Kahalu’u Beach Park — Attraction in Hawaii

Great place for snorkeling and surfing. There were 2 life guards on duty during our time there. The waves were a bit choppy (the surfers loved it I'm sure). There were volunteers out there educating the visitors on where they could swim and snorkel. They offered free chemical free sunscreen to every one that needed it. They had pictures of the sea life that we might see out there. They would occasionally let the visitors know that they needed to leave the sea life alone. During our time there, there was a disrespectful young adult who didn't like to be told to leave them alone and he was disrespectful to those around him who attempted to let him know that his behavior in the ocean wasn't respectful. I suggest that if you don't want to be corrected for your actions, I suggest you stay out of these waters. You will be corrected. You will also be given a fine by the police. Fortunately for the young man and his laughing disrespectful father, they left before the police showed up. There were a few incidents where the lifeguards needed to go out and help some fellow snorkelers, but all was well. There were pick-nick tables around the area. A shaded patio and palm trees for shade. The bathrooms were clean and well supplied with toilet paper. There was fresh water pillars to wash off sand and a foot rinsing place as well. There is a parking lot that requires you to pay and they do have someone driving around checking. You will want your snorkel gear, good water shoes, water, towel, and food, cuz you will want to stay for a while. 😁 This beach had...

Absolutely fantastic snorkeling for beginners (our family). Our resort recommended Kahalu’u as a place to go. Was great.

There is a small area once you get in the bay where you can swim around to “practice” with your gear. If you’re new, definitely do this. Past the buoys they ask everyone not to touch bottom at all; they’re trying to regrow the coral and such.

Lots of fish once you get out even just a little. And turtles!! You don’t have to go out far at all for lots of sea-life viewing. So stay far away from the breakers and undertow and stay away from the north side where the surfers are.

Things to note: There are several picnic tables but nothing else. Get there early or sit in the ground. Wear swim shoes or equivalent. The walk from the small beach to where you can begin actually snorkeling is difficult. Slippery. Sharp. Difficult. Swim shoes, which you can then just wear inside your fins, will help a lot. Parking. One lot and street parking. A volunteer there told me that she just does a couple of laps and usually a space will appear. Food. Nothing. Several places 1-2 miles away, which is where we went. Sun block. Please use only approved stuff zinc or titanium based I think. They do have a free dispenser there. The volunteer told me that she grew up there and she can see the difference in water and fish quality, largely due to just the bad chemicals in the sun block.

We’re going again. Getting there even earlier this time. This place...

05/01/2025 (Thu) Kahaluʻu Beach Park is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and relaxing by the sea. The water near the shore is shallow and calm, making it perfect for beginners. There are vibrant coral reefs close to the shore, which attract a wide variety of tropical fish. I even had an unforgettable moment when I was snorkeling just a few meters from the beach, surrounded by people standing in the shallow water — and a sea turtle swam right beneath me! I was so surprised to see one that close to the shore and near so many people.

I saw many colorful fish, and the whole experience was incredibly fun. The beach is well-equipped with rest areas, restrooms, showers, and lifeguards. What made the visit even more special was the presence of the Reef Teachers — a group of friendly and knowledgeable volunteers who help educate visitors and protect the reef. Several of them were incredibly kind to me — one sprayed anti-fog solution on my snorkeling mask, others showed me how to keep the lenses clear, and even pointed out where I might see sea turtles. Their presence made the experience feel safe, welcoming, and enriching.

There’s also plenty of shade to relax under, making it a very comfortable place to spend the day. The free parking lot is fairly large, but it’s best to arrive early to get a spot. This beach truly offers a beautiful mix of nature, marine life, and...