Issue link: https://bluemagazine.uberflip.com/i/25123
column: urban access_ escape the mainland TEXT: STEVEN THOMAS puuwp NIIHAU KAUAI~ --------~ lANAIG lanai C~ HAWAII KAYAK + SURF EXPLORATION A 20-minute drive from Honolulu over the stunning Koolau Range on the Pali highway is Kailua Beach, on Oahu's windward side. Kailua Beach is a world-renowned windsurfing spot, but there's more. Kayak out to Mokulua Island over turquoise water, colorful fish and coral, with your surfboard in tow. Then drop the kayak off on the beach in the care of the birds, the only inhabitants of the island. There are mellow, mini-tank-riding rights off the point and two outer reef breaks almost a mile north of the island. Or you can forget the kayak and paddle out (approximately two miles). Take a backpack and chill out on the island after your session. To rent a kayak, take a lesson or get a guide, contact Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks, 808-262-2555, MOUNTAI~~~~~e~ Waimea Valley is lined witli some 21 ml es of mountain trails, ranging from easy to alarming (you are, after all, ing down a volcano). Beginning at the top of Pupukea you'll descend quickly down rocky and rooted trails. for 40-foot drops. For guided rides into the valley, rnn,TS,l'1t,'" either Ranger Rick or Tracy Paiva. Ranger Rick l~lJ'l5-~'LL,-. 6693), a Boston transplant who has a fleet of bikes in condition, will take you into the valley-or just where you want to go. He charges US$40 to custom a mountain biking trip anywhere on the island. Tracy founder and proprietor of Hawaii Mountain Bike AnV~rlIlll"el (808-737-7025), works directly out of Waimea Val outfit offers slick GT-LTS bikes (guests with their get a diseount) and a ten-minute bike operation clinic each ride. Tracey is also the one to contact for infIDrrrlati'on j[jh races. Both Rick and Tracy offer night rides.