Kahalu'u Beach Park
Kahalu'u Beach Park is one of the Big Island’s most popular snorkeling spots, often called “Snorkel Beach” on tourist maps. With calm, shallow waters teeming with colorful reef fish and sea turtles, this Kona-area cove offers a safe and vibrant marine experience for swimmers and snorkelers of all levels.
Kahalu'u Beach Park, Big Island
The Big Island has some outstanding underwater scenery, but Kahalu'u Beach Park (view panorama) × on the island's west coast just south of Kailua-Kona stands out in particular. The fish here aren't at all wary of the swimmers, as they tend to be in other areas. Indeed, if you hang around long enough, some of them will come up to you and swim by your side.
Over 100 species of fish can be observed here. The beach is one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island. In fact, many tourist maps refer to Kahalu'u as “Snorkel Beach.” Not only humans and colorful tropical fish love Kahalu'u Beach, but sea turtles as well. You’ll probably be able to see some in the water here.
The cove is ideal for novice swimmer and snorkelers as the water is almost always calm (except when there's a big storm or ocean swell coming in). That's because the beach is protected by a partially submerged rock wall, which keeps strong currents and larger waves out.
Also, the water is very shallow in the cover, around neck deep in most spots and around 10 feet (3 m) in the deepest area. This is probably one of the reasons why the fish are so plentiful here. The sunlight can reach all the way to the bottom, which grows healthy corals and seaweed. The ocean bottom at Kahalu'u Beach Park has a mix of lava rock, corals and patches of sand. A little bit inland, many Hawaiian house ruins, heiaus and petroglyphs are located in the area, between the park and Keauhou Bay.
The shoreline consists of white sand speckled with black lava fragments. It's best to get into the water via these sandy areas. During low tide, a few shallow tide pools surface, which can also be explored. During times of high surf, experienced bodyboarders and surfers venture out to the seaward edge of the reef in the outer area of the bay. A strong rip current may form during strong ocean swells in the area north from Kuemanu Heiau along the rugged shoreline rocks.
Key Features of Kahalu'u Beach Park
- Top snorkeling destination: Nicknamed “Snorkel Beach,” Kahalu'u features clear, shallow waters with over 100 species of reef fish and regular sea turtle sightings.
- Beginner-friendly cove: Protected by a submerged lava rock wall, the bay stays calm and shallow, making it ideal for novice snorkelers and swimmers.
- Active marine ecosystem: The abundant sunlight reaching the coral reef floor supports a thriving underwater habitat of fish, corals, and seaweed.
- Diverse beach landscape: The shoreline combines white sand and black lava fragments, with tide pools and rocky entry points exposed at low tide.
- Convenient park amenities: Includes restrooms, showers, lifeguard station, picnic pavilions, and paved parking near the beach.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Kahalu'u Beach called “Snorkel Beach”?
Many tourist maps label it “Snorkel Beach” due to its calm, shallow waters, rich coral life, and excellent snorkeling conditions year-round.
Can you see sea turtles at Kahalu'u Beach Park?
Yes, Hawaiian green sea turtles are often seen grazing on algae in the shallow reef areas of the cove.
Is it safe to swim or snorkel here?
Yes, the bay is protected by a natural lava barrier, making the waters generally safe and calm for swimming and snorkeling, especially during low surf conditions.
What facilities are available at the beach park?
The beach has restrooms, showers, picnic pavilions, drinking water, paved parking, and a lifeguard on duty.
Where is Kahalu'u Beach Park located?
It’s located about 4.5 miles south of Kailua-Kona on Alii Drive, at 78-6699 Alii Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740.