Kona’s crystal clear waters invite you to explore an underwater world that’s filled with marine life. Spend time mesmerized by the graceful movements of manta rays as they dance beneath sunlit waves.
Witness protected Hawaiian sea turtles at Kahalu’u Bay and learn about the island’s history from a local expert.
Kealakekua Bay
The waters of Kealakekua Bay offer a one-of-a-kind experience for all types of snorkelers, says the experts at Kona Snorkeling. The clear, calm waters here are teeming with coral reefs and tropical fish. This natural aquatic playground is perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and families and friends looking to connect with the gentle balance of Hawaii’s marine life.
This stunning bay is also home to an important piece of Hawaiian history. This is where famed explorer Captain James Cook first made landfall in 1778. The bay is now a state historical park and features the Captain Cook Monument, which stands 27 feet tall and honors the intrepid seaman’s bravery and daring.
Kealakekua Bay State Historic Park is the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience of Hawaii’s cultural heritage. The park’s sacred temples and ancient villages offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich history, while its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear water provide the perfect setting for your snorkel adventure. The bay is also a protected marine sanctuary with vibrant coral reefs and diverse species of marine life.
The best time to visit Kealakekua Bay is in the morning when the sun rises over the azure sea cliffs that overlook the bay. It’s also the best time to see Hawaiian spinner dolphins frolicking in the bay.
To reach the bay, you can book a boat tour or take a guided kayak tour. If you choose to hike, remember that this is a sacred spot and please keep your voices down. The hike to the Captain Cook Monument is steep but the views and marine life make it well worth it.
When you’re ready to start your snorkel adventure, remember to bring a full set of snorkel gear and a waterproof camera. You should also bring sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for hiking. Avoid wearing brightly colored clothing while snorkeling, as this can attract marine animals and scare them. It’s also a good idea to wear a life jacket, especially if you’re a beginner or have kids with you.
Honaunau Bay
The Big Island of Hawaii’s crystal-clear waters are brimming with a wide array of marine life, making it easy to experience awe-inspiring sights. From a one-of-a-kind nighttime manta ray snorkeling Kona to the serene waters of Kealakekua Bay and historic Hawaiian town at Puuhono Honaunau National Historical Park, there is an unforgettable adventure waiting for every type of snorkeler.
With an array of marine life and a beautiful coral reef, Kahalu’u Beach Park is an ideal spot for snorkeling novices and experts alike. This calm beach located on the Kona side of the island is home to yellow tangs, parrotfish, and many other beautiful sea creatures. Plus, the water is surprisingly warm and offers a safe environment to familiarize yourself with snorkeling equipment.
This tranquil beach is also a favorite spot for sea turtles and dolphins, which you can see gliding around the coral reefs and underwater canyons of ropey lava rock. However, it’s important to respect the natural habitat of these endangered and protected species by observing them from a distance and staying out of their way. It’s even illegal in Hawaii to touch or harass them, so give the wildlife their space.
Getting into the water at Two Step is easy thanks to a pair of natural lava rock “steps” that make up the entry point. It’s also worth noting that this bay is fairly sheltered from the ocean surge, so if it’s choppy you might want to come back another time.
The beach’s electric turquoise waters reveal a rugged, colorful seafloor teeming with marine life. There are coral formations and pockets of clearer water as well, providing a variety of snorkeling experiences depending on the depth of your swim. During your visit, you might be lucky enough to encounter an endangered green sea turtle, which can be seen lazing on the sand or swimming in the bay’s clear water. The surrounding Puuhono Honaunau (Place of Refuge) National Historical Park is also a must-see attraction. This historic site was the original location of an ancient Hawaiian village that served as a place for people to escape death penalty punishment.
Kahalu’u Bay
Known for its calm waters and coral reefs, Kahalu’u Bay is a snorkeler’s paradise for any level of explorer. This beach park is also home to protected Hawaiian sea turtles, making it an excellent place for novice snorkelers to practice their skills safely. Watch in awe as these beautiful creatures glide through the crystal-clear water amidst the vibrant reefs. Just remember to be respectful and never touch the marine life as this is against the law.
Located south of Kona town, this one-of-a-kind beach is teeming with tropical fish and colorful coral reefs. A secluded cove area makes this beach one of the best snorkeling spots on the west side of the island. The beach is easily accessible with ample parking and a convenient location close to the city center. This is a perfect destination for family outings or couples who want to relax and enjoy the sun-kissed shores of Kona.
The pristine waters of Kahalu’u Bay are also a popular feeding ground for majestic manta rays. These gentle giants can be seen gliding gracefully through the crystal-clear waters of this bay as they feast on plankton illuminated by boat lights. Whether you’re an underwater photographer or just looking for a way to capture the magical marine life of Hawaii, manta ray night dives offer an unforgettable experience that’s sure to take your breath away.
This beach is also a prime spot to witness the annual migration of majestic humpback whales. From December through April, visitors can catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures as they cruise through the calm blue waters of the Kona Coastline. The awe-inspiring sight is the highlight of many visitors’ trip to Hawaii and offers an experience that will last a lifetime.
The ahupua’a of Kahalu’u and Kealakekua are a special and sacred place that is abundant in cultural and ecological treasures. These special places are a reflection of the cherished and celebrated history of the people of The Big Island. To learn more about these special places, visit the website of Mission Blue and download their new cultural brochure, Ho’iho’i kulana wahi pana (Restoring Sacred Places).
Kaiholena Beach
Whether you’re looking for a serene spot to relax with a good book, an adventure-filled day of snorkeling and water sports, or an unforgettable experience to witness a natural wonder, Hawaii’s Kona coast has it all. It’s a symphony of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, awaiting your discovery.
From sandy white beaches to crystal-blue waters perfect for snorkeling, this stretch of coast offers a beach for every taste. The famous Manini’owali Beach near King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Resort is ideal for families with children, offering soft sand and gentle waves. Its shallow lagoons also make it an excellent place for swimming, and boogie boarding is popular. Lifeguards are always on duty, so your family can enjoy a full day of fun without worry.
Other beach highlights include Kealakekua Bay, which is a marine-life conservation district with an abundant reef and provides a safe spot for Hawaiian spinner dolphins to rest. Its rocky shoreline also acts as a protective barrier, ensuring calm ocean conditions. It’s a great spot for beginners to try their hand at snorkeling.
Alternatively, head to the north side of the island to explore the rocky cove of Kaiholena Beach, which is home to many of the region’s most significant precontact archaeological and cultural sites. This isolated area of North Kohala is a treasure trove, and the property is managed by the Hawai’i Land Trust (HILT) in partnership with the Ala Kahakai National Historic Trail.
Kona’s Crystal Waters – A Snorkeler’s Dream Come True
A visit to the Kona coast is not complete without visiting one of the region’s storied historical sites. Stroll down Ali’i Drive and step back in time at Hulihe’e Palace, the summer retreat of King Kamehameha I, Mokuaikaua Church, a monument to early missionary efforts, and Ahu’ena Heiau, a sacred temple complex that reveals the secrets of ancient rituals and seafarers who dared cross vast oceans.
