The Big Deal about Big Island Snorkling
The Big Island is famous for snrokling. The island, officially named Hawaii, is the biggest of the Hawaiian islands. In fact, it's more than twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands put together. What this means for outdoor and water enthusiasts is the opportunity to go snorkling on the Big Island. We're not talking just a beach or two to snorkel to see a few fish.
We're talking about plentiful sea life that can be seen up close and personal (so close you could touch the sea life). Native Hawaiian fish, green sea turtles and even octopus can be experienced while snorkling on the Big Island. With two major cities on the island both on opposite ends, you're bound to find plenty of snorkel spots to fit your needs.
The Kona Side
Kona means leeward in Hawaiian, and the leeward side of a Hawaiian island is the drier, warmer side (usually by about 5 degrees in temperature compared to the "windward" side). Needless to say, Kona is the leeward side of the Big Island. Snorkling in Kona is an adventure in itself without even having to visit the other side of the island.
The Kohala Coast is sensational for a great snorkel experience. To the North of Kona you'll find this spot, full of abundant sea life. Most of the areas this coast covers can introduce you to sea turtles and tropical fish that you won't find anywhere else.
Kailua Bay is another great snorkel spot, offering plenty to see. Between the pier and the established Kamehameha hotel you'll find easy water access. Snorkling at this part of the Big Island is spectacular during the summer months.
The Hilo Side
Hilo is on the "windward" side of the island, which means it gets plenty of rain and is lush and green. However, you won't find white sand beaches on this side of the island but that isn't to say there aren't great snorkling opportunities on the Big Island's West side.
Leleiwi Beach Park is a great place for snorkling on the Big Island, offering plenty of opportunity to explore sea turtles, tropical fish and the reefs. Make sure that when you follow others to enter the water, you wait until the tide goes out and do not attempt to enter the water while the tide is high.
Kapoho Tide Pools is a place that is considered some of the best snorkling on the Big Island. In fact, it's thought of as one of the best places to snorkel in the state of Hawaii. The tide pools are great for beginners because the pools are protected form the waves by a reef and the surf. Expect more fish in the tide pools closest to the ocean, but weaker swimmers should stay in the tide pools further back away from the ocean where there are still some fish to be seen.
