Water quality ratings and safety guide for the Big Island's hidden south coast beaches
📍 Hōnaunau, Hō'okena, Miloli'i — South Kona, Hawaiʻi Island
South Kona is one of the Big Island's most rewarding coastlines for independent explorers. Unlike the resort-heavy Kohala Coast, South Kona beaches feel wild and authentic — a mix of traditional fishing villages, ancient Hawaiian sites, and world-class snorkeling in crystal-clear water. Water quality here is generally good thanks to the dry leeward climate and minimal urban development.
Two Step is a lava ledge entry point to pristine open ocean. Named for the two-step lava formation used to enter the water, this spot offers exceptional snorkeling with spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and abundant reef fish. Water quality is outstanding — open ocean, lava bottom, minimal runoff. One of the best snorkel spots on the Big Island.
Full guide →Hō'okena Beach Park has a distinctive gray sand beach in a small, sheltered bay. There are restrooms, camping, and kayak rentals. The bay provides some shelter from wind and waves making it one of the more swimmable South Kona beaches. Spinner dolphins frequently visit. Water quality is good but the stream and camping activity add a slight risk factor.
Full guide →Miloliʻi is one of the last traditional Hawaiian fishing villages in Hawaiʻi. The beach is rocky with a small sandy section and a protected swimming area. Water quality is excellent — minimal development and steady ocean flushing. The village is an active community; respect local customs and private property. Excellent for snorkeling in the sheltered area.
Full guide →Kealakekua Bay is a State Marine Life Conservation District with some of the clearest, most biodiverse water on the Big Island. The Captain Cook Monument (Kaʻawaloa) on the north shore is reached by kayak or tour boat. Snorkeling here is world-class. Water quality is excellent. Kayak tours depart from the south end at Napoʻopoʻo Beach.
Keʻei is a small sheltered beach in a residential area near Kealakekua Bay. The protected cove makes for calm water but limited flushing. Some runoff from nearby homes adds a moderate bacteria risk. Good for tidepooling and calm-water snorkeling, but not the best choice if recent rain has occurred.
South Kona is drier than east Hawaiʻi, but volcanic activity and upslope rain can still send runoff to the coast. Wait at least 72 hours after heavy rain before swimming, especially near stream mouths or in sheltered bays with limited circulation.
Free alerts when water quality changes on the Big Island.
⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project, not affiliated with the Hawaii DOH. Ratings are estimates, not real-time measurements. No beach is guaranteed safe.
Verify conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch.
When in doubt, don't go out. 🤙