Kahalu'u Bay

Lonely Planet review

Kahalu'u Bay is an easy-access snorkeling spot and a giant natural aquarium loaded with rainbow parrotfish, silver needlefish, brilliant yellow tangs and Moorish idol. At high tide green sea turtles often swim into the bay to feed or rest on the beach. They're endangered, so give them space. According to legend an ancient breakwater was built on the reef by the menehune (Hawai'i's mythical race of little people) and protects the bay.

This surf spot is popular with locals. It's normally a long-board wave, but when the surf is high Kahalu'u can harbor strong rip currents that pull northward into the rocks. If you're a novice, talk to a lifeguard about the day's conditions before paddling out. The beach park is hardly a peaceful spot, with traffic zooming by, a packed parking lot and throngs of tourists. Visit in the first or last hours of daylight to beat the crowds. The tiny beach, whose salt-and-pepper sands are composed of black lava and white coral, has a huge banyan tree kids love. Facilities include showers, rest rooms, picnic tables and grills. A lifeguard is on duty. Don't touch the coral while snorkeling.