MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Kaneohe Bay -- An array of sail, pontoon and powerboats are currently swaying back and forth on the crystal blue waters of Kaneohe Bay, patiently awaiting the arrival of eager water sports and recreation enthusiasts.
For anyone who enjoys sailing, water skiing, kayaking or perhaps windsurfing, the base marina at MCB Hawaii, Kaneohe Bay, is the place to go for all water sports equipment.
Recreational water activities, however, are only a small fraction of what the Outdoor Recreation Equipment Center and base marina offers to service and family members at K-Bay and Camp H. M. Smith.
These Marine Corps Community Services activities offer a myriad of recreational equipment from picnic canopies and boogie boards to sailing lessons for campers, beach bums and aspiring boat captains alike.
"Every year we expand what we have to offer," said Neil Morgan, outdoor recreation manager, "whether we add a pontoon boat or new camping equipment."
According to Morgan, who has been working at the base marina for more than 10 years, some of the most popular activities include scuba diving, water skiing and just lounging around and tanning on a 10-passenger pontoon boat. Licenses for almost any type of boat range in price from $10 to $25.
Outdoor Recreation can assist with more down-to-earth activities including swimming, fishing, bicycling, and camping. According to Morgan, swimming and snorkeling are most common at Hale Koa Beach, and nearby Pyramid Rock Beach is perfect for boogie boarding and surfing. Shore fishing is permitted at Hale Koa, but netting is not allowed. Also, rods and reels can be rented for a minimal fee, as well as gear for other outdoor activities.
Morgan suggested bicycling as a healthy alternative to explore the island while getting a good workout. Helmets, which are required when riding on base, are also provided with the rental of any bike.
Hale Koa Beach offers 16 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Day-use picnic pavilions are available by reservation through Outdoor Recreation.
"The base marina also offers special unit physical training opportunities," said Morgan. For example, the OREC conducts Adventure Training - introductory lessons in skiing, power boating and scuba diving. Marine Corps Community Services offers the training at no charge to any Marine Corps or Navy unit aboard K-Bay.
"Adventure training is a great way to bring unit morale up, while keeping in shape," he explained.
Morgan said that during his tenure he has witnessed a great amount of progress that better serves the military community here.
"We are constantly thinking of new equipment the base could use to increase the ease to participate in recreational activities," he explained. "Right now we are doing the best we can, and everything seems to be sailing smoothly."