Snorkelling
Honaunau Bay ( Two-steps ), Hawaii ’ s Big Island South Kona is shielded by the mountainous Maunaloa , making the waters on the southwest side of Hawaii ’ s Big Island calm and clear . A perfect example of this is at beautiful Honaunau Bay , also called Two-steps . “ Two-steps ” refers to a spot on the shoreline where the volcanic rock has been neatly worn away into a convenient “ two-step ” entry point for snorkelers and divers . Abundant fish and honu ( Hawaiian green sea turtles ) can be seen in Honaunau ’ s warm waters .
If you want to get underwater when you ’ re visiting Hawaii , you ’ ve definitely chosen the perfect backdrop to an amazing snorkel or scuba diving experience . Here are some of Hawaii Tourism ’ s most popular scuba and snorkel destinations :
Maui Explore the unseen side of Maui under the sea . Snorkel off of Maui ’ s most pristine beaches or scuba dive around Maui ’ s most popular reefs to see colorful fish , sea turtles and coral formations . Most resort beaches along West Maui and South Maui offer opportunities for snorkelers . The northernmost part of Kaanapali Beach near Black Rock is known for great snorkeling . The small , crescent shaped island of Molokini off the southwestern coast of Maui is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving . In fact , the waters and colorful reefs here are so rich with life , Molokini was named a State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District . Molokini is only accessible by boat tour . Tours are available from nearby Maalaea Harbor in Kihei and Lahaina Harbor on Maui ’ s western shores .
Kealakekua Bay , Hawaii ’ s Big Island Located 40 minutes south of Kailua-Kona in Kona , this historic bay is a remarkable place for snorkeling and scuba diving . Shielded by cliffs , the waters here are calm and rich with marine life . Within the bay you can also kayak or take a boat ride to the seaside memorial of Captain James Cook where you ’ ll find more snorkeling .
Credit : Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
Hanauma Bay , Oahu Hanauma Bay is located on Oahu ’ s southeastern tip and is the island ’ s most popular snorkeling destination . Accessible and family-friendly , the bay ’ s clear waters are rich with reefs and colorful fish . Because this is Hawaii ’ s first Marine Life Conservation District , it is very important for visitors to help preserve the bay ’ s fragile ecosystem by reducing their impact on the environment .
Hulopoe Bay , Lanai Located on Lanai ’ s southern coast , Hulopoe Bay ’ s idyllic golden sands leave a lasting impression . Spend a day at this secluded beach and you ’ ll see why it was once named America ’ s best beach . Excellent snorkeling can be found near the bay ’ s beautiful tide pools .
Kee Beach , Kauai Located at the end of the road on North Kauai , this popular and scenic beach features a protected lagoon ideal for snorkeling in the calmer summer months ( winter brings rough and dangerous conditions ). Offshore reefs also provide a great setting for advanced scuba divers .
Credit : Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson