Snorkeling Nearby

The clear blue waters of Hōnaunau Bay hold spectacular wonders of the underwater world. Spinner dolphins with their amazing acrobatics frequent the bay, eels and octopus lurk in the cracks and crevices of the reef, and a colorful variety of fish flourish among the corals. Come explore the depths at "Two Step," located just outside of Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

Popular Snorkeling Spot Is Not Located In Park.

Contrary to the advice of many Hawaiʻi Island guidebooks, the popular snorkeling spot, commonly referred to as "Two Step," is not located within the park. Snorkelers are not allowed to enter the water at Keone'ele Cove in the park. This is an important cultural site and the park strives to maintain the cultural landscape. Please respect that this site is important and significant to the Hawaiian people. Click on the "Location" tab below for directions.

Additionally, snorkelers, swimmers and sunbathers are asked not to use the restrooms in the park to change clothes or rinse off.

Reef-Friendly Sun Protection

The State of Hawaiʻi was the first state in the nation to ban the sale of sunscreens with chemicals harmful to ocean corals. Please do your part to protect our ocean's coral reefs by not using sunscreens with the following chemicals:

• Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Homosalate, Octinoxate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, and Nanoparticles

Instead look for sunscreens with the following ingredients:

• Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide

Find out more about reef-friendly sunscreens.

Snorkeling Safely

Snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world, but it can be dangerous if you aren't paying attention. Please plan a safe snorkeling experience and consider the following safety tips.

• Check ocean conditions before entering the water.
• Snorkel with a buddy.
• Always check your equipment before snorkeling.
• Be aware of the ocean's activity, especially when entering or exiting the water.
• Give wildlife and coral their space! Don't touch or step on corals and stay a safe distance away from all ocean wildlife.
• Be aware of boat traffic. The "Two Step" area is primarily a boat ramp, so do your part to stay out of the way of boat traffic.

For more information on how to plan a safe snorkeling experience, visit the Hawai'i Ocean Safety website.
 

Details

Activity

Snorkeling

Snorkeling is a fantastic way to explore the underwater world, but it can be dangerous if you aren't paying attention. Please plan a safe snorkeling experience and consider the following safety tips.

• Check ocean conditions before entering the water.
• Snorkel with a buddy.
• Always check your equipment before snorkeling.
• Be aware of the ocean's activity, especially when entering or exiting the water.
• Give wildlife and coral their space! Don't touch or step on corals and stay a safe distance away from all ocean wildlife.
• Be aware of boat traffic. The "Two Step" area is primarily a boat ramp, so do your part to stay out of the way of boat traffic.
• Always wear reef-friendly sun protection.

For more information on how to plan a safe snorkeling experience, visit the Hawai'i Ocean Safety website.

Pets Allowed

Yes

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Snorkeling located just outside of the park

The snorkeling area commonly known as "Two Step" lies adjacent to the park and is managed by the County of Hawaiʻi. A map of the area and information on amenities can be found under Hōnaunau Bay Boat Ramp on the County of Hawaiʻi website.

The access road to the snorkeling area is the one-way public road with a public coastal access sign just before entering the park. If already parked inside the park, one may easily walk out of the park past the entrance station and turn left on the second road with the aforementioned street signages.

Please be respectful of this local community and practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Any Time

Accessibility Information

Entry to the water at "Two-Step" is via lava rock "steps" or the concrete boat ramp. Please use caution when entering the water as lava rock can be sharp and slippery and wana (sea urchins) can be found along the rock and bottom.

To get to "Two Step" turn right on the access road with public coastal access sign, just before entering the park.

Google Maps

Where To Go

The snorkeling area commonly known as "Two Step" lies adjacent to the park and is managed by the County of Hawaiʻi. A map of the area and information on amenities can be found under Hōnaunau Bay Boat Ramp on the County of Hawaiʻi website.

The access road to the snorkeling area is the one-way public road with a public coastal access sign just before entering the park. If already parked inside the park, one may easily walk out of the park past the entrance station and turn left on the second road with the aforementioned street signages.

Please be respectful of this local community and practice Leave No Trace principles when visiting.