This is the most popular beach on the Kona Coast and one of the best snorkeling spots; these reef-protected lagoons attract 1,000 people a day almost year-round.
Kahaluu is the best all-around beach on Alii Drive, with coconut trees lining a narrow salt-and-pepper sand shore that gently slopes to turquoise pools. The schools of brilliantly colored tropical fish that weave in and out of the reef make this a great place to snorkel.
In summer, it’s also an ideal spot for children and beginning snorkelers; the water is so shallow that you can just stand up if you feel uncomfortable. But in winter, here’s a rip current when high surf rolls in; look for the lifeguard warnings.
Snorkeling
The best snorkel route is to head to the southwest, towards the lava rock breakwater (aim for the pavilion restaurant) - this keeps you swimming against the current. Swim Coral Reef at Kahaluuagainst the current on your way out, that way you are swimming with the current on your way back to shore. Try to head out to the lava rocks into as shallow water as possible - once you get into about 2-feet or less of water, the coral reef is pristine and the underwater life is spectacular. The coral reef is most prolific out here, in the shallow water adjacent the lava break water. Also, most of the tourists will stay closer to shore - so if you make it out here, it will be Colorful coral reef at Kahaluujust you, the coral, and the colorful fish! Slowly swim to the North as the current pushes you that way. As you circle through the deeper water on your way back to the beach, you will more than likely see some green sea turtles swimming. Enjoy the great snorkeling!
Click here for Snorkeling Gallery
Kahaluu is the best all-around beach on Alii Drive, with coconut trees lining a narrow salt-and-pepper sand shore that gently slopes to turquoise pools. The schools of brilliantly colored tropical fish that weave in and out of the reef make this a great place to snorkel.
In summer, it’s also an ideal spot for children and beginning snorkelers; the water is so shallow that you can just stand up if you feel uncomfortable. But in winter, here’s a rip current when high surf rolls in; look for the lifeguard warnings.
SnorkelingThe best snorkel route is to head to the southwest, towards the lava rock breakwater (aim for the pavilion restaurant) - this keeps you swimming against the current. Swim Coral Reef at Kahaluuagainst the current on your way out, that way you are swimming with the current on your way back to shore. Try to head out to the lava rocks into as shallow water as possible - once you get into about 2-feet or less of water, the coral reef is pristine and the underwater life is spectacular. The coral reef is most prolific out here, in the shallow water adjacent the lava break water. Also, most of the tourists will stay closer to shore - so if you make it out here, it will be Colorful coral reef at Kahaluujust you, the coral, and the colorful fish! Slowly swim to the North as the current pushes you that way. As you circle through the deeper water on your way back to the beach, you will more than likely see some green sea turtles swimming. Enjoy the great snorkeling!
Click here for Snorkeling Gallery
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