Bodyboarding in Kona: The Birthplace of the Boogie Board
Bodyboarding in Kona has a special place in surf history. In 1971, Tom Morey created the first modern bodyboard near Honl’s Beach on Aliʻi Drive. At the time, many people called it a Boogie Board.
Morey lived in a small apartment above a garage near the beach. He wanted to ride the waves below his home, but he did not have a surfboard. So, he decided to make something new.
Morey used scrap foam to shape his first board. He also used simple household tools, including an electric carving knife and an iron. With those tools, he created a small, flexible board that changed wave riding forever.
The first board was simple, light, and easy to ride. It allowed people to feel the wave in a new way. Soon, the Morey Boogie Board became popular with riders of all ages.
By 1977, Morey was producing tens of thousands of Boogie Boards each year. His invention helped make wave riding more accessible to people around the world.
Honl’s Beach and Kona’s Bodyboarding History
Honl’s Beach is still an important place for bodyboarding in Kona. Many people know it as the birthplace of the Boogie Board. Over the years, local contests and casual surf sessions have kept that history alive.
Visitors and locals still bring their boards to Honl’s to enjoy the waves. The beach sits right along Aliʻi Drive, making it easy to visit while exploring Kailua-Kona.
Best Places for Bodyboarding in Kona
Kona offers several places to enjoy bodyboarding. Many beaches have reef breaks, shore breaks, or rolling waves that appeal to different skill levels.
Popular bodyboarding spots include:
- Honl’s Beach
- Magic Sands Beach
- Old Airport Beach
- Hoʻokena Beach Park
- Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area
Always check ocean conditions before going out. Waves, currents, and reef conditions can change quickly. When in doubt, choose a lifeguarded beach and speak with a lifeguard before entering the water.
Why Visitors Love Bodyboarding in Kona
Bodyboarding is fun for both beginners and experienced riders. Unlike traditional surfing, riders lie on the board while catching waves. Many riders also wear fins for better speed and control.
As riders improve, they can try turns, spins, 360s, drop-knee riding, and other maneuvers. Some advanced riders even stand up on their boards.
For many visitors, bodyboarding is a fun way to enjoy the ocean without needing a full surf lesson. It is also a great activity for families, as long as everyone chooses safe conditions for their skill level.
Where to Rent or Buy a Bodyboard in Kona
If you are visiting Kona, you can rent or buy a bodyboard from many local surf shops. Several vendors along Aliʻi Drive offer beach gear, surf rentals, and ocean safety advice.
You can also stop by local shops near popular surf areas, including Banyans and Magic Sands. They can help you choose the right board and fins for your experience level.
Experience the Fun of Bodyboarding in Kona
Bodyboarding in Kona is more than a beach activity. It is part of the area’s surf history. From Tom Morey’s first handmade board to today’s riders at Honl’s Beach, Kona remains closely tied to the story of the Boogie Board.
Whether you are trying it for the first time or returning to the waves, Kona is a memorable place to enjoy this classic ocean pastime.