Best Time of Year to Snorkel Big Island Hawaii?

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Best Time of Year to Snorkel Big Island Hawaii?

by Tom Turner
(Jamestown, PA USA)

I just found your site. It is great. I see that you recommend snorkeling in the summer months for Kauai. We are considering a snorkel trip to the big island. Is there any time of year that is best? With your experience in the area, would you recommend a different island? We are experienced snorkelers, but your description of Kauai makes me think that we would be better of at a different island. We definately prefer to steer clear of tourist areas, though.

A side question: we travel to Grand Cayman yearly and love the snorkeling there, primarily the diversity and easy access. Do you have any areas of particular interest in Grand Cayman?

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Best Time of Year to Snorkel Big Island Hawaii?

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Nov 25, 2010
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Best Seasons For Snorkeling The Big Island
by: Galen & Nicole

Hi Tom, and welcome to the site.

We can easily recommend snorkeling the Big Island. It has some of the best spots in all of the islands. It is a bit less touristy than Maui or Oahu.

Summer can be pretty good on the Big Island, although it can be hot. The water temperature will be the best. But the Kona area actually gets a decent amount of afternoon rains in the summer, which makes it buggy, and can lower visibility in the water.

Really we like spring and early fall for snorkeling the Big Island. Spring, the water temperatures are lower.

In the summer there is the chance of getting a southern swell that can throw a wrench in the snorkeling, but we have not had much trouble with this.

The best advice no matter when you go is to go early. Try to be in the water close to sunrise, and be done snorkeling by noon on the Big Island, because afternoon winds are common on all the islands.

Now, as for the Grand Cayman, unfortunately we have not yet been. It is on our list. So actually we would love to hear your stories and suggestions and pictures. Please share some here.

Also, read our when to snorkel Hawaii page for more information.

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Best Time of Year to Snorkel Big Island Hawaii?

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Best Time of Year to Snorkel Big Island Hawaii?