Planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii? If you’re looking for the best snorkel spots, make sure to check out Two Step in Captain Cook, located south of Kona. This snorkel spot offers a unique experience with tide pools, sandy areas for kids to play, and stunning topography in the bay. You might even have the chance to swim with wild dolphins for free! After a day of snorkeling, take a short walk through Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, conveniently located right next to the beach. With its abundance of kid-friendly areas and beautiful coral, Two Step is a must-visit destination for snorkel enthusiasts.
For all your Hawaiian activity tour needs, turn to Hawaii Activities and Tours, the top-rated tour company in Hawaii. With their expert guides and extensive knowledge of the best snorkeling spots, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience on the Big Island. Don’t miss out on snorkeling at Two Step and exploring the nearby historical park for a day filled with adventure and natural beauty.
Two Step in Captain Cook (South of Kona)
If you’re looking for a fantastic snorkeling spot on the Big Island of Hawaii, look no further than Two Step in Captain Cook. Located south of Kona, this hidden gem offers a range of activities for all ages. From tide pools and sandy areas for kids to explore, to a unique lava rock beach and even a spot to hang a hammock, Two Step has something for everyone.
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Tide Pools and Sandy Areas for Kids
One of the highlights of Two Step for families with children is the abundance of tide pools and small sandy areas to play in. Kids can spend hours exploring the beautiful marine life that resides in the pools, such as colorful fish, tiny crabs, and even sea turtles if you’re lucky. The sandy areas provide a safe and comfortable space for children to build sandcastles or simply relax and enjoy the beach.
Lava Rock Beach
Most of the “beach” at Two Step is made up of lava rock, giving it a unique and rugged beauty. While this may not be the ideal spot for sunbathing, it offers a stunning backdrop for snorkelers and divers. Make sure to bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet as you navigate the rocky terrain.
Hammock Spot
If you’re in need of some relaxation during your visit to Two Step, look no further than the single spot where you can hang a hammock. Imagine lounging in the shade, gently swaying in the breeze, and taking in the incredible views of the bay. It’s the perfect spot to recharge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Exploring Topography
Two Step is known for its incredible topography, which makes it a haven for snorkelers and divers. With varying depths to explore, you’ll never run out of things to see. Keep an eye out for coral formations, vibrant marine life, and even spinner dolphins in the deeper areas beyond the coral. It’s a truly magical experience to swim alongside these graceful creatures in their natural habitat.
Swimming with Spinner Dolphins
One of the unique features of Two Step is the opportunity to swim with spinner dolphins for free. Unlike many other places where you have to pay for a dolphin encounter, at Two Step, you can often find spinner dolphins in the deeper areas past the coral. Remember to keep a respectful distance and never touch or chase the dolphins. It’s an incredible privilege to witness these beautiful creatures in their natural environment.
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
After a day of snorkeling and exploring at Two Step, be sure to take a short walk through Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, which is located right next to the beach. This historical park offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about ancient Hawaiian practices, see traditional structures, and even witness cultural performances. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your day and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Hawaii.
Great Spot for Kids to Play
Two Step is an excellent spot for kids to play and explore. With tide pools, sandy areas, and calm waters, children of all ages can safely enjoy the beach. They can discover new marine life, build sandcastles, and splash around in the shallow areas. It’s a wonderful place to spark their curiosity about the natural world and create lasting memories.
Bring Sturdy Water Shoes
As mentioned earlier, the majority of the beach at Two Step is made up of lava rock. While this adds to the unique beauty of the area, it also means that you’ll need to bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet. The sharp rocks can be rough to walk on, so it’s essential to come prepared with appropriate footwear. This way, you can fully enjoy your time exploring without any discomfort.
Restricted Hammock Spot
While there is a designated spot where you can hang a hammock, it’s important to note that there is only one such spot in the entire area. Due to the limited space, it’s crucial to be considerate of others and not monopolize the spot for extended periods. Remember to share the space so that everyone can have a chance to relax and enjoy the hammock experience.
Diving into the Deep Areas
For those with snorkeling or diving experience, Two Step offers the opportunity to explore the deeper areas beyond the coral formations. This is where you’re most likely to encounter spinner dolphins. However, it’s essential to have the necessary skills and experience to dive safely. Always prioritize your safety and follow any local guidelines or recommendations.
Opportunity to Swim with Wild Dolphins for Free
Swimming with dolphins is undoubtedly a bucket list experience for many. What sets Two Step apart is the chance to swim with wild dolphins for free. It’s a rare privilege to interact with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat without disturbing their behavior or environment. Remember to practice responsible wildlife viewing by maintaining a respectful distance and avoiding any actions that may cause stress or harm to the dolphins.
Short Walk through National Historical Park
After a day of snorkeling and enjoying the beach, take a short walk through Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park. This park is located right next to Two Step and offers a fascinating glimpse into Hawaiian history and culture. You can explore the ancient structures, learn about traditional practices, and even witness cultural performances. It’s a great way to deepen your understanding of Hawaii’s rich heritage.
Parking Options
When visiting Two Step, it’s important to plan your parking ahead of time. The beach parking, which costs $5, can sometimes fill up quickly. In such cases, people often opt to park at the Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park for $20. However, there is limited free parking available at the beach as well. Keep in mind that these parking options may vary, so it’s always a good idea to check for any updated information before your visit.
Affiliate Links Disclaimer
In the previously mentioned video, Murphy Travels provides gear recommendations for snorkeling at Two Step. It’s important to note that some or all of the links in their video description are affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through those links, Murphy Travels will receive a small commission while the price remains the same for you. Rest assured that they only recommend products that they use frequently and genuinely believe in.
Gear Used for Snorkeling
In their video, Murphy Travels mentions the gear they used for snorkeling at Two Step. While they don’t provide specific links, they give you an idea of the essential equipment required for a successful snorkeling experience. The gear used may include snorkels, masks, fins, and wetsuits. It’s important to choose high-quality gear that fits properly to ensure your safety and comfort in the water.
Other Recommended Gear
In addition to the snorkeling gear, there are a few other items that you may find useful when visiting Two Step. Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and rash guards can help protect you from the sun’s rays. Towels, beach chairs, and umbrellas can provide comfort during your time on the beach. Bringing a reusable water bottle is also a good idea to stay hydrated throughout the day. Remember to pack only what you need and be mindful of leaving no trace behind.
Personal Experience at Two Step
Many visitors to Two Step have had incredible experiences that they cherish forever. Snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, encountering vibrant marine life, and even swimming with spinner dolphins are just some of the highlights mentioned by those who have visited. Families especially appreciate the kid-friendly areas and the opportunity to introduce their children to the wonders of the ocean. Two Step truly offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss.
Snorkeling and Playing
Two Step provides the perfect balance of snorkeling and recreational activities. With its shallow tide pools and calm waters, it’s an ideal spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Even if you prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of opportunities for play and relaxation. You can enjoy splashing in tide pools, throwing rocks, or simply soaking up the sun on the sandy areas. It’s a place where everyone can find something they love.
Good Spot for Kids
If you’re traveling with children, Two Step is a fantastic destination. The beach offers a multitude of activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. From exploring tide pools and building sandcastles to wading in the shallow areas, children can have a blast while learning about the marine ecosystem. It’s a safe and educational environment that encourages curiosity and a love for nature.
Coral and Marine Life
One of the main attractions at Two Step is the abundance of coral and marine life. The coral formations create a vibrant and diverse ecosystem that supports a wide variety of fish and other sea creatures. Snorkelers and divers can witness the beauty of the reef up close, marveling at the vivid colors and intricate structures. It’s a mesmerizing experience that will leave you in awe of the underwater world.
Exploring Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park
Adjacent to Two Step is Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park, offering visitors a glimpse into Hawaii’s rich history. This park showcases ancient Hawaiian traditions and practices, allowing you to learn about the culture that shaped the islands. You can explore traditional structures, artifacts, and even watch cultural performances. It’s a great opportunity to deepen your appreciation for the local heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the island’s past.
In conclusion, Two Step in Captain Cook is an incredible snorkeling spot that offers so much more than just underwater exploration. With its tide pools, sandy areas, and unique topography, it provides a range of activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re snorkeling, swimming with spinner dolphins, or simply relaxing on the beach, Two Step is a must-visit destination on the Big Island of Hawaii. Don’t forget to plan your parking ahead of time and come prepared with the necessary gear for a memorable experience.