Kayak from Malaekahana Bay to Turtle Bay – 7.5 miles

Malaekahana Bay to Turtle Bay – 7.5 miles. - Aloha gang! Our schedule has us paddling along the northern most tip of the Windward (east) side of the island, and takes us around Kahuku Point, into Turtle Bay on the North shore. It's important for us to get around the North and West sides of the Island during the summertime so as not to deal with the big surf in these areas in the late fall and winter. This is a great paddle which will start at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, at Malaekahana Bay, 2 miles north of the Polynesian Cultural Center. After the put-in, we’ll proceed immediately outside the reef and turn north to paddle the 7.5 miles to Turtle Bay. We’ll be passing really secluded stretches of shoreline with nice beaches, including one nude beach (if you want to stop there for a break, there may be entertainment provided), and then into the 2 mile rocky, desolate section going around Kahuku point. If the surf permits, we’ll paddle into the cove at Turtle Bay Resort and invade the cove for a swim before we paddle the final ½ mile around the point into Turtle Bay to land on its secluded white sand beaches. This is a 7.5 mile paddle that can be very pleasant in good conditions but a real challenge if the wind is over 20 MPH or if a large North or East swell is running (which would be unusual this time of year). So, if you have questions about whether you should go on this one if the conditions are challenging, I'd suggest that everyone call the National Weather (973-4380 ext. 2 for wind ) and surf (ext. 3) reports before you leave home to see if you're within your comfort and safety zone. So, we’ll meet at Mālaekahana State Recreation Area, Malaekahana Bay at 8:00 AM. Shuttle cars will leave at 8:20 to park at Turtle Bay, with the paddlers leaving the beach at 9:15 AM. We can figure on about a 3-4 hour paddle so with our ½ way stop, we’ll most likely finish up around 12:30 to 1:30 PM. Regarding a place to park the shuttle cars at the take out, we’ll have two choices. Our normal parking spot is at the horse barns behind the golf course pro shop (but sometimes they won’t let us park there). we might want to check out the parking close to the Turtle Bay cove, which would make it a bit of a shorter paddle with showers at the end, but if the swell is too large, we may not be able to get in the mouth of the cove. We can discuss and decide that morning. Another great day on the water!

*==== CHANGED YOUR MIND? ====
Be sure to check the Meetup – Hua Iki web site for any changes and updates and to change your RSVP if you change your mind.

*==== KNOW YOUR LIMITS ====
Know your capabilities, limits, forecast conditions and check your equipment before you go. Sun Screen, hat and plenty of water are a must. Sun glasses, gloves and dry bag are a good idea. Remember to stay in sight of the group and TELL OTHERS IF YOU ARE LEAVING. You alone are responsible for your health and safety. Check conditions at http://www.surfnewsnetwork.com/ or call the National Weather service at 808-973-4380 (#2 to get wind speeds and #3 for surf report). Knowing the latest forecast, you can decide (based upon individual abilities) whether to paddle, or stay home and clean the yard.

*==== NEED TO RENT ====
If you need to rent a kayak, Kailua Beach Adventures and GO Bananas gives our Meetup members a discount off regular rental rates! MENTION YOU ARE JOINING THE CLUB TRIP. They also have car top pads, straps, dry bags, etc. Call the store 808-262-6555. You can also pick up your kayak the day before, after 3 pm so you can drive straight to the put-in the next day; let them know and they’ll be happy to accommodate your request. Also, Check club site for possible ride sharing/equipment and tandems.

*==== CONTACT ====
If Bob is leading, call his cell 808-375-1030.