Location: Honaunau Bay, also known as Two Step for its unique lava rock formations that create natural steps into the water, is located on the west coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. Accessible by car, it’s a short drive from popular tourist areas like Kailua-Kona and offers ample parking facilities nearby.

Unique Features: Honaunau Bay boasts pristine coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a snorkeler’s paradise. The bay’s calm and clear waters provide excellent visibility for exploring colorful fish, sea turtles, and even spinner dolphins gracefully gliding through the waves.

Available Activities: Snorkeling is a must-do activity at Honaunau Bay to immerse yourself in the underwater wonderland. Besides snorkeling, visitors can enjoy swimming in the warm waters or simply basking in the sun on the sandy beach while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline.

Interesting Places Nearby: Just a stone’s throw away from Honaunau Bay lies Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred site preserving ancient Hawaiian culture and history. Visitors can explore reconstructed traditional Hawaiian structures and gain insight into Polynesian customs and traditions.

Accommodation: While there are no accommodations directly at Honaunau Bay itself, nearby options include charming B&Bs or vacation rentals nestled amidst lush tropical gardens along Ali’i Drive. For those seeking luxury resorts or hotels with oceanfront views, Kailua-Kona offers a range of accommodation choices within easy driving distance.

Location: Nestled on the western coast of the Big Island, Kahalu’u Beach Park is easily accessible by car from Kailua-Kona, a mere 15-minute drive away. It’s conveniently located near various accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to cozy vacation rentals.

Unique Features: Kahalu’u Beach Park is renowned for its vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life. The beach boasts soft white sand and crystal-clear waters that make it an ideal spot for snorkeling enthusiasts. Its historical significance lies in being a sacred site for native Hawaiians, adding cultural depth to its natural beauty.

Available Activities: Visitors can indulge in fantastic snorkeling experiences amidst the diverse underwater world filled with tropical fish and sea turtles. Swimming in the calm waters is also popular among beachgoers looking to cool off or simply bask under the Hawaiian sun. Sunbathing on the sandy shores offers a relaxing way to unwind and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

Interesting places nearby: After exploring Kahalu’u Beach Park, travelers can venture to Keauhou Bay located just a short distance away. Here, they can embark on boat tours, visit historical sites like Hikiau Heiau temple, or enjoy water activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding along the serene bay.

Accommodation: For those seeking accommodation near Kahalu’u Beach Park, there are various options available including oceanfront resorts offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean or cozy vacation rentals nestled amidst lush tropical gardens. Whether you prefer luxury amenities or a more laid-back atmosphere, there’s something for every traveler’s taste and budget.

Location: Kealakekua Bay is nestled along the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, easily accessible from Kailua-Kona. Visitors can reach this pristine bay by car or opt for a guided tour to explore its beauty. The bay is in close proximity to various accommodations, making it a convenient stop for travelers.

Unique Features: One of the standout features of Kealakekua Bay is its historical significance as the place where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii. The crystal-clear waters teem with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, offering an unparalleled snorkeling experience. The bay’s calm waters and white sand beaches add to its allure, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and exploration.

Available Activities: Kealakekua Bay is a haven for snorkeling enthusiasts, providing an opportunity to witness colorful fish, sea turtles, and other mesmerizing underwater creatures up close. Visitors can also indulge in swimming in the pristine waters or simply bask in the sun on the sandy shores. Guided kayak tours are popular here, allowing travelers to explore the bay’s beauty from a different perspective.

Interesting Places Nearby: Nearby attractions include Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, where visitors can delve into Hawaiian history and culture. For those seeking adventure, Manini Beach offers excellent diving opportunities with its unique underwater topography. Additionally, coffee lovers can visit local farms to savor some of Hawaii’s finest brews.

Accommodation: Travelers looking to stay near Kealakekua Bay can stay at luxury resorts and cozy vacation rentals. Kailua-Kona boasts a wide selection of accommodations catering to different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer beachfront villas or charming bed-and-breakfasts, there’s something for everyone near this picturesque bay.

Location: Hapuna Beach State Park is located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, a short drive from Kona International Airport. Its convenient proximity to major accommodations in Waikoloa and Kona makes it an easily accessible paradise for beach enthusiasts.

Unique Features: Hapuna Beach is renowned for its expansive stretch of soft, white sand that gently slopes into crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beach boasts stunning coral reefs filled with vibrant marine life, making it a snorkeler’s dream destination. Its unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility sets it apart as one of Hawaii’s most picturesque beaches.

Available Activities: Visitors can indulge in a variety of activities at Hapuna Beach State Park, including snorkeling amidst colorful fish and sea turtles, swimming in the refreshing waters, or simply basking under the warm Hawaiian sun on the pristine shore. The park also offers picnic areas and facilities for a relaxing day by the sea.

Interesting Places Nearby: Explore nearby attractions such as Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site—an ancient Hawaiian temple—and Mauna Kea Observatory for stargazing adventures after sunset. Don’t miss out on visiting Waimea town to experience local culture and enjoy delicious island cuisine.

Accommodation: If you want to stay near Hapuna Beach State Park, luxurious resorts like Mauna Kea Beach Hotel and Hilton Waikoloa Village offer world-class amenities with stunning ocean views. Alternatively, vacation rentals and boutique hotels in nearby Waikoloa provide cozy retreats for those looking for more affordable options.

Location: Mauna Kea Beach, also known as Kauna’oa Bay, is located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. Easily accessible by car, it’s approximately a 30-minute drive from Kona International Airport and offers stunning views along the way. The beach is close to luxury resorts and vacation rentals, making it a convenient choice for visitors seeking a tropical paradise.

Unique Features: Mauna Kea Beach boasts pristine white sand stretching for half a mile along crystal-clear turquoise waters. This crescent-shaped bay is sheltered by lava rock formations, creating calm and shallow waters perfect for snorkeling. The beach is also home to vibrant coral reefs brimming with colorful marine life, offering an unparalleled underwater experience for snorkelers.

Available Activities: Visitors to Mauna Kea Beach can enjoy a variety of activities beyond snorkeling in its tranquil waters. Swimming in the gentle surf or simply basking in the sun on the soft sand are popular pastimes here. For those looking to explore further, guided kayak tours or paddleboarding adventures are available to discover more of Hawaii’s coastal beauty.

Interesting Places Nearby: Just a short drive away from Mauna Kea Beach lies Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve, where ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs can be found etched into volcanic rock formations. Nature enthusiasts can also visit Hapuna Beach State Park nearby for additional snorkeling opportunities and scenic hiking trails amidst lush landscapes.

Accommodation: Travelers who want to stay near Mauna Kea Beach have several luxurious accommodations to choose from. The iconic Mauna Kea Beach Hotel overlooks the bay itself and offers upscale rooms with ocean views and world-class amenities. There are also vacation rentals in nearby Waikoloa Village, which provide cozy and more affordable retreats with easy access to both the beach and surrounding attractions.

Location: Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is located on the southeastern Kau coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, approximately 30 miles south of Hilo. It’s easily accessible by car and is a popular stop along the scenic drive towards Volcanoes National Park. Visitors can find accommodations in nearby towns like Naalehu or Volcano Village.

Unique Features: One of the most distinctive aspects of Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is its jet-black sand, created by volcanic activity that has weathered lava rocks into fine grains over centuries. The contrast between the dark sand and the vibrant turquoise waters creates a mesmerizing sight for beachgoers. Additionally, this beach is known for its resident population of endangered green sea turtles that often come ashore to bask in the sun.

Available Activities: Snorkeling at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach offers a unique experience as visitors can explore colorful coral reefs full of marine life just off the shore. Swimming in the clear waters provides a refreshing escape from the tropical heat while sunbathing on the black sand offers a chance to unwind and soak up some sun with stunning views all around.

Interesting Places Nearby: Nearby attractions to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach include Ka Lae (South Point), which is not only considered one of Hawaii’s oldest inhabited areas but also boasts breathtaking cliffside views and opportunities for cliff jumping. Another must-visit spot is Papakolea Green Sand Beach, where visitors can marvel at rare olivine crystals that give this beach its unique green hue.

Accommodation: While there are no accommodations directly at Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, visitors can stay in charming inns or vacation rentals in nearby towns like Naalehu or Volcano Village. For those seeking a more luxurious stay, upscale resorts can be found along other parts of the Big Island’s coastline within driving distance from this beautiful black sand beach.

Location: Richardson Ocean Park is located on the eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, just a short drive from Hilo. The park is easily accessible by car, with ample parking available for visitors. It is conveniently situated near various accommodations, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the area.

Unique Features: What sets Richardson Ocean Park apart is its unique blend of black sand beaches and rugged lava rock formations. The contrast between the dark volcanic sands and the turquoise waters creates a striking visual appeal that mesmerizes visitors. Additionally, the park boasts vibrant coral reefs teeming with diverse marine life, offering snorkelers an unforgettable underwater experience.

Available Activities: Richardson Ocean Park offers a range of activities for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Snorkeling is a popular choice here due to the abundance of marine life visible just beneath the surface. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the clear waters or simply relax on the beach while soaking up the Hawaiian sun.

Interesting Places Nearby: For those looking to explore beyond Richardson Ocean Park, nearby attractions include the Lava Tree State Monument, where visitors can marvel at unique lava-formed tree molds created during past volcanic eruptions. The Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is also located nearby and offers an opportunity to see exotic animals in a lush tropical setting.

Accommodation: While there are no accommodations within Richardson Ocean Park itself, visitors can find several lodging options in Hilo, which is just a short drive away. From cozy B&Bs to luxury resorts overlooking stunning ocean views, there are plenty of choices to suit every traveler’s taste and budget.

Location: Located on the eastern tip of Hawaii’s Big Island, Kapoho Tide Pools offer a unique and enchanting experience for visitors. Accessible from Pahoa town, these tide pools are a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Unique Features: What sets Kapoho Tide Pools apart is their intricate network of crystal-clear pools formed by ancient lava flows. These pools are full of vibrant coral reefs, colorful marine life, and natural rock formations that create a mesmerizing underwater landscape.

Available Activities: The main draw of Kapoho Tide Pools is snorkeling in the calm waters to witness the diverse marine ecosystem up close. Visitors can also enjoy swimming in the warm pools or simply basking in the sun on the surrounding black lava rocks.

Interesting Places Nearby: While at Kapoho Tide Pools, don’t miss out on exploring nearby attractions such as Lava Tree State Monument, known for its unique lava-formed tree molds, or take a short drive to Ahalanui Park for a relaxing soak in its thermally heated pool.

Accommodation: Accommodations near Kapoho Tide Pools range from homey vacation rentals and bed-and-breakfasts in Pahoa town to luxurious resorts along the coastline. Whether you prefer a secluded retreat or beachfront lodging, there are options to suit everyone’s taste and budget.

Location: Spencer Beach Park is located on the northwestern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, near the town of Kawaihae. It’s easily accessible by car, with parking available onsite. The park is close to various accommodations in Waikoloa Village and Puako, making it a convenient spot for visitors.

Unique Features: What sets Spencer Beach Park apart is its serene atmosphere and clear turquoise waters. The beach boasts soft white sand perfect for lounging under the sun or taking a stroll along the shoreline. Snorkelers will be delighted by the vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful marine life just off the coast.

Available Activities: Spencer Beach Park offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Snorkeling is a popular pastime here, allowing you to explore the underwater world filled with tropical fish and sea turtles. Swimming in the calm waters is also a relaxing experience while sunbathing on the sandy shores provides an ideal way to unwind.

Interesting Places Nearby: For those looking to explore beyond Spencer Beach Park, nearby attractions include Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, where you can learn about Hawaiian history and culture. Waimea town offers charming boutiques and eateries worth exploring, while Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area provides another stunning beach option just a short drive away.

Accommodation: Travelers seeking accommodation near Spencer Beach Park can choose from various options in Waikoloa Village or Puako. From luxury resorts overlooking pristine beaches to cozy vacation rentals nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, there’s something for every taste and budget within easy reach of this tranquil oasis.

Location: Anaeho’omalu Bay, affectionately known as A-Bay, is nestled on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, just a short drive from the popular resort areas of Waikoloa. Visitors can easily access this picturesque bay by car or even enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline from nearby accommodations.

Unique Features: What sets Anaeho’omalu Bay apart is its stunning fusion of natural beauty and rich history. The bay boasts pristine white sand beaches that gently slope into crystal-clear waters filled with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. As you snorkel in these azure waters, you may encounter graceful sea turtles gliding through the underwater paradise.

Available Activities: Anaeho’omalu Bay offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts and beach lovers alike. Snorkeling here is an absolute must-do experience to witness the colorful marine ecosystem up close. If snorkeling isn’t your cup of tea, you can opt for swimming in the calm waters or simply basking under the warm Hawaiian sun on the sandy shores.

Interesting Places Nearby: Just a stone’s throw away from A-Bay lies Waikoloa Beach Resort, where you can explore upscale shops, indulge in delectable dining options overlooking serene lagoons, or tee off at world-class golf courses with breathtaking ocean views. For history buffs, nearby petroglyph fields offer a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture through intricate rock carvings.

Accommodation: Visitors seeking accommodation near Anaeho’omalu Bay have an array of options ranging from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy vacation rentals that cater to every budget and taste. Whether you prefer waking up to panoramic ocean views or being surrounded by lush tropical gardens, there’s something for everyone within easy reach of this idyllic bay.