Honaunau Bay

 bay, snorkeling area, invisible, boat ramp / launch

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Hōnaunau Bay, 37 miles NW of Kalae, indents the coast about 500 yards and is about 500 yards in width. The bay lies between two flat lava points. Puuhonu Point, on the S, is lower and smaller and is marked by the 12-foot-high stone walls of the City of Refuge and by a grove of tall coconut trees. The City of Refuge is of historic interest and is now maintained as a National Historical Park of about 182 acres. In former times, criminals or refugees reaching the place were safe until such a time as the king of the land took action. Vessels anchor in depths of 4 to 8 fathoms 150 yards from the S shore. A surfaced ramp (19°25'24"N., 155°54'41"W.) is just N of the sand beach on the SE side of the bay. Small boats can easily land on the beach during normal weather.
[www.nauticalcharts.noaa.gov/nsd/coastpilot_w.php?book=7] Chapter 14

One of the most accessible snorkeling and shore-diving spots on the Big Island.