Heading north of Kailua used to involve a mindless drive on a deserted road. Much development has occurred in North Kona and northbound traffic has increased commensurately. With luck, you can make it from your Kailua condo to the Mauna Kea in about an hour.
The Mauna Kea was once one of the most glamorous hotels in the world. After you pass Hapuna Beach Park (where you and the Keikis might want to go boogie boarding) look for the entrance to the Mauna Kea at the top of the next hill. There is a guard who will issue you a beach pass. There are about 30 passes. If you arrive by 10 AM you should get one, later, maybe not. If you fail to get a pass, see Beach 69, which is nearby, later in the blog.The Short-bodied Blenny, with his red leopard spots.
From the parking spots just past the golf shop it is a pleasantly shaded ten minute walk on an access road to the beach. The MK provides restrooms and showers here for the visitors.
Also perched on the coral, the Frecklefaced Hawkfish
The beach is a lovely crescent of white sand, often called the most beautiful beach in the state! Walk to the far end of the beach opposite the hotel and put your stuff near the steps. The entry is soft sand. Swim out the north cusp and work the wall. Perhaps 100 yards out turn left over the reef. If the water is clear this is a very productive spot. This reef is fished less than most, possibly not at all, and some exciting fish may await you. At this point, I must tell you that if it is rough elsewhere, the waves and currents here can be tricky and dangerous.
Another experience the Mauna Kea has to offer involves Manta Rays. Come for a drink at sunset (the hotel may insist on parking your car). As the sun sets, walk down to the designated promontory where the hotel illuminates the water below. Most nights mantas come in, swimming around this spot as they feed on plankton.
© Jeffrey Hill 2011
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