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Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

Des Moines, Iowa
23 posts
Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

Hello! Can someone help me understand where the good snorkeling is at Makaiwa Bay? We will be using the public parking, which I understand is right at the beginning of the Kalahuipua'a Historic Park. We walk the trail through the park and then it looks like you can take different routes through the fishponds. So do we want to be in the section north of Eva Parker Woods cottage, in front of Waipuhi Fishponds? Or do we want to go to that sandy area south of Eva Parker Woods cottage and Mauna Lani Sea Adventures? Thank you!

Washington DC...
17,946 posts
184 helpful votes
1. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

You want to go to the sandy beach in front of Napua and the Beach Club. It is kind of obvious once there. Assuming you are good swimmers, head out toward the buoy where Winona is moored. Ignore the cloudy stirred up sandy water en route. Eventually you will see the reef. Head right or left. Left to the point has Lava fingers; right shallower and broader areas. If there is a swell or surfers beware. All the fishpond routes eventuall dead end or go to Napua.

There is a Makakwa section here https://www.tripadvisor.com/Travel-g29217-c7522/Island-Of-Hawaii:Hawaii:Snorkeling.html

Edited: 6 years ago
Stanwood, Washington
144 posts
1 helpful vote
2. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

Just came back from there. If you are comfortable in open water continue on past the beach around the point to Hole 15 in front of mauna lani point. We swam with an octopus end an eagle ray this morning after jumping from the "cliffs" (high rocks). There was a tour boat anchored there when we left. It was busy this morning at the beach club. Experienced only

Bellingham...
11,933 posts
109 helpful votes
3. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

It can seem confusing, but like Honu said, once you're there it's easier. After you walk through the lava field (the park), you'll see the fishponds and ocean ahead of you. You'll stay left, and either go past Eva Parker Woods and along the boardwalk, at the ocean edge, or walk on paved paths through the fishponds. Either way, you'll get to Napua/the beach club and the cove there is Makaiwa. Clear as mud? : )

~ Colleen

Medford, Oregon
78 posts
122 helpful votes
4. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

South.

San Diego...
413 posts
5. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

This was one of my family's favorite beaches. My 10 year old loved the tranquil water at the sandy beach. Snorkeling was good, and the walk around the ponds was cool!

Sydney
154 posts
29 helpful votes
6. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

South - but as others have said, it will be clear when you're there. Lovely beach to relax at, and some great snorkeling to be had too. Even the sandy bit as you swim out can be good if you keep your eyes peeled. Have seen both an octopus and eels in this area. Bit surprised to see both, particularly the octopus - maybe they were lost!

Enjoy!

7. Re: Makaiwa Bay snorkeling

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