Best Place to Stay on the Big Island for Snorkeling Hawaii
Are you planning a snorkeling trip to Hawaii’s Big Island but don’t know where to stay? Then you’ve come to the right place!
The Big Island is renowned for its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life – making it an ideal destination for snorkelers of all levels. However, choosing the best place to stay on the Big Island for snorkeling can be a challenge.
I lived on the Big Island for a year and got real familiar with all the best places to stay on the Big Island for snorkeling. From luxurious resorts with private beaches to budget-friendly home rentals near great snorkeling spots, I’ve got something that will suit every traveler’s needs and budget.
So let’s find you a place to walk from your bed to the ocean!
Best Places to Stay for Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling
Kealakekua Bay is a picturesque and historic bay located on the Kona coast of Hawaii’s Big Island and arguably the island’s most popular snorkeling destination. It is a protected marine sanctuary that is home to an abundance of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins. The bay is surrounded by lush tropical forests and steep cliffs, which add to its natural beauty.
Kealakekua Bay is also a popular snorkeling destination, thanks to its crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkelers can explore the coral reefs and see a wide variety of fish, including the colorful humuhumunukunukuapua’a, Hawaii’s state fish. The bay is also known for its spinner dolphins, which can sometimes be seen swimming and playing in the waters.
The only way to access Kealakekua Bay for snorkeling is to take a snorkeling tour or rent a kayak/paddleboard. You can also hike the 4-mile roundtrip steep trail to the Captain Cook Monument, a white obelisk marking the spot of the captain’s death.
🤿 Find the Best Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tours here!
Ohana Guest Apartment
⭐Rating: 4.5/5 🛏️Sleeps: 4 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
This ground floor, simple guest apartment is so close to Kealakekua Bay, you can walk to it in only 3 minutes! The apartment has one bedroom with a queen bed, a living room with two futons that can be pulled out into full-size beds, and a kitchenette with all the things you need. There is also a shared 12’x16′ lanai on the second floor where you can enjoy an amazing view of the ocean. If you’re lucky, you might get some ripened papaya from the garden too!
Highlighted Features:
- 1 Bedroom
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Washer/dryer
- No Air-conditioning
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “We couldn’t be happier with our VRBO choice for our stay on the Big Island. The unit was spacious and comfortable and well-equipped, and just steps away from Kealakekua Bay. Hard to beat for snorkeling, and host Alice has a special relationship with the dolphins. Our first morning there she introduced us to a large pod of them plus a manta ray! (We were lucky with our timing.)” – John (read more reviews)
The Pagoda House
⭐Rating: 4.9/5 🛏️Sleeps: 8 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
This 4 bedroom house by Kealakekua Bay has beautiful ocean views and a private pool in a lush Hawaiian garden with tropical fruits. There are two ensuite master bedrooms that face the ocean and two garden view bedrooms that share a bathroom.
Tall ceilings grace the large kitchen with lots of counter space and comfortable living room seating, all with ocean views.
The home has an open-plan and open-air design. With screens instead of windows, you’ll feel like you are in an oceanside treehouse!
Highlighted Features:
- 4 bedrooms
- Private pool
- Fully equipped kitchen
- BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- No air-conditioning
- Outdoor shower
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “We thoroughly enjoyed our time at The Pagoda House. The location was perfect for snorkeling and the ocean sports we were interested in. The pool was a big hit with all of us and we used it multiple times a day. Sunsets, morning walks, jumping in to the ocean from the loading dock happened daily. ” – Julianne (read more reviews)
Lawai’a Sea Lodge Cottage
⭐Rating: 4.9/5 🛏️Sleeps: 3 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
The Lawai’a Sea Lodge Cottage is a great place to stay if you’re going snorkeling on the Big Island. This charming one-bedroom cottage boasts a simple and rustic feel that perfectly captures the laid-back spirit of Hawaii.
The one bedroom has one Queen and one Twin, and the well-stocked kitchen has a vista ocean view while cooking up your meals.
One of the highlights of this property is undoubtedly its stunning sun deck, which offers an unbeatable view of the bay and is perfect for soaking up the sun, enjoying meals al fresco, or sipping a refreshing drink as you watch the gorgeous sunset. Not to mention the jacuzzi!
The property boathouse is full of water toys for enjoying the bay, including kayaks and snorkel gear. The private boat launch allows you to go from bed to sea in just a few steps.
If you have more than 3 people in your party, Lawai’a Sea Lodge has other rooms available to accommodate a larger group.
Highlighted Features:
- 1 bedroom
- Communal hot tub
- Fully equipped kitchen
- BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- No air-conditioning
- Communal Outdoor shower
- Free parking
- Complimentary use of kayaks to launch off of the private kayak launch
What past guests have to say: “We rented this place for the easy access to kayaks, and had an amazing time. You can snorkel directly from the property and kayak around the bay. Hearing the waves at night was magical.” – Katherine (read more reviews)
Best Places to Stay for Kakalu’u Beach Park Snorkeling
Kahalu’u Beach Park is a beautiful and popular beach park located on the southern end of Ali’i Drive in Kona. The beach park is situated in a protected bay that is surrounded by craggy volcanic rock formations and ancient Hawaiian ruins, which add to its natural beauty.
One of the main attractions of Kahalu’u Beach Park is its excellent snorkeling opportunities. The bay’s shallow waters and rocky reef provide a home to a variety of marine life, including sea turtles, tropical fish, and eels.
Tab’s Trip Tip: Keep an eye out for the whiteboard on the communal pavilion for the daily sealife sightings.
The breaking waves at the mouth of the bay is also a popular spot for beginner surfers.
Kahalu’u Beach Park has several picnic areas, restrooms, and showers available for visitors.
Kahalu’u Bay Surf and Sea across the street has snorkel gear rentals available, as well as surfboard rental and lessons.
🤿 Book Snorkel Gear from Kahalu’u Bay Surf and Sea Here!
Kahalu’u Bungalow
⭐Rating: 4.8/5 🛏️Sleeps: 2 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
This Kahalu’u Bungalow is directly across the street from the bay. Inside, the bungalow offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere with modern Hawaiian decor and granite countertops in the kitchen.
The bedroom features a comfy king size bed and a deck with an awesome view of Kahalu’u Bay.
Wind down and dine on the front deck with a view of the ocean and the quaint St Peter’s Church. Or choose the covered patio seating area if it’s raining or too sunny.
Highlighted Features:
- 1 bedroom
- Fully equipped kitchen
- BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- Air-conditioning
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “Location on Kahaluu Bay makes this property a winner. Photos and description are accurate. Front deck is wonderful for watching the surf and sunset.” – Rowan (read more reviews)
Kahaluu Beach Villas Unit 1-203
⭐Rating: 5/5 🛏️Sleeps: 6 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
Kahaluu Beach Villas Unit 1-203 is a three-bedroom condo situated kitty-corner from Kahalu’u Beach. The unit is positioned on the second floor, and its corner location offers breathtaking ocean views. Guests can keep an eye on the beach from their own private covered lanai, perfect for enjoying a cup of Kona coffee in the mornings.
The villa’s primary bedroom features a King bed with direct access to the lanai while the ensuite bathroom boasts a sizable walk-in shower. The second bedroom has a Queen bed and the third bedroom has two Twin beds.
For a comfortable stay in, use the fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances for homecooked meals and keep entertained with the TV center, books, and puzzles.
Additionally, the unit has access to the complex’s grill area, and relaxing infinity pool with hot tub.
Highlighted Features:
- 3 Bedrooms
- Communal infinity pool & hot tub
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Communal BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- Air-conditioning
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “The location was amazing being so close to a great snorkelling beach. It was some of the best off shore snorkelling I have done…The condo is spacious, clean and well stocked. The view from lanai was exceptional. We could see humpback whales, spinner dolphins and enjoyed watching the surfers.” – Stacey (read more reviews)
Kahalu’u Gem
⭐Rating: 5/5 🛏️Sleeps: 6 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
The Kahalu’u Gem is a stunning stay located right across from Kahalu’u Beach Park. The interior of the home has been recently renovated with beautiful Ohi’a wood, Opiuma wood, and original cedar wood accents, creating a warm and natural atmosphere.
Tall ceilings and extensive windows throughout the home provide plenty of natural light.
The kitchen has all the necessary equipment and appliances. Additionally, there is a covered lanai outside that overlooks the ocean, and it has ample seating for everyone.
An outdoor shower is perfect for rinsing off after a day at the beach.
Highlighted Features:
- 3 Bedrooms
- Fully equipped kitchen
- BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- Air-conditioning
- Outdoor shower
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “The house is a wonderful outpost ideally located between old and new Kona and across the mellow street from one of the best beaches on the BI. Our family of four ended every day body surfing at the beach and enjoying the sunsets.“
Best Place to Stay for Keauhou Bay Snorkeling
Keauhou Bay is a historic and picturesque bay located on the southern end of Kona and is a high trafficked area for boat tours.
One of the main attractions of Keauhou Bay is the manta ray night snorkel experience. Visitors can take a guided tour just a 5 minute ride from shore and watch as giant manta rays swim gracefully through the waters below them. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one activity I say is a Must-Do on the island.
🤿 Find the Best Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours here!
Keauhou Bay is also the departure point for many water-based activities and tours like Kealakekua Bay and other snorkeling cruises, sunset sails, or fishing charters.
🤿 Find the Best Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tours here!
In addition to water activities, Keauhou Bay has a rich cultural history, one of which is the birthplace of Kamehameha III. Take a short stroll along the informative path with placards to read on what you’re looking at.
Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa
⭐Rating: 8/10 🛏️Sleeps: 2-4 ✅Book It Here: Expedia
The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa is conveniently located right on Keauhou Bay; just walk down the block to the marina to catch your snorkel tour!
A multi-level fantasy pool winds throughout the hotel and features a 200-foot water slide. There is also a sanded kid pool.
The manta ray viewing deck is lit up at night to attract the animals so you can still see them without having to get wet.
Guests can participate in a range of cultural activities, including yoga, lei making, hula lessons, ukulele lessons, and historic walking tours.
Additionally, guests can enjoy an extravagant Feast & Fire Luau that showcases the best of Hawaiian cuisine, culture, and entertainment.
Upgrade to the Voyager 47 Club, featuring exclusive lounge access, ocean view rooms with enhanced bath amenities, daily continental breakfast, and evening receptions with pupus, beer, and wine. Additional perks include nightly turndown service and complimentary valet parking.
Highlighted Features:
- 2 restaurants
- Pool & hot tub
- Air-conditioning
- Spa
- Activity classes
- Paid parking
What past guests have to say: “Convenience to Keauhou for manta ray viewing was great (and had luck at the viewing deck on the property a couple of the nights). Voyager 47 club was well worth it— Enjoyed hot breakfast every morning and happy hour every night!” – Michelle – (read more reviews)
Best Place to Stay for Punalu’u Black Sand Beach Snorkeling
As the name suggests, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is covered in striking black sand, formed from the lava that flows into the ocean, cools and solidifies, then gets ground up by the crashing waves into sand. The contrast of the black sand against the turquoise waters of the ocean creates a picturesque setting that is truly unique.
Snorkeling in these waters will be colder than other parts of the island as underwater fresh water springs run under the bay and this cold water floats on top of the denser salty ocean water.
But, green sea turtle sightings are almost guaranteed as they like to come and bask on the warm black sand.
You’ll also find ancient ruins, a quaint chapel, and a lotus pond around the park.
Sea Mountain
⭐Rating: 8.9/10 🛏️Sleeps: 4 ✅Book It Here: Booking
Sea Mountain is a beautiful condo complex with lush green grounds meticulously landscaped adding to the overall tropical vibe of the property. Famed Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is just a 12-minute walk away.
You can choose from a studio or one-bedroom condo (with ceilings making you feel like you’re in a Hawaiian hale), featuring comfortable living areas, fully equipped kitchens, washer/dryer, and private lanais where guests can relax with a lush garden view or soak in some sun.
Chillax in the pool and hot tub with expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. Or get your game on at the tennis courts.
Highlighted Features:
- Studio/1-Bedroom
- Communal pool & hot tub
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Washer/dryer
- No air-conditioning
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “Really nice holiday rentals, perfect location close to beach. Nice pool area, prefect for families” – Michal (read more reviews)
Best Place to Stay for Pau’oa Bay Snorkeling
Pau’oa Bay is practically a private beach of the Fairmont Orchid’s. The beach is known for its clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and boasts some of the healthiest coral reefs in Hawaii. The crescent-shaped lava walls provide a secure and calm spot for swimming and snorkeling.
If you aren’t staying at the Fairmont Orchid, you can still access the beach by parking in their parking lot or parking at Holoholokai Beach Park (free!) by the Puako Petroglyph hike and walking over.
Fairmont Orchid
⭐Rating: 9/10 🛏️Sleeps: 2-4 ✅Book It Here: Expedia
The Fairmont Orchid is a luxurious resort situated on 32 acres of oceanfront property. The resort features lush tropical gardens, cascading waterfalls, and a serene white sand beach and lagoon.
Enjoy a range of resort amenities, including the award-winning Spa Without Walls, a 10,000 square foot oceanfront pool, six restaurants, world-class golf, a fitness center, and a 10-court tennis pavilion. And don’t forget to attend the Hawaii Loa Luau.
The resort offers ocean view and oceanfront rooms with a private lanai, allowing guests to take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hui Holokai, the Fairmont Orchid Beach Club Ambassadors, are on hand to share their cultural knowledge, ocean skills, and storytelling talents. They offer a range of activities, including stand up paddle boarding, outrigger canoe adventures, snorkeling, and more.
Included with your resort fee is a complimentary 1-hour snorkel rental per day, two sets per room. So no need to rent or bring your own snorkel gear unless you want more time exploring under the sea.
Highlighted Features:
- 6 restaurants
- Private beach
- Pool & hot tub
- Air-conditioning
- Spa
- Activity classes
- Free or Paid valet parking
- Complimentary 1-hour snorkel equipment rental per day
What past guests have to say: “The snorkeling was exceptional. Wonderful private cove, beach, and pool.” – Alexandra (read more reviews)
Best Place to Stay for Makaiwa Bay Snorkeling
Makaiwa Bay has phenomenal snorkeling, when the ocean has calm conditions. The idyllic white sandy beach is small but beautiful against the clear teals and blues of the water.
Mauna Lani Beach Club serves lunch and dinner on the covered patio overlooking the bay and has lounge chairs on the sand for members.
If you are a beach club member or are staying at Mauna Lani, access to this beach is easy. Otherwise you can park for free at the Kalahuipua’a Historic Park and walk about a mile across lava fields, past a lava tube, and through ancient fishponds.
Rent snorkel gear and other water toys from the Mauna Lani Sea Adventures’ beach center.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
⭐Rating: 9.2/10 🛏️Sleeps: 2-6 ✅Book It Here: Expedia
Mauna Lani is a luxurious oceanfront hotel located on the Kohala Coast. It features two restaurants, two golf courses, a spa, tennis courts, and even has bicycles for guests to ride around the area.
Choose from ocean view or oceanfront rooms and suites, all of which come with a spacious private lanai for enjoying the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and sunsets.
Rent snorkel gear at the on-site Surf Shack and take advantage of the crystal clear waters of Mauna Lani’s swimmable lagoon to explore the colorful reefs and tropical fish that lie beneath the ocean’s surface.
CanoeHouse, one of the hotel’s prestigious restaurants, offers a farm-to-table menu that highlights traditional Hawaiian cuisine.
In addition to recreational activities, the hotel also offers cultural experiences such as hula dancing and lei-making classes.
The property is adjacent to Kalahuipua’a Historic Park with ancient fishponds, petroglyphs, and a lava tube.
Highlighted Features:
- 2 restaurants
- Private beach and lagoon
- Pool & hot tub
- Air-conditioning
- Spa
- Activity classes
- Free or Paid valet parking
- Snorkel equipment available to rent on property
What past guests have to say: “Absolutely beautiful property, very relaxing & extremely friendly staff. When we arrived at our hotel & checked in to our room, we walked out on the balcony & immediately saw two sea turtles swimming in the beach area in front of the hotel.” – Jason (read more reviews)
Best Places to Stay for Richardson Beach Snorkeling
Richardson Beach is a picturesque beach located in Hilo, known for its black sand and clear azure waters.
As the eastern side of the Big Island does not have as many beaches for swimming or snorkeling, this beach is popular among locals and tourists alike.
Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the shore, boulder hop among lava rocks, spot sea turtles (almost guaranteed), or relax in the shade of the palm trees.
The beach is also equipped with picnic tables and restrooms.
Hilo Oasis
⭐Rating: 4.9/5 🛏️Sleeps: 4 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
The Hilo Oasis is a lovely two-bedroom, one-bathroom vacation rental directly across from Leleiwi Beach Park and just one block down from Richardson Ocean Park. Both bedrooms have a queen bed and the bathroom has a spacious walk-in shower.
The living area has an open-concept design that is great for socializing and a fully stocked kitchen for making homemade meals. The expansive ocean-facing covered front deck with ocean views and a picnic table is ideal for outdoor dining.
The rental also includes amenities like boogie boards, beach chairs, and towels, as well as a large fenced front yard.
Highlighted Features:
- 2 Bedrooms
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Washer/dryer
- No air-conditioning
- Free parking
What past guests have to say: “We thoroughly enjoyed staying at this beachside home, with ocean views and easy access to the beach…..the house had everything we could ask for in a vacation home.” – Kevin (read more reviews)
Beaches House
⭐Rating: 4.7/5 🛏️Sleeps: 8 ✅Book It Here: VRBO
The Beaches House is an idyllic snorkel vacation rental located across the street from Richardson’s Beach Park, occupying almost half an acre of land of dense foliage including some tropical fruit trees. The property features a spacious 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom layout, making it perfect for families or groups of friends.
The master bedroom is located upstairs, offering maximum privacy and a view of the ocean. It boasts a king bed and large sink area, along with a two-person shower.
The other two bedrooms are located downstairs sharing a bathroom. One room has a king bed while the other has two twin beds.
The open-plan living area has comfortable seating, a flat-screen TV with Roku, and a selection of books and games for family fun. The large kitchen with gas stove is ideal for making meals to eat on the covered porch facing the ocean.
The Beaches House also offers a variety of beach gear, including a kayak, paddleboard, bikes, boogie boards, and snorkeling equipment with booties.
Highlighted Features:
- 3 Bedrooms (plus bonus room for extra ppl)
- Fully equipped kitchen
- BBQ
- Washer/dryer
- No air-conditioning
- Free parking
- Complimentary snorkel gear and other water activity toys
What past guests have to say: “Being right across the street from a black sand snorkeling beach made our stay wonderful! And the house is comfortable and clean with plenty of room for large groups, even though ours was small. The whole house fan kept the house cool, there was plenty of seating both indoors and out, with lovely views.” – Tammy (read more reviews)
FAQs
Is snorkeling better in Hilo or Kona?
Kona has better snorkeling than Hilo because it is located on the leeward side of the island, which means that the waters are generally calmer and clearer. Kona’s coastline is also home to a variety of reefs and marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins, which make for great snorkeling experiences.
Additionally, Kona’s beaches and bays are well-known for their accessibility and convenience, with many of them offering easy entry points for snorkelers.
Does the Big Island have good snorkeling?
Yes, the Big Island of Hawaii has some of the best snorkeling spots in the world. With crystal-clear waters, an abundance of colorful marine life, and unique underwater topography, there are numerous opportunities to explore the underwater world around the island.
Some of the popular snorkeling spots on the Big Island include Kahalu’u Beach Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and the famous Kealakekua Bay. There’s even lesser-known locations like Pawai Bay. The island offers a range of snorkeling experiences, from shallow reefs to deeper drop-offs, and are suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers.
What month is best to snorkel Big Island?
The best time to snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii is during the summer months, from May to September. During this time, the ocean is generally calmer, and the water is clearer and warmer, making it easier to see underwater and more comfortable to snorkel for longer periods.
However, snorkeling can still be enjoyable during other times of the year as well, depending on the weather and ocean conditions. It’s always a good idea to check local weather and ocean conditions before planning a snorkeling trip.
Other Big Island Stay Options:
Where to Stay on the Big Island
Best Place to Stay on the Big Island for Couples
Kona Hotels with Kitchens
Epilogue: Best Place to Stay on the Big Island for Snorkeling
When it comes to finding the best place to stay on the Big Island for snorkeling, there are a variety of options available. Whether you’re looking for an upscale luxurious resort like Mauna Lani or something more affordable and homey like the Kahalu’u Bungalow, all offer great amenities and easy access to amazing snorkeling spots on the Big Island.
No matter what your budget is, you’ll find somewhere to stay for a perfect Hawaiian snorkel getaway!
🌺 Big Island Travel Planning Guide 🌺
🚨 Should I buy Hawaii travel insurance?
YES — I recommend Travel Insurance Master because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!
🚗 Is it safe to rent a car on the Big Island?
YES — It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular. I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental, as they have some of the best prices around.
📞 Will my phone work on the Big Island?
PROBABLY — Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
🛏️ What’s the best way to book my Big Island accommodations?
For Big Island hotels, Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO for potentially better prices and options.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Big Island flights?
I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip: check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.
🛂 Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?
NO — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States. If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.
🧳What should I pack to the Big Island?
Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack.
