Hōnaunau Bay Two Step

Honaunau Bay's "Two Step" is located on the Kona side of the Big Island, adjacent to Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. You can drive there and park roadside or in the designated $5 cash parking lot. Be aware that parking fills up very quickly, especially on weekends.

Yes, it's generally well-marked, especially since it's next to the historical park. Look for signs for Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, and then follow directions for the snorkeling access.

Some tours offer kayaking to the Captain Cook monument area, which is nearby, but direct kayaking to Two Step from shore might be challenging due to conditions and distance. Many visitors opt for boat tours that include snorkeling stops here.

There's limited street parking available uphill, which is free. There's also a paid parking lot right in front of the beach for $5 cash. Arriving early is highly recommended to secure a spot.

Public transportation options to this more remote area of the Big Island are very limited. Renting a car is the most practical way to reach Honaunau Bay.

Two Step itself is a natural entry point and does not require a ticket. However, the adjacent Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park has an entrance fee, typically around $20 per vehicle for a 3-day pass.

Honaunau Bay is generally accessible during daylight hours. The adjacent Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park has specific operating hours, usually from 7 AM to 5:30 PM.

There is no direct entrance fee for the "Two Step" snorkeling area itself. However, parking may have a small fee ($5 cash), and the adjacent historical park has an admission fee.

No, it's crucial to use only the designated "Two Step" lava entries to avoid damaging the coral. There's also a small, kid-friendly beach area with shallow water for easier access.

Yes, visitors are strongly advised to use reef-safe sunscreen and to avoid touching or stepping on the coral. Entry is restricted to designated spots to protect the marine environment.

The "Two Step" lava rocks offer a natural platform to mask up and slip into the water. The area quickly deepens, allowing for excellent snorkeling. Some visitors prefer entering from the boat ramp side for calmer waters.

You can expect to see a wide variety of colorful fish, coral formations, sea turtles, and sometimes even dolphins or Hawaiian monk seals. It's a rich and diverse underwater ecosystem.

While the "Two Step" entry can be a bit daunting for absolute beginners, there's a shallow beach area to the left that's very kid-friendly and novice-friendly. Wearing a float vest is also recommended for less experienced swimmers.

There are no rinse showers available. Restrooms are limited to porta-potties. It's best to bring your own water and snacks as there are no commercial facilities on-site.

Definitely bring your snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, a towel, and a float vest if you're not a strong swimmer. A waterproof camera is also a great idea!

The "Two Step" lava formations themselves offer dramatic shots, especially with the clear blue water. The adjacent Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park also provides stunning coastal views and cultural backdrops. +1

Absolutely! The water clarity at Honaunau Bay is excellent for underwater photography. Bring an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case to capture the vibrant marine life.

Morning light is generally best for photography, offering softer light and fewer harsh shadows. The calm morning waters also make for better reflections and clearer shots.

Yes, the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park offers numerous opportunities to photograph ancient Hawaiian structures, petroglyphs, and the beautiful coastline, providing a rich cultural context.

For underwater shots, an action camera like a GoPro or a dedicated underwater camera is ideal. For land shots, a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive coastal scenery.