5 Best Snorkeling Spots on the Kona Coast
Life on the Kona Coast isn’t just about the views—it’s about experiencing the ocean every day. Whether you’re new to the island or looking for your forever home here, snorkeling is one of the best ways to fall in love with Hawaii’s underwater world.
As a top 1% producing real estate agent in Kailua-Kona, I help my clients find homes that connect them to the lifestyle they’ve been dreaming about—homes near beaches, marine preserves, and tranquil bays. If snorkeling is your happy place, here are 5 Kona Coast spots you won’t want to miss.
1. Two Step at Hōnaunau Bay – Best for Reef Diversity
📍 Location: South Kona, next to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Known for: Lava entry point & incredible marine life 🐠
Two Step is famous for its crystal-clear water, abundant coral, and great visibility. Dolphins are occasionally spotted offshore in the early morning.
What You’ll See:
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Bright coral gardens
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Eels, Moorish idols, and schools of yellow tang
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Spinner dolphins (on lucky mornings!)
Pro Tip: Bring water shoes for safe entry from the lava rocks, and pack snacks—it’s a more remote location with no nearby services.
2. Kahaluʻu Beach Park – Best for Beginners & Sea Turtles
📍 Location: 5 miles south of downtown Kailua-Kona
Known for: Easy entry, calm waters & frequent turtle sightings 🐢
This is one of the most accessible snorkeling spots on the island, with shallow water, gentle waves, and vibrant reef life close to shore.
What You’ll See:
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Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu)
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Tang, butterflyfish & parrotfish
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Lava rock tidepools & coral heads
Pro Tip: Arrive early for parking and bring reef-safe sunscreen to help protect this cherished marine ecosystem.
3. King Kam Beach (Kamakahonu) – Best for Families & Calm Water
📍 Location: In downtown Kailua-Kona, behind King Kamehameha Hotel
Known for: Protected cove, calm surf & beginner-friendly conditions 🏖
Nestled in the heart of Kona, this small beach is easy to miss but perfect for families and new snorkelers. It also has historical significance—it was King Kamehameha I’s final residence.
What You’ll See:
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Juvenile fish among the rocks
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Sea cucumbers & small coral patches
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Paddleboarders, canoes & clear shallow water
Pro Tip: After your swim, stroll over to Kailua Pier or grab a smoothie from a nearby café. A perfect morning in town!
4. ʻAnaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) – Best for Snorkel + Beach Combo
📍 Location: Waikoloa Beach Resort
Known for: Sandy beach, calm water & resort access 🏝
A-Bay is a great spot to bring beach chairs and spend the whole day. Calm waters on the left side of the bay make it perfect for easy snorkeling.
What You’ll See:
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Needlefish, trumpetfish & reef triggers
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Occasional turtles near the rocky edges
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Kayakers and paddleboarders in the bay
Pro Tip: There are restrooms, shade, and nearby restaurants, making it ideal for families or relaxed weekend outings.
5. Waialea Beach (Beach 69) – Best for Coral & Seclusion
📍 Location: Just south of Hapuna Beach
Known for: Tree-lined sand & healthy coral reefs 🪸
Tucked away on the Kohala Coast, Beach 69 is beloved for its soft sand, natural shade, and incredible coral. It’s a great place to spot reef fish in a more secluded setting.
What You’ll See:
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Brightly colored wrasses & tangs
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Large coral heads & sandy drop-offs
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Great visibility on calm mornings
Pro Tip: Arrive early—parking is limited, and the beach is more protected in the morning when winds are low.
Ready to Make This Your Backyard?
Imagine grabbing your snorkel gear and heading to one of these incredible beaches—before breakfast. That’s what life is like on the Kona Coast.
As a top Kailua-Kona real estate agent, I help clients:
✅ Find ocean-view & ocean-access homes
✅ Choose properties close to top snorkeling beaches
✅ Relocate or retire to the Big Island with confidence & aloha
📞 Call/Text: 808-365-3528
📩 Email: soraya.letournel@compass.com
🌐 Visit: https://sorayaletournel.com/
Let’s talk about finding the right property to match your ocean-loving lifestyle.
Check out NOAA Monitoring of Coral Reef (Hawaiʻi)
See Top Activities on the Kona Coast
The Kona Coast is a snorkeler’s paradise—offering everything from beginner-friendly bays to world-renowned coral preserves. Whether you’re exploring King Kam with your grandkids or paddling out to Kealakekua Bay, these seven snorkel spots offer the best of Big Island life.
And if you’re ready to make paradise your permanent playground, I’d love to help. 🐠🏡🌺
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