Many pristine snorkel spots are located within easy reach of downtown Kailua-Kona. A number of them are protected from swell and have sandy entries free of lava and rocks.
Known as Kamakahonu Beach, this family-friendly swimming spot is close to amenities and features an incredible reconstruction of King Kamehameha’s personal heiau (temple). Remember to respect the site by not touching it or walking into it.
1. Kailua Bay
The quintessential beach town, Kailua is home to two gorgeous beaches, steady onshore trade winds for windsurfing and kayaking, and a sleepy seaside village with great restaurants. With a backdrop of the verdant Kohala Mountains, the beach town offers easy access to a variety of activities that are perfect for the entire family.
Located on the windward side of Oahu, Kailua Beach features powdery white sands and clear azure waters. The water off the beach slopes gently to overhead depths with very few coral heads and is therefore ideal for swimming, especially for small children. The calm water also makes it a favorite spot for recreational water sports like kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding.
Kailua Beach is also popular with sea kayakers who like to explore the protected marine bird sanctuaries Flat (Popia) Island and the twin Mokulua Islands, or Na Mokulua as locals call them. Kayaking to these islets is only permitted within the tidal zone and along the edge of the shoreline; going inland is considered trespassing.
Aside from enjoying the beach, take a stroll over Alii Drive and explore laid-back Kailua Town with its unique boutiques, popular eateries and charming oceanfront homes. You can also kayak around Kailua Bay, search for sea turtles at Pawai Bay and snorkel the coral reef near the Mokulua Islands.
2. Pawai Bay
The beachfront neighborhood south of Historic Kailua Village is home to lower housing costs, secluded living and some of the best snorkeling on the island, especially with trademark Kona snorkeling tours. Captain Cook Beach, also known as Two Step, is an easy snorkeling spot for beginners with calm waters and great visibility. The beach is also frequented by dolphins.
This snorkeling destination is less crowded than Kealakekua Bay and provides an incredible array of marine life. There are plenty of small reef fish and Hawaiian reef fish such as triggerfish, mullet and damsel fish in addition to sea turtles and eels. The rocky coastline offers some amazing tide pools. Look for urchins, opihi (limpets), a’ama (Hawaiian rock crab) and hermit crabs.
The Kona District encompasses more than two-thirds of the West side of Hawaii and is dotted with historic Hawaiian landmarks, luxury resorts, fine dining, black sand beaches and world-class coffee. Whether you’re an adventurer or prefer to relax, there is something for everyone in the sunny Kona District.
3. Kailua Pier
Kailua-Kona occupies the western side of Hawaii Island, and this coastal town is surrounded by pristine sugary white beaches where you can soak up the sun and play in the waves. Several of these beaches are swimmable at all times, while others are best for morning adventures.
A short drive south of Kailua-Kona brings you to this scenic beach, where a thriving reef and calm waters are a hit with snorkelers. During the winter months, you may even see manta rays and spinner dolphins.
Located at the Four Seasons Hualalai, this secluded stretch of white sand is accessible to the public by entering through hotel security gates. The water is perfect for swimming and kayaking, and the rocky coastline provides dramatic views.
This teeny-tiny in-town beach is the only swimmable beach within walking distance of downtown Kailua-Kona, and it is also a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. The water is usually calm and safe for swimming, and the surrounding area features a plethora of restaurants.
This historic pier and seawall stand at the heart of Old Kailua Village, and is a gathering place for locals and visitors alike. Tourists busy shopping, dining and snapping photos often overlook these structures, which feature stones recycled from gun-turreted forts and ancient Hawaiian royal palace walls. The pier is also the starting and finishing point for the Ironman World Championship Triathlon every October.
4. Kailua Beach Park
One of the most well-known beaches on Oahu’s windward side, Kailua Beach Park features powdery soft sand, beautiful ironwood trees, turquoise waters and breath taking views. This beach is a world-class kayaking destination and swimming area with usually calm waters and lifeguards.
Those looking for some adventure can rent kayaks here and explore the Mokulua Islands or other surrounding snorkeling areas. During the winter, visitors can also take part in whale watching activities as these majestic mammals migrate from Alaska to Hawaii during this time of year.
Kailua Beach Park is often less crowded than other beaches in the area and offers a more local experience. The 2.5 miles of shoreline is perfect for a relaxing walk especially early in the morning or during sunset to enjoy its beauty and tranquility.
Those wanting to get some exercise can also rent bikes and ride along the beach path or the bike paths in the neighborhood. There are also a number of great restaurants within walking distance as well as many options in the nearby town of Kailua. This is a perfect spot for families with young children as it’s very kid-friendly, offers many amenities and the safety of a lifeguard tower.
5. Kukio
The Hawaiian term “Kona” refers to the leeward side of an island, which on the Big Island means sunny beaches within a stone’s throw of soaring mountain slopes and epic lava fields. The rich, natural beauty of the Kona district was a draw for generations of Alii (Hawaiian royalty) and continues to inspire today.
This area of the Big Island is a magnet for foodies, and home to Hawaii’s best restaurants and nightlife. Visitors can also explore history at Hulihee Palace, Mokuaikaua Church and Kamakahonu National Historic Landmark where reconstructed thatched houses mark the place where King Kamehameha lived his final years.
Lower housing costs and a secluded location on the protected waters of Kealakekua Bay attract families to South Kona. The neighborhood is also home to Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory and Ola Brew Co, where residents can sample 100% Hawaiian-grown macadamia nuts and craft beer. Families can also find cultural enrichment at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, a quiet respite from the busy streets of downtown Kona where visitors can admire ancient petroglyphs and ingenious fishponds.
6. Kahaluu Beach Park
Kahaluu Beach Park is one of the most delightful family-friendly beaches in Kona. Located on Alii Drive, this bay features an easily accessible snorkeling hotspot and plenty of nearby amenities. Once a royal retreat, the protected shoreline has a rich tapestry of Hawaiian history and culture.
During the day this beach is a local favorite for swimming, snorkeling and picnicking. It is also the perfect spot to learn how to surf. And when the sun sets, it becomes a gathering place for enjoying happy hour and watching the sunset with friends.
The water at Kahaluu is shallow and calm, ideal for first time snorkelers. The bottom of the ocean is a mix of lava rock, coral and patches of sand. There are many Hawaiian house ruins, heiaus and petroglyphs found in the area.
Because of its easy accessibility, this beach is very popular. During busy times, you may find yourself literally bumping into other snorkelers as they share this great spot. To prevent this, be sure to follow coral-reef etiquette by keeping a safe distance from other snorkelers. In addition, it is important to check in with the lifeguards before entering the water. And remember to bring your sunscreen!
7. Kailua Beach
The wide arc of soft sand at Kailua Beach drapes around calm, jewel-colored waters that are bookended by formidable volcanic headlands. This is an ideal spot for long walks, family outings and all kinds of aquatic activities such as swimming, boogie boarding, snorkeling and kitesurfing. The water is usually crystal clear, although after heavy rains it may take on a brownish tinge. The gently sloping shoreline allows for a comfortable and safe entry into the water, and it’s best to swim in the morning.
Those interested in ocean sports, such as windsurfing, usually enter the water near the middle of the beach. Kailua Beach is located on Oahu’s windward side, and as such, steady tradewinds blow year-round making this the best place to learn to windsurf on Oahu. Hawaiian Watersports rents equipment and provides lessons.
The cobalt waters of Lanikai are usually calm—although north swells do bring some rolling surf to the area. This beautiful beach is also popular for swimming, long walks and picnicking under ironwoods. Its iconic twin Mokulua Islands rise above the pristine water, and a gorgeous view can be enjoyed at sunset when half of Kona gathers on the small dunes to watch the reflected glow.