Two Step is a free, shore-entry snorkeling spot on Honaunau Bay along the Big Island's sheltered South Kona coast. It's named for the two natural ledges in the black lava rock that make for one of the island's easiest ocean entries — there's no sand beach, so you slip in straight off the lava shelf. The bottom drops away quickly into a healthy coral wall alive with yellow tang and other reef fish, and resident green sea turtles (honu) are an almost daily sight. On calm mornings visibility runs about 60–100 ft (roughly 20–30 m), and pods of spinner dolphins sometimes rest in the bay (protected — keep your distance). Water sits around 24–27°C, so as of 2026 snorkeling is still possible year-round.
The signature lava 'two steps' for an easy, sand-free entry
A drop-off coral wall right off the entry with 20–30 m visibility on calm days
Reliable sightings of resident green sea turtles (honu)
Big shoals of yellow tang and colorful reef fish over healthy coral
Morning spinner dolphins resting in the bay (stay 50 yards back)
Adjacent Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, a sacred cultural site
Good to know
SafetyThere's no sand beach — you get in and out off lava-rock steps. Sit down and time your move with the rising and falling surge; if the swell is rough or there's high surf, entry and exit become dangerous, so stay out.
SafetyEven inside the bay, moderate currents can run and push you offshore. Always snorkel with a buddy, carry a float, and stay within your ability — there is no lifeguard on duty. Beginners should defog the mask and get comfortable in the shallows first to avoid panic.
SafetySea urchins hide in the pukas (holes) and cracks around the steps. Keep your hands flat when steadying yourself and wear heel-covering fins or reef shoes to avoid spines.
RulesFederal law prohibits swimming with, approaching, or staying within 50 yards (about 46 m) of spinner dolphins — violations carry fines. If they show up, give them space and move on quietly, and keep clear of the neighboring park's canoe launch.
RulesHawaii bans sunscreens containing oxybenzone or octinoxate; use a reef-safe mineral (zinc oxide / titanium dioxide) formula, and never touch or stand on coral or turtles (honu are legally protected).
MannersDon't stand on or kick the coral, and never feed or chase turtles or dolphins — keep at least 10 ft (3 m) away and observe quietly.
SeasonThe Kona side is usually calm, but winter swells can make entry tough. Box jellyfish can drift onto south/leeward shores about 8–10 days after a full moon, so check before you go; early, calm mornings give the best visibility and the safest entry.
Practical info
It's about an hour south of Kona International Airport; take Highway 160 and turn onto the Shoreline Public Access road just before Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. This is a free beach-entry spot (no boat needed), but roadside parking fills early and there's a small paid lot; facilities are limited to portable toilets with no showers, so arrive early. Confirm current parking, fees, and any access restrictions before you visit.
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