Amazing snorkeling! Free parking within walking distance. Our son loved the tide pools. You'll see so much ocean life here. Not too busy either when we went, this was a very family friendly spot! read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

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Snorkel spot. Get it done. No sand, no beach just lava rock and reefs with lots of fish and sea urchins. Proceed with caution but once in the water it's pretty amazing down there. Watch for the signs that tell you where to get in and out of. There is actually a slimy step to use. Coming out I accidentally slipped and cut my finger on the slimy rock. Scared me as I thought I might have touched a sea urchin. Parking is interesting but we were lucky and found a spot on the street. You are greeted with signs that say Pharmaceuticals detected in the water please use restroom before entering water. Ewww yuck! That kind of freaked me out. read more

Amazing snorkeling!! I saw so many fish. Be careful getting into the ocean here because the rocks can be slippery. This is the perfect place to spend a morning. Make sure to come early so you can catch all of the beauty. Also a nice place just to go for a swim. A lot of sea urchins so be careful where you step! read more

I'm normally more wordy than this, but I have some catching up to do... Honaunau was one of my favorite stops on our week long vacation to the Big Island, but not for the reason you'd think. Free parking on the nearby roads or $5 parking down by the shore. Easy access to snorkeling! And sure that's okay... Honestly I wasn't feeling snorkeling. I decided to stay by a nearby stone wall and watch our gear. While I was sitting there I noticed young men and women paddling their boats (canoe club) and swapping in and out. While I was watching a mom and I struck up a conversation. Just like we have soccer moms I guess you could say she was a canoe club mom... Lol She shared with me that canoe club is part of the culture there just like soccer clubs and other sports are practiced on the mainland. She had paddled as a kid and had "retired" but many people continue paddling as adults. Her son, daughter, and husband are all still active in a canoe club. The kids can start as young as six years old or so. When the young men and women finished the adult men were waiting to use the same boats. I'll forever remember conversations like this and the hospitality that was extended to me on BI. While you are in Hawaii please spend some time and learn the history and the true culture of the Hawaiian islands. As long as you are in the area make sure you check out the local shopping and restaurants! read more

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Incredible snorkeling! It's like jumping right into an aquarium full of bright colorful fish and LIVE coral! Most the coral you see is dead but here it's alive and well. Please take good care of this special place and keep the coral alive. Don't step on it, just float and enjoy! read more

Turtles, Spinner dolphins, fish... YES! What a great spot to snorkel! $5 parking was a surprise and well worth it in my opinion. We didn't know about that because we parked on the street and walked the few minutes down to the beach but would have parked there had we known. There's a mom-n-pop house on the corner of the main street that sold drinks and ice cream cheap! Love to support locals especially when they're passing along a good deal and not trying to gouge ya! It was busy here but the bay is so big with a lot of little tide pools that we didn't feel crowded, and everyone was so kind to one another! I loved that there was a well marked entry/exit point to the reef. Literally everyone followed that important rule. There was a good little current there so I highly recommend flippers and not just a mask. Our time there wrapped up with quite the display from a few Spinner dolphins! A great day and a great snorkel spot! 10/10! read more

Snorkeling was great but pay very close attention to the signs on where you can get in. I got yelled at and rightly so because I didn't look at the signs closely enough. They're very protective of this beach. No real beach and you can't put chairs on the rocks. read more

A great beach for snorkeling and relaxing near the water! There is very limited parking and I'd recommend bringing water shoes as it can be rocky. It's a nice secluded area that's family friendly! read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

Solid beach for snorkeling and exploring tide pools. The tide pools pretty much border the entire beach. The drop off into the reef is very abrupt so don't expect to just walk into the water - you just jump in. The reef here is very pretty so you'll probably see tons of fish! You'll find rowers here practicing and likely many people enjoying the rocks at low tide. Parking can be a pain because it's a one way only road with limited parking spots. Arrive early or during the weekdays. It's free to park (except the $5 lot) and free to enter the beach. I didn't see any restrooms or lifeguard. read more

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My husband really enjoyed this snorkeling beach. It was also rated as one of the top snorkeling beaches. As for me, the water was too deep and there was no easy entrance into the water. It's not enjoyable if you're a beginner. You definitely need a floated or something if you're not a strong swimmer. There's also a ton of people, so hard to not bump into anyone. Also be super careful and don't grab onto the rocks, a ton of urchin. The water is pretty deep as well, like 10ft, harder to see fish on a cloudy day. After 30 minutes in the water, I got out and just watched people. Some guy stepped into an urchin and was not happy. Lots of people! If you're good at swimming and comfortable, it's a great place. There's no sand, lay your beach towel on the lava rocks. Parking cost money or just park on the streets. Don't mistake Two Step for that National park next door. We made that mistake... lol read more

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Two Step came highly recommended as a location to try some freelance snorkeling, and despite the fact that neither my wife or myself had ever done it, we grabbed some basic gear and headed down here anyway. Aquatic footwear is *highly* recommended, as the volcanic rocks on the shore, as well as the coral reefs below the water will tear up your feet (and hands, if you stumble), not to mention the various anemone and urchins you don't want to step on. Once you're in the water, though, be prepared for a treat! All manner of sea critters can be found scuttling and swimming about here: schools of yellow tang, crabs, halibut (look carefully), eels, and if you're very, very lucky, sea turtles, dolphins, and who knows what else (be aware that this also potentially means sharks)? The further out you go, the more you will find, as the sea bed drops away into massive underwater caves, canyons and gorges, positively teeming with aquatic life. Life jackets recommended for weak swimmers, and be aware that the tide will fight you, possibly sucking you out further to sea, particularly around the shallower parts where the reefs reach above, or lie just below the surface of the water. Parking is limited, so you may need to pay for a spot at the adjacent Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, or along the street just outside of it. Very, very recommended! Just be careful: Mother Nature is under no obligation to be kind to you, and you are very much in her domain here. Pay your respects. read more

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This place is great. We came here about thirty minutes ago and despite the slight rain, the people that are currently here still enjoying themselves either sitting on the rocks for the great view of the ocean or a lot of the people are currently snorkeling. I literally just saw some dolphins jumping from the water. It was great. Since we came here a little after 5pm we manage to find a parking spot on top of the hill near the beach. The beach is rocky. Overall this is a great beach. read more

Josh and I snorkel today and seen some beautiful fish. I told Josh when we got home that I would love to put a list together of all the fish, it was so colorful, under the sea is a beautiful colorful world. I was looking forward to snorkeling at two step every time we come here. read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

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This is a very popular place to come snorkeling. It was crowded, so we parked outside the main lot on the side of the street. Bring your own equipment. Our Airbnb had stuff for us which was nice. There were so many fish here! It was a fun place to snorkel. I will say that I didn't feel like there was a ton of variety of fish, so I didn't feel the need to snorkel for very long. It's about a half an hour south of Kona. If you're staying north of Kona, I actually thought that Beach 69 had a better variety of fish for snorkeling (even if there weren't as many fish total). Even still, this is a good place to come to snorkel. I know my brother saw dolphins here, but we weren't quite so lucky. read more

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The biggest thing people talk about when it comes to Hawaiian beaches is how beautiful the water is. You can go to most coastlines and see turquoise waters crashing in waves against a finely sanded beach. There is however another type of beach you find, one with jagged lava rocks making up the coastline and choppy waves. It adds a bit of danger to the experience but sometimes you gotta pay the toll to try something new. Two Step is that dangerous temptation. Parking - Great but limited Parking at Two Step is relatively simple. Most people don't stay here for much longer than an hour so the flow of cars moving in and out is pretty common. The first thing you should be aware of is where the entrance is to the beach. If you're coming here you're going to be driving on Interstate 11 and then to Interstate 160. You are driving towards Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. When you arrive going down the road towards the park entrance you'll see cars parked all along the left side of the road. This is your first opportunity for free parking. If there is no opening do not go straight because then you'll be parking in the national park which can cost $20 for each vehicle and an additional $5 a person. Instead, slightly before the park entrance you'll see a small road on the right side. This road leads directly to Two Step. You can drive this way and you'll find some parking right at the steps of Two Step. There is free parking but if you think you can't find free parking across the road is a $5 parking lot which feels a bit makeshift but still works. Probably someone who owns the land understood the money to be made. Either way, this makes parking both simple and slightly complicated. Yes, parking is literally right at the beach but on a very busy day you'll have to drive further or park at Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park to see Two Step. Two Step - Duality at a beach Two Step is unique in it is naturally split into two different sections. The left side is a calm and shallow beach where the water is colder but friendlier for kids and families. An easy way to get in the water and hang out. The right side is where you'll see the majority of people braving the choppy waters. Be careful on this side because the waves are no joke. Though you can climb down into the water from the lava rocks the waters that crash against it are like a vortex, sucking you in and out with the tide. The lava rocks that make the beach line also have sea urchins everywhere, filling each space with their tiny quills. This is why it's important to wear some kind of foot protection such as fins or water shoes. One hand or foot onto one of these suckers can easily ruin the experience. This side is also what'll lead to some great snorkeling/scuba fun. Coral can be found as soon as you enter the water and you'll see an assortment of fish. The further out you go you're bound to see more exotic fauna such as sea turtles and dolphins. On clear, sunny days you can see very clearly but in overcast days the water will be harder to look through. Conclusion - Go but Know Two Step is a fantastic location for snorkeling and scuba diving. One of the easiest places to instantly see sea life the moment you step into the water it is no wonder Two Step is one of the most popular spots on the Big Island. That being said be prepared for possible parking issues, sea urchins, and choppy waves. Otherwise, have fun and go visit Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park after if you have the energy. Support national parks! read more

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Very disappointed. It's closed for all due to road construction this week! Hopefully it will open soon.

Great for any level of snorkelers, and a huge plus that is is next to a National Historic Park. Two Step Beach has many different types of fishes to see with vibrant colors. Parking wasn't too bad when I came on a Tuesday afternoon. We managed to find a spot (without having to pay) for our big pick up truck. There is also a $5 private parking spot, or $10 if you want to park at the National Historic Park. Make sure to watch other swimmers to see where and when the steps end and start.. read more

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Probably the best snorkeling that is open to the public and easily driven up to by car. It's like you jump right into an aquarium of coral, and sea life. Yes, parking is a challenge ; no, you are not supposed to park next door at the NHS (also that's not free) and snorkel here but many people do this. If you go in to see the fishes, be aware there's no lifeguards - you better be a good swimmer, and always aware of your surroundings as the current will try to push you into the rocks. read more

Awesome snorkeling. Some tips: - we printed a free 4th grade National parks pass, and parked nearby at the National park. 3 min walk to the snorkeling spot. $5 parking available nearby as well. - bring a floatation device (life jacket, pool noodle)... we had a boogie board in the car, and that was helpful for younger ones, when they got tired and needed to rest a minute. - mostly lava, except for a small sand beach area. I brought a towel to sit on and made my bag into a lean to for my back, and enjoyed a nice nap - called "two step" since there is a step in area. - small shallow area for younger ones to play in, but watch out for the tide and sharp rocks, and try not to step on the coral. Enjoy! read more

Terrific snorkeling if you get there before the masses. If you know slack tide, then you know the best time to go. Dolphin, white tip sharks, eagle rays, and honu on occasion. read more

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Great Swimming and Snorkeling Spot! Parking can be a bit tough jere with the herds of humans packing themselves into this small swimming spot. It's not really a sandy beach spot, but more of a rocky snorkeling destination. Cool rocks and Corel to swim around with some fish, but surely the fish as lessened by the crowds of people here at any given time. Find a spot that is good to get into the water, but I would recommend thick water socks just in case you find one of an endless supply of urchins waiting to give you a nice poke. This is a cool spot to take off for longer swims around the point as well. I swam 4-5 miles out and around the point and saw much more ocean life than near the shoreline. Obviously don't do this unless you are comfortable and capable in the ocean and can manage currents. All in all one of my favorite spots on Big Island. I wonder if that means I shouldn't make a yelp review in the risk of making even more packed.... read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

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All the travel sites and books say this is the best place on the Big Island to snorkel. It's a common place for dolphin sightings. I didn't see any but I heard there were dolphins there earlier this morning. Two Step is located right next to Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park. In fact, some people swim over to the national park side since going into the water at the park side is not allowed. I did see sea turtles closer to that area. Entry is tricky and the water is rather rough. It's not meant for beginners and more fit for strong swimmers. The only restrooms are porta potties. There is a calmer enclosed area on the left side that most kids were playing in. read more

2 step beach is right down the street from the historical park. There are only a handful of parking spots along the water so get there early. Or you can pay $5 to park in the church parking lot. Or park up along the road. Be careful since the rocks can be rough and slippery. You can get in at the two steps in the rock. When getting out it can be a bit harder - I'd suggest sliding up on your belly with an incoming wave. Just be careful of the holes since there is probably a sea urchin in it. It gets crowded and cloudy with more people so plan to show up earlier for the best snorkeling. This area can be pretty deep and rough in high tide so beginner level swimmers should consider using a life jacket or pool noodle. read more

My favorite snorkel and freedive spot on the island. The visibility is perfect on calm days and the aquatic life is amazing. A lava rock formation makes up the beach, so there is no sand above water. Plenty of fish, eels, and turtles to see while snorkeling or free diving. Last time I was here I had the chance to see some dolphins at a safe distance and take a few pics with out disturbing them. The parking can be scarce at the beach, but up the road you can find some room. read more

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You cannot swim at all if that's your hope too rocky! This is a very dangerous beach, the natural lava rock is very rough and will snag at your feet. I originally wore Teva water shoes in the water and tried to scale the rocks, but then decided to go in without them because me and my sister were making an attempt at body boarding which seemed more promising as this way you can avoid catching your feet on the rocks. I made a mistake by choosing to go in without the water shoes. At first I sat for a while on the flattest rock I could find covered in slimy algae and held on to the rock as waves hit and this was the safest spot I could find it was partially uncovered by the water. I should have not bothered to get off the rock and move forward because while I was walking though the rocks, making my way forward I cut my foot on some sharp rock and I started bleeding so I started making my way out of the water but it is really REALLY slippery with or without water shoes so that in itself was a challenge to get out as my foot was burning/stinging. Even getting in you will slip with shoes. A very nice lady made her way to me and asked me if I needed help getting out of the rocks and she told me she had bandaids if I needed them, she told me she was a nurse. She also informed me there was an eel nearby. I very much appreciated her and thanked her but made it out on my own despite the pain. I had to walk back to the car slowly making sure not to step down on that part of my foot. It is fairly safe from sea animals because they would have hit the rocks if they ventured that far inland. The only plus is you can see bright yellow tropical fish under the water and that is why people go snorkeling but I can't do that with all the rocks in the way. So be VERY careful if you decide to come and it's probably best to sit on a beach chair and look at the view and read. Going to urgent care asap. UPDATE: Urgent care in Big island took a quick look at my foot and told me to ice it and I'd be fine. But when I came back home I had to go to urgent care and they said I have a foot infection and now I have to take antibiotics multiple times a day. read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

Family-friendly place for snorkeling! Leave your car next door at the Puuhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park for $5 or try coming early for street parking. There's more lava rock than sand, so it's ideal to wear swimming shoes or something to protect your feet. Towards the center of the beach, there are lava rock "steps" you can sit on and use to push off into the water. BE CAREFUL of the waves (they're turbulent at the steps) & watch out for spiky sea urchins! More often than not, they're nestled inside rock crevices. There is a good array of coral and ocean life to observe: sea turtles, yellow tang fish, both red & iridescent parrotfish, and more. I personally saw a greater variety of fish while swimming on the left half of the beach. There are many tide pools in the lava rock onshore to check out too. No showers to rinse off sand & ocean water...but this shouldn't be too big an issue since there's not much sand to begin with. read more

Two Step - Ocean view from the lava rocks. - Beaches Near Me

Get here as early as you can. We arrived at 7:30am and it was bustling already. By the time we left after 9am we had a number of people jockeying for our parking space. It is 100% worth it. The water is crystal clear and full of life and the access is very easy (literally, it's two steps of lava rock). This isn't a beach to relax at and you might want to take turns with a partner holding your stuff and keeping it dry while you're in the water. This would also be a decent place to take a child with good supervision as there are a number of tide pools in the lava rock and a ton of life to see even in those. read more

Two Step - at just after high tide - Beaches Near Me

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Seems a little inaccessible at first glance and parking can be a nightmare after 10am. The snorkeling is A++. We slipped in on the rocks ( far right side seemed to be easier than the more known middle rock entrance. Yes he day there was a huge pod of dolphins and we were able to swim with them for about 2 hours. It was a most amazing experience. It goes deep quickly, so be sure to stay near the edges of the deep snow s overwhelming. We also saw a 6 foot shark and steered clear of him. read more

Two Step - Beaches Near Me

There are not enough words to describe how fantastic this place is... We heard about it from one of the local snorkel renters and decided to "squeeze" it in during one of our last days on the island. Big mistake! If I could turn back the hands of time, I would have made a daily visit to two-step. I am not ashamed to admit that before my trip to Hawaii, I did not know I could float. But with the help of my boyfriend, and the enticing call of the Hawaiian beaches, I took the plunge (literally) and learned to swim / float. It could not have come at a better time. The aquatic life by two-step is unreal. Even just standing on the rocks you could see schools of fish, crabs, eels, etc. Inside of the water? Forget about it. I saw more variety of fish than some aquariums. The water is warm and calm, so I recommend taking a dip even if you're unexperienced (like me). You will not walk away dissatisfied. read more

This is my favorite snorkeling spot on the big island of Hawaii it's easy to get in and out at the famous two-step location the water is clear and deep and it's great for freediving if you like to do that Dolphins can be seen sometimes as well as Turtles eels and lots of fish. We like to sit near the boat ramp under the palm trees usually there's a Hawaiian fellow we like to call the Tapper who sits and Taps on various things all day long I like to get here early like 8 a.m. in the morning before the crowds get there and parking is still available. No showers, no water here porta potties only, be respectful put on your sunscreen 30 minutes before arriving read more

Great little spot for snorkeling. Known for its "two step" to get in and out of the water. Friendly beach for kids and families. read more

Two Step - Fish galore! - Beaches Near Me

Came here in the morning around 9:30 AM and the tide was already rolling in. Parking is somewhat limited so we opted to park at the Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park next door and walked over. In terms of snorkeling, it was pretty decent. I got to see a turtle, multiple schools of yellow tangs etc. There's a placard near the lifeguard station that describes some of the fish you can see. I will have to say, Two Step isn't extremely beginner friendly. For instance, there are some snorkel spots in Kauai that are very shallow and you can stand (not on the coral, but on the rocks) and dunk your head in. However, at Two Step, especially when the tide comes in, you will need to know how to tread water and swim etc. I forgot to bring my water shoes that time, so next time I'll bring them and come even earlier in the morning for better results. read more

AN AMAZING PLACE TO GO SNORKELING!!! We found out about this spot from our friends who snorkeled here when they visited the big island recently. What we loved about this place? it's absolutely free. What makes the big island unique and so appealing to me is it's ruggedness, and the endless possibilities of discovering the outdoors in it's natural beauty. None of that fake commercial touristy crap that you see a lot of in oahu. The water is clear aqua blue! absolutely gorgeous. tons and tons of fish, sea life, corrals...you name it and you can find it in this aqua wonderland. a definite snorkelers delight. The hubby had a blast and was in awe with all the sea creatures we were able to see beneath us. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip for sure. We will for sure be coming back here the next time we visit kona, and will be sure to bring a waterproof camera! read more

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Great place to snorkel, but no parking. We just paid the $5 to park in the church parking lot and it was worth it. Tons of fish and we saw a sea turtle too! Lava rocks everywhere, not traditional sandy beach, but easy in and out spots. We just walked up & down the boat ramp. Not too crowded if you get there early! Clear water that protected by a break to help with the current and waves if you're snorkeling with kids. Our son is a fairly strong swimmer, but I don't trust the ocean. This place felt safe! read more

Great for snorkeling! It was only my third time ever. I first went in Kahaluu bay only 3 days earlier. That only lasted 20 minutes maybe. Then I went on a boat excursion with Jack's Diving Locker that cost about $70. Very worth, so in compatison this is a great spot that is free. We saw 3 sea turtles (one of them was sleeping on the sea floor), sea slugs?, and a ton of other fish. I don't know my fish that well so I can't tell you. But there is an "ALOHA" in concrete blocks on the bottom of the floor spelled out in sand. I didn't get sea sick at all, and I thought it was pretty good for one of my first times snorkeling. It was so clear, we were able to get amazing GoPro shots diving down! There are sea urchins in the holes where you need to get in and out, so be careful not to put any fingers in. Just go in and out with the current. It will feel easier, but it's tricky to get it right away. I got pretty frightened. I always placed a full hand and palm on the rock just to MAKE SURE I didn't hit an urchin because I was scared. read more

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Amazing place to snorkel. I counted 13 spinner dolphins. Others said there were 30, including 5 babies. I saw many beautiful fish and lovely coral and scary sea urchins. Parking can be a challenge. This is just feet away from the natl park. read more

Beautiful spot but not easy I'd the ride is high and you are a beginner with scuba. If you are novice to advanced you should be fined. Be careful with waves and lava wall or steps. read more

An amazing snorkeling and swimming location! Beautiful fish! The local kids were so nice and helpful as well!

Great place for snorkeling if you bring all your gear. There are no stores or rental areas here. The left side of the inlet is shallow and warm with calmer waters but the water is murky and not much sea life. The right side looks amazing but the waves are strong and the drop off is too deep for young kids unless you bring floaties or life jackets. No bathrooms. Just port-o-potties. read more

Two Step - Left side where the water is calmer and shallow but it was murky. The kids saw a giant turtle. - Beaches Near Me

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Best free stop to snorkel .. 2 step at Honaunau bay like a lot of Hawaiian places... Are known by more than one name. It's near and across the bay from Pu'Uhonua O HONAUNAU HISTORIC PARK. So if 2 step doesn't show on GPS the historic park might. Also restaurant close called 2 step to get you close. IT'S ONE STREET FROM Hawaiian Park. This is Our 3rd visit to Big Island and did 3 drives south to snorkel at 2 step. It's on of the most amazing free things in Hawaii. LOTS OF FISH.. SAW TURTLE each day.. Puffers, lots of yellow tangs, the Hawaii state fish is gorgeous. LOTS OF FISH .. still some decent coral even though lots of people kicking and standing on it. jerks. BUT the highlight of our 2 week 2 island trip was over 20 spinner dolphins hung out with us for hours. We saw them jumping out in the deep so we and several others swan out there. They swam under us way deep... Then surfaced and swam and jumped all around us. They say early is best time to see them between 6-8 AM. We got rental car knowing some rough roads so we could park off the road. You can pay 5 dollars to park or try your luck off side of road.. We were lucky each time to get decent parking. Brought our own snorkels and floaty vests... Husband wears as back up. I have loved snorkeling and swimming for years... At 50 have to admit I had some trouble out there and getting over the rough terrain. Had some stumbles on the rough uneven lava terrain... Didn't actually fall but it was close. Falling on that jaggid rocks with brare knee would have sucked. Got slammed into jaggid rocks by current and waves. Didn't hurt much but there is some risk. A few other issues.. Following fish.. I went further out or detoured to Hawaiian preserve. Couple times I found it easier to go in and out on boat ramp to far left and swim around. Of course u gave to watch for boats. I highly recommend this as snorkeling location. There is portapotties.. Bring sunscreen towels. Shade umbrellas if you aren't staying in water. Definitely snacks and water. I recommend klenix as sea gets the sinus snotty. Underwater camera and definitely water shoes... Rocky terrain. I feel this is a safe location.. Everyone was super nice. Helping each other and no one bothered our stuff ever. We have portable lock box to be safe to put car keys abd phones. Finding this area can be tricky.. It's very close to Hawaii historic reserve with super long Pu'Uhonua O HONAUNAU HISTORIC PARK. IT'S ONE STREET FROM IT AND RIGHT ACROSS THE BAY. LOTS OF CARS.. If you are looking for sand beach .. this is not your place. No shade or places to buy food .. there is a couple porta potties but everything else you need to come prepared. no life guards. sometimes the waves are calm .. sometimes not so calm so be careful and smart .. if people are struggling to get in and out of the water .. it's maybe not the safest day for you. i find it easier getting into the water at the boat ramp area to the left but obviously have to be careful of boats. read more

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