacks and plenty of water proof sunscreen and plan to stay there for a couple of hours. I recommend a disposable underwater camera also. You can rent a water proof bag to keep your snacks and towels in. The water is about 83 degrees and the visibility is about 150 feet on a good day, but as far as I can tell, there are no bad days on Hawaii. The earlier you go, the better, though, because it does tend to cloud up in the afternoon.

From Kealakekua Bay it is a very short drive to Pu`uhonua O Honaunau or Place of Refuge. Take about an hour to do the self guided tour. It is well worth it.

Just north of the Place of Refuge is another great snorkeling spot that the locals call Two Step. It's a great place to see some sea turtles up close and maybe even dolphins.

Afterward, stop at Aloha Angel Cafe, one of our favorite eating spots in Kona. Plan ahead though. They are closed between 2:30 and 5:00.

Below are links to other great activities and things to see on the Big Island.