Big Island Snorkeling Guide
The Ultimate Snorkeling Experience: Beyond the Surface
Written by an Ocean Expert
Kalani MillerA Snorkeler's Paradise Shaped by Fire and Water
The Big Island is a snorkeler's paradise. The coastline is shaped by fire and water and has created some of the most vibrant underwater ecosystems in the state. From calm, protected coves teeming with fish to dramatic lava rock landscapes, there's a spot for every skill level. But the key to a great experience is knowing where to go and what to expect.
Getting Your Gear - Rent or Buy?
This is a common question, and the answer depends on your plans. If you plan to snorkel multiple times, buying your own mask is a fantastic investment. A mask that fits your face perfectly without leaking is the single most important piece of gear for an enjoyable day. You can easily rent fins and snorkels to save on luggage space. Renting a full set is also a great, cost-effective option for a one-time outing.
🏪 Kona Rental Shops
- • Snorkel Bob's - Popular choice
- • Boss Frog's - $12/day or $42/week
- • Kona Boys - $24/day or $59/week
- • Aliʻi Adventures - $16/day or $33/week
🌴 Hilo Rental Shops
- • Hilo Ocean Adventures - mask/snorkel $15/day
- • Hulakai on the bayfront - full set $20/day
- • Limited options but quality gear available
Pro Tip: The most pristine and vibrant reefs, like those at Kealakekua Bay, are often the hardest to access. Conversely, the most popular and easily accessible spots, like Kahaluʻu Bay, are under the most environmental pressure from human impact. This underscores our kuleana (responsibility) as visitors and residents.
ℹ️ Quick Info
- Best Time: Morning
- Visibility: Up to 100ft
- Water Temp: 75-82°F
- Top Spots: 7 locations
🏆 Top 7 Spots
Captain Cook Monument
Two Step
Family-friendly
Kaunaʻoa Bay
Advanced only
Boat tour only
Hilo side
🧭 More Water Activities
✍️ About the Author
Ocean Expert
A lifelong ocean enthusiast and cultural storyteller dedicated to sharing the Big Island's water activities responsibly and authentically.
Top 7 Big Island Snorkeling Spots
Each of these spots offers a unique window into the Big Island's underwater world. Here's my breakdown of the best of the best.
1. Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)
Access:
This is the bay's best-kept secret and its biggest challenge. The pristine snorkeling area around the monument is not accessible by car. You have three choices: a strenuous 1.9-mile hike down a hot, exposed trail with a 1,300-foot elevation change; kayaking across the bay (note: you need a permit and cannot land your vessel); or taking a boat tour, which is the easiest and most popular option.
Skill Level:
Beginner to Intermediate. The bay itself is a Marine Life Conservation District and is exceptionally calm and protected, like a giant swimming pool. The challenge is in the access.
★ Best snorkeling in the entire state
What You'll See:
Arguably the best snorkeling in the entire state. The protected status means the coral reef is vibrant and the fish are plentiful, colorful, and unafraid of humans. Visibility can be up to 100 feet. Spinner dolphins (naiʻa) frequently use the bay to rest.
💡 Insider Tip:
I've seen many ambitious people regret the hike back up from the monument in the midday sun. For 99% of visitors, a boat tour with an operator like Fair Wind or Sea Paradise is the best way to experience the bay's magic without the exhaustion. The afternoon tours are often less crowded.
2. Honaunau Bay (Two Step)
Access:
Easy shore access right next to the sacred Puʻuhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Parking is very limited along the one-way road or in a small paid lot ($5 cash), so arriving before 9 AM is crucial.
Water Entry:
The spot gets its name from two natural lava rock steps used for entry. It's an iconic Big Island experience, but can be tricky with ocean surge. Time your entry with a rising wave and be careful of wana (sea urchins) in the rock crevices (pukas).
🐢 Frequent turtle sightings
What You'll See:
A stunningly healthy and diverse coral reef in 10-15 feet of water. Expect huge schools of yellow tang, parrotfish, and frequent sightings of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) resting in the small canyons.
🌺 Insider Tip:
This is a perfect two-for-one adventure. Spend the morning absorbing the powerful history and culture at the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau park. Then cool off with a world-class snorkel right next door. It's a quintessential South Kona day.
3. Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Access:
The most accessible high-quality snorkeling in Kona. Located right on Aliʻi Drive with a parking lot (fee for non-residents), lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic pavilions.
Skill Level:
Perfect for Beginners and Families. An ancient Hawaiian breakwall (loko iʻa) shelters the bay. This creates a calm, shallow, and safe environment ideal for children and first-time snorkelers.
👨👩👧👦 #1 for families
What You'll See:
It's like swimming in an aquarium. The fish population is massive, tame, and incredibly diverse for such an accessible spot. Honu are almost always present, munching on seaweed just a few feet from shore.
🏫 Insider Tip:
This is my number one recommendation for families with keiki (children). The on-site Kahalʻu Bay Education Center has "Reef Teachers" who can teach you about the marine life and how to protect it. Please listen to them. This bay is precious and fragile.