Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling

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Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling

by Kelly
(Boise)

My husband & I are heading back to Kona soon. We aren't in great shape but had a great time snorkeling during our first trip. We were very comfortable in the water at Honaunau, and I don't think we would have much trouble entering at Two (Three?) Step. What I'm concerned about is exiting. We're decent enough swimmers but not super strong-I would have a hard time pulling myself out of a pool with no ladder, for example.
Thoughts on exiting Two/Three Step? Thanks so much for all of the great info on your website!
P.S. I agree on the Mexitan sunscreen. Unbelievable and we wouldn't have found it without you!
--Kelly, Boise, ID

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Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling

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Jan 17, 2011
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The Trick To Exiting At Honaunau
by: Galen & Nicole

Kelly, you should be fine exiting at Two Steps. I have seen all types of bodies enter and exit at that spot.

There is a trick to getting out that makes it easy. I edited some pictures to show you what to do.

There are actually three steps. One of the steps is most often underwater.

Look at the picture below. See the woman. Notice you can just see her pink fin on the lower step? Notice that the water level appears to be only that high?

Now check out this picture that was moments later. She is now standing on that lower step. And now look at how high the water is.

What you are seeing is ocean surge. And using that surge to exit is the trick to making it easy. Because yes, it is very difficult for anyone to try and pull themselves out of the water. But if you wait for the surge to come, and just rotate around and plop your bottom on that lower first step, it is easy. Just don't try it when it is a big wave coming, or you may get hurt.

Also watch out for urchins in the holes in the rock on these steps.

Have a great time.

P.S. I am glad you like Mexitan sunscreen. It is great stuff.

Feb 18, 2011
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Dreamy Entry at Two Step!
by: Kelly

A couple of weeks ago I asked about the entry at Two Step. Galen posted some great photos and good advice. Game on! Getting in- AND OUT, which is what I was most concerned about- was no problem AT ALL! There was a lot of surge compared to the other two times we snorkeled there, but we got near the center, very safely, and saw the ALOHA spelled out on the bay floor. Still relatively new at this and it was a huge confidence builder all around! We did see a turtle, munching on grass in a small protected spot right at the rocks near entry. Also, even though we weren't able to get there until about 12:30, and street parking was full, there was a small dirt and gravel lot with a $3.00 price. Totally worth it!
If you're feeling meek, go for it! Very happy I did and thanks for the encouragement and detailed instructions. A good friend even newer to snorkeling joined us and she was totally comfortable as well. Swim with the fishes!

Oct 30, 2011
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Wow!
by: Anonymous

My husband and I just visited today and it was amazing. This place is so easy to get in and out of, it just isn't a concern. The fish are abundant, the coral just goes on and on at all different depths and we had the special treat of watching a sea turtle feed and then gracefully swim away. We will definitely return again and again.

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Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling

Comments for Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling

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Exiting at Two Step, Honaunau, Big Island Snorkeling