Put in at the boat ramp at Keauhou Bay. The first part of this trip will be past 20 foot cliffs. A ridge and cloud layer hide the massive higher slopes of Mauna Loa. Paddle to close and you'll have rebound waves. Be sure to notice the beautiful color changes in the water as you paddle over sand or lava bottom. As you round Kaulanui Point past the golf courses, watch for sea caves and lava tubes to explore. At around 8 miles you will come into Kealakekua Bay. Here you'll find a tall white monument erected to Captain James Cook. Land about 50 yards west of the monument. Carry your kayak to avoid damage to the coral, and the kayak. Kealakekua has some of the best snorkeling on the island. Spinner Dolphins are common in the area. It is a State Underwater Marine Life Conservation District and fishing is banned. Watch for tour boats that come in and out of the bay daily. You can have a non-paddler pick you up here, or paddle back to Kealakekua.