If your family is staying near Kailua-Kona on the Big Island and you’re looking for a calm, kid-friendly beach where you can swim, snorkel, and sneak in a little history—Kamakahonu Beach, also known as King Kamehameha Beach, is a must-visit.
This peaceful pocket of shoreline is tucked beside the Kailua Pier and is just steps away from coffee shops, gear rentals, and Kona’s waterfront restaurants. But don’t let its small size fool you—Kamakahonu is big on fun, learning, and relaxation, making it an excellent stop for families with kids of all ages.
Before we dive in, have you seen our ranked lists on Big Island? They might add helpful context and information for your trip.
Discover the Best Kid-Friendly Hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii
Family friendly excursions on Big Island
Kid friendly beaches on Big Island
Why Families Love Kamakahonu
Kamakahonu (pronounced kah-mah-kah-HO-new) means “eye of the turtle” in Hawaiian, and it’s a fitting name for a beach that offers both serenity and rich cultural depth. Here’s why this beach is a favorite for families:
- Shallow, protected water makes it ideal for swimming, wading, and beginner snorkeling.
- The sandy bottom is gentle on little feet—no sharp rocks or coral at the entry point.
- The area is sheltered from waves, thanks to a natural cove and nearby breakwater.
- There are walking paths, grassy spots, and plenty of shaded seating nearby for taking breaks or picnicking.
- Restrooms, coffee, snacks, and gear rentals are just steps away—no need to pack the whole car.
This is a beach where parents can relax, toddlers can safely splash around, and older kids can snorkel just off the sand in calm, clear water.
Snorkeling at Kamakahonu: Safe, Simple, and Full of Life
Snorkeling here is as easy as it gets: just wade into the water, sit down, and put on your gear. The shallow sandy entry makes this a comfortable, low-stress place for kids to test out their masks and snorkels. No tricky currents or deep drop-offs here!
Once you move away from the shoreline, the sandy bottom turns to lava rock and slate, which attracts all kinds of colorful marine life. You’re likely to spot:
- Yellow tang (bright and easy for kids to spot)
- Manini (striped and playful)
- Saddleback wrasse
- Spotted tobies
- Moorish idols (they look like they swam right out of a cartoon)
And if you’re lucky, you might see Christmas wrasse or sharpnose mullet, which aren’t as common at other Kona snorkeling sites.
Important note for parents: The best snorkeling is along the edges of the swimming area—this is where the fish like to hang out. Avoid the center of the channel, which is reserved for boat traffic. It’s clearly marked, so it’s easy to stay clear.
A History Lesson Your Kids Will Remember
What makes Kamakahonu truly unique is its connection to Hawaiian history. This beach was once the personal retreat of King Kamehameha the Great, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in the early 1800s. Right next to the sand, you’ll see a faithfully reconstructed heiau (a Hawaiian temple), where the king worshipped during his final years.
Even if your kids aren’t usually into history, the sight of this impressive lava-rock structure—and learning that a real king once walked these grounds—can spark curiosity.
💡 Teach your keiki a little Hawaiian etiquette: Visitors are welcome to walk up to the heiau and take photos, but please don’t enter or touch the structure. It’s a sacred site, and showing respect is part of the aloha spirit.
Nearby Perks for Parents
This beach is not just family-friendly—it’s parent-friendly too! Here are a few things that make your visit even easier:
- Menehune Coffee Company is right across the lawn for a quick caffeine boost or breakfast burrito.
- The ABC Store is steps away for sunscreen, snacks, or forgotten beach gear.
- Kona Boys rents kayaks, snorkel sets, and paddleboards right on the beach—and they’re super friendly, with tips for first-timers.
And if you’ve got a stroller or beach wagon, the beach is fully accessible with paved walkways and a flat approach.
Tips for a Smooth Beach Day with Kids
Here’s what to pack (and know) to make your family’s trip to Kamakahonu as stress-free as possible:
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen or sun-protective swimwear. There’s limited natural shade.
- Pack towels, hats, and extra water—the Kona sun is strong!
- Snorkel gear for kids, or rent from Kona Boys if you’re traveling light.
- Bring water shoes if your little ones want to explore the rocky edges.
- Arrive early in the morning for the best visibility and fewer crowds.
And of course, don’t forget a waterproof camera or phone case—you’ll want to capture your child’s first glimpse of a rainbow-colored fish or the look of wonder at the heiau.
History, Culture & Marine Life in One Family-Friendly Spot
Kamakahonu Beach blends history, Hawaiian culture, and ocean fun in one peaceful, family-perfect package. It’s a place where your children can float safely in calm waters, learn about a real Hawaiian king, and see tropical fish just inches below the surface. Whether you’re lounging in the shallows, sipping Kona coffee nearby, or snapping photos beside the heiau, this beach is an experience your whole family will remember.
So grab your snorkels and sense of adventure—King Kamehameha Beach is waiting.
Have you seen our ranked lists on Big Island? They might add helpful context and information for your trip.
Discover the Best Kid-Friendly Hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii
Family friendly excursions on Big Island
Kid friendly beaches on Big Island
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Big Island.
