Are you ready to discover the ideal snorkeling spots where you’ll find crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life? Welcome to your ultimate guide to the best snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii!
As someone who planned my entire Big Island trip itinerary around snorkeling, I’ve visited many of the popular spots and learned which ones are absolutely worth visiting and which ones you can skip
In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations and essential tips to make sure you have the best snorkeling experience possible. Whether you’re looking to snorkel with sea turtles, manta rays, or explore unique underwater landscapes, I’m here to help you discover them all on Hawaii’s largest island.
- ⭐ Overview of Top 7 Big Island Snorkel Spots
- Top 7 Spots for Snorkeling on Big Island of Hawaii
- Additional Snorkeling Spots on the Big Island
- Places to Skip Snorkeling on the Big Island
- The Best Snorkeling Tours on the Big Island
- Tips for Snorkeling Big Island
- Example Snorkeling Itinerary
- Best Place to Stay on the Big Island for Snorkeling
- FAQ: Big Island, Hawaii Snorkeling
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⭐ Overview of Top 7 Big Island Snorkel Spots
All of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island are found on the Kona side of the island. Of the many beaches along the island’s west coast, here are the best of the best for snorkeling:
- Kealakekua Bay – #1 spot for best snorkeling on the Big Island, featuring the Captain Cook Monument, vibrant marine life, and high probability of dolphin sightings.
- Pawai Bay – open-water snorkeling and a hidden gem on the island
- Hapuna Beach – best all-around beach on the Big Island
- Kauna’oa (Mauna Kea) Beach – second best Big Island beach that’s connected to Hapuna
- Honaunau Bay (Two Step Beach) – no-frills snorkeling spot near Kealakekua Bay with great snorkeling conditions
- Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) – best snorkeling beach near Kekaha Kai State Park
- Kahalu’u Beach Park – best snorkeling beach in downtown Kailua-Kona
Top 7 Spots for Snorkeling on Big Island of Hawaii
1. Kealakekua Bay
The #1 spot to snorkel on the Big Island is Kealakekua Bay. Located on the west coast of the island, this bay offers some of the clearest and calmest waters for snorkeling.
The main highlight of this area is the Captain Cook Monument. The coral reefs here are thriving and you’ll see an abundance of tropical fish and other marine life. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a pod of dolphins swimming by.
To get to the monument, you can either (1) self-kayak, (2) take a boat tour, or (3) hike down to the bay from Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. Note that there is no beach access here, so be prepared to enter the water directly from your boat or via the rocky shoreline.While many tour companies provide snorkeling trips to this bay, I strongly suggest renting a kayak and kayaking Kealakekua Bay yourself. This gives you the freedom to spend as much time in the bay as you’d like and explore at your own pace. For reference, while the average amount of time people spend in Kealakekua is a couple of hours, we were there for 4!
🤿 SnorkelingHighlights: vibrant coral reefs & dolphin pods around the Captain Cook Monument
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: kayak, hike, tour
📍Address: Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park (location may change if you decide to take a tour)
🚻 Amenities: viewpoint area, picnic areas, water fountain, public restrooms (Nāpōʻopoʻo side of the beach park)
2. Pawai Bay
Pawai Bay is truly a hidden gem and Kealakekua Bay’s worthiest competitor. Both a culturally and ecologically significant spot, Pawai Bay is a protected marine sanctuary that is perfect for snorkeling.
As you explore the crystal-clear waters here, you’ll encounter vibrant schools of fish as well as open water creatures such as eels, tuna, octopuses, and maybe even a whale shark. The visibility in Pawai Bay is remarkable, allowing you to fully appreciate the underwater landscapes such as the lava arches and caves.
The only way to visit Pawai Bay is by tour. I highly recommend Kona Snorkel Trips because they are the most reputable tour operator that visits Pawai Bay and provides expert guidance so you can make the most out of your snorkeling experience.
🤿 SnorkelingHighlights: exceptional visibility and a unique underwater landscape featuring lava formations, which attract a diverse array of marine life including pelagic species rarely seen elsewhere.
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: by tour only
📍Address: Honokohau Harbor
3. Hapuna Beach
Up along the Kohala Coast, you’ll find the stunning Hāpuna Beach. Few places can rival the allure of the soft sand, tranquil waters, and breathtaking coastal vistas that await you at Hāpuna Beach. It’s also the largest white sand beach on the Big Island and many people (myself included) consider it the best of the Big Island beaches.
The best snorkeling spots at Hāpuna Beach are found on either side of the beach, close to the rocks that line the shore. My favorite is the right side, which provides excellent opportunities to find turtles alongside a colorful array of fish. If you decide to go left, you’ll need to swim a bit further out to reach the corals where you’ll find marine life.
🤿 Snorkeling Highlights: longest white sand beach & crystal-clear waters filled with active marine life including turtles
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: walkable from parking lot at Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
📍Address: Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area
🚻 Amenities: showers, restrooms, picnic tables, lifeguard
4. Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach
Mauna Kea Beach is another world-renowned beach. Located near Hapuna, Mauna Kea is a crescent-shaped white sand beach that is characterized by its tranquil, clear waters that are perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts.
The prime snorkeling spots are located at either end of the beach where you’ll find expansive coral reefs teeming with fish. We actually didn’t venture too far out as we spent most of our time in the middle of the beach, watching a shoal of fish swimming in circles.
🤿 Snorkeling Highlights: longest white sand beach & crystal-clear waters filled with active marine life including turtles
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: walkable from the paid parking lot at Mauna Kea Beach hotel; also accessible along the Ala Kahakai Historical Trail from Hapuna Beach
📍Address: Kaunaʻoa (Mauna Kea) Beach
🚻 Amenities: showers, restrooms, changing rooms, limited public parking (hotel property), food (hotel restaurant), rental equipment (hotel vendor)
5. Honaunau Bay (Two Step Beach)
Located near the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, Two Step Beach is another great snorkeling spot. The beach is in a protected bay so the waters are usually quite calm, making for clear snorkeling conditions.
From the parking area, you’ll find the lava rock beach where you can enter into the water. Once you’re in, it’s a short swim to get to the coral reef area where you’ll find a variety of colorful fish and a sign made from cement blocks that spell “aloha.”
🤿 Snorkeling Highlights: sea turtles, extensive coral reef, aloha sign
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: walkable from the parking lot; easy entry from a natural “two-step” lava rock
📍Address: Two Step Beach
🚻 Amenities: minimal (porta potties)
6. Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)
A bit farther from Kailua-Kona, Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) is worth the trip for its beautiful white sandy beach and clear waters.
As one of three beaches in Kekaha Kai State Park, Kua Bay is one that provides the best beach experience. Besides being a habitat for colorful marine life, its waters are clear, making it easy to spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and eagle rays (if you’re lucky).
Do note that the waves here can be strong, so it’s better suited to proficient swimmers.
🤿 Snorkeling Highlights: lots of marine life further out, including turtles and eagle rays
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: walking distance from parking lot
📍Address: Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay)
🚻 Amenities: restrooms, showers, lifeguards, picnic tables
7. Kahalu’u Beach Park
Conveniently located in downtown Kailua-Kona, Kahaluu Beach Park is famous for its tranquil, clear waters and diverse marine life. It’s an ideal spot for beginner snorkelers because there are plenty of fish close to shore.
Given its location, I suggest arriving early in the day for fewer crowds and better visibility. When we came in the afternoon, the visibility was poor and we saw few fish.
🤿 Snorkeling Highlights: perfect for beginners with plenty of fish right near the shore
🚣🏻♀️ How to Access: very accessible from downtown Kailua-Kona
📍Address: Kahalu’u Beach Park
🚻 Amenities: bathrooms, tables, lifeguard
Additional Snorkeling Spots on the Big Island
If you want more snorkeling options, here are 7 more spots to consider. Although the snorkeling here isn’t as remarkable as the ones mentioned above, they are excellent choices to consider. Most of these spots are along the Kohala Coast near Waikoloa though there are a couple in Kailua-Kona:
- 49 Black Sand Beach – located within the Mauna Lani Resort, 49 Black Sand Beach is a hidden gem with clear waters and plenty of marine life to explore. It’s also the only black sand beach on the Kohala Coast!
- Pau’oa Bay – also part of the Mauna Lani Resort, Pau’oa Bay has one of the healthiest coral reefs on the island that’s home to a variety of reef fish. Its calm waters also make it ideal for beginner snorkelers looking for a safer snorkeling environment.
- Mau’umae Beach – found between Spencer Beach Park and Mauna Kea, Mau’umae is a hidden gem that’s perfect if you’re looking for another white sand beach with great snorkeling but fewer crowds. Do note that there are no amenities here so plan accordingly.
- Spencer Beach Park – north of Mauna Kea Beach, you’ll find Spencer Beach Park. This is a popular spot for families and kids to snorkel as it has calm, shallow waters that are home to tropical fish and plenty of family-friend amenities.
- Beach 69 (Waialea Bay) – Beach 69 is the least frequented and spectacular of the Kohala Coast beaches. You can find great snorkeling but the water tends to be murky more frequently than other spots.
- King Kam (Kamakahonu Beach) – known for its convenience being just a minute’s drive from Kailua-Kona, this beach is a favorite among tourists and locals. Situated in Kailua Bay, King Kam Beach offers tranquil, clear waters where you can easily spot the usual reef fish.
- Keauhou Bay – located near the Outrigger Kona Resort (formerly the Sheraton), Keauhou Bay ranks as one of the top 3 destinations for manta ray snorkeling in Kona. During the daytime, you can enjoy solid snorkeling here with a variety of fish species.
Places to Skip Snorkeling on the Big Island
- Magic Sands Beach Park: There is no snorkeling at Magic Sand Beach. I recommend skipping this beach and spending your time at other more scenic and relaxing beaches on the Big Island.
- Kekaha Kai State Beach, Mahaiula Beach, & Makalawena Beach: While Manini’owali Beach is ideal for snorkeling, the neighboring beaches by Kekaha Kai State Park are not as good. Focus your snorkeling activities at Manini’owali and enjoy the tranquility of Makalawena.
- Kukio Beach: Found in the residential vicinity near Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, Kukio Beach is better suited for relaxation rather than snorkeling.
- Kiholo Bay: Although Kiholo Bay is stunning, it is not recommended for snorkeling due to high winds and strong waves.
- Richardson Ocean Park: While this is hailed as the best snorkeling beach on Hilo, I suggest skipping this one and saving your time for the better spots on the island – all of which are on the Kona side.
The Best Snorkeling Tours on the Big Island
If you’re looking for a hassle-free snorkeling experience, then I highly recommend booking a snorkel tour. I’m not typically one for tours but snorkel tours on the Big Island have a few advantages including access to secluded or hard-to-reach locations as well as knowledgeable guides who will help you interact in a way that’s safe and sustainable for the environment.
Here are the top tours that are highly recommended and led by reputable tour operators who are committed to marine preservation:
- Morning Kealakekua Snorkel Tour or Afternoon Kealakekua Snorkel Tour– With a flawless 5-star rating and supported by 98% positive reviews, Fair Wind Cruises provides an exceptional snorkeling experience to Kealakekua Bay. This is a boat tour so you’ll be able to explore the bay above and below the water.
- Kayak Rental from Ehu and Kai – If you prefer to explore on your own, then renting a kayak is the way to go. Ehu and Kai offers affordable kayak rentals for exploring Kealakekua Bay with no time restrictions.
- Discover Pawai Afternoon Reef Snorkel – Kona Snorkel Trips stands out as the premier tour operator guiding groups to Pawai Bay.
- Snorkel with Manta Rays Guaranteed – Have an amazing manta ray snorkeling experience led by seasoned guides from Sea Paradise. This tour will take you to Keauhou Bay (“Manta Village”).
Tips for Snorkeling Big Island
- 🌅 Go in the morning. During the early morning hours, the water tends to be calmer and clearer, increasing your chances of seeing marine life.
- 🤿 Rent snorkel gear. There are lots of snorkeling rental options with top-notch gear. Of those, I highly suggest renting from Snorkel Bob’s. They’re affordable, centrally located, and offer prescription snorkeling masks for glasses wearers like me!
- 🤔 Limit beach visits to 1-2 per day. While it’s very tempting to visit as many beaches as possible, focusing on 1-2 ensures a more enjoyable experience as mornings and early afternoons are ideal for snorkeling.
- 🌊 Check weather and ocean conditions. Prior to heading out, do a quick check for beach conditions to avoid high surf or strong winds.
- 🐢 Respect the marine life. Please do not touch the sea creatures and avoid stepping on coral. I saw a girl at Hapuna Beach essentially harassing a turtle by repeatedly touching it. While no one will police your behavior, be mindful that you’re a guest in the animals’ habitat.
- 🧴 Wear reef-safe sunscreen. Help safeguard your skin and the environment by opting for biodegradable and reef-safe sunscreen.
Example Snorkeling Itinerary
If this is your first time to the Big Island, you’re likely looking to snorkel on top of visiting Volcanoes National Park and other areas of the island.
Assuming a week-long trip, you’ll want to allocate 3-4 days for snorkeling so that you have ample time to explore the aforementioned spots and do other things on the Big Island. Here’s a sample itinerary of what your snorkeling days would look like:
- Snorkeling Day 1: Start your Big Island snorkeling adventure either hiking, kayaking, or booking a tour to explore the famous Kealakekua Bay. In the afternoon, make the short drive to Two Step Beach where getting into the water is as simple as two steps off the lava rock shoreline.
- Day 2: Head to Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach in the morning to snorkel in the clear, turquoise waters. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the white sands before getting ready for a manta ray snorkeling tour in the evening.
- Day 3: Explore Pawai Bay with Kona Snorkel Trip.
- Day 4: Enjoy a flexible day ahead! Consider returning to the Kohala Coast to discover Manini’owali Beach (Kua Bay) or 49 Black Sand Beach or stay close to Kailua-Kona and venture to Kahalu’u Beach Park or King Kam (Kamakahonu Beach) for a delightful day of snorkeling.
Best Place to Stay on the Big Island for Snorkeling
When it comes to choosing the best place to stay on the Big Island for snorkeling, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to be on the west side of the island, as this is where all of the popular snorkeling spots are located. The east side (Hilo) does have a a a handful of spots but it’s honestly not worth staying in Hilo if snorkeling is your main priority.
The most central location is Kailua-Kona. From here, you can walk to the beaches located near downtown or take day trips to popular snorkeling spots like Kealakekua Bay and Two Step.
If you want a beach-heavy itinerary and looking to splurge, consider staying along the Kohala Coast in Waikoloa. This area is home to the island’s most stunning beaches like Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach, both of which are great spots for snorkeling and lounging around.
- TOP PICK: The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort (⭐️ 9.0) Located directly on Hapuna Beach, the Westin Hapuna offers the perfect combination of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. Definitely the priciest of all the hotel options but 100% worth it if you’re looking for the best place to stay on the Big Island for snorkeling.
- KAILUA-KONA ALTERNATIVE: Kona Coast Resort (⭐️ 8.6). Just a short drive from downtown Kona, this no-frills hotel offers spacious villas and easy access to Kahalu’u Beach Park, manta ray snorkeling tours departing from Keauhou Bay (“Manta Village”), and trips to Kealakekua Bay and Two Step. While the rooms are dated compared to high-end resorts, I love having access to a kitchen for the days where I don’t want to eat out.
FAQ: Big Island, Hawaii Snorkeling
When snorkeling on the Big Island, you can see a variety of marine life including colorful fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and even spinner dolphins. If you go further out into open water, you may even see pelagic creatures such as whale sharks, humpback whales, and tuna. The island’s warm waters also make it a great spot for coral reefs and other unique underwater formations.
The best time to go snorkeling on the Big Island is typically early morning, when the water is at its calmest and visibility is at its peak. This also helps in avoiding the afternoon crowds and increases the chances of spotting marine life when they are most active. As for the best time of year, snorkeling conditions are excellent year-round in Hawaii, but the optimal season is during the summer months from May to October, when the water temperature is warmer and the ocean conditions are generally more stable.
100% Kona. While Hilo is known for its proximity to Volcanoes National Park, Kona has more marine life to see. Plus, the waters in Kona are typically calmer and clearer compared to Hilo’s rougher and murkier waters. With multiple snorkeling spots easily accessible from Kona, it is definitely the top choice if you’re looking to snorkel on the Big Island.
Final Thoughts on the Best Snorkeling in Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is a paradise for snorkelers with its crystal clear waters, diverse marine life, and year-round favorable conditions. Whether you prefer to explore from the shore or take a boat out to deeper waters, there are endless opportunities to discover the colorful coral reefs and the marine life that calls these waters home.
The Kona side of the island is the best choice for its accessibility and abundance of amazing snorkeling spots including Kealakekua Bay and Pawai Bay. The beaches along the Kohala Coast are also ideal for snorkeling and lounging around.
When you visit, keep in mind to approach snorkeling with respect for the delicate ecosystem and follow responsible practices to help preserve it for future generations.
Happy snorkeling!
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