Keauhou Bay

The Basics

The clear weather and waters that once attracted Hawaiian royalty to Keauhou Bay are what continue to make it an ideal snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking destination. To see the manta rays that flock to the area to feed on the microscopic plankton, embark on a night snorkeling or diving excursion. Other tours include swimming with dolphins, sailing, whale watching, and visiting ancient Hawaiian ruins and restored temples (heiau).

Things to Know Before You Go

• Keauhou Bay is a popular spot for nature, marine life, and history enthusiasts.
• There are hotels, restaurants, and bars in the Keauhou Bay area.
• Keauhou Bay is a jumping off point for visiting other secluded coves by boat or kayak.
• Showers and restrooms are available at Keauhou Beach Park.
• Swimming at the bay’s black sand beaches is discouraged due to boat traffic.

How to Get There

Keauhou Bay is 18 miles (29 kilometers) south of Kona International Airport and 7 miles (11 kilometers) from downtown Kona on the Hawaii Belt Road. You can reach the bay by car, bus, or on a tour. Many tours depart from Kona and venture into the bay on a boat or kayak.

When to Get There

Keauhou Bay’s temperate climate and year-round active marine life make it a great spot to visit in any season. Winter holidays and summer break are typically the busiest times, so to avoid the crowds visiting in the spring or fall. Sunset cruises are popular for spotting dolphins and whales. For the manta rays, join a night excursion.

Viewing Manta Rays at Manta Village in Keauhou Bay

Manta Village, offshore in front of the Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa, is the most consistent ray viewing site in Hawaii. Lights from the resort originally attracted manta rays to the plankton-filled waters. Today, visitors can still spot rays from the resort’s Rays on the Bay restaurant. To see the rays up close, join a night tour and snorkel or dive with the rays that come to feed on the plankton attracted by the boat’s lights.

Ways to explore

The waters that once attracted Hawaiian royalty to Keauhou Bay are what continue to make it an ideal snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking destination. Book a nighttime snorkeling or diving trip to see the manta rays that flock to the area to feed on microscopic plankton. Daytime tours include swimming with dolphins, sailing, whale watching, and visiting ancient Hawaiian ruins and restored temples (heiau).

Keauhou Bay is also a jumping-off point for secluded coves by boat or kayak. Don’t visit the beach to swim, though—it’s generally discouraged due to heavy boat traffic.

Accessibility

Many snorkeling and boat tours on Keauhou Bay are not accessible to wheelchair users, as most boats are not equipped with ramps.

Age limits

There are no age limits to visit the beach, but some tours have age restrictions.

What to pack

Reusable water bottle, camera, paddleboard

What to wear

Sandals, sun hat, light layer for evening boat rides

Not allowed

Most tours don’t allow smoking, drinking, or pets.

Amenities

Public restrooms and showers are available at Keauhou Bay Beach Park. There are hotels and restaurants in the Keauhou Bay area.

Address 

Keauhou Bay is roughly 7 miles (11 kilometers) south of downtown Kona. You can reach the bay by car, bus, or on a tour, many of which take you around the bay on a boat or kayak.

Driving

From Kona, take Kuakini Highway or Aliʻi Drive south to Kaleiopapa Street. Free parking is available near the dock, but it fills up fast, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early.

Public transportation

Hele-On’s free 204 bus line runs every two hours, from Kona to Captain Cook, with southbound buses departing Kona from 6:10am–8:10pm. The Kaleiopapa Street stop (at Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa) is about a 4-minute walk from Keauhou Bay.

Best times to visit

Evening cruises are a good opportunity to spot dolphins and whales—and a gorgeous sunset. To see manta rays, join a nighttime excursion.

Best days to visit

Tours are more likely to fill up on weekends—along with the small parking lot. For more flexibility, visit midweek.

Best months to visit

You’re most likely to see manta rays from late spring to early fall. Aim for the shoulder season in April and September for fewer crowds.

Special events

Every Saturday, the Keauhou Farmers Market sells locally grown produce, including tropical fruits. The annual Kauikeaouli celebration in March honors King Kamehameha III.