Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling: Explore Hawaii's Endemic Fish and Marine Life on a Small Boat Cruise
4.6
22 Ratings
Kailua-Kona
Discover the vibrant marine life of Kealakekua Bay on a small boat cruise. Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, spot Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and explore sea caves and lava tubs.
Duration:
4 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Kona Snorkel Trips - Embark on an exciting journey along the Kona coastline to dive into the serene waters of Kealakekua Bay, home to the renowned Captain Cook Monument. This untouched coral habitat is teeming with unique fish species exclusive to Hawaii, making it an ideal spot for novice snorkelers eager to explore the ocean’s wonders. It’s the most highly recommended snorkeling location on the island of Hawaii!
Inclusions
Refreshments and beverages are included on this excursion
Equipment such as masks, snorkels, fins, and extra buoyancy devices (wetsuits available upon request)
Details
Appropriate for individuals aged 3 and above
Due to the high-spirited nature of this former navy seal vessel, pregnant women and individuals with back or neck problems are advised against participating in this tour
Those who do not swim can still take pleasure in the magnificent and awe-inspiring shoreline while basking in the sunshine.
Additional Info
Only sunscreen that is safe for coral reefs is allowed - please verify your product labels.
Opt for sun-protective garments instead of sunscreen
What's Included
- Bottled water included
- Complimentary snacks provided
- Snorkeling equipment available for use
What's Not Included
- Towels & Sunscreen
Additional Information
Spend your morning in the serene waters on this intimate boat tour. We’ll journey south along the stunning Kona Coast to the untouched Kealakekua Bay, keeping a keen lookout for sizable open-ocean creatures. Revel in a snorkeling adventure in the bay, a common lounging spot for Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins and a habitat for a variety of fish native to Hawaii. On our return journey, we’ll uncover the sea caves and lava tubes formed by ancient lava flows.
Location
Kona Snorkel Trips
Kealakehe Parkway
Follow the road from the highway until it ends at a yellow gate. On your right, you'll see a two-story red roof building with gas pumps in front. Meet us by the picnic tables, you'll see our sign on the side of the building.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.6
(22 Ratings)
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Haroldg750
Apr 5, 2024
Rebooked trip was an excellent experience - I had originally booked the early morning snorkel, 7:30 to 10:30, however was the only one signed up so was graciously rebooked to the Captain Cook Memorial snorkel at no extra charge. This trip requires a 55 minute boat ride each way, which was not bad as we were rewarded with a Whale sighting on April 5th, not all whales leave when they are supposed to. We enjoyed a snorkel guide with us in the water as our boat was live and followed us along the bay. The down side to this great snorkeling site was the 6 boats that were already there at 9:300 in the morning. Next time I will keep my fingers crossed that more snorkels sign up for the early morning at Pawai Bay.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Theresa_k
Jul 11, 2023
Great fun and experience - Seeing the dolphins, flying fish, snorkeling and the whales on way back were all awesome. Our captain and other tour guide were both awesome. Definitely one of the highlights of our 13 day three island vacation
Review provided by Viator
Samw10
May 9, 2023
Morning Snorkeling - Had a great time snorkeling, Janet was a great guide and pointed out a lot of species. The water was fantastic and we saw a lot of fish. We even saw a few dolphins in the distance. John our captain was great at describing some of the history of the area too.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marcie
Mar 22, 2023
Glad I chose this Snorkel trip! - Wonderful morning snorkel! While I was traveling alone, several families had elementary age kids and the tour staff seemed very attentive to them. The water and snorkeling was amazing. We saw small sharks, eel, tons of tropical fish, one in a school even, puffer fish, parrot fish and more. I especially was happy that while the boat was not the big fancy boat and was called a wet boat, I remained very dry going there and going back. The ride along the coastline was beautiful and the speed very comfortable. Great trip!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Johnb848
Dec 30, 2022
Must do snorkeling. - Absolutely loved the snorkeling. We saw spinner dolphins on the way out, saw a whale, and the snorkeling at the site was magnificent
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lenm568
Dec 26, 2022
Awesome And Unique Manta Ray Experience. - We probably saw 15-20 different Manta Rays on our 10:15pm snorkel. They made a special accomodation due to the inclement weather and it was amazing. The mantas swim so close and in some cases touch you! Wonderful experience getting so close to a wild animal doing its thing. Definitely recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tamara
Sep 30, 2022
Visit Manta Rays in their environment - I really don't enjoy snorkeling due to the mask and mouth breathing, but I did enjoy the experience of viewing the Manta Rays! The boat ride out was short, the stay in the water was the right length, and the boat ride back was short. The crew was very friendly and upbeat; but, more importantly, safety appeared to be a priority. I highly recommend this experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
S1625yjjulies
Sep 21, 2022
These people are the best!!! - What an amazing experience! I did the combination trip of the morning snorkeling and night with the manta rays. I would do it again in a heartbeat! The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
H7949ixerina
Jun 21, 2022
Fun manta ray experience - It was the most fun I had when snorkeling! It was interesting to see all the manta rays up close. The tour guides were very helpful and attentive throughout the entire tour. I especially enjoyed listening to the facts they were telling everyone as we snorkeled.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lucyr380
May 23, 2022
Unsafe weather conditions - The tour should not have gone out due to wind. Staff showed poor judgment with the speed of boat in those conditions. We all ended up with huge bruises from being tossed around. Very underwhelming snorkelling. Not worth the cost. There were seven of us and we all agreed.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
