Kealakekua Bay or Place of Refuge-better snorkel?

[cruisin24]

Just wondering if anyone has snorkelled at both of these spots before. We have booked the Captain Zodiac trip to Kealakekua Bay and I know it gets great reviews...but I read on another thread that someone did the Place of Refuge and described it as being better than the Capt Zodiac trip.

 

I am looking for the best snorkelling spot! Would love to see the best variety of colourful fish and good water clarity.

 

Thanks,

Debbie

[budaman]

Both places have excellent snorkeling and both areas have their pros & cons. K Bay(sometimes referred to as Capt. Cooks Bay) has the problem of access. Pretty much need to go on an excursion by boat or rent a car & kayak & paddle across the bay. This is fun & usually you'll be escorted by pods of spinner dolphins. There is also the Capt. Cook Monument. Main problem is the number of large excursion boats that go to that area so you can be dodging boats & snorkelers.

 

At Refuge, you actually go to the small park next to it...not refuge itself. A lot of locals go there & sometimes can be rather crowded, but it is enjoyable there and no boats. Watch folks go to the 'steps' to see where the best place to enter is. You'll also have more opportunity to see turtles at this spot.

 

Visibility at both is excellent as there really is no beach to muck up the water....just slabs of lava.

 

Mike