Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park

If you dream of an idyllic Big Island snorkeling experience, Kealakekua Bay Historical Park is the place to go. This wildlife sanctuary has so many tropical fish in its coral reefs, and it’s a popular spot for spinner dolphins.

The area’s calm waters make it one of the top beaches for snorkeling, but it’s also an important historical site.

A Heiau still stands at the park, which was once a significant place of worship for Hawaiians. Western explorers first made landfall at Kealakekua Bay, and Captain Cook died here on his third visit to the Hawaiian Islands.

To drive to the bay, look for Nāpō’opo’o Road in South Kona. You can snorkel near the parking area, but the best conditions will be closer to the Captain Cook Memorial. It’s a sunny, 2-mile hike to that part of the bay, so many adventurers will rent a kayak to access it by water.

A boat tour can also take you directly to the pristine locale while providing snorkel gear and guidance.

We think Kealakekua Bay has one of the best beaches in Kona.