Posted by Rob1 on July 16, 2000 at 12:34:02:
In Reply to: Going to Kona: need advice posted by Eric Sedletzky on July 14, 2000 at 22:18:57:
Diving along the Kona Coast itself is limited because of the volcanic cliffs along much of the shore. There are some places to dive north and south (north at the park sites seawards of the recent (1950's) lava flows.
South to the inlets and the Place of Refuge (where you can beach dive) and Cook's Bay are good, but LONG swims to the best spots.
I concurr with the reccomendation of Dive Makai (6-8 persons and Lisa and Kendra are great!). I STRONGLY reccomend AGAINST Ecoadventures as they tried to screw us on our last trip (Sept. 1999).
Best places to stay in town (Kona) are the condo rentals and there are web pages for those.
Note - make your car rental early as they tend to be the first things to book up.
Food is more expensive the closer you get to the water (not kidding). There is a supermarket and a Wal-Mart in town if you want to buy and cook yoiurself.
Also, for non-diving, Cook's bay kayaking, and the Volvcano Park is worth 1-2 days.