Use this guide to match the beach to the kind of day you want: soft sand, calm toddler-friendly water, easy snorkeling, picnic space, or a mellow place to cool off on the island's Hilo side.

To really experience the wonder that can come with an island or coastal vacation, there's nothing better than a family snorkeling trip—so long as you've done the prework to set it up for success.

Kona is one of those rare family trips where the day can start with a gecko on a garden wall, turn into a whale sighting or snorkel adventure, and end with poke bowls, beach sand, and frozen ice. The trick is not trying to do everything at once. With kids, Kona works best when each day has one big adventure, one easy meal, and one soft landing. Build in shade. Build in snacks. Build in time for everyone to stare at the ocean and do nothing. This guide highlights just a few wa