It's not that far from the Kona Condo, C31 at Kona Isle, a stone's throw from the surfer's heiau, you can rent snorkel stuff on the spot, or go to one of the local businesses such as that operated by the Snorkel Kahuna hisself, there's a parking lot that turns over frequently so you're not waiting long for a spot, lifeguards are on duty, there are public grills (bring your own coals) and the sea life doesn't seem to mind the plethora of people splashing about.
Y'am speaking of course, about Kahalu'u Beach Park. Was surfing around for a professional type rundown of the beach, but could not find a good one. If you know of one, please post a comment.
Snapped a shot of this little puffer guy hanging out underneath a table-shaped piece of coral about 20 yards offshore.
He was shy, but I don't know why. They're not supposed to be good eating.
You should know that Kahalu'u is probably the most protected piece of shoreline on the west side of the Big Island, as a surf break was built ages ago at the behest of an ali'i of some sort.
That means, it's one of the safest places to get in and out of this sometimes rocky, uh, big rock and always calm, even on the days when the surf is kicking elsewhere.
Okay, a little more about our little friend, according to Hawaiian Reef Fish, the Identification Book by one Casey Mahaney: Common name is the Lantern Toby, up to four inches average size, eats algae, corals and invertebrates. Book say depth usually found is 80-plus feet, but our little buddy was hanging out in the shallows.
Here are a few more sites to see in the vicinity.
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