BIG ISLAND HAWAII

We will meet outside on the pool deck of our hotel. There we will hold our welcome meeting and safety briefing, before hopping into the waters nearby for a refreshing acclimatisation swim in the sea. The swim begins right off Kailua Pier at the start-point of the swim leg of the Ironman World Championships. This is an excellent chance to familiarise yourself with the local conditions before we head back to the hotel and then out again for our first dinner of the trip.

Today we start with a journey north along the coast to Kiholo Bay where there are a series of calm, turquoise tidal pools normally full of local fish species. It is possible to swim close to shore along the black sand beach and you can see the bottom for the entire duration of the swim. It is also the perfect location to keep an eye out for resident Honu (green sea turtles) who like to feed in the shallow pools!

After lunch, we start to return south on our escort boat taking us to our second swim from Manini’Owali to the coconut palm lined Kukio Bay. We will then join the boat back to Kona where there is ample time to relax. If time allows, either early morning or in the evening we may have the opportunity to complete a technique videoing session.

Today, we are back on our escort boat as we travel north to a stunning reef which lies offshore of Mahai’ula Bay. The reef here is plentiful and full of character and home to countless species. Our destination point is Makakawena and you can see the sea bottom along the entire swim route. Monk Seals have been spotted here in the past. On arrival into the beach, there is time to explore and the Queens Bath, which is an open-air lava tube with a fresh water pool is well worth a visit.

The beach at Puu Alii Bay is an idyllic halfway point which is a great spot for a drink and snack break. It’s possible to walk along the coast at this section, so if you don’t fancy the full morning swim you can always hop out and continue on foot. On arrival, you are greeted with some of the most extensive sand dunes in Hawaii, home to an extensive shoreline bird colony.

This morning we travel down to the southern section of the Kona coast, which is sure to be one of the highlights of the week. The first swim is one of the most exposed swims of the week. It feels like we are well away from it all, as we start swimming from Keawekaheka Bay, which contains one of the Big Island’s most beautiful reefs. From here we swim along the coast and feel the rolling ocean push us along our course. Lava-formed bays can offer natural stopping off points along the way. The swim culminates with an arrival into the awe-inspiring Kealakekua Bay and a monument on the spot where explorer Captain James Cook fell, in 1779. It’s a unique way to arrive at the monument.

After time to hydrate, relax and explore the area around the monument, we then hop back into the water for our crossing across Kealakekua Bay. The bay is surrounded by steep cliffs which makes access from land difficult, so the water is undoubtedly the best way to explore. During the crossing, it is possible to see the bottom most of the way across as the reef comes up close to the surface. Manta rays were spotted here during our recce and if you come across them on this swim it is sure to be a mesmerising experience.

Today, after a slightly later breakfast, we start our swim a little closer to home as we undertake the route of the Kona Ironman swim course. With good visibility, you can see the bottom most of the way. Above the water you can identify the peak of Mauna Loa laid out in front of you. There are plenty of fish to keep you company and dolphins are also often spotted here. It’s a great morning swim!

The afternoon is yours to do what you like with. You may choose to go to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Park, with it’s historic place of refuge, or maybe up to the start of the hike to Mauna Kea, with its amazing views of the Big Island. For the keen swimmers, there is the Kona Community Aquatic Centre with its 50m pool. In addition, our guides can work with you on your stroke development, should you so wish.

Today, we are back on our escort boat as we travel north to Mahai’ula Bay for our coastal journey to Awakee Bay. The reef here is plentiful and full of character and home to countless species. The beach at Puu Alii Bay is an idyllic halfway point which is a great spot for a drink and snack break. It’s possible to walk along the coast at this section, so if you don’t fancy the full morning swim you can always hop out and continue on foot. On arrival, you are greeted with some of the most extensive sand dunes in Hawaii, home to an extensive shoreline bird sanctuary. At the end of the swim, there is time to stay in the water and explore the reef below.

After some time to rest and relax and maybe even explore on land, our second swim is just up the shore as we commence our swim journey at Kahoiawa Bay and take in both Kua and Kakapa Bays, before finishing at Kikaua Point, which has stunning views over to the distant island of Maui. Large volcanic boulders are present over the course of the swim and seem to be an attraction for the local fish populations. The sandy bottom, interspersed with detailed reef formations, offers an idyllic afternoon swim.

Today is our last full day of swimming and our last day on our escort boat. We get collected at Kailua Pier. directly in front of our hotel, and then head south. Our swims today may well be selected on the day itself. That way we can take advantage of the best conditions, minimum swell and the most interesting wildlife that may be in the vicinity. Swims could be Magic Sands, Kahalu’u or Keauhou. The majestic “End of the World” lava formation is another great swim site. Whichever is selected, they are sure to be both memorable and exciting.

On arrival back at Kona, you have time to relax before we head out for our last dinner of the trip.

After the exertions of the week, it is time for a relaxing swim on the beach just by Kailua Pier, directly in front of our hotel, before the trip finishes later in the morning.

We have given this trip a 'Moderate' grading. Most swimmers comfortable in the open water will be able to take part and enjoy one of these trips.

Swimming Distances

*Please note that these swims are an example of what may take place during the course of your trip and should be used as a guide only. Actual swim locations and distances will vary according to local weather and sea conditions.

Swimming Conditions

Hawaii’s isolation means that roughly 25 percent of its fish species are endemic, which means they are found in Hawaii and nowhere else in the world. Swimming here is a fantastic experience with warm crystal-clear waters bursting with underwater flora and fauna. You need to be aware that certain marine life, such as jellyfish, sharks, sea urchins and coral could be present during the swims. In the areas that we swim, there is a long history of snorkelling and swimming, so sea life is used to human interaction. If you suffer from anaphylaxis please consult the office prior to booking. Sea swell tends to be bigger than in a lot of places on the US mainland. This only adds to the challenge and fun of the trip, but if you're unfamiliar with these kinds of conditions, feel free to consult with the office.

Walking Conditions

The west coast of the Big Island benefits from the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail which runs in many places along the coast. While the focus of the trip is undoubtedly the swimming, there may be some opportunities to walk small sections of this historic trail, should you wish to do so.

Most walks take place on designated paths and tracks. Please note that comfortable shoes or sturdy sandals are recommended for all walks and treks.

Temperatures

*Please note that these temperatures are indicative and should be used as a guide only.

Weather Caveat

For safety reasons, we rely on decent weather conditions when carrying out our swims. As a consequence, open water swimming holidays require a certain degree of on-trip flexibility which can result in changes to the planned itinerary. These changes often add a touch of uniqueness to your trip and will be communicated to you by your SwimTrek guides as quickly as possible.

Group Size

This trip has a maximum group size of 15. The group will be split into a maximum of three groups, based on speed, with each group being accompanied by their own safety vessel/escort.

Boat Support

Boat support on this trip includes one main boat and two support craft crewed by your SwimTrek guides but the allocation of water craft will vary based on swim location. Please note that this boat support is subject to change without notice and cannot be guaranteed.

Extra Activities

Around Kailua Bay there are plenty of facilities and activities to keep you busy when not swimming. Take part in rejuvenating paddle board or sit-on-top kayak tours paddling around the bay. Try scuba diving too. Speak to our boat skipper about diving and snorkelling with the manta rays. Visit a Kona coffee farm or live the Hawaii Five-0 opening credits and paddle a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe.

Equipment Checklist

In addition to your daily non-swimming clothes, we also recommend that you bring the following items:

For more information please visit: www.swimtrek.com/packing-list

*Try to bring one clear lens and one tinted lens for different light conditions.

SwimTrek will supply swim hats, water and electrolyte drinks. The guides will no longer distribute shared drinks bottles, but rather will fill up each individual guest’s personal drink bottle. Please ensure these are clearly marked to help our guides identify yours. If you would like to use a wetsuit, rash vest, snorkel or fins during your swims, please ensure that you bring these with you.

The easiest way to get to the start of your trip is to fly into Kona International Airport (KOA). It is important to remember that the Big Island has two international airports, Kona is on the west coast and Hilo (ITO) on the east coast. For this trip, Kona International Airport (KOA), also known as Keāhole, is the most convenient option for you. Of course, if you are looking to spend time in Hawaii before or after your SwimTrek, then flying into one airport and out of the other may well work.

As SwimTrekkers come from all over the world, and join our swimming holidays in numerous destinations, we don't currently offer flights as part of our SwimTrek packages. We do however want to do as much as we can to ensure that our guests get the best deals when travelling to one of our trips so check out our SwimTrek Flight Tips page on the website.

Transfer from Kona International Airport To Kailua-Kona

Our accommodation, the Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel, is located on the bay at Kailua-Kona. It is around 9 miles south of the airport ad a taxi will cost around $35. For more information on Ground Transport from the airport visit the Kona Airport Website.

For the duration of our trip, we stay at the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, ideally located within a few metres walk of Kailua Pier and the waters of Kailua Bay. The waterfront hotel benefits from an infinity pool, surrounded by lush tropical gardens.

All rooms at Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel are en suite with air conditioning and either two queen beds or one king bed with balcony. The majority of our rooms are Standard Rooms (Guest Rooms) with a balcony. It is possible to request Superior Rooms (Resort View) with a balcony and superior view; Deluxe (Ocean View) have a partial ocean view from the balcony. Whichever room type you choose we can offer them on twin share, double occupancy or for single occupancy. All rooms and occupancy types are subject to availability.

Pre/Post Trip Accommodation and Trip Extension Options

If you wish to extend your stay at the Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel before or after the trip please contact the hotel directly via email to reservations@konabeachhotel.com and let them know that you are part of the SwimTrek group

Food and Drink

All six breakfasts are included on the trip, taken at a local restaurant which offers an extensive breakfast menu. Four simple lunches are also included on the boat, excluding Day 4 when you have an afternoon off. Dinners are at your own expense, which gives you a fantastic opportunity to explore and experience the local cafes and restaurants of your choice over the course of your trip.

For more information, please visit our Food and Drink page on the website.

For more information on any of the following sections please visit the Travel Advice page of our website.

Money, Extra Expenses and Tipping

You should bring extra money with you to cover such items as dinners, entertainment, souvenirs, and drinks. The local currency is US dollars (US$).

In some countries tipping (gratuities) is not part of the culture. In others, it has become an expected norm. We believe that tipping is done entirely at your discretion. If you have been provided with excellent service, it may be something you wish to do. Your SwimTrek guides can advise on local norms for service providers like boat crew, waiters, or taxis. Nothing is expected for your SwimTrek guides, but many groups like to present something to the guides at the end of the trip.

Responsible Travel

SwimTrek is conscious of the importance of protecting the world’s natural wonders. We are acutely aware of our responsibility to not only take care of the natural environments which we are lucky enough to explore, but also to educate our guests about the importance of conservation efforts and responsible tourism. It’s for this reason that we have worked so closely with our partners to ensure that our trips are conducted in the most responsible and sustainable way possible, working tirelessly to minimise the impact of our presence on local marine life and the natural habitat.

For more information, please visit our Responsible Travel page on the website.

Passports and Visas

Non-residents of the United States require a full passport to enter the country, which should be valid for six months beyond the expected length of stay. The majority of visitors to the US require a visa to enter the country. Many nationalities can apply online for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program by visiting www.cbp.gov/travel/international-visitors/esta. For further information about US visas, please visit www.travel.state.gov/content/visas/en.html. Please note that visa regulations are subject to change, and we advise that you check your own visa requirements prior to travel.

Travel Insurance

We consider comprehensive travel insurance to be essential, and we strongly recommend that you purchase insurance which includes, but is not limited to, cover for illness, accident, emergency repatriation, ambulance, air ambulance, helicopter rescue services, cancellation, lost luggage and delays. Your travel insurance should also cover you for open water swimming and any other activity listed in your trip itinerary (including races and competitions, where applicable). Please read your policy details carefully and remember to take them with you on your trip for your own reference. For further information, please visit our Travel Insurance page on the website.

Health Information and Recommended Vaccinations

Here at SwimTrek we pride ourselves on our focus on safety and the well-being of all our guests. As we operate in some beautiful and remote locations medical facilities are not always easily accessible. SwimTrek Guides, and many staff working for our local partners, are first aid trained. However we ask that you read our Travel Health page to ensure that you are informed about general Travel and Swim Health precautions.

Travel Plugs and Electricity

Wireless internet access is available in the lobby, public areas and guest rooms of our hotel. Many bars and restaurants around town also offer access but signals off-shore may be limited.

For a useful source of information on the different electrical outlets, electrical plugs, and electric sockets, please visit worldstandards.eu.