Named for the incredible opportunity of taking a mere two steps off the rocky beach before plunging into turquoise waters with an abundance of tropical fish, pahoehoe lava channels, and colorful coral, this truly is one of the best snorkeling spots you will find throughout the Hawaiian islands.
The small one-way road to the bay turns off the Highway about a block before you reach the gate of the National Park. There is limited parking in a lot near the shore, but if you arrive later in the day, you will most likely have to park along the road. Try to come in the morning though; visibility is usually much better earlier in the day. There are no facilities such as showers, or vendors, so pack in your own supplies (and pack them out again, of course).
The South part of the bay is more shallow and you can sometimes see sea turtles swimming among the fish and coral in the lava canyons (keep at least 10ft away from sea turtles on land or in the water, as required by Hawaiian law). The North side is a bit deeper, and if you swim out from the shore the water gets deeper still, of course. Dolphins have been known to rest in Honaunau bay during the day, so you might be lucky and encounter them there. Make sure to maintain 50ft of distance as required by Hawaiian law between yourself and dolphins in Hawai’i waters.
If you’re visiting the Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park next door as well, which we highly recommend, do that first and cool off in the ocean off Two Step afterwards.
