Your 2025 Big Island Hawaii Snorkeling Map: 6 Best Spots

The Big Island of Hawaii is an underwater enthusiast's dream, a volcanic wonderland fringed by coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. But knowing exactly where to dip your fins can be the difference between a good day and an unforgettable one. This guide is your ultimate Big Island Hawaii snorkeling map, detailing the island's most spectacular underwater spots, from the historic Kealakekua Bay to the accessible shores of Kahalu'u Beach Park. We go beyond just names, providing insider tips on access, what you'll see, and how to make the most of your adventure.

We have curated a list of must-visit locations that cater to every type of snorkeler, whether you are a beginner looking for calm waters or an expert seeking a unique marine encounter. This resource is designed to be your practical field guide.

Get ready to explore crystal-clear waters, swim alongside graceful sea turtles (honu), and witness the dazzling biodiversity that makes Hawaiian snorkeling a world-class experience. We'll show you precisely where to go and what to expect, ensuring you can confidently plan your underwater journey across the magnificent Kona and Kohala coasts.

1. Kealakekua Bay

Often hailed as the definitive snorkeling destination on the Big Island, Kealakekua Bay is a protected Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) that offers an unparalleled underwater experience. This historic bay, where Captain James Cook first landed in 1778, is not just a site of cultural significance but a thriving marine sanctuary. Its remote location and protected status have allowed its coral gardens and aquatic populations to flourish, making it a must-visit spot on any Big Island snorkeling map.

The bay's pristine conditions, often featuring visibility exceeding 100 feet, create a crystal-clear window into a vibrant ecosystem. Snorkelers are frequently greeted by vast schools of colorful reef fish, playful spinner dolphins, and graceful sea turtles. The area around the Captain Cook Monument on the northern shore is particularly rich with life.

Why It Stands Out

Kealakekua Bay's combination of historical importance, exceptional water clarity, and sheer density of marine life sets it apart. The calm, sheltered waters make it suitable for snorkelers of varying skill levels, from beginners to seasoned free divers. Its reputation is backed by features in numerous documentaries and consistent top ratings from tourism authorities. For a visual preview of what awaits, the video below captures the bay's serene beauty.

How to Access Kealakekua Bay

Accessing the prime snorkeling area near the monument is the main challenge, as it is not reachable by car. There are three primary ways to get there:

• Boat or Kayak Tour: This is the most popular and recommended method. Licensed tour operators provide easy access and all necessary gear. For guided experiences in this historic bay, discover the best Kealakekua Bay snorkeling tours available.
• Kayak Rental: You can rent a kayak and paddle across the bay yourself. Note that you must have a permit to land your kayak at Kaʻawaloa, the area near the monument.
• Strenuous Hike: A challenging 3.8-mile round-trip hike on the Kaʻawaloa Trail leads down to the monument. This route is steep and rocky, requiring sturdy footwear, ample water, and good physical condition.

This quick reference box highlights the key data that makes Kealakekua a world-class snorkeling site.

These metrics underscore why the bay is a protected sanctuary and a top destination for marine enthusiasts. To get a deeper dive into the specifics of visiting the famous monument, you can learn more about snorkeling at the Captain Cook Monument.

2. Honaunau Bay (Two Step)

Affectionately nicknamed "Two Step" for its natural lava rock ledges that form two convenient steps into the ocean, Honaunau Bay is a snorkeler's paradise. Located adjacent to the culturally rich Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, this bay offers some of the most accessible and rewarding snorkeling on the Big Island. The protected cove features exceptionally calm and clear water, making it a prime location on any Big Island Hawaii snorkeling map, especially for beginners and families.

The bay is renowned for its vibrant coral gardens that start just a few feet from the entry point and extend into deeper waters. Its pristine conditions support a dazzling array of marine life. It's common to encounter large pods of spinner dolphins resting in the bay, vibrant schools of yellow tang, and, most famously, the beloved Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) gliding effortlessly through the water.

Why It Stands Out

Honaunau Bay's primary appeal is the combination of easy access and world-class marine biodiversity. Unlike more remote spots, you can simply park your car and be in the water within minutes. The bay’s bath-like clarity and gentle conditions make it an inviting environment for snorkelers of all ages and abilities. The shallow areas are perfect for novices, while the deeper sections further out provide a more expansive playground for experienced free divers. Its consistent top ratings in travel guides and popularity with local snorkeling schools testify to its quality.

How to Access Honaunau Bay

Getting to Two Step is straightforward, as it's directly accessible by car. It is located just south of Kealakekua Bay, off Highway 160 (Keala o Keawe Road).

• Parking: A small, informal parking area is available right next to the bay. It fills up very quickly, so arriving early (before 9 AM) is crucial to secure a spot.
• Entry: The "two steps" are a series of flat lava rock shelves on the right side of the bay, providing a simple entry and exit point. Water shoes are highly recommended for navigating the surrounding lava rock.
• Respect the Area: Remember that this is a sacred and delicate place. Do not stand on or touch the coral, and always maintain a respectful distance (at least 10 feet) from sea turtles and other marine wildlife. The area is part of the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, so it's essential to follow all park rules and show respect for the cultural heritage of the site.

3. Kailua-Kona Town Beaches

For snorkelers seeking ultimate convenience, the beaches directly within Kailua-Kona town offer surprisingly vibrant underwater worlds right in the heart of the Big Island's main tourist hub. Locations like Kamakahonu Beach, nestled beside the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, and the waters around the Kailua Pier provide instant snorkeling access without the need for a long drive. This makes them a prime feature on any "big island hawaii snorkeling map" for those with limited time or transportation.

While they may not boast the pristine isolation of a remote bay, these urban beaches are far from barren. Snorkelers can often spot a variety of reef fish, including yellow tangs, butterflyfish, and Moorish idols, congregating around the rocky areas. The calm, protected waters of Kamakahonu Beach are especially ideal for families with young children or first-time snorkelers looking to get their fins wet in a safe environment.

Why It Stands Out

The primary advantage of Kailua-Kona's town beaches is unparalleled accessibility. You can literally walk from your hotel, a local restaurant, or a souvenir shop and be in the water within minutes. This convenience is perfect for a quick, spontaneous snorkel session or for cruise ship passengers on a tight schedule. The proximity to amenities also means gear rentals, lessons, and post-snorkeling refreshments are just steps away.

The area is a hub for local snorkeling lesson providers who use the calm, predictable conditions to teach beginners. Early morning is the best time to go, as the water is typically clearer and calmer before the afternoon winds and crowds arrive. The blend of decent marine life and urban convenience makes it a uniquely practical choice.

How to Access Kailua-Kona Town Beaches

Access is the easiest of any spot on the island, as these beaches are centrally located in downtown Kailua-Kona.

• Kamakahonu Beach (King Kam Beach): Located next to the Kailua Pier and in front of the Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel. It's a small, sandy cove with very gentle entry. Paid public parking is available nearby.
• Kailua Pier: The area north of the pier is generally considered the best spot for snorkeling. Enter the water from Kamakahonu Beach and swim north, staying clear of any boat traffic lanes.
• Parking: Be prepared for metered street parking or paid lots. Bringing quarters for the meters is a good idea, though many now accept credit cards.

These urban spots prove that a fantastic snorkel adventure doesn't always require a long journey. To explore more about what these and other nearby shores have to offer, you can review this complete Kona snorkeling spots guide for additional details.

4. Kahalu'u Beach Park

Often celebrated as the ultimate family-friendly snorkeling spot on the Big Island, Kahaluʻu Beach Park is a wonderfully accessible and protected bay located just south of Kailua-Kona. Its defining feature is a large, ancient breakwater (kuapa) that creates a calm, shallow lagoon, making it an ideal classroom for beginners and a safe playground for children. The ease of access and abundance of marine life make it a vital point of interest on any Big Island Hawaii snorkeling map.

The park's sheltered conditions ensure that even on days with rougher surf, the inner bay remains tranquil. Snorkelers here are almost guaranteed close encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) that frequent the bay to feed on seaweed. A vibrant array of reef fish, including yellow tangs, parrotfish, and butterflyfish, thrive among the coral formations, offering a rich and colorful underwater display just steps from the shore.

Why It Stands Out

Kahaluʻu Beach Park's strength lies in its incredible accessibility and suitability for all ages and skill levels. Unlike more remote locations, it offers full facilities, including lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions. The consistent presence of turtles and dense fish populations in shallow water means you don't have to venture far for a rewarding experience. It is a location frequently highlighted in family travel guides and used by local instructors for snorkeling lessons due to its safe, predictable environment.

How to Access Kahalu'u Beach Park

This is one of the easiest snorkeling sites to access on the Kona coast, with no tours, hikes, or kayaks required.

• Driving: Located directly off Aliʻi Drive, the main coastal road in Kona, the park has a dedicated parking lot. However, its popularity means the lot fills up quickly.
• Kona Trolley: The Keauhou-Kona Trolley makes a convenient stop directly at the beach park, offering a hassle-free alternative to driving and parking.
• On-site Rentals: A concession stand right at the beach offers snorkel gear rentals, lessons, and reef-safe sunscreen, making it easy for visitors to show up and get in the water.

This quick reference box highlights the key data that makes Kahaluʻu a premier snorkeling site for families and beginners.

Kahaluʻu Beach Park Quick Facts

• Water Entry: Easy, sandy entry
• Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Marine Life: Very high density of reef fish, high probability of sea turtles
• Facilities: Full (restrooms, showers, lifeguards, pavilions)
• Crowd Level: High

These metrics underscore why the park is so popular and well-managed for a safe and enjoyable experience. To ensure the continued health of this precious ecosystem, volunteers from the Kahaluʻu Bay Education Center are often on-site to educate visitors on reef etiquette and conservation.

5. Mauna Kea Beach

Situated along the idyllic Kohala Coast, Mauna Kea Beach (also known as Kaunaʻoa Bay) is a picture-perfect crescent of white sand that consistently earns its place among the world's best beaches. More than just a sunbather's paradise, this location offers a refined and accessible snorkeling experience, making it a key destination on any Big Island Hawaii snorkeling map. Its clear, turquoise waters and well-protected conditions provide an excellent environment for observing Hawaii's vibrant underwater world.

The bay's gentle slope and sandy bottom make entry easy, while the rocky outcrops at the northern and southern ends of the beach host thriving coral formations. Here, snorkelers can encounter a diverse array of marine life, including schools of butterflyfish, tangs, wrasses, and the occasional Green Sea Turtle (Honu) gliding gracefully through the water. The exceptional water clarity, often a hallmark of the Kohala Coast, ensures fantastic viewing opportunities.

Why It Stands Out

Mauna Kea Beach provides a unique combination of luxurious ambiance and natural splendor. The backdrop of the iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel adds an element of classic Hawaiian elegance to the experience. Unlike more rugged snorkeling spots, it offers excellent amenities and a pristine, well-maintained environment, making it ideal for families and those seeking comfort alongside adventure. Its reputation is solidified by its frequent appearance in luxury travel publications and "best beach" rankings.

How to Access Mauna Kea Beach

Access to Mauna Kea Beach is straightforward, though parking is intentionally limited to prevent overcrowding and maintain its serene atmosphere.

• Public Parking: A limited number of free public parking passes are available at the security gate of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel. Arrive very early (before 8:00 AM) to secure a spot, as they are given out on a first-come, first-served basis. Once the lot is full, no more day visitors are allowed.
• Best Snorkeling Areas: For the best snorkeling, head to the rocky points at either end of the bay. The southern end (to the left as you face the ocean) is often calmer and offers excellent coral gardens close to shore.
• Safety First: While generally calm, always check the surf report before entering the water, especially during winter swells. Water shoes are recommended for navigating the rocky entry points to the prime snorkeling areas.

This location is a highlight for visitors staying in the area. For a more comprehensive look at snorkeling opportunities nearby, you can find more information in this Waikoloa snorkeling guide.

6. Hapuna Beach

Consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world, Hapuna Beach is a stunning half-mile stretch of pristine white sand on the sunny Kohala Coast. While famous for sunbathing, swimming, and bodyboarding, it also offers a rewarding snorkeling experience, especially for those looking to combine a perfect beach day with underwater exploration. This spot on our Big Island Hawaii snorkeling map is ideal for families and groups with varying interests.

The primary snorkeling area is found along the rocky point at the northern end of the beach. Here, the underwater landscape shifts from sand to intriguing lava rock formations, creating habitats for a variety of marine life. While visibility can be affected by surf, on calm days, snorkelers can encounter larger fish species that prefer the more open, dynamic environment, including jacks (ulua), goatfish (weke), and various wrasses.

Why It Stands Out

Hapuna Beach excels as a multi-activity destination. It’s one of the few places where you can enjoy world-class beach amenities and still find quality snorkeling just a short walk away. The expansive sandy bottom provides a beautiful turquoise backdrop, and the presence of lifeguards adds a layer of safety not found at more remote snorkeling sites. Its reputation is cemented by its consistent appearance in top international travel publications as a must-visit Hawaiian destination.

How to Access Hapuna Beach

Hapuna Beach is a State Recreation Area and is easily accessible by car, with ample facilities, making it a convenient choice for visitors.

• Driving: Located off Highway 19 north of Kailua-Kona, the beach has a large, paved parking lot. An entrance fee is charged for non-residents, so be prepared with a credit card for payment at the automated kiosk.
• Best Snorkeling Area: Once you are on the sand, walk north (to your right) towards the rocky outcropping that separates Hapuna from its smaller neighbor, Waialea Beach (Beach 69). Enter the water from the sandy area near the rocks for the easiest access.
• Check Conditions: Always check with the on-duty lifeguards about the current ocean conditions before entering the water, especially near the rocks where surf can be stronger. They can provide the most accurate safety advice for the day.

Top 6 Big Island Snorkeling Spots Comparison

Making Your Snorkel Adventure Unforgettable

You now hold the key to unlocking the Big Island’s premier underwater realms. This guide and your interactive big island hawaii snorkeling map are more than just a list of locations; they are a blueprint for crafting an unforgettable aquatic journey. From the sacred waters of Kealakekua Bay, teeming with life around the Captain Cook monument, to the easy, reliable entry at Honaunau Bay’s "Two Step," you have a curated selection of the island's best.

We’ve explored the convenient, family-friendly shores of Kailua-Kona and the turtle sanctuary at Kahalu'u Beach Park. We’ve also uncovered the pristine, white-sand entry points of the Kohala Coast at Mauna Kea Beach and Hapuna Beach. Each location offers a distinct personality and a unique ecosystem waiting to be discovered. The true value lies not just in visiting these spots, but in understanding how to approach each one for the best and safest experience.

Your Action Plan for an Epic Snorkel Trip

Mastering your Big Island snorkeling adventure comes down to preparation and respect. Before you even touch the water, make your plan.

• Review the Map Daily: Use your big island hawaii snorkeling map as a dynamic tool, not a static checklist. Check morning surf reports and weather forecasts for your chosen destination. Conditions can change rapidly, and a calm bay yesterday might be turbulent today.
• Prioritize a Safety-First Mindset: The "buddy system" is non-negotiable. Never snorkel alone, and always communicate your plan with someone on shore. Be aware of your physical limits and don’t push yourself too far from your entry point, especially in areas with potential currents.
• Embrace the Role of Guardian: Your interaction with the marine environment has a lasting impact. The most crucial practice is to be an observer. Maintain a respectful distance from all marine life, especially sea turtles (honu) and dolphins (nai'a). Never touch coral, as it is a living, fragile animal. Apply your reef-safe sunscreen at least 20-30 minutes before entering the water to ensure it's effective and doesn't immediately wash off into the ecosystem.

For a clearer view of the water's surface and to protect your eyes from the intense Hawaiian sun, consider your eyewear. Understanding how polarized sunglasses enhance your travel experience can make a significant difference, cutting through the glare so you can spot marine life even before you get in.

By following these guidelines, you transform from a simple tourist into a conscientious explorer. You're not just seeing the sights; you are actively participating in their preservation. This mindful approach ensures that the vibrant coral gardens and the diverse marine creatures you encounter will continue to thrive for generations of adventurers to come. Your journey into Hawaii's underwater world is a privilege, and with this knowledge, you are fully equipped to make it a safe, respectful, and truly memorable expedition.

Ready to experience the world-renowned Kealakekua Bay without the hassle? Let the experts at Kona Snorkel Trips guide you on their small-group tours to see the Captain Cook monument, vibrant coral reefs, and pods of spinner dolphins. Book your adventure today and let them handle all the details for a perfect day on the water.