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Where are the best spots for “reef snorkeling near me” in Kona?

Kona is home to several reef snorkeling spots giving you multiple options to choose from. However, choosing the right snorkeling spot may seem tricky especially if you’re snorkeling on the island for the first time.

If you’re interested in the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona, we’ve created this simple guide for you. Each snorkeling spots in this simple guide are easily accessible by vehicle and ideal for combining with a trip to the beach.

Best Spots For “Reef Snorkeling Near Me” In Kona

The following are the best spots for reef snorkeling in Kona:

Two Step At Honaunau

Two Step at Honaunau is one of the best spots for reef snorkeling in Kona. It is one of the favorite national park, Puuhonua o Honaunau, is nearby and has clear water. If you’re interested in private boat tours, check out this customizable private boat tour in Kona.

Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is best accessed by boat trip but also available by kayak or following a strenuous climb. This is one of the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona. Here’s how to prepare for a reef snorkel in Kona.

Kahalu‘u Beach Park

This is one of the top three favorite locations on the island. The local surfers love it too. Keep in mind to swim along the left (south) side of the beach when snorkeling. Kahalu’u Beach Park is one of the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona.

Magic Sands Beach Park

Magic Sands Beach Park is a small, enjoyable beach in Kona that gets its name from the way powerful storms seem to change the sand on the beach overnight. This beach is ideal for snorkeling if the waves are small. To see some beautiful corals and bigger fish, travel a few hundred yards out to the right.

King Kam Beach

Kim Kam Beach in the heart of Kona is quite accessible. Perfect for a late afternoon or early-morning snorkel. Kim Kam Beach is one of the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona.

Anaeho‘omalu (“A”) Bay

High surf is kept at bay from this beach by an offshore reef. It is a good place for snorkeling and has a stunning beach to watch the sunset. Here’s why you shouldn’t miss out on exploring the ocean on a private boat charter in Kona.

Mauna Lani Resort

There is a little beach in the Mauna Lani resort location. This spot is easy to enter and exit, a shallow reef, and an immediate payoff of reef fish, octopus, eels, and coral heads. The water grows clearer further out, revealing more coral and larger schools of fish.

Pau‘oa Bay

For those who are new to swimming or snorkeling, this beach is an excellent option. Large rocks surround the beach, protecting it, and a sand entry into the water adds to its beauty. Swimming outside the barrier rocks provides excellent snorkeling chances when the ocean’s conditions are suitable (low surf). This makes it one of the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona.

Waialea Beach

The nicest coral at this beach can be found on the southern side of the bay. But there is also a ton of coral on the rocky point on the right (north) side of the beach and close to the rocky prominence inside the bay. The potential for muddy water is the area’s weak spot for snorkeling. It’s preferable to snorkel here when the ocean is calm. It’s rated as one of the best spots for reef snorkeling near me in Kona.