Honaunau Bay

Honaunau Bay, also called Two Step, is a South Kona lava-rock bay with clear calm-condition water, coral reefs, honu and nearby sacred Hawaiian history.

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Honaunau Bay

Honaunau Bay, Big Island

A former stronghold of Hawaiian chiefs, Honaunau Bay on the Big Island of Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling and diving scenery on the island. Rare fish and sea turtles can be seen among colorful coral reefs.

On a clear summer day, you don’t even need to swim too far to get a good view. The water is popular with snorkelers and scuba divers because it is often clear and calm. The beach is also known as “Two Step” because it has two natural steps in the lava flow to enter and get out of the water.

Next to the beach is the Puuhonua O Honaunau Park, an important cultural and historical site. It once served as a place of refuge in old Hawaii and remains one of the area’s most important historic places. Today, this past is shared in a 180-acre (0.7 sq. km) historical park visited by local residents and visitors.

Facilities are scarce on the beach itself, but you’ll find most of the basics in the park area. Lifeguards aren’t always on duty. Restrooms, showers and beach shops are located farther back along the shore.

Key Features

South Kona bay near Pu'uhonua o Honaunau
Also known as Two Step
Natural lava ledges help with entry and exit during calm conditions
Lava-rock shoreline instead of a broad sandy beach
Coral reefs and reef fish are close to shore
Honu may be seen in or near the bay
Nearby cultural sites add strong historic context
Parking and shoreline space can fill during busy times
Surge can make the lava ledges slippery and difficult
Visitors should keep off coral and give honu plenty of space

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Frequently Asked Questions

When is Honaunau Bay usually calmer?

Early mornings during settled ocean periods are often more comfortable, with less wind, fewer people and better visibility near the lava entry.

What makes the Two Step entry tricky?

The natural lava ledges can help in calm water, but they may be slippery, crowded or hard to use when surge and waves move through the bay.

Is there a sandy beach at Honaunau Bay?

No. The shoreline is mostly lava rock, with entry from ledges rather than a broad sandy beach, so shoes are helpful on land.

How should visitors protect the reef?

Do not stand on coral, avoid touching marine life, keep fins off the reef and choose reef-safe sun protection before entering the water.

How can visitors add cultural context?

Set aside time for nearby Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, which helps explain the sacred and historic setting around the bay.