The Ultimate Snorkel-Dive Location - Kahalu'u Beach Park

For those who live here in Hawaii, for the novice to expert, or for those who visit Kona, Kahalu'u is a must see ... must do ... must feel.

Everyone talks about Hanauma Bay on Oahu. Few recognize the fact that the Big Island of Hawaii has the premier snorkel-dive site in all of the Hawaiian Islands. It is so easy to get to and enjoy, people pass it off as too convenient. The fact is: Kahalu'u Beach Park has the best snorkeling anywhere in Hawaii. Period. Some years ago we published an article describing Kahalu'u's wonders and since then people have been flocking to this 'secret spot'. It has been reported over 100 species of fishes have been counted in Kahalu'u Bay. That other place on Oahu has perhaps 60 species. The invertebrates counted are numerous, too, at Kahalu'u.

Why is Kahalu'u so abundant in sea life? Marine biologists tell us of the topography of the bay, the semi-protection of the breakwater, the free flowing northerly currents through the bay, the reasonably year-round calm of the interior bay, the fresh-water springs that constantly filter clean, fresh water in the bay (some estimating 7-10 million gallons daily), the multi-pocked coral and rock formations forming the bottom of the bay, and numerous other aspects as contributing to this natural water wonder. Man, of course, has played a part in developing this bay into the living aquarium it has become. So, let's not spoil it. Kahalu'u is not a Marine Life Conservation District like the northern section of Kealakekua Bay or the Bay surrounding Beach 69. Some feel it should be. Some don't. My thoughts on that are simple: Use it but don't abuse it. Fortunately, the bay is doing nicely - with most people enjoying what it has to offer - and few offending it's natural beauty.

Many ask me where to go snorkeling. My immediate reply is always,"Kahalu'u!". I tell them of the opportunity to see turtles there - and that is becoming almost a given - of the ease of entry and exit (when they follow the directions on the information board near the life-guard stand) - of the accessibility of County Life Guards - of the snack truck - and the Snorkel Rental Truck right at the beach - of the showers, the newly refurbished restrooms and covered picnic tables provided - and on and on. They often ask, "Where's the best place to observe turtles?". My reply, of course, is "Anywhere they want to swim - just keep an eye out and they'll probably show up!" I remind them, too, that our Giant Green Sea Turtles are a protected species, not to be touched or harassed in any way. Just enjoy their presence, take pictures if you like, but leave them alone. You are visiting THEM - they are not visiting YOU.

The fun of diving/snorkeling in Kahalu'u is in finding strange creatures. There is an abundance of puffer fish at Kahalu'u; lots of parrotfish; you'll see our State Fish, the Humu-humu-nuku-nuku-apua'a; even eels are frequently spotted in a variety of families; little needle nosed fish are seen near the surface; while the longer trumpetfish and coronetfish (which are related to the seahorse, you know?) are seen near the bottom. Rays are seen infrequently here, but are far from rare sights.

The shallowness of the bay, rarely exceeding 10 feet within the breakwater, makes this a safe and enjoyable water location for even the inexperienced. But, let us caution you beginners ... there often is a sweeping northerly current - so constantly monitor your position in relation to the entry/exit point near the lifeguard stand. Be alert to the water conditions. When it is rough, sit on the beach! But, when it's flat - which is most of the time here in Kona - GET WET! You'll be glad you did.

Oh, Kahalu'u is a mere 5 and a half miles south of Kailua-Kona, on Alii Drive. You can't miss it.

IMPORTANT: On this or any dive I suggest, YOU are responsible for your diving. Dive only when you and the conditions are right. If, for any reason, you do not feel competent in making the dive, whether it be from shore or from a boat, DON'T DIVE. I cannot be responsible for your incompetence, heavy weather, tide, or current conditions. Diving is a SAFE and ENJOYABLE sport. Don't dive if you are at all uncomfortable with the conditions or your safety.