Hōnaunau Bay has some of the best snorkeling in the area, and the easiest place to access it is here at Pae'a, which is also known as Two Step because of the easy entrance into the water. While the lava shelf that dominates this area may not appear inviting for lounging around, it makes for an ideal platform for entering the bay; just take a seat on the edge, hold your mask in place, and scoot off into the water. The entrance gets a little tricky when swells come in, but when the water is calm, the area really lives up to its nickname. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins and sea turtles. A small beach area sits just to the south of the boat ramp, and this is a great spot for smaller kids to splash around as it is so protected from the rest of the bay.
Two Step is light on amenities (a restroom was under construction at the time of writing), but you'll find picnic tables, barbecues, and a row of portable toilets near the road. This area gets plenty of attention, so use caution when walking near the road, and you may as well resign yourself to paying for parking across the street.
Alternately, make a snorkel trip the second half of a blockbuster day and spend the morning exploring Pu'uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park, which sits adjacent to Two Step. This phenomenal stop shouldn't be missed, and a parking spot comes with the entrance fee.
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