Two Step Snorkeling Honaunau Bay

Two Step Snorkeling Honaunau Bay

On the left side of Honaunau Bay is Pu’uhonua O Honaunau Park (city of reguge) and on the right side of the bay is the famous two step snorkeling spot. It is known by this name because there are essentially two steps (actually three) of rock that lets you enter the water off the rocks. There is no beach here, so when you’re not in the water you’re resting on the rocks. There is a tiny beach, however, when the tide is low when you walk towards the city of refuge.

Entering the water is easy though because of the rock steps and the water is calm and easy to navigate. The snorkeling here is fantastic because there’s an abundance of tropical fish, coral and various topographical depths to the ocean floor. There’s lots to explore once in the water and one can spend hours here in and out of the water.

Be sure to bring shoes to walk on the volcanic rocks with as barefoot is quite painful (flip flops or water shoes are fine).

At times you may share the water with Hawaiian blue spinner dolphins who come to rest in the bay. It is important not to swim up to the dolphins as they are resting. Dolphins need to rest their radar to get proper sleep or rest and swimming up to them disturbs their rest. If the dolphin comes up to you – that’s different.

Getting There

When coming down the driveway of Luana Inn, turn right and travel down Napoopoo Road until you reach the bottom of the hill and T junction. Turn left on Puuhonua Road and keep going. This road is also known as the 160. It eventually becomes Keala O Keawe Road. Just keep following the road until you see the sign for Pu’uhonua O Honaunau Park . Turn right on Honaunau Beach Road where the sign indicates. Take the first right turn and follow the road. Look for parking and park. Alternatively park closer to the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau park parking area.

• Swimming towels
• Hat
• Plenty of water
• Water shoes
• Flip flops
• Snorkeling Gear
• Snack