Two Step Snorkeling

Hōnaunau Bay "Two Step" Snorkeling on the Big Island

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Two Step Snorkeling at Honaunau Bay

Two Step is outside the park at Hōnaunau Bay Boat Ramp. Do not enter the water at Keoneʻele Cove inside the park. NPS snorkeling guidance

Two Step — Planning Your Visit

  • Ocean conditions: Do not treat a calm-looking surface as proof that entry is safe. Check ocean conditions and warnings, keep clear of boats, and stay out if conditions are uncertain.
  • Parking: NPS asks snorkelers and sunbathers to park outside the park gate, leaving the park lot for visitors to its sacred grounds. Follow posted parking restrictions and keep the boat ramp clear.
  • Facilities: Do not use the national park restrooms to change for snorkeling or rinse off. Plan the park visit and any ocean outing separately.

Do not swim with or approach Hawaiian spinner dolphins. Stay at least 50 yards away. If a dolphin approaches you in the water, do not engage or pursue it; move away promptly. Choose viewing from shore and do not try to attract wildlife. NOAA spinner-dolphin guidance

Visiting Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park

Plan a drive-in visit after 8:15 a.m. and leave by sunset. Check current NPS information and posted closing times; staff hours and cultural-program schedules can differ. See the NPS park-hours page.

Beach day tools

Before you choose this beach, check what matters today.

A good beach plan depends on surf, timing, access, and what your group wants from the water.

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Live Ocean Report Check surf, tides, water temperature, and beach comfort before you commit to the shoreline. Check ocean Matcher Beach Finder Match beaches by island, swim style, scenery, group fit, walk distance, and access needs. Timing Jellyfish Calendar See the south-shore warning window so beach and snorkel days are easier to time. Browser Snorkel Spots Browse curated snorkel spots by island, access, difficulty, lifeguards, fees, and marine life. Free HawaiiGuide Passport Stamp the landmarks, beaches, waterfalls, and local grinds you experience — a free trip keepsake that lives on your phone, no account needed.

Kailua-Kona Sights & Things to Do

The Kailua-Kona region is a great place to explore, as there are plenty of sights and adventures: historic sites, parks, scenic overlooks, beaches, and so much more await you in this lovely area of the Big Island. 

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John C. Derrick

Published by: John C. Derrick

Founder & certified Hawai'i travel expert with 20+ years in Hawai'i tourism, University of South Carolina climate-research training, and NOAA weather-station experience.
Tori C. Derrick

Published by: Tori C. Derrick

President & certified Hawai'i travel expert with 15+ years of experience in Hawai'i tourism.

Two Step Snorkeling Reviews

Guidereview:
A (based on 40 visitor reviews)
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