Kehena

The entry can be treacherous, so only dive on a calm day. Talk to your local dive shop about the seasonal conditions at this site. It's a beautiful beach for swimming, diving and naturist activities. The trail is hard lava, so don't attempt it unless you are sure-footed! Look for this parking by the road and this small sign that marks the trail head.

Don't even think of entering the water at this beach during high surf conditions. I have searched for three victims and recovered two in the past years. Respect the ocean, take pictures from land, and save yourself the trouble of losing your life. The Big Island has many other beaches that can be enjoyed without the hassle of dying. Be Aware.

Normally the surf breaks hard right at the shoreline. This day I only had snorkel gear and the break was like the lapping on an inland lake. Babies were playing in what normally would take them to sea. Vis was a 10. Papio, Opelu Kala, Kala, Uhu, Humu. Dolphins were in, too. Amazing! Tough hike in, worse out if you're tired and loaded down with gear. Nitrox boosts the energy level for the climb out. Good beginning coral formations. Good beach entertainment, especially on Sunday late afternoons. Clothing optional.

Dove this site today. Still one of my faves on the east side. The beach is only 50 years or so old so the coral growth is still in it's infancy. Still the dive is delightful. A school of dolphins often visits. Phil Caparus of East Hawaii divers is an excellent guide for diving this side of the island.

I have been here many times and it is one of the best beaches on the big island. I have snorkeled here before and it is alright but the Kona side offers much better marine life, etc. But, the last time I went (3-04') I had the experience of a lifetime. There was a school of porpoise (or dolphins)...at least 100-150 right off shore. There were about 15 people and we swam with the school for a couple of hours!!!!! It was really a great experience and I'm told that they come play/feed off the beach here occasionally. I went back two more times on this trip, but did not see any signs off them. Good Luck, Aloha.

I love this dive spot although it is not for beginners. I dove Kahena several times over the course of a week, a few times with a guide and a few times solo. The biggest challenge for many will be getting down to the beach. There is a path over lava that leads down to the beach which is very treacherous. The surf entry is not for beginners, but those familiar with surf entries shouldn't have a problem. Conditions vary from day to day. I had to rescue a snorkeler who got caught in the surf zone. To the right is a nice little reef full of fish. I had some wonderful encounters with an octopus here. To the left out towards the point is the drop off. There are reports of a large Tiger who cruises the ledge but I never saw him. On Sunday's this beach is crowded, but each time we dove, regardless of the day, we were the only divers there.