

Best for beginner divers, 1-3m, shore entry, mild current.
Alua Beach in Kona features a shallow reef and artificial reef structure ranging from 1 to 3 metres in depth. This shore-entry site is suitable for beginners, offering mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres. Divers and snorkellers frequently encounter wrasses, raccoon butterflyfish, and Hawaiian convict surgeonfish. Less common sightings include day octopus, Potter's angelfish, and various moray species such as undulated, painted, turkey, snowflake, yellow-edged, and zebra morays. Giant frogfish and spotted eagle rays are occasionally recorded, while green sea turtles are rare. Hazards include boat traffic, surf, and surge. Toilets are available on-site, but visitors should arrive with all necessary gear.
19.66718, -156.02780
Check the shore break carefully before entering, as even a mild swell can make the entry slippery and timing your move between sets will save you a struggle. Toilets are available on site, but there are no other facilities, so arrive with all your gear ready to go.
Park in the harbor lot at the end of Kealakehe Parkway. Walk south along the coast following the trail. The route involves crossing lava and requires watching your step.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 3m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
25-28°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
You can regularly encounter wrasses, raccoon butterflyfish, and Hawaiian convict surgeonfish. Other species recorded include day octopus, Potter's angelfish, and several types of moray eels, with occasional sightings of giant frogfish, spotted eagle rays, and green sea turtles.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth of 1 to 3 metres and mild currents, which assist with buoyancy control.
The reef and artificial reef structures are located at depths between 1 and 3 metres.
Yes, this is a shore-entry site. Use caution when entering due to potential surf and shore break conditions.
Yes, Alua Beach is suitable for both diving and snorkelling activities.
Diving at Alua Beach in Kailua-Kona requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Alua Beach in Kailua-Kona. Water temperatures range from 25°C to 28°C.
Alua Beach in Kailua-Kona typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Alua Beach in Kailua-Kona typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.