| | |  | There is so much to do in Kona, the only dilemma would be in deciding which activity to do. Everything from sunbathing on our beautiful beaches to visiting historic Hawaiian landmarks is on the “Must Do List”. South Kona’s calm and clear waters are also perfect for snorkeling, diving, and spotting dolphins and honu (green sea turtles). For the more adventurous, take a boat tour and swim with manta rays or go deep-sea fishing for giant Pacific Blue Marlin. On land, the cooler uplands are home to hundreds of coffee plantations where you can sample Kona’s unique, aromatic bean. On the versatile Kona coast, the adventures are as big as the island itself.
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| |  The Kona coast of Hawaii's Big Island is rich with snorkeling areas. Considered one of Hawaii's finest snorkeling spots, Kealakekua Bay is a secluded marine sanctuary abundant with marine life, coral reefs, calm water and 100-ft visibility. To get there, travel south on Queen Kaahumanu Highway (HI-11). Turn right on Napoopoo Road. Turn right on Puuhonua Road to Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park. About 40 minutes south of Kailua-Kona.
Kahalu’u Beach Park is one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island. It is fed by a fresh water spring, up to 10 million gallons per day. These waters are almost always calm, with colorful corals, rock formations, and 100+ species of fish. Swim with huge schools of colorful fish and green sea turtles in these protected waters; don't forget your underwater camera! The north end of the beach is where the waves break and is best for body boarding and surfing. Check the water conditions; when ocean swells are present, the water can be murky.
There are many, many spots with incredible visibility—up to 100 feet—along the Kona Coast (even right off the Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea resorts). There are also two incredible swimming and snorkeling spots on the southeast side. The first, Champagne Pond, is a calm ocean cove heated by the volcano. The water is also slightly effervescent, but that doesn't seem to bother the abundant fish and turtles. It's accessed from a dirt road off Highway 132 (heading toward Kapoho from Hilo). At Kapoho "Wai Opae" Tide Pools, a collection of spring-fed brackish pools, beginners will feel safe and even the most jaded snorkelers will be impressed by the coral and fish. To reach it, drive to Kapoho at the end of Highway 132, then south on Highway 137 to Kapoho Kai Road.
Or take a snorkeling tour with one of several dive and snorkeling companies and explore the waters of Hawaii's Big Island with an experienced guide. The possibilities are endless.
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