Despite the lack of a sandy beach, Manini is popular with local residents and savvy tourists. A few of the recreational activities practiced here include snorkeling, surfing, scuba diving, and picnicking.

The snorkeling is excellent in the waters just off Manini Beach due to it's proximity to the protected Marine Life Conservation District of nearby Kealakekua Bay.

To reach Manini Beach with a GPS unit, set it for the intersection of Napoopoo Road and Manini Beach Road in the South Kona area. Look for the rock boulder and red wood fence located around the entrance to the park.