Looking for a unique beach experience outside of the typical white sand beaches? Then the Kona Coast of Big Island is your destination. The Kona Big Kahuna Tour allows you to explore all the Kona coastline has to offer, beginning in North Kona all the way south to Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau and back! A little taste of the beaches you’ll encounter include:

Two Step Beach

Two Step Beach  | Photo by Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Heather Goodman

Two Step Beach, otherwise known as Honaunau Bay, is the perfect spot to fulfill your snorkeling and diving desires. Two Step was actually named from the two naturally formed steps used by snorkelers to enter the water. Two steps down and in! Clear water and abundant marine life with the strong possibility of sighting dolphins is really all you could ask for. There’s not much shallow water here. So solid swimming skills or flotation devices are recommended when you visit Two Step Beach in the Kona Coast.  Don’t miss the cultural center of Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau, right next door.

Kahalu‘u Bay

For a more family oriented and beginner snorkeler experience, Kahalu‘u Bay is your way to go! With calm, shallow water and close proximity to downtown Kona coast makes this spot a perfect way to get your feet wet in Hawaii waters. One of the best parts of this experience is the sea turtles. They’re commonly found here! Swimming with turtles sure makes for an incredible swimming experience! Just be sure to keep your distance and never try to touch them! Doing so can seriously harm them, not to mention your pocketbook. There are very hefty fines for anyone caught touching the turtles.

Magic Sands Beach

Magic Sands Beach is another to add to the itinerary to experience a different phenomenon. Wondering where it gets its name? At times during the winter, storms wash the sand off the lava rocks. At these times, use caution as there may be strong rip tides and currents. But, when you can see sand here, this beach is a great destination for surfing and boogie boarding. It's just one of the many unique beaches on the Kona Coast.

Ho‘okena Beach

Head to Ho‘okena Beach for a more relaxing, cultural, and historical beach experience. Located in a small bay off the Kona Coast, Ho‘okena is the site of one of the last traditional Hawaiian fishing villages. Walk along the beach to discover remnants of the village, marvel at the beautiful sunset views, and stay to spend the night in the campground behind the beach here.

Kamakahonu Beach

Kamakahonu Beach | Photo by Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson

Kamakahonu Beach, nicknamed Keiki (Kids’) Beach, is the perfect location for kids as it’s one of the most gentle on the island. Here you’ll also find one of the most important historical sites in Hawaii: the ‘Ahu‘ena Heiau Temple. During the last few years of his life, King Kamehameha lived in a quaint hut, which sits by the water at Kamakahonu Beach. This beautiful beach is also very conveniently located in downtown Kailua-Kona.

Headed to the Big Island?

Make your trip easier and don’t miss anything on your trip with the Kona Big Kahuna Tour. A car, USB charger, and the Shaka Guide app is all you need to find the best destinations and experience all of what Kona has to offer.

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When you're in Hawaii remember that the beaches and marine life are fragile. Please show your aloha by wearing reef safe sunscreen, respecting the animals - don't get too close or touch them EVER - and by leaving the beach better than you found it. For more on how to be a safe and responsible traveler when you visit Hawaii, click here.