Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay) is one of the Big Island’s most popular snorkeling destinations, located right next to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. The spot gets its nickname “Two Step” from the natural lava rock ledges that make it easy to enter and exit the water. With calm, clear conditions and vibrant marine life—including colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and spinner dolphins—it’s considered one of the best places to snorkel on the island.

TRAVEL TIPS:

• Weather: Hōnaunau Bay enjoys sunny, warm weather most of the year. Mornings are usually calm with better visibility; afternoons may bring stronger currents and wind.

• Pack a Day Bag: Reef-safe sunscreen, rash guard or swim shirt, snorkel gear, towel, hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. A dry bag is useful if you want to keep belongings safe from ocean spray.

• What to Wear: Swimsuit with a rash guard for sun protection, reef-safe sandals or water shoes (lava rocks can be sharp), and light cover-up clothing for before/after swimming.

• What to Bring: Snacks, drinks, and cash for local vendors nearby. If you’re staying for a while, a portable chair or mat is helpful since there’s no sandy beach to lounge on.

• Phone Service: Generally good around the parking area, though reception can be spotty right at the shoreline.

• Bathrooms: Portable restrooms are available near the parking lot. More facilities are located inside Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

• Parking: Paid parking is available in a small lot next to the snorkel area (managed by the park concessionaire). Overflow parking can be found along the road leading into the bay—arrive early, as spots fill quickly.

• Check-In Booth: None required for snorkeling at Two Step, but if you plan to visit the National Historical Park next door, there’s a separate entrance fee.

• Photography: Cameras and GoPros are highly recommended for underwater photography. Above water, the rocky shoreline offers great views of the bay and coastline.

• Accessible for Disability: The entry is rocky and uneven, so it’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges. There are no paved ramps directly into the water.

Two Step – History and Cultural Significance

1. Location Beside a Place of Refuge
   Two Step sits directly next to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, once a sacred place of refuge in ancient Hawaii. Those who broke kapu (sacred laws) or defeated warriors could seek sanctuary here if they reached the grounds.

1. Hōnaunau Bay
   The bay itself was historically used for fishing and sustenance by Native Hawaiians. The abundance of reef fish, coral, and marine life supported the surrounding community.

1. Lava Rock Formations
   The famous “two steps” are natural lava rock ledges that have been shaped by centuries of waves. They make for one of the easiest ocean entries along the rugged Kona Coast.

1. Marine Conservation
   Hōnaunau Bay is part of a protected marine ecosystem. Visitors are asked to respect the coral reefs, avoid touching turtles or dolphins, and use only reef-safe sunscreen.

1. Two Step Today
   Today, the site is known worldwide as one of Hawaii’s premier snorkeling spots. It offers:

   • Easy entry into calm waters

   • High visibility and colorful reefs

   • Frequent encounters with Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) and spinner dolphins

Its unique combination of cultural significance and natural beauty makes Two Step a must-visit destination on the Big Island.