This large red volcanic cone is named for the type of cinder which it produced. Pu’u – meaning hill and hau, a special stone that was soft, porous, and once used for polishing canoes. Located North of Kealakekua Bay, it is situated between Nenue Point to the North and Keawakaheka Bay to the South, marking the boundary between North and South Kona. The top of Pu’u Ohau is Kapu, or forbidden, as it is the ancient burial site of High Chiefess Kamaeokalani, grandmother of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani.
Today, the Red Hill area has become known for its excellent snorkeling amongst the many reefs and abundant marine life it sustains. Here are a few of our favorites, which are sometimes visited during a Deluxe Kona Coast Snorkel Cruise aboard the Hula Kai vessel:
- Coral Gardens – The reef we visit most frequently is called Coral Gardens. This beautiful coral reef features underwater coral archways and a small cove with a rock island.
- Driftwoods – Named for the large piece of driftwood on the shoreline. Nice coral formations and underwater caves (down deep).
- Nudibranch – There are some good examples of nudibranch (little sea slug) on this reef section. Underwater sea arches are also present here.
- Ridges – Named for the lava rock and coral that create small ridges and canyons, creating a unique reef structure.