SNORKELING Big Island’s crystal-clear waters is an easy way to spot marine life.
KEALAKEKUA BAY, an UNDER- WATER MARINE PRESERVE that is a resting area for dolphins and the site of the Captain Cook Monument, is a popular destination. So are the pristine waters off KOHALA COAST and PĀWAI BAY. Snorkel gear can be rented or purchased. In either case, all you’ll need is a mask, a snorkel and some fins. Gear comes in many sizes and shapes, but be sure you find a good fit.
You also can go snorkeling in style aboard a CATAMARAN . This typically includes plenty of food, cocktails, restrooms and lots of flotation equipment. SAFETY TIPS: • Never snorkel alone.
Hang with a buddy. • Whenever possible, snorkel in the morning, when fish are more active and water clarity is at its peak. • Marine life tends to congregate around structures, so stick to reefs for a face-to-face encounter. • Don’t feed the fish. • Be respectful of the ocean. Avoid standing on coral, as broken coral takes many years to grow back.
To learn more, go to: ripcurrents. noaa.gov. For the latest on beach conditions, go to hawaiibeachsafety. com/big-island. BODY GLOVE 800-551-8911 DOLPHIN DISCOVERIES 808-322-8000 HAWAI‘I NAUTICAL 808-234-7245 SNORKEL BOB’S 808-329-0770 KONA OR 808-885-9499 CAPTAIN COOK SNORKELING CRUISES 808-378-7516
