From ziplining over volcanoes to whale watching to windsurfing, Travel Agent breaks down the latest offerings for adrenaline junkies heading to the Hawaii.
Outfitters Kauai Introduces New Tandem Ziplines
Outfitters Kauai recently announced the addition of three new tandem ziplines this fall. The new lines will pass over three separate waterfalls on the Kipu Ranch and will range between 800 feet and 1,200 feet. Incorporating Outfitters Kauai’s existing zipline course, these new lines will highlight impressive views and thrilling adventure as clients soar over valleys side by side. Visit www.OutfittersKauai.com.
Koloa Zipline, Kaua‘i’s Newest Zipline Course
Koloa Zipline has debuted with eight ziplines on its course located on the south side of the island in Koloa. Koloa Zipline’s “Waita” line is the longest on the island coming in at 2,500 feet and glides across the Waita reservoir, which is the largest reservoir in Hawaii. The entire course is 1.5 miles long and is located on the beautiful Grove Farm land that offers marvelous views of a variety of ecosystems. Koloa Zipline is committed to the preservation of the natural beauty and rich history of the land. Visit www.KoloaZipline.com.
Whale Watching Tour Now Departs from Waikiki
Wild Side Specialty Tours now offers Waikiki departures for its whale-watching experiences. The tour called “Tails of Hawaii” is a three-and-a-half-hour charter that stays relatively close to shore and can include snorkeling. The “Whale-opolis” seven-hour charter sails down to the Penguin Banks, bearing the highest concentration of humpback whales in Hawaii. Visit www.sailhawaii.com.
Hanging Ten in Oahu
Each winter, the world’s best big wave surfers are invited to Waimea Bay on Oahu’s North Shore to compete in the Quiksilver Big Wave Invitational In Memory of Eddie Aikau. The Eddie can only be held when surf measures at least 20-feet (Hawaiian scale) for a full day. The holding period for the event is between December 1 and the last day in February. When the surf is big enough, thousands flock to watch the likes of Kelly Slater and Bruce Irons compete in this prestigious surfing competition. Visit www.quiksilver.com.
Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival
The annual Hawaii Fishing and Seafood Festival, presented by the Pacific Islands Fisheries Group, celebrates Hawaii’s fishing and seafood industry with fishing workshops and demonstrations, games and activities, fresh seafood dishes, and more. Events take place at the Honolulu Fishing Village at Pier 38. Visit www.hawaiifishingfestival.com.
Ziplining, Helicopters and Volcanoes
KapohoKine Adventures offers a unique tour that includes eight ziplines and a roundtrip helicopter ride. During this tour, clients will be soaring over the Kilauea Volcano and ziplining over a tropical jungle and multiple waterfalls. This is followed by a return flight to Kona that presents a bird’s view of scenic waterfalls and tropical rain forests. Clients start by boarding the company’s air-conditioned aircraft and heading out toward the active volcano. Tropical rain forest gives way to stark black lava as they approach the volcano before circling back and heading north past Hilo. After landing at the Hilo Airport, clients will enjoy a scenic drive to the company’s zipline. During this excursion, clients will soar more than 160 feet above the waterfalls. KapohoKine Adventures’ certified staff will guide clients over one of the longest lines on Hawaii Island.
After their adventure, clients can indulge in a picnic lunch before their return flight to Kona. Light snacks and water are provided throughout the tour, which starts at $694 plus tax. Agents should note that clients mustn’t have any heart, neck or back problems or be pregnant; must weigh at least 60 pounds and less than 260 pounds; must be able to lift 15 pounds; and must be able to walk up stairs and over uneven terrain. Also, clients should not go scuba diving within 24 hours. Visit www.kapohokine.com.
Biking and Windsurfing at the Four Seasons Maui
Adventure-loving clients staying at the Four Seasons Maui should know about the Aloha Windsurfing Camp. Taking place from November 10-15, the camp is taught by two top windsurfing champions—Matt Pritchard and Shawna Cropas. The water sports clinic will focus on both windsurfing and stand up paddling, an introductory way to learn to surf on flat water with small waves. The paddling boards can be turned into windsurfing boards by attaching sails. Thrill-seekers looking to burn a few calories may also be interested in the Cycling Camp Maui. Tour de France veteran and Canadian Olympian Ryder Hesjedal and Go Cycling Maui are back for this ever-popular event which allows guests to experience cycling in much the same way as those on the ProTour. It is slated for November. Visit www.fourseasons.com/Maui.