Snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii offers a truly remarkable and immersive experience in the island’s vibrant underwater world. With its pristine waters, diverse marine life, and stunning coral reefs, the Big Island is a paradise for snorkelers.
With its abundant marine life, clear waters, and diverse snorkeling spots, the Big Island of Hawaii offers an unforgettable snorkeling adventure for nature enthusiasts and underwater explorers. Dive in and immerse yourself in the wonders of this tropical paradise. Here are some of the top snorkeling spots to explore:
Kealakekua Bay: Located on the Kona Coast, Kealakekua Bay is a marine sanctuary and one of the most popular snorkeling destinations on the Big Island. The bay is home to an array of colorful fish, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. Snorkelers can access the bay by boat or by hiking down the Captain Cook Monument trail.
Honaunau Bay (Two Step): Situated within Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, Honaunau Bay is known for its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The bay features a unique entry point known as “Two Step,” where you can easily access the water via two natural steps formed in the lava rock. Snorkelers can encounter diverse marine life, including tropical fish and green sea turtles.
Kahaluu Beach Park: Located in Kailua-Kona, Kahaluu Beach Park is a popular snorkeling spot that offers a sheltered bay with calm waters. The beach park provides easy access to the water, and the shallow areas are teeming with colorful fish, making it a great spot for beginners and families.
Puako Bay: Situated on the Kohala Coast, Puako Bay is a hidden gem for snorkelers. The bay is home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and occasionally dolphins. The shoreline is rocky, so it’s recommended to wear water shoes for easier entry into the water.
Makaiwa Bay (Mauna Lani Beach): Located near the Mauna Lani Resort, Makaiwa Bay offers a pristine snorkeling experience. The bay is known for its calm and clear waters, making it an ideal spot to observe a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, turtles, and occasionally manta rays.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach: Situated on the southeastern coast of the Big Island, Punalu’u Beach is famous for its unique black sand. While the beach is not known for its extensive coral reefs, it offers the opportunity to snorkel alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles, which often frequent the area.
When snorkeling on the Big Island, it’s important to prioritize safety and respect the marine environment. Always check local weather and ocean conditions before heading out, wear reef-safe sunscreen, and refrain from touching or standing on the coral to protect this delicate ecosystem. Additionally, consider snorkeling with a buddy and using flotation devices if needed.
