Two Step (Hōnaunau Bay)

What to expect

Two Step is just up the narrow one-way road from Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau’s parking lot exit, at the Hōnaunau Bay boat ramp. There’s no beach, only a flat lava shoreline. Snorkelers gear up on the rock, then ease in down the two natural ledges. Coral and lava crevices start almost at once, with green sea turtles grazing in the cracks alongside eels and reef fish. The best time is morning, before afternoon chop builds. Kahaluʻu has sand and lifeguards, but this spot is deep right from the edge, so it’s better suited to confident swimmers.

Know before you go

Parking

NPS asks snorkelers to park outside the national park gate, since the park’s very small lot tends to fill by midday and is meant for visitors to the sacred grounds. Nearby options include paid lots and street parking. Follow posted restrictions and keep the boat ramp clear.

Entry

The first step drops into about 10 feet of water and the second into about 25 feet. Booties help on the lava. There are no lifeguards and no rentals, so bring your own gear.

Boat traffic

NPS notes that Two Step is primarily a working boat ramp, so stay out of the way of boats launching and landing.

Rules

Don’t enter the water, snorkel, or sunbathe at Keoneʻele Cove inside the park, and don’t use the park restrooms to change or rinse off. Never touch or stand on coral.

Wildlife

Stay at least 10 feet from honu. With spinner dolphins, it’s illegal to swim with them or come within 50 yards, so if they approach, move away.

Who manages it

Water access here is managed by the County of Hawaiʻi, not the National Park Service. The park’s entrance fee is for the sacred grounds, not the snorkel area.