Fodor's Expert Review Kailua Pier

Though most fishing boats use Honokohau Harbor in Kailua-Kona, this pier dating from 1918 is still a hub of ocean activity where outrigger canoe teams practice and race, shuttles transport cruise ship passengers to and from town, and tour boats depart from the docks. Along the seawall, children and old-timers cast their lines and hope for the best. For youngsters, a bamboo pole and hook are easy to come by, and plenty of locals are willing to give pointers. September brings the world's largest long-distance outrigger canoe race, and in October, nearly 2,000 elite athletes depart the pier to swim 2.4 miles in the first leg of the famous Ironman World Championship triathlon.