From hidden gems to family-friendly beach locales, the snorkeling spots on the big island are some of the most famed in Hawaii.
Officially the largest of the eight Hawaiian islands dotted around the North Pacific Ocean, the reefs and aquatic life that call these waters home are unparalleled … Many avid divers and snorkel-enthusiasts travel wide and far to experience its surreal underwater world.
See graceful manta rays, wave at sea turtles, uncover rainbow beds of coral, and so much more. With many options to investigate, here are some of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island.
Best snorkeling spots along the Kona Coast (Big Island West Coast)
Heading along the western coastline of Big Island, Kona is home to some of the clearest waters around. Thanks to the ocean’s transparency and many sheltered bays that make up the collective of beaches in the area, it’s been deemed a snorkeler’s dream for decades.
Often shielded from strong winds, its small, calm waves are ideal snorkel conditions with little interruption from big swell.
Famous for manta ray sightseeing and its abundance of marine creatures, the Kona Coast also sports some snorkel destinations in the middle of the ocean… Opt for boat tours on the Big Island for a chance to experience this.
West Coast is the best coast, they say, but we’ll leave that one up to you to decide.
1 – Lapakahi State Historical Park
Once home to a thriving fishing community that lived along the rugged and wild coastline, today Lapakahi State Historical Park is a fantastic spot for travelers wanting to snorkel and swim off the beaten path.
Dating back hundreds of years, it’s believed that the ancient Hawaiian fishing village had its roots in the 14th century.
Flash forward to modern times and now, the area forms part of the Lapakahi Marine Life Conservation District. Moreover, no boats powered by engines or large ships are allowed to sail here.
Thanks to these efforts, the waters are rich with marine life from tropical fish to thriving coral beds.
At the historic coastal park, there are small beachy areas to snorkel close to the shoreline. Not just an underwater excursion, learn about Hawaiian culture at the same time meandering your way here.
Getting there:
Just off the Akoni Pule Highway (known as Route 270), Lapakahi State Historical Park is super easy to reach and is just short of a one-hour drive from Kona.
Hawi town is only 11 kilometers from here (a 10-minute drive) and has some cute galleries and dining spots, and Kawaihae is a 14-minute drive away, located 17 kilometers from the park.
Reaching the snorkel site:
The tiny beach areas are easy enough to reach, and the best snorkeling is on the north side of them (there are two north beaches great for snorkel time). When you arrive at the park, there’s a visitors’ park board outlying the paths to reach here.
Walking the trails, pass by some of the sites and ancient fishing village scenes, and the pathways end off at Koai’e Cove, and the two beaches.
Other tips:
The rural landscape is dotted with old volcanic rocks. Take caution when walking among the rockpools on the beach.
The tides can rise in this part of the Kona Coast. Be careful when snorkeling at Lapakahi State Historical Park when it’s high tide as the ocean can get rough, and there’s no great visibility, nor lifeguards around.
If you have driven here yourselves and parked your car, the park gates close at 4 PM. Make sure you’re back before the park closes. The gates are locked and there’s no way to get your car back out.
The area is barren except for the remnants and a partially restored fishing village. Bring all of your own supplies, from snorkel gear to food and drinks and plenty of H20.
2 – Kaunaʻoa Beach
Ideal for families or couples, Kaunaʻoa Beach (also known as Mauna Kea Beach) is the most picturesque beach bay area showing off powder white sands and clear turquoise waters.
Thanks to its makeup, it has perfect snorkeling conditions straight from the shore. This is great for beginners or travelers with younger children. Do take note, the ocean here remains relatively calm most times, but when choppier waves roll in, it can mess with the snorkeling.
Oceana souls, don’t pass up the once-in-a-lifetime sightings at Kaunaʻoa Beach. Not just limited to daytime activities, the bay is one of the most popular spots to see magnificent manta rays swimming at nighttime… It’s even been nicknamed “Manta Ray Point.”
The hotel behind the beach specifically shines a bright sea light onto the ocean, lighting up the waters and plankton. This attracts the rays as they feed on the luminescent plankters. With the sparkling lights and squadron of manta rays, it’s pretty breathtaking.
Getting there:
A 43-minute drive from Kona along the Queen Kaahumanu Highway, i.e. Highway 19, brings travelers to the northwest coastline. En route, as you near the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, turn left off the highway at mile marker 68.
While this is a public beach, to reach Kaunaʻoa Beach you need to enter through the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel gates. Parking passes are available from the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, but parking bays are very limited.
From the hotel parking lot, follow a short path down to the beach.
Reaching the snorkel site:
The beach is enclosed by a bay with lush hills and tropical fauna on either side. The best snorkeling spots on the beach are on either side of the bay, close to the rocky areas. Tred past here, but be careful not to stand on the corals, and the shallow reef is just past this.
Other tips:
There are some beach day facilities available here, so bring spending money for refreshments, snacks and rentals like umbrellas.
To snorkel, you need to bring your own gear — if you don’t own snorkel gear, rent some from your accommodation or the nearest rental shop.
If you are snorkeling at night time in the hopes of seeing manta rays, be extra vigilant. Evening swims when it’s high tide, or there are strong swells are not recommended.
3 – Hapuna Beach
Gorgeous sunsets and transparent blue waters make Hapuna Beach a popular destination for snorkeling, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a sea turtle or two.
Schools of rainbow fish and interesting and colorful coral are always guaranteed though with not one, but two snorkeling sites at this beach. With a lifeguard on duty, Hapuna is favored by families, especially those with young children, and the tides stay low most of the time.
However, the best snorkel gems require some swimming involved to reach, which is not suitable for tots and inexperienced swimmers.
Not confined to a bay area, the ocean seems to never end from all sides. With no cliffs or hills to protect the stretch from strong winds, waves do roll in. All the action happening from waves crashing and rolling back out to sea can interfere with water visibility.
Getting there:
Traveling north of Kona for about 50 kilometers, drive on Highway 19 until you reach mile marker 70. Here, you will see an entrance sign for Hapuna Beach.
Reaching the snorkel site:
From the sands, choose to turn either left or right on the beach, and both the north and south points have beautiful snorkeling opportunities.
The north side’s shallow reef is known for its abundant corals and this is where the turtles roam. To reach this snorkel site, walk around a small cliff and swim out to the reef from here. Sporting rocky terrains, the south end teems with marine life and interesting corals growing among the seaside rockeries.
Unlike some snorkel points around Big Island accessible from the shoreline, you will need to pass rocky obstacles and swim past the shallow reefs for the best chance of seeing the aquatic worlds here.
Other tips:
As the beach is unprotected, strong currents are common. Snorkeling around the waters here is advisable for strong swimmers only. You will need endurance to reach the reefs after a short swim from the shore.
4 – Beach 69 at Waialea Beach
Known as Beach 69 or Waialea Beach, this small stretch of soft sands among wispy trees is down at Waialea Bay.
No more than a few meters distance from the start of the beach banks to the ocean, branches outstretch over the water and the snorkel destination feels worlds away from everything.
A dedicated marine life conservation district since 1985, the waters around here have been specially preserved and untouched. Feeling extra romantic, it’s great for couples after a snorkel expedition or families too, thanks to the calm, flat waters in this bay.
If you happen to be traveling to Big Island in winter, look out for humpback whales around the area who migrate to these waters in Hawaii’s cooler season.
Getting there:
One of the closest beaches to reach from Kona, Waialea Beach is just over a half an hour drive traveling Highway 19 by vehicle. Funnily enough, it’s right around the corner from busy Hapuna Beach (a six-minute drive) deeming it an excellent choice for snorkel enthusiasts wanting to escape the crowds.
Reaching the snorkel site:
From Beach 69, there are three snorkeling spots at Waialea Bay (officially the ocean in front of the beach).
To the left, the south end of Waialea is the most popular snorkel spot. It offers low waters and the reef around here is most beautiful. If you’re lucky you might check a sea turtle or eel, and larger fish species swim in these waters.
From the middle part of the beach, make your way from the sands straight into the sea and maneuver around the rocks in the ocean. Stop here and explore for cute fish swimming in between.
Heading to the right-hand side of Waialea Beach, the north snorkel spot is around a rockier part of the bay.
Other tips:
Looking for a fab picnic spot or place to mill away the hours in between snorkeling, the trees here provide plenty of shade.
But do bring everything you need for a snorkel expedition, including drinking water as well as water-safe shoes. Close to the shoreline are a few rocks in between and you’ll need to trod over some parts.
Take note, during the winter months natural erosion happens and there are few sandbanks left to chill on. However, as Mother Nature does her thing, every year the sands are set back into place.
5 – Pauʻoa Bay at Fairmont Orchid Hotel
Fortified from rough sea conditions thanks to the lava rocks that encompass Pauʻoa Bay, if you’ve never tried snorkeling or are here with the kiddies, consider this next spot.
The rich turquoise waters appear more like a lagoon, with ample visibility for snorkeling. Look out for the darker spots close to shore where the reefs grow. The low, clear waters at Pauʻoa grant easy access straight from the shoreline — another reason why this is a popular beginner’s destination.
Here’s a little secret; constant efforts made by the University of Hawaii help ensure the preservation of the natural marine area around here. So much so, that it’s known as one of the healthiest coral reefs on the whole of Big Island!
Getting there:
Traveling on the Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Highway 19), takes 37 minutes to drive from Kailua-Kona to Puako Bay. From the highway, make a left turn onto Puako Beach Drive and the beach is in front of the Fairmont Orchid Hotel.
If you’ve traveled here with a rented car, pay to park inside the hotel. An alternative route, albeit a bit more adventurous, you can reach the beach from Holoholokai Beach as well but it involves a walking trail.
Reaching the snorkel site:
As you reach the beach, immediately start with snorkeling in among the lava rock tidal pools filled with fish, crabs and other sea critters — a great one for kids. By the reefs, witness a wide variety of tropical fish (including some big boys), swim with sea turtles and dolphins, and whales have been seen from the beach.
Other tips:
All facilities are for guests of the hotel only, from the beach chairs and umbrellas to the restrooms. Bring everything you need.
6 – Makaiwa Bay at Mauna Lani Resort
Tall palm trees and big boulder rocks are the scenes that greet travelers at Makaiwa Bay. The beach itself isn’t massive and a small sandy front provides some space for chilling or getting ready for water sporting activities, from snorkeling to SUPing.
Whilst the occasional wave does roll in, the bay waters stay flat most of the time. This equals great visibility for snorkel enthusiasts.
Getting there:
Right by Honokaope Bay (and within the same vicinity as the Mauna Lani Resort), Makaiwa Bay is 37 minutes away from Kona.
From Highway 19, look out for mile marker 73. Just after this marker, and before mile marker 74, take the turn onto Mauna Lani Drive. Here, head to Pauoa Road where the beach’s public parking space is.
Walk a further 10 minutes from the parking lot, past lava fields and the Mauna Lani fishponds until you reach the beach.
Reaching the snorkel site:
No sandbanks in sight, enter the water directly from the seashore and the reef is right in front. Swimming just a bit further out from the shoreline, visibility and marine life increase. Octopus, eels, tropical fish and coral are some of the species to keep an eye open for.
Other tips:
There is a small dock on the north end of the beach where boats land and disembark which can stir up the waters and create sandy visuals.
7 – Honokaope Bay at Mauna Lani Resort
Dubbed “49 Black Sand Beach” because the color of the sands here is darker than most beaches on the Kona coast, the calm waters around Honokaope Bay draw in the snorkel crowds.
It is another one of Hawaii’s beaches that receives protection from its natural surroundings (boulder walls made from lava rocks) from big swell, and seems to hardly see any wave action.
Getting there:
Easy enough to reach via maps, Honokaope Bay is located within the Mauna Lani Resort and is 47 kilometers from Kona.
From Kona, travel about 35 minutes on Highway 19, headed towards Mauna Lani Drive.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Most of the snorkeling is done around the bay’s edges. Here, look out for schools of fish, and green sea turtles are known to swim on by.
Other tips:
Fun fact: The darker the sand, the hotter it becomes. Make sure to bring flip-flops or aqua shoes not only for the piping hot beach sand in summer but for your snorkeling expedition too.
The lava rocks can be sharp, so take precautions when entering the bay.
8 – Anaehoʻomalu Bay
The busy Anaehoomalu Bay (shortened to A-Bay) is loved by tourists, whether you’re a guest at one of the beachfront resorts here or just a traveler passing by.
This is probably because the beach is well set up, and unlike some secluded snorkeling beaches around Big Island, there are snorkel rental shops right here — so there’s no need to worry about bringing your own gear along.
It’s mega favored for water sports like canoeing, SUPing or total beginner surfers wanting to practice their balance on flat water.
Getting there:
Located between the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort and Lava Lava Beach Club Cottages, from Kona it’s a half an hour’s drive away. Driving on Highway 19, take the turn at Waikoloa Beach Drive. At the beach, there is public parking and the beach is right in front.
Reaching the snorkel site:
For the best snorkel conditions, head to A-Bay early in the morning before the crowds arrive and water activities stir up the waters. Because the bay is so shallow, it becomes easily clouded with sand particles.
The right-hand side of the beach has more underwater worlds on display and many native Hawaiian fish swim in this part of the bay. Try spotting the blue parrot fish, yellow trumpet and the triggerfish!
Take note, that the further out you swim from this section, the clearer the ocean becomes.
Other tips:
Due to its popularity for swimming, snorkeling, as well as a bunch of water sports like kayaking and SUPing, the busy waters are always tumbling with sand.
In comparison to some of the other beaches along the Kona Coast, there are snorkel opportunities, but it’s not always clear waters here.
You’ll be happy to know there’s a beach restaurant too, and the Kahapapa and Ku’uali’i fish ponds are right by Anaehoomalu Bay.
9 – Manini’owali Beach
Kua Bay, or Manini’owali Beach as it’s officially called, has the softest sands and those island-blue waters you dream about from travel postcards.
The beach itself sports a stretch of white sand and beach boulders cluster around both ends, as well as in the ocean. They become more exposed the lower the tides get, creating rockeries and natural tidal pools.
Famous for its oceana that could remind you of a swimming pool — it gets that clear — it’s a great spot for turtle spotting too.
Getting there:
Looking for a beach to visit but don’t want to drive too far? A convenient 20 minutes from Kona, Manini’owali Beach is a straightforward drive along Highway 19.
Keep a look out for the Kua Bay turn between mile markers 88 and 89 and follow this. The beach parking lot is across from the West Hawaii Veteran’s Cemetery.
Kona International Airport is only an 11-minute drive from this beach.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Toward the north side of Kua Bay is the best part of the beach for snorkeling. North Pacific fish, sea turtles, spotty Hawaiian eagle rays, reef sharks and dolphins swim the waters around here.
Other tips:
Whilst there is a beach restroom, and sometimes the occasional food truck, there are no other public facilities. Bring supplies like umbrellas (for shade), water, food, snorkel equipment and anything else you might need.
Mornings are the best time for snorkeling and chilling and steer clear of jellyfish known to make the odd appearance after a full moon.
10 – Manta Heaven
By day it’s known as Garden Eel Cove because of all of the garden eels to see around this popular snorkel and scuba diving site, and by night it’s named Manta Heaven. Any guesses why?
One of the most cherished snorkel expeditions that travelers come to experience is Big Island’s manta ray snorkeling tours. The ideal time to see manta rays is in fact, evening, and Manta Heaven is one of the best places for nighttime snorkel adventures.
Getting there:
Not only an incredible activity, Manta Heaven is also super close to Kona; precisely a 13-minute drive. Situated offshore, the dive and snorkel site is officially a part of Makako Bay.
As one of the most popular Big Island snorkeling spots, there are multiple manta ray snorkeling tours at Manta Heaven, and each option offers varying departure points.
Reaching the snorkel site:
To experience the magic, the action happens from out at sea, and a boat will transport you here. Holding onto a light board raft, you will snorkel on the surface where underwater dive lights shine to attract the rays.
During the daytime, the area explodes with garden eels and goatfish.
Other tips:
Take extra precaution during night tours and although Hawaii boasts year-round warm weather, water temperatures are cooler in the winter months in the evening.
11 – Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park
Hardly anybody in sight, untouched natural scenery and sea turtle spotting … What more could you ask for in an idyllic snorkel location?
The Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park has a few beaches within easy access for snorkeling, especially if small and secluded is your vibe.
Discover a mini sandy area at peaceful Ai’opio Beach, and the waterfront has some lava rock formations — so, take care. Kids can swim in beach coves, created as part of the national park’s fish pond system.
Getting there:
Located on the west coast of Big Island, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is just outside of Kona and from town, is a seven-minute drive only. Heading north, stay on Highway 19.
Once you reach the park, drive towards the harbor until you reach the parking lot. The beach is a short distance walk from here.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Spot turtles big and small very close to the beach often wandering up onto the shore at Ai’opio Beach. On that note, be respectful of the magnificent creatures. If one appears too far up the beach, do not touch them and if it looks troubled, notify the park office.
Other tips:
Wear water shoes. You will have to cross rocky areas from the shore to reach the reef.
Bring all supplies from snorkel gear to refreshments, umbrellas for shade, etc.
12 – Honokohau Harbor Beach
Honokohau Beach is another beach to visit within the Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park, and different from Ai’opio, there is more sand space to chill on. The ocean always appears serene and laden with outstretching palms, this beach has a deserted tropical island feel.
Getting there:
From Kona, Kaloko-Honokōhau National Historical Park is very close by. Drive five kilometers along Highway 19 until you reach the south entrance.
Between mile markers 97 and 98, turn at the sign for Honokōhau Small Boat Harbor. There is a National Park sign to point you in the direction of the beaches.
Reaching the snorkel site:
The snorkeling at Honokohau Beach is great thanks to its calm waters, suitable for many. But, to reach the snorkel sites you have to swim over a low, rocky area of ocean reef directly in front of the beach sands … Take caution.
The reef’s positioning does, however, help protect the waters around from strong tides, aiding in keeping the ocean flat.
Other tips:
As the reef is so close to the entry point (directly from the shore), be careful when you’re making your way over it. Make sure you don’t step on any sharp points, plus standing on the reef is not recommended.
Don’t forget, corals are living organisms. If you trod on coral beds, you can damage the species.
13 – Pawai Bay
You could say Pawai Bay is somewhat of a local hidden gem … Not many tourists know about this snorkel spot, and often boat tours bring travelers to the waters in front of the bay for the action.
The beach isn’t overly popular, so crowds are usually next to nothing. Beware the lava pools in front of the beach as sea urchins inhabit the beds around here. If you stand on an urchin, it’s an extremely painful experience and medical attention will be required.
Getting there:
Not far from Kona on the northern side, Pawai Bay can be reached via a walking trail. Boat tours are more popular, as they drop snorkelers right in front of the bay.
Reaching the snorkel site:
The best snorkeling is past the tidal pools. Pretend to be a mermaid or merman as eagle rays or sea turtles glide on by. Closer to the lava rockeries you can explore bright coral, urchins and other creatures that live in between the crevices.
Other tips:
Having to pass the tidal pools can be quite tricky. Often snorkel enthusiasts opt for a boat tour to Pawai Bay instead. You will reach the bay from the ocean side, hopping into the waters surrounding the beach bay from the boat.
If you are entering the bay from the shore, navigate the rocks on either side of the beach, and hop off from one of these.
14 – King Kam (Kamakahonu) Beach
Calling all families in Kona, Kamakahonu Beach provides fantastic snorkel opportunities for tots and younger children.
More like a lagoon than your typical seaside spot, thanks to the makeup of King Kam Beach (as it is also called), it feels like you’re in a natural swimming pool, rather than the ocean.
With no waves in sight, it’s ideal for beginner snorkelers too. Dubbed “Children’s Beach”, there are snorkel gear rentals available down here.
Getting there:
Super convenient to get to, it’s in the middle of Kona making it one of the favored snorkeling spots on the big island. Drive to the Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel and Kamakahonu Beach is between the hotel and Kailua Pier.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Straight from the beach you can enter the bay waters and begin snorkeling. The best snorkeling is on the right-hand side of the bay, away from the pier. At a distance from boating action, the ocean stays clear and tropical fish swim happily.
Other tips:
It’s also popular for water activities like kayaking and SUPing, so be aware of canoes and boards while underwater.
This can also sometimes stir up visibility. Arrive at King Kam early to avoid crowded and busy waters.
15 – Magic Sands Beach
Snorkeling, surfing and swimming, what more could you ask for in the ultimate beach day? If you’re hunting down an oceanic destination to spend the day with a bunch of mates, or the family, Magic Sands Beach could be what you’re looking for.
Sheltered by a reef, when it’s low tide there is fabulous snorkeling to be done at this beach comprising part of La’aloa Bay.
Why named Magic Sands? Some winter nights when the tide rolls in it engulfs the entire beach and you can no longer see any sand. By the morning when the waters lower and pull back out to sea, the sandy beach reappears.
There are also more beach boulders exposed in wintertime.
Getting there:
From the south of Kona, Magic Sands Beach is a straightforward 10-minute journey. Headed from Kona, turn onto Ali‘i Drive until you reach the beach.
Reaching the snorkel site:
On both ends of the strip are lava rocks providing great snorkeling. To the south side, hunt down a tiny ocean cove.
Other tips:
For the best conditions, arrive at Magic Sands Beach early on in the day when the tide is still low, and the swell is calm.
This area has picnic tables, showers, restrooms, and a lifeguard on duty.
Feeling peckish after your water expeditions? There are restaurants close by, or sometimes local food trucks open shop in the parking lot.
16 – Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Favored by surfers on Big Island, if you’re in the south and find yourselves beach hopping from one spot to the next, add Kahaluʻu Beach Park to your snorkel list.
When there’s no promise of swell, the waters remain relatively subdued. It’s at this time you can meet the marine life that lives in these parts. It’s a popular beach for a day outing, littered with people sunbathing, building sandcastles and water activities.
Getting there:
Nice and close by, Kahaluʻu Beach is a casual 12-minute drive from Kona along Ali‘i Drive.
Reaching the snorkel site:
There are many rules in surf culture, and you don’t want to find yourself in the midst of breaking one of the unspoken commands.
Best keep to the left of the beach when you’re snorkeling at Kahaluʻu where the ocean is most placid. No waves equal no surfers.
Discover a plethora of tropical fish around the reef and rockeries, and bright young coral sprouting from nooks and crannies.
Other tips:
For the best chances to see the most fish, go snorkeling early in the morning. You might even spot a moray eel or octopus lurking around.
To enter many parts of the beach, you will need to adventure over slippery rocks. Wear supportive aqua shoes.
17 – Manta Village at Sheraton Kona resort
Here’s a special secret about Keauhou Bay — located on the south end of Big Island … The waters around here are the permanent home to squadrons of manta rays, who never leave to migrate.
Manta Village is a renowned location for snorkelers seeking the chance to get up close and personal with these wondrous sea gliders. It’s a traveler’s favorite when it comes to picking manta ray snorkeling tours.
Did you know that the best time to marvel at mantas is evenings? To snorkel at Manta Manta Village, you will need to join a boating expedition that begins just before sunset.
Getting there:
Located in Keauhou Bay, the Manta Manta Village snorkel spot is in front of the Sheraton Kona Resort Keauhou Bay. The best way to reach Manta Manta Village is to join a manta ray snorkel adventure where your captain guides you out to sea via boat.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Once you arrive at Manta Manta Village away from the shore, jump into the ocean all geared up and hold onto an inflatable raft. Looking below you, see reef manta rays cruising underneath, feeding on plankton.
The boat shines its own big sea light into the ocean which helps snorkelers to see the rays.
Other tips:
When it comes to manta spotting, oftentimes, for the best chances of seeing the rays, opt for a tour guide who knows the exact location instead of trying to do this activity on your own.
As it is nighttime, you need to take extra precautions.
18 – Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook)
Calling all adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts! If you’re searching for a full-day experience of sun, sea, sand and snorkeling, consider Kealakekua Bay. It’s not the easiest to reach and to get to the bay requires some trekking, but the views en route to the snorkel spot and the aquatic life around are totally worth it.
Not to fear, there are alternative ways to reach this snorkeling hotspot, for example, Kealakekua Bay tours where you’ll be chartered out to sea on a boat such as a luxurious catamaran. Gaining the nickname “Captain Cook”, it was in this exact bay that exchanges and conflicts took place between the British explorer and his fleet and the Hawaii island locals.
Getting there:
Heading south from Kona, drive around 30 minutes to the Captain Cook trail. Starting on Napo’opo’o Road, hike to Kealakekua Bay. Set aside two to four hours for trekking there and back (the hours vary depending on your fitness level).
Alternatively, the easiest way is to join a snorkel boat tour to Kealakekua Bay.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Given the title of the largest Marine Life Conservation Districts in Hawaii, the marine life to see around these waters is rich and diverse, as well as home to the playful and cute spinner dolphins.
Snap underwater photos of the luxuriant reef, boasting all different shapes and sizes of coral.
Other tips:
If you are hiking to Captain Cook, pack plenty of supplies like drinking water, snacks, sunblock, snorkel gear, towels and anything else you might need.
You can kayak to Kealakekua Bay but you will first need a permit to enter the conservation area.
19 – Two Step at Honaunua Bay
Swarms of bright yellow fish swimming past in schools or intelligent octopuses hiding in the shadows… It’s easy to inspect the underwater world at Two Step Beach (by Honaunau Bay) thanks to the sparkling crystal-clear ocean in this part of Big Island.
Speaking of, the color of the water at Honaunau Bay alone is enough to draw in the crowds. Lush Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park is located towards the left direction of Honaunau Bay if you’re keen on venturing to an ancient Hawaiian village afterward.
Getting there:
Driving roughly 35 kilometers on Highway 11, pass mile marker 104 and turn onto Highway 160. From here, the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park entrance is less than 5 minutes away.
There is a parking lot for Two Steps Beach just before the park entry point.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Another great destination to see spinner dolphins (in the early morning), to find the best snorkeling sites at Two Step Beach, climb past the lava rocks and enter the bay from here. (There is no real beach area.)
Beginner snorkelers stay close to the shoreline where the bay’s shallow reef blooms and tropical unicornfish, triggerfish, butterflyfish, rainbow runners, surgeonfish or parrotfish zoot past.
If this isn’t your first rodeo, there are other interesting parts of the bay to explore where you can swim a few meters down along the sea walls, reef canyons and channels with sea turtles.
Other tips:
Experienced snorkelers heading further out the bay, and to the left-hand side; the seabeds drop down the deeper you are. Make sure you’re always aware of your surroundings when snorkeling.
Best snorkeling spots along the Hilo Coast (Big Island East Coast)
While Hilo is famed for its abundance of waterfalls and nature trails, it’s hard not to find a beach close by on Big Island.
The island’s capital town is located on the east coast. Exploring this coastline brings travelers to many Big Island snorkeling spots close by to Hilo — reachable by car, or boat. Enjoy the laid-back vibes and slow island living on the Hilo Coast.
20 – Carlsmith Beach Park
“Jungle-island paradise” are some words that might spring to mind when you enter Carlsmith Beach Park.
Out of the two most popular beach and snorkel locations in Hilo, this natural locale comprises the second — Richardson’s Ocean Park is the other. It feels wild and ultra tropical down here, especially when the sun is shining and “Four Mile” is its nickname.
Getting there:
Probably the closest-to-town snorkeling opportunity you can get, travel in the exact same direction as Richardson’s along Kamehameha Avenue and Kalanianaole Street. Nine minutes is all it takes until you arrive at the parking bays at Carlsmith Beach Park.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Best described as a lagoon, wispy trees and coconut palms dot between the lava rocks and pools. When it’s sunny, the water is crystal clear, and it feels like you’re in a swimming pool, not the ocean. It’s perfect for young kids as the waters are always still and undisturbed by currents.
There’s even a built-in metal step entry into the flat waters. Green Hawaiian sea turtles are a common sight around here and in between the shallow coves, snorkel with all kinds of tropical fish.
Other tips:
The sea turtles are a protected marine species in Hawaii, please do not touch them and keep your distance if you see them on the beach or cruising around the rocks.
21 – Leleiwi Beach Park
Ditch the typical white sandy beaches and visit the interesting reefs and marine life down at Leleiwi Beach Park instead. Situated en route to Richardson’s (and just past Carlsmith Beach Park), add this next destination to your Hilo snorkel spot list.
Getting there:
It’s a one-minute drive from Richardson’s Ocean Park, and Hilo is 11-minutes away.
Reaching the snorkel site:
The low lava formations scattering the snorkel site create tiny bays to swim and go snorkeling. Discover little coves underwater filled with a treasury of tropical fish, as well as green sea turtles swimming in the waters.
Other tips:
There is literally zero surf here and the waters are super placid. It’s another great option for children and amateur snorkelers.
22 – Richardson’s Ocean Park
Booming Richardson’s Ocean Park is one of the most-loved beaches on this side of the island, and thanks to its on-site facilities, it’s preferred by tourists.
Ditching sandbanks for the day, the ocean park is dubbed as such for a reason, and there is no real classic beach. Instead, chill out on grassy areas behind the ocean. Like many of the beaches on Big Island, lava rocks form natural tidal pools at Richardson’s, creating snorkeling opportunities among them.
Fascinatingly, there are freshwater spring ponds near the beach that flow into the tidal pools. Protected by the rock formations, there are no strong currents and the waters remain flat.
Getting there:
Located in south Hilo, the beach is a quick 10-minute drive just outside of town. Driving from downtown Hilo, reach the snorkel site via Kalanianaʻole Street.
Reaching the snorkel site:
Most of the beach is littered with lava rocks and the shallow lagoon area is where the main snorkel action happens. There is a small sand patch where you can enter into the bay, but rocks still jut out from all angles here. This spot is especially popular for kids or beginner snorkelers.
Larger rocks form on either side of the main tidal pool and are also popular for snorkeling. You can jump into the ocean from these rocks too but take caution. Look out for tropical fish, sea turtles, and in whale season from December to April, look into the distance for the majestic creatures during their migration.
Other tips:
High tide can be tricky as the pools’ water level rises and rocks become completely covered. Be careful at this hour.
23 – Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
There are two main attractions at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach; the chance to snorkel with turtles and to see the volcanic dark-colored sands that make up the shoreline. The sand is actually bits of old lava.
Punalu’u is known for its stronger currents and is not as shielded as some of the other snorkel locations in Hilo. You can snorkel here when conditions are right, but there are also some great snorkeling spots close by.
Getting there:
As one of the furthest snorkel locations, it’s ideal for a day trip from Hilo, driving just over one hour from town. Traveling off Highway 11 towards Kona, make a turn onto Alanui Road (between mile markers 56 and 57).
Reaching the snorkel site:
If you thought other parts of Hilo had a flourishing of turtles, just wait until you see the dozens of hawksbill sea turtles and green sea turtles that live around Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.
During snorkel expeditions witness them nibbling on rock algae and seaweed as swarms of fish flit on by.
Other tips:
Bring water shoes — the sand gets super hot and to reach the best snorkeling you need to navigate rocks to reach water points.
Ninole Cove is another great snorkel spot, a two-minute drive from Punalu’u Black Sand Beach and just short of a ten-minute walk.
How to reach those snorkeling spots?
Big Island is a renowned snorkel destination. You’ll discover plenty of different companies offering snorkeling boat tours on the Big Island.
Using our TourScanner search engine, compare all of the varying tours, and their specifications and then decide on the one that best suits your vacation needs.
Consider booking your snorkel tour early, before arriving on Big Island. Especially during high season, snorkel expeditions fill up fast as it’s one of the most popular things to do on Big Island.
Final thoughts
If it’s always been your dream to snorkel with turtles and all sorts of tropical fish imaginable, you couldn’t have picked a more idyllic destination.
As you can see, the options are plentiful, so choose a Big Island snorkeling spot that fits you. Do you have a favorite snorkel location on Big Island? Let us know in the comments, we’d love to hear.
Happy snorkeling under the sea!