Snorkeling at Kahalu'u Beach Park - Big Island Hawaii

by Heather Felkey
(California)

September 2010 - We stayed at the Kona Coast Resort on the Big Island and discovered this beach by accident. Since we were short on time and this beach was close to our condo we thought we would give it a shot. This was a perfect location for my first time snorkeling and swimming in the ocean. I couldn't believe the abundance of fish and turtles in the water.

We went out twice, about 60 - 90 minutes each time. The first time around we went toward the reef. Here we found smaller more colorful fish and coral with shallower waters. The second time we went towards the rocks, north of the reef. Here we found larger fish and coral. This was where we saw a sea snake. Both locations at this beach was incredible.

We saw several Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. Some sunbathing in the sand, others floating next to the shore. We also saw one next to the rock wall. One of my goals in Hawaii was to see Sea Turtles, I never imagined I would get to swim next to them! Even though I have never snorkeled anywhere else I would highly recommend this beach, it is a real treat.