Hawaii beta

[Natedogg]

First time in the surf forum... I did a quick search, and didn't see anything of use. I *think* I'm heading to the big island for a wedding in mid May (that's if I can find a decent deal on airfare). Got a few Q's for you dudes in the know (Whit???):

- I'm kinda on a budget, so I don't think I'll be going to any other islands, and would like to camp out at least a few nights. I've heard from the friend who is getting married (she lives there) that there are no safe camping spots. I'm having a hard time believing that.

- I've surfed once in my life, and had a bad experience. I'd like to try again--where should I go? Is there a beach for surf jongs?

- Any chance of renting a mountain bike? I hear there's some pretty killer singletrack, but local knowledge is key. I know, better off in Sprockets, but figured I'd ask.

Thanks.

[Vince]

Stay outta da watah haole o else you gonna get pounded

[Hugh Conway]

I'm having a hard time believing that.

New to meth, aren't you?

[Atrain505]

I assume your staying in the Kona area. The island is bigger than you think.
If that is the case the two beginner spots are pine trees and the bay on the south side of town right next to a big hotel where tons of tourists snorkel. I'm blanking on the name now. Go early in the morning and not on a weekend and it will be less crowded.

There's not many legitimate camping spots, but I did a whole summer's worth from beach to beach. They'll close the gates around sunset. Walk down from the highway about 30 minutes to some of the beaches outside of town. That's the way to do it.

I definitely remember there being bike rental places. Good luck.

Have fun-the big island rocks.

[myles long]

the big island is cool...its a lot bigger than you think and takes longer than you think to get places.

If you are a total beginner (as only ever surfed once before) pine trees is probably not the place to surf. The beach break that is south of Kona, near the little blue church is probably better. I also think there are some rental shops for a board around that area. As opposed to pine trees which is up near the airport and nothing really around, however there is a pretty mellow campground near pine trees. Looks to be operated/maintained by some locals and it was relatively clean and well kept when i was there in december.

cant help too much with the mtn biking, other than plan on extra time to drive anywhere....i think its only something like 40 miles from Kona to Hilo but its a 90+ minute drive!

[HotTate]

do a search for Kauai, i did a TR a few months back.

[Tsuga]

As far as camping goes, check out Hookena south of kona about 15 miles. It costs 4 bucks a person, camp on the beach in a little cove, with clean bathrooms and showers. Like said before, theres plenty dirt roads north of kona that go to isolated beaches, 4wd will get you down or walk after road gets rocky. do not camp at spencer st.park, its nasty. And as for mountain biking, if you get to the east side(hilo), go to the hilo bike up and ask for chris, hes a good dude and will give some good beta. I ride a lot at kulani outside hilo. good luck, have fun.

[RickBwarn]

I hear that you have to get out of the water at sunset because the sharks come to the shoreline. Otherwise the sunsets are better than California!