A PRIME SNORKELING
SPOT IN KAILUA-KONA
Swim with the school
The fish that inhabit the reef at Kahalu’u are plentiful and comfortable with snorkelers.
Shallow floor
This cove is quite shallow throughout, making it a great place for safe swimming.
See sunning honu
Sea turtles love to sun themselves on this beach, look carefully, they can blend in!
THIS “DIVING PLACE” IS A LOCAL FAVORITE!
Kahalu’u Beach Park is a wide sheltered cove and is one of the most popular snorkeling spots on the Kona coast. Kahalu’u means “diving place” in Hawaiian, and it lives up to its name. It has one of the largest tame fish population in Hawaii, with a quantity of fish that can surpass the amount you’d typically see at a marine sanctuary. The fish are particularly comfortable with snorkelers, and with the calm and shallow water this is the perfect spot for a first time snorkeler.
The deepest spot in the cove is just over 10 feet, even at high tide. This helps keep the coral in the cove healthy and supports the large population of marine life. When the tide goes out you can explore shallow tide pools amongst the rock flats that form.
Kahalu’u is also known for its Honu, or sea turtles. You’ll usually find them sunning themselves or munching on some seaweed. Remember to give them space, as sea turtles are a protected species on the Island.
DIRECTIONS & GENERAL INFORMATION
To reach Kahalu’u Beach Park drive about 12 miles South past the airport on Hwy 19/11. Turn right on La’aloa Avenue (about 4 miles past the Safeway) and continue for 1 mile. Turn left onto Ali’i Drive and continue 0.9 miles. The beach will be on your right. The entrance to the parking lot is on the South end of the beach. This beach has restrooms, showers, picnic tables, two large pavilions and lifeguard on duty. It’s best to go early as the parking lot can fill up quickly.
We recommend contacting organisations directly to get the most up to date information about their operations.