Pahoehoe Beach Park

Shore Diving and Snorkeling Site

Pahoehoe Beach Park

Named for the type of lava found at this park.  Pahoehoe is a smooth lava, because it moved faster when it cooled.  

 Dive Site Maps:

    

 

Site Briefing: 

  • Accessibility:  Less than 4 miles South of Kailua-Kona, on Ali'i Drive.

  • Nearby Facilities:  Plenty of parking, restrooms, and picnic tables.

  • Features:  If you head south and west, there is a shallow pahoehoe shelf to the north you want to avoidSwim straight out and you’ll reach 35-40’ depths within a few yards where you'll find rocky outcroppings with sand patchesOnce you get outside of the shallows, heading North will bring you to lava tubes and ledges. The site is known for turtles, crabs, and lobsters.

  • Entry/Exit:  A short walk from the north end of the park in a semi-sandy area.

  • Depths:  0-50’: Typical Hawaiian dive site, shallow reef shelf with drop-off to sand. 

  • Special Concerns:

    • West swell and low tide:  Watch for surf here, waves can get large if there is a west swell. Also watch the tide. Low tide can make entering and exiting over the shallow reef difficult.

       

Site Photos:

  • Coming soon

General Info:

  • Check the weather, surf, and tide reports:  Plan ahead for safety

  • Know your limits: Diving and snorkeling from shore means you have minimal help if something goes wrong.  Know your limits, and consider taking a snorkel lesson, a scuba refresher, or book a guided trip to increase you experience before considering diving and snorkeling from shore.

  • Use a Dive Flag:  These are required by law for both scuba and snorkeling and we have them available for rent.

  • Rent gearWe have a full line of rental snorkel and scuba gear, and air and nitrox tank fills.

  • Check Your Gear and Bring Spares:  Whether you rent or own your own gear, inspect it thoroughly before heading to the dive site.  Many are in remote locations, so save yourself the long trip if you forget something.  Jack's Diving Locker is the best dive shop on the island to help restock your save-a-dive kit with spare o-rings, mouthpieces, and tools.

  • Use the Buddy System:  Dive and Snorkel with someone capable of assisting you in an emergency

  • Be Reef Friendly:  Please use reef safe sunscreens, don't stand on the reef, don't touch marine life, and don't feed the fish.

  • Be Respectful of Our Community:  Act with aloha, pick up litter if you find it, and be helpful to others.