Difficulty
beginner
Viz (last reported 27665h ago)
Max Depth
70ft
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving at Place of Refuge (Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park)
The Place of Refuge (also known as Two Steps) is a 'must-do' site. The drive to get there is wonderful, the entry is easy, and the diving is great. Turtles abound! The facilities are a little sparse. Take some water and a picnic lunch. There are porta-potties on the site.
Directions: From Kealakekua Bay, you can continue to travel South on Highway 160 for 3.2 miles to find the turn off. If this is your first destination of the day, you can take a faster route: from Kailua, drive south on Highway 11 for about 19 miles, well past Captain Cook. Take a right on Highway 160, Ke Ala o Keawe Road, (about mile mark 104) to Kealakekua Bay, and wind your way about 3.5 miles down to the ocean.
Access
shore
View
Nearby Shops
Tide Report
Recommended dive shops
5
4
3
2
1
(97)
Zentacle
Sep 21, 2021, 1:06 AM
scuba
You may gear up at your vehicle, or carry your equipment out to the edge of the lava. Most leave their equipment bag, shoes, glasses, etc, close to entry. But Beware during periods of stormy seas: we have seen a rogue wave gently sweep over the dry lava, sweeping it clean of all loose items. Not a pretty sight! Note that the actual dive entry is precisely where the man is standing in the background.
The dive entry is one of the nicest lava-ledge entries you'll find on the island. Have your buddy help you step down to the water level, then gently slip into the water. Wear a good pair of leather diving gloves as you enter since there are sea urchins poking out in the nooks and crannies. As with all entries and exits during rougher seas, be especially careful. The lava here is not sharp, but it is hard!
Looking South on 160, take the second of two roads to the right, the entrance to the National Historic Park. (The first road is the one-way exit from the dive site) See the aerial picture for directions.
You can clearly see the entrance on the left to the Historic Park, and the small entrance road to the dive site. The area of the boat ramp should be avoided during your dive. Explore the shelf edge first (60 feet) and then work your way back up the coral noticing the resting turtles along the way.
7
Mehul Goyal
Aug 17, 2021, 4:12 AM
snorkel
great spot for snorkeling, love coming here and Captain Cook with Sea Quest. access from shore is easy as well
Sharon from LA
Jun 20, 2019, 12:00 AM
scuba
This place is totally overrated, imho. Over crowded with snorkelers and just people in general, horrible facilities (porta potties) and if you can't get there early enough (like before 7am) you have to pay $5 to park. The diving is meh (better for snorkeling). Yes, the entry is pretty easy, but you have to wait in line to get in because of all the other people waiting to get in. If you are like me and don't like crowds then this is not the place for you. Alua is 100 times better and no crowds. The only good reason to go here is to stop by the Coffee Shack for breakfast or lunch. Amazing local restaurant with great views.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Grant Wiscour
Feb 18, 2018, 12:00 AM
scuba
We did several dives at Two-Step in January-February 2018. Water was generally agreeable even in winter. Kick out and drop down at the first Aloha. To the north end of the bay is some structure to check out if the surge & current allow. Otherwise, follow the reef to the drop off and follow south. The second Aloha is a good marker to begin your slow loop back to the entry/exit. Lots of fish, eels, turtles and a few sharks and rays to be spotted.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jim O
Nov 13, 2017, 12:00 AM
scuba
It was in 2011 when I last dove this site and it nearly breaks my heart to see how much the site has deteriorated in these short 6 years. I vividly remember the colorful giant mushroom coral heads and all of the life that lived around this once, healthy reef system. This reef is no longer healthy with heavy mortality and much bleaching. We went there on a Monday and there were easily 150 people hanging out, snorkeling and two other divers. The other divers rejected the idea that the destruction of this reef could be a result of changing pH values and warmer temperatures, instead blaming it on a sewage leak this past summer (2017) near Kailua-Kona. They then proceeded to tell me the reef has really deteriorated over the last 2 years (?). We saw similar problems to varying degrees on every other dive site all the way up to Puako. There are small, widely space coral heads that seem to be resistant and we did notice that areas that are getting heavily washed by the surf still seem mostly healthy even though they are quite shallow. I'm not going to review any more sites from this trip. It's too depressing. I will say this though, if you care about these reefs, you better get involved trying to change things before they only exist as a memory or photo.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
David R.
Jul 29, 2017, 12:00 AM
scuba
Here is the deal. Of the three sites we went shore diving on the Big Island in July, the other two being Mile Marker 4 and Puako Village End, I would actually rate this the hardest entry/exits of the three. There are two problems. The place can be overwhelmed by snorkelers all of whom are trying to enter and exit from the same place. So it can be a waiting game because of both the volume of people and the inexperience. But on top of that, when the tide is low, getting out is difficult because finding the leverage to get onto the first 'step' is not easy. If the tide is high, it is much easier. Once in the water, it is easy enough to get far away from the snorkelers. And you don't have to go far to hit the wall and be able to achieve as much depth as you might want. We bottomed out at 70 feet or so, but could have easily gone deeper and seen some nice things. We dove south along the wall to hit the second and deeper 'Aloha' sign on the sandy bottom at the edge of the way. A large reef shark was resting there. We saw turtles and a lot of marine life. The visibility was excellent. Very enjoyable dives. Beat the crowds if you can by getting there early. Also it is worth paying the $5 for the parking right by the site. It makes everything easier.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Grant Wiscour
Sep 7, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
My wife and I did several dives at Two Step. Our guide was Garry from Sugar Cottage. We did the South Side dive and the North Side dive. Both directions have great reef and rock structure and plenty of fish and animals. The reason that lots of folks come to Two Step is because that it is so easy to see so much. Towards the Northwest there are free diving lines...interesting to see folks at 50' or more without SCUBA gear. We saw all the usual suspects at this dive site and thoroughly enjoyed our dives. Parking is $5 in the Church parking lot if not full. Otherwise, hump your gear from up the street. We pay the $5. Entry is easy...wait until the snorkelers are out of the way by the Two Steps, inflate your BC and throw it in. Jump in afterwards and put on the BC in the water. We'll be back...not sure when but hopefully soon.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike Byrne
Aug 7, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
8/7/2016 Dove with my friend Jordan Forth who is also my personal trainer at M2 Fitness. We Dove the outside of the bay had great viability 70+ feet. Lot of large coral formations and Pinnacle's. Lots of tropical fish and turtles. On the way back in we swam along the drop off and stopped for many photos. Great place for diving or snorkeling or just swimming.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike Byrne
Jul 10, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
7/10/2016 Dove with my wife Katie. We Dove the outside of the bay and swam with four turtles. On the way back in we came across a very large hammer head shark which made for incredible photos. He swam with us for a good ten minutes then swam off into the deep. Water visibility was great but had a slight swell. Lots of tropical fish and beautiful coral formations. Great place for diving or snorkeling.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Sarina
Jun 8, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
We did this site last week as a good intro site. Lots going on here with coral and animal populations which was fun to see. Went during the day and had a hard time finding parking. Ended up pulling up in front of the toilets and dumping gear, then parking up the road. By the end of the day there was a spot to pull into when we needed to load up. Returned the next night for a night dive. I wouldn't recommend this site for a beginner night dive. There are no shore lights to help with navigation as you return and it can be disorienting. If you have someone to keep a light on for you at the shore, it would work better. The local (homeless) gentleman was annoyed by our lights as we scanned the shore for our exit point and came out to shine a light for us. That was very kind, but he kept muttering something about us doing the wrong thing. I was puzzled, we were trying to be as courteous as possible and had our dive buoy just as required. I think he was annoyed that we were shining lights at 8:30 pm. Our night dive was more interesting. The fish were sleeping. My daughter watched a butterfly fish swimming sort of aimlessly and slowly. It tipped over and started swimming on it's side, so she gently righted it and it just kept going as though it happens all of the time. The parrotfish were tucked into the rocks, so it was impossible to appreciate their sleeping bubbles. There were tons of segmented tube worms out working the reef at night though! Wow! We saw a slipper lobster and a sea hare too, those were real treats. My daughter said she saw a nudibranch, but I missed it. There are probably better places for a night dive where there is some shore light for orientation, but it is quite lovely and the entry/exit was easy.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Perry in Seattle
May 24, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
Excellent shore dive. One of the few dives we have done on big island with very easy entry. Exit can be a little tricky if there is a surge. Swimming out in southerly direction there are finger reefs with lots of turtles. Dive to the right in more Northerly direction and you can swim along wall. We also snorkeled out a little farther and swam with Spinner Dolphins. Morning is best time. Church rents parking for only $5.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike Byrne
May 23, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
5/22/2016 Dove with my wife Katie. Water conditions were perfect. As soon as we entered the water and started swimming out we spotted a white tip reef shark. We then swam out to the pinnacle on the south side and dove around the large coral formations on the outside of the bay. On the way back in we followed the drop off and spotted an eagle ray. Great dive.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike Byrne
Apr 18, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
4/17/2016 Dove with my wife Katie. We Dove the outside of the bay. Beautiful pinnacles and large coral formations. On the way back into the bay we swam back through the coral flats. Great visibility and water conditions. One of the best dives on the island.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Lisa Davis
Jan 9, 2016, 12:00 AM
scuba
We were looking for an easy location as our first Hawaii dive to ensure proper weighting- we really enjoyed this location! It has portable bathroom facilities, free and paid ($5 at the church for VERY close parking) parking. Did 3 dives here over the course of our trip. The first was a two step off the rock to 80' at the North (right) part of the cove; coral and fish galore. The next two we entered further to the South (left) on the rock in about 20-40' of water and saw turtles, trumpet fish and puffers. Visibility in January was easily 100' with no surge and no waves. We were told that a dive float was required so we towed one. There is a small boat ramp so be advised that there are occasionally boats. Locals and tourists hanging out on the rocks. There were also a lot of snorkelers near the entry/exit but moved out of the way as we were exiting. On exit, there is one part of the rock that is a bit of a shelf so step on up!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Anonymous
Jul 13, 2015, 12:00 AM
scuba
SUPER easy entry/exit at the '2 Step'. Very good for beginners and intermediate divers to practice navigation skills. Going South will take you to plate coral, turtles and tons of fish! North will take you to a beautiful dive and even a Reef Shark den if you are lucky enough to find them home asleep. Arrival in the mornings will bring dolphins that are eager to play and afternoon will bring dolphins that are 1/2 resting and 1/2 swimming. Do be respectful when they are resting- you wouldn't want tons of people screaming and yelling when you are napping ; )
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Anonymous
Jun 16, 2015, 12:00 AM
scuba
Got there early in the morning, 8:30am. This was our first time diving by ourselves. It was very easy getting in. We had a very enjoyable dive. We saw the ALOHA sign (which is made out of cinder blocks). We took our time and We spent most of our time at 35 to 40 feet swimming over the reefs. When it was time to get out , the waves picked up and this made it a little bit of a challenge to climb up the Two Steps with the waves hitting us. There were about 15 other divers out in the water with us. It was cool running into them as we swam along. So we give it a thumbs up to go and check out
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Chicagodivermom
Oct 30, 2013, 12:00 AM
scuba
I dream about this place. This is the only place I am 100% comfortable diving with just my hubby and I. Here is the scoop, it is 2 dives. 1) your deeper dive, do first. Head out at a 1 pm heading to the right, then pass over Aloha rocks at about 30 feet, head to the wall. You can go as deep as you allow at the wall, we kept it to about 60. Turn around when you have more than 1/2 a tank left. We usually went back at 30 mins. dive 2) head out to the left about 11 am heading, go around and out and you will see completely different rounded corals. Again, turn back when you still have more than half a tank. Stay shallower than dive number 1. Bring a lunch. This is probably my favorite dive of all time.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike from Honolulu
Jun 29, 2013, 12:00 AM
scuba
Good site, easy entry, coral and marine life in good shape, turtles and spinner dolphins while we were there, good for snorkeling!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jim Olinger
Jun 6, 2013, 12:00 AM
scuba
This one is a MUST if shore diving the Big Island. There is much written here so I would just add there are actually two ALOHA cement brick structures. The first is just to the right of center as you head straight away from the entry. 30' (or 10 meters) sounds about right for the depth. If you go just a ways past it, the depth drops off and you can swim north along a sloping wall of coral at about 60-70' depth until you hit 1/2 tank (beyond that I don't know). If you head south instead, the depth increases until you come to the 2nd ALOHA which is larger and located on the sandy bottom, probably more like 30-35 meters of depth. It either took a few divers several dives to put it together, or a whole team of folks who could have built it in a dive or two. (I gotta get a UW camera for these things!) Enjoy!!!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Sarah M
Nov 5, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is an evaluation for Two-Step. I did some snorkeling and freediving here, and the internet could NOT tell me how deep the 'A L O H A' cinder blocks were. The ALOHA cinder blocks are at a depth of exactly 30 feet. All in all, gorgeous snorkel site and great for freediving. Seems silly for a dive spot, it was shallow everywhere, so no need to be strapped up with tanks. Lots of life and coral. Unfortunately tons of people though. People everywhere. Go on a weekday, Sundays are significantly more crowded than weekdays.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Dean
Oct 10, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
This was our first dive when we arrived in Jan 2010. We read about it here and had high expectations...which were met. Do this dive. It can be popular - busy, but limited scuba - lots of snorkelers which are on top anyway. Access is to the right of the national park - confusing so do yourself a favor avoid the gate - turn around and tuck yourself down the tight residential road and look to park on the side - respect locals property. It is also called two step for the 'two rock steps' in on the far centre point of entry. Be careful dumping your gear on the top of the rocks - it may get washed off due to surge. This actual two step entry is somewhat dangerous - all in or you will be smashed into the rocks. Step in push out - period. Stick you face in the water and we saw life everywhere - amazing for such a busy residential area. 10 sec later - a moray greeted us, then a ray...lots of fish life too. I did not find the cinderblocks ALOHA to be that unfriendly - they are a refuge as well and a picture opp for sure. It is shallow approx 10 meters for about 50-60m out, then it drops off at 45deg….went down to about 80 feet but the corals thinned right out fast, plus it was more sandy as well.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Fernando Esguerra
Aug 21, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
Took my girlfriend and her granddaughter. We had a fantastic dive. To get the best parking and use of a picnic table for gearing up, it is best to get there at sun up. Heard the dolphins all around us but did not see them. Saw a couple Moray eels, some puffer fish and lots of other fish. The reef was pretty shallow. The bottom of the wall was ok, but did not see anything spectacular!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Bobbylee
May 19, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
This was my first shore dive. I loved it. Me and my wife want to do more. It was the best diving. No boats, no waiting, just a lot of fun. We saw so many fish, and a spotted eel.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Andrey S.
May 17, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
Must do this site. Very easy entry and exit (two steps down into the water from the lava plateau), great life at the wall, resident spinner dolphins. Usually you can either park on the side of the road or pay $3 and park at the lot across the road if its too crowded. From the entry point navigate to heading 330 until you see 'Aloha' on the bottom, then go 270 or follow the wall out. Facilities are available at this site.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike at Sandy
Feb 2, 2012, 12:00 AM
scuba
We dove here five days in a row at daybreak. We had amazing encounters with all size creatures from dolphins, turtles, and rays to eels and vast fish varieties. We will definitely be back, daybreak here was amazing and the second dive at mid morning was always noteworthy.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Colin 2
Dec 7, 2011, 12:00 AM
scuba
We dove at '2 Step' this morning. Entry was fairly easy though getting out is more of a challenge. A fair number of people were there but we were the only divers. The reef has seen better days and a lot of it is dead or dying. A fair number of fish, very few plants, a green turtle and a mysterious thing lying on the bottom that looked like - well, like a coiled up intestine. There were several of those, whatever they were. A good dive but not a great one. The reef off Alua Beach is a much better time investment.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Big Bob
Sep 2, 2011, 12:00 AM
scuba
Have dove this site 20 times in the 10 years living here, including a few training dives. After the dive I always ask myself why? Entry isn't really all that easy, Lots of boat traffic, (be sure to tow a flag). South bound current along shore line can be strong. If there is any kind of surf, exit can be quite tough. The site is over dove. There are better places to shore dive on the Big Island.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Cranbrook Dave
Aug 4, 2011, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great place to dive. Start north at 'aloha' sand bank go down along wall left or right. We have seen turtles, spotted eagle rays, and spinner dolphins so far this week. Research listening device placed at 80 ft to study impact of human interaction on dolphins so keep clear of it as a courtesy... But otherwise explore and enjoy this great site.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Anonymous
Jul 19, 2011, 12:00 AM
scuba
A map of the dive site is available at Jacks Diving Locker but you really don't need one. Easy parking, tables to gear up at, short walk to water, fall in, nothing easier. Visibility excellent, no surge or current, tons of life and easily navigable. Topography a bit boring so recommend taking a compass heading. Exiting among tons of kids and snorkelers onto steps was more challenging than the dive.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Roland
Feb 14, 2011, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great place to enjoy a nice and easy dive. Because it is a shore dive, all you have to do is rent your tanks and find a buddy. I struck up a conversation with a waiter and it turned out he dove every morning before work. I joined him on his morning dive the next day and had a great time. He was actually a photographer and took some amazing photos that I purchased from him the next day. I cant wait to return.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Nathan Corn
Dec 13, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
Had a great dive here. It really is one of the best dives on the island. Everyone says you are guaranteed to see turtles here. Unfortunately we didn't see any on our dive but a snorkeler said he saw one. We saw some crown of thorn starfish, an octopus, and all manner of reef fish. The coral formations were beautiful. Entry was a little tricky off of the steps but not bad at all. We did two tanks. To the left side of the bay there are lava rock fingers shooting off from the shore to explore. On the right side it is a fairly steep drop-off of coral. It was well worth the drive down from Kona to this spot which took about 45 min.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jim Olinger
Nov 7, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
This really is an excellent dive site! One set of coral formations has taken on the appearance of giant, mushroom caps. The color is variable on the different corals and this whole area has an 'enchanted' feel. I didn't have a dive buddy, but got lucky when I spotted another couple of divers near the entrance and after a brief introduction and some assurance that I was a competent diver, they agreed to let me tag along. My advice is to take two tanks to this site and then go enjoy the 'Place of Refuge' State park (right next door) during your surface interval. Jim O
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Evan Freeman
Nov 2, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
My first shore dive in HI, and it was excellent. No turtles, but we saw an eel, a small ray, many fish, and a nudibranch. The coral was in good shape. Other posts are correct about the ease of entry and exit. We went all the way around to the boat ramp, but should have just clambered out onto the rocks as it gets really shallow getting into the ramp's little sub-bay. Max depth was about 22m, but it would be possible though not desirable to go deeper. This was my first dive outside of Aus/Indo, so I was disappointed to not see any soft coral and fewer other creatures, but I'm told HI is not about corals, so we'll see.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Nate
Sep 26, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
Not much to add...MUST DO DIVE. Went to 95' and saw several crown of thorns starfish, humuhumunukunuku apua'a, turtles (no dolphins today) and tons of amazing fish plus one octopus in the day time.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mike Groves
Aug 6, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
Like many have said, this is a must do dive. Great vis and lots of fish and turtles. It is best to get there early just so you can park fairly close. Otherwise it is a fairly long walk down the road, not a deal breaker by any means, but the earlier you get there the better. It was a very smooth entry in, but on exit the surf had picked up quite a bit and people were getting slammed into the rock steps. I stayed back a bit until it died down, not more than a few minutes and got out without trouble. We will do this dive again. It was one of the best we have done.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
John Painter
Mar 10, 2010, 12:00 AM
scuba
We stayed at the home right before Place of Refuge. Beautiful home, surrounding, etc. Diving was amazing. We saw turtles, cudas, all types of fish, and of course dolphins. Very easy in and out, just time it with the current and you will be ok. Don't grab into the rocks, flat hand only. This is a dolphin refuge during the day. We've seen them while diving and snorkling, and we have pics from about 10' away. On one day we must have seen 50 or so, the other time at least 100 with babies. That day was so amazing! Did a night dive, and that was great too! If you are night diving on a full moon, turn your light off and you can see all the shrimp in the coral, thousands of eyes looking at you..lol.. This is an amazing place to dive! All levels.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Don Strong
Oct 27, 2009, 12:00 AM
scuba
This spot, called 2 step for its ease of entry, is one of the Best shore dives I have ever done. Saw Turtles all over the place, had a Great wall dive, and another dive went to 120 feet to the sandy bottom. It's an amazing dive for divers of all levels.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Stephanie Batzer
Jun 26, 2009, 12:00 AM
scuba
Each time we go to the Big Island we try to get in as many sunrise dives at Honaunau as possible. There are always surprises -- great pelagic life, lots of small fish, eels, and honu. Cannot imagine going to the Big Island and not diving there. When you do the dive at sunrise, there is virtually no other traffic with the exception of a fishing boat or two. :)
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jerry Burawski
May 30, 2009, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great dive with a big parking lot right there. Easy in and out. Got to get a picture of the ALOHA in the sand. Lots of life and great vis. You name it, you can find it here. Not only fun in the water but always people hanging out in the sun, good social spot between dives.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Ann Geiger
Mar 14, 2009, 12:00 AM
scuba
We try to dive here every time we make it to the Big Island. Topside it is an incredibly beautiful spot, somehow peaceful despite the number of people around. It is easily accessible by rental car and parking is quite close to the entry point (we pay $3 to use the church's lot, please do pay them, it was distressing to us to see people not respecting their honor system). The site is well-protected from swells and currents, contributing to ease of entry and exit. We use the two-step entry point on lava that is almost exactly halfway between the two points of the bay. It often is crowded with inexperienced snorkelers but people generally are polite about making way for the awkward looking fools in all that heavy gear (and they seem to appreciate a simple tip or two). There really is no way to go wrong with this site underwater...swimming around where the wall hits the sand in deeper (50 to 60 ft) water is interesting, as is staying in a bit more shallow water to either side. Have your underwater fish guide handy, as one can find the vast majority of the 100 most common fish here. For photography the great visibility and light here can white out photos, so it takes some care.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jason from Phoenix
Jan 27, 2009, 12:00 AM
scuba
This was one of the best shore dives I've ever done. The sea life was fantastic… Lots of eel's and turtles. Also some very cool finds, old bottles and such. You can tell how old a bottle is by the shape and color. I've been on 2 shores dives there. You'll want to arrive early in the day as parking is VERY limited. Lots of people go there to swim and be next to the ocean. Just a fantastic day!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Erick B.
Dec 4, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great coral reef and healthy. Many tropical fish, saw a couple of eels. My wife was lucky enough to see a frog fish while snorkeling. One the best beach dives on the Big Island.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Desert Diver
Nov 6, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
Fairly easy to get in but the swell came up after a little while. Nobody there at 7:30 am, but when I got out an hour later it seemed the whole island showed up. Makes it difficult to get in the water with all the newbie snorkelers trying to get in and out. Great coral and lots of fish but not many eels. Only saw 1 white mouth. Other divers saw a large snowflake but I couldn't fid it. Saw a blue fin trevalley, raccoon butterfly and 4 spot butterfly. I only dove to the right of the ALOHA blocks on the sandy bottom. Great place but expect crowds.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Becca
Oct 23, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
I am a beginning diver without a lot of confidence. My husband is an advanced diver who would go anywhere and do anything. We both found this dive site a wonderful compromise. The turtles literally swam right up to us. We saw numerous eels and other marine life. Above the water was nice, too. The lava rocks were covered with yellow butterflies the whole time we were there. 1/1/2008
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Philip Heath
Oct 1, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is the best dive I have ever been on. Twenty minutes into the dive I saw 50 dolphins for three hours. Great reef and wall.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Marty
May 1, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
One of my favorite snorkeling sites. Clean, deep water as soon as you go off the lava rock edge, although easier access is available at the boat ramp farther down.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jerry & Donna Hamberg
Apr 23, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
We had a great snorkel here. After we looked around the Point of Refuge park we took our snorkel gear and proceeded to enter at the site. Upon entering we noticed that the coral was in very good condition. Latter we went out farther past the coral and had 21 spinner dolphins around us on and off for the next hour. What a delight!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Joe Foster
Mar 31, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
Dove here with my 2 boys on March 17th, 2008. I think this is great spot to limit a dive to 30 feet. We ended up going out deeper to 80 feet, but most of the life is at the surface. While we were down, a school of Spinner Dolphins came into the bay to play. Following our dive, my brother-in-law who is a quadriplegic and hadn't been in the ocean for 23 years looked like he was ready for the experience. I put a life jacket on him and lifted him into the water and when he felt comfortable put a mask on him, but he found the snorkel too hard to breath through, so I grabbed my tank and gave him my octopus. We just stayed on the surface and dragged him around, but that was the best 30 minutes of the entire trip. This site is the best I found for a family spot to allow for snorkeling while others dive.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Lynlee
Jan 1, 2008, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is my favorite Big Island spot. Really breathtaking with lots of species of fish, corals and plants due to the several depths you can enter. I like it best early in the AM as you can get good sunlight, and also because it can get crowded later in the day. Visibility is almost always great; I am guessing I could see 100 ft. We enjoyed snorkeling above divers in very deep water and still seeing them below--and the schools of dolphins seemed to be teasing them by swimming above them undetected. Turtles were everywhere as well…but the spinner dolphins were the stars- so many schooling and playing around us one day you just lose count . Very special place. We stayed at the Manago Hotel in Capt Cook as a base camp, and it was a good choice because we wanted to return several times while on the Big Island.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Sarah Kneisel
Dec 18, 2007, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is the best shore diving spot during high surf conditions because the entry is so easy. We did this dive at night for the first time and had no problem figuring out where to get in. At night, there is a timer on the light that marks the parking area, so you should leave your own flashing strobes at the entry point because the timer might expire while you are diving and you won't know where to go. At night, we saw slipper lobster, lizard fish, lots of shrimp, crab, sleeping turtles, etc. It was a 35 minute drive from the Keahou Bay area and well worth it.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jody Sedrick
Nov 25, 2007, 12:00 AM
scuba
I took my newly certified son here for his 4th dive. The reef is great! We got a map of the site from Jack's Diving Locker. We found all the key sites including the Aloha made of cinder blocks. LOTS of turtles. We were told you can often see sleeping dolphins but had no luck finding them. Lots of fish and Great visibility. Entry is a cake. Good place to bring your snorkeling buddies if you want to dive.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Anonymous
Aug 15, 2007, 12:00 AM
scuba
Get there early (and preferably on a weekday) to find parking. I saw a pretty big whitetip cruising the reef near the drop off. Great site if you have both divers and snorkelers in your group.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Mikey
Apr 2, 2007, 12:00 AM
scuba
I did this dive 4 times during my time on the Big Island because of the ease of entry and amount of activities for the whole family. Only my dive buddy and I got to see the whole area because rest of my family only was snorkeling, but they still had a great time and saw a ton. Good place for turtles and almost every type of Hawaiian fish. Stay shallow around 35 feet and follow the rocks to the left or go deep and follow the wall to 70-80 feet to the right. It's a busy area but once past all the snorkelers, there aren't many people out there.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Jeff Presley
Mar 28, 2007, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is the best shore dive I have done anywhere with the possible exception of Casino Point, Catalina Island (California Diver.) Jan 2007 surf and surge were up, so exit was a challenge. My son and I saw many turtles, a spotted eagle ray, snowflake eel, and all of the usual Hawaiian residents (except Humuhumu…). Let me offer two cautions. 1) under the steps at two step are urchins (caught a spine under an index fingernail in the surge.) 2) If staying in Kailua of Keahaou, the road there and back tops at over 1700 ft., so give yourself some time after diving before returning. Even in the gloom of the passing storm and reduced vis., this place absolutely sparkled. The Big Island guide books prepare divers for a relative scarcity of coral, but this place put an end to that myth. The topography and coral reef structure at Place of Refuge rivals that of what I have experienced in the Caribbean. Probably an easily navigable night dive because all of the reef structure seems to point right back to the entry points. Rated the roads rather lowly because of construction and TRAFFIC!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Chris in Woodstock
Dec 24, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
My 10-year-old daughter and I did a dive at this site when we were island-hopping to Oahu, Kauai, the Big Island and Maui in late November/early December 2006. This was by far the best shore dive we did on any of the islands. The water was crystal clear with a visibility of at least 100 ft. The coral was very colorful and we saw a wide variety of fish including various types of butterfly fish, Blue Cravalle, Moorish Idols, tangs, triggerfish, puffers, wrasse, Trumpetfish, needlefish, Unicornfish, Parrotfish, blue boxfish, Yellowtail Coris (even the juveniles which resemble a Clownfish i.e. Nemo), Bluestripped Snapper, Surgeonfish, and eels. My daughter had to be especially careful not to get knocked over by the surf as we entered and exited the water. With my wife on shore to assist my daughter, entry and exit was reasonably easy. The conditions under the water were spectacular with absolutely no surge or currents. If I had to choose a single shore dive to do again on any of the Hawaiian Islands, it would undoubtedly be Two Step (Place of Refuge).
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Todd Callan
Oct 17, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great site to dive or snorkel. Lots of people snorkeling but hardly any diving. A huge pod of spinner dolphins hung around for over an hour. Tons of turtles, tangs, eels, and other fish everywhere. Garden eels towards the mouth of the cove. Access is IMMENSELY easier to the far left at the boat ramp.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Yuri
Sep 28, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
This is a very good site, but kinda crowded with snorkelers. We did our 1st dive at 8am, and soon the surface was just packed with them. Not too many divers, though. Saw turtles, eagle ray and plenty of other stuff. Getting in and out of the water may be tricky.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Lori
Sep 1, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
Nice dive, plenty of life both human and aquatic! Last week the place was packed! Only real entry is the "two step" entry. If this is your first time and you're doubtful of where the entry is, just watch where everyone goes or ask. Be careful getting out…urchins burrowed in the steps and will stick you if you don't keep your hands flat. Great dive!
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Warren W.
Jul 9, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
One of the most singular shore dive experiences I've ever had. Go just after sunrise to avoid the crowds both above water and below. We were the 2nd ones in the water and had the reef to ourselves, and a large pod of spinner dolphins came by slowly to check us out three times, the last time to within 10 ft. I've heard they move to deeper water by mid-morning when they're around. Also saw an eagle ray on the same dive.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Charlie W
Jun 22, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
Great place. The key to this site is to get there early. We arrived late and had to drop our gear at the boat ramp and park way up the road. The entry was not the easiest. The diving was awesome with tons to see. Lots of coral, turtles and small fish. The coral ends at approx 70ft.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Pam O
Jun 8, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
My favorite dive site so far in Kona. Park is crowded with both tourists and locals, so get there early. Free parking is tight but you can always shell out 2 bucks for a spot. Very easy entry on lava steps. Awesome visibility and abundant Hawaiian fish and turtles. We started at the "ALOHA" sign and circled around from there, went down to about 80ft but found the shallower depths (30-40ft) had more interesting fish.
Originally posted on shorediving.com
Scooter Schneider
Jun 1, 2006, 12:00 AM
scuba
I call this place Two Step and although this is my first dive here, I have skin dived here dozens of times. The entry is so easy. Just sit down on the natural lava steps and slide in. I did a solo dive here and ended up joining a group of three from Japan to finish out the dive. Two Step is a great dive and easy with depths ranging from 10 feet to 109 ft. There are eels, Octo's, Rays and fish for everyone.
Originally posted on shorediving.com