Kahaluʻu Beach Park (Kona snorkeling)

Kona's easiest beginner snorkel spot, on Aliʻi Drive about 5 miles south of Kailua-Kona. A shallow reef keeps the bay calm most days and honu are common. Lifeguards are on duty 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., and non-residents pay $12 for four hours of parking.

• Parking: non-residents pay $12 for four hours, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., through ParkMobile zone 13300 or at the info tent. Hawaiʻi residents and visitors with disabilities can register for a free pass. The lot fills at midday and on weekends.
• Lifeguards: daily 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
• Entry is over slippery lava rock; water shoes help. Enter at the channel in front of the lifeguard tower, and stay inside the second tower, where the surf zone starts.
• A current pulls north and out to sea; it's usually mild but gets stronger with big swell. Look up now and then to check your position.
• Volunteers from the Kahaluʻu Bay Education Center (ReefTeach) are on the sand daily to help; free mineral sunscreen dispensers are at the pavilion from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Don't stand on the coral, and give turtles plenty of space. Restrooms, showers and a pavilion are available.

Source: Love Big Island: Kahaluʻu Beach Park (updated Oct. 7, 2026)

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.