Mahukona
Great Sites to Visit from shore
Mahukona Beach Park - "The Navigator's Gateway"
🌊 What Makes It Special:
Jump right into crystal-clear turquoise waters from the concrete pier - it's the closest thing to a boat entry you'll find from shore! This historic harbor offers some of the easiest water access on the Big Island.
🐠 Perfect For:
- Beginner snorkelers and shore divers
- Those wanting easy entry/exit via ladder
- Anyone interested in exploring underwater history
🏛️ Cool Story:
You're snorkeling in waters where ancient Hawaiian navigators once trained! This bay was home to Koʻa Heiau Holomoana, a navigational temple where voyagers studied stars, currents, and seabirds before epic Pacific crossings. Later, it became a bustling sugar port with trains delivering cargo right to the pier.
🤿 What You'll See:
- Abundant marine life in gin-clear waters
- Remnants of old railroad and harbor infrastructure underwater
- Protected bay perfect for spotting tropical fish
⚠️ Kohala Divers Pro Tip:
Only visit during calm conditions - avoid when surf is up! The ladder exit makes this spot unforgiving in rough seas.
Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate