Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling: Tropical Fish Paradise

43 Ratings

Kailua-Kona

Save

View Gallery (9)

Experience the ultimate snorkeling adventure at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Hawaii. Swim with over 200 species of tropical fish, explore sea caves, and discover historical sites. Enjoy a personalized one-on-one tour on our comfortable and luxurious vessel, Nature School 2.

Duration: 3 hours, 30 minutes

Cancellation: 24 hours

learn more

Highlights

Hawaii Marine Life Charters - Discover the ultimate Kona snorkeling adventure with a 3.5-hour private charter, accommodating up to 10 guests, at the stunning 315-acre Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary. Hawaii Marine Life Charters offers a personalized, family-friendly experience, taking you to the renowned Captain Cook Monument to swim in tranquil,…

What's Included

Hawaiian Juices
Bottled water
Snacks
Use of snorkeling equipment
Fresh cut pineapple

Additional Information

Discover Hawaii’s premier snorkeling spot with an affordable private charter from Hawaii Marine Life Charters.
Vessel Designed for Exploration: The 31’ Ocean Craft RHIB is utilized, providing stability, agility, and a quicker, smoother journey to Kona’s secluded coastal treasures.
Size Matters: With a maximum of 10 passengers, these private…

Location

Hawaii Marine Life Charters

Kealakehe Parkway

CHECK-IN: Honokohau Harbor Slip, G-8 under the HAWAII MARINE LIFE CHARTERS sign. After exiting Queen Kaahumanu Highway (Hwy 19) at Kealakehe Pkwy, take the 3rd RIGHT(at brown restrooms/red roof). Find our white van and orange tour sign on the right. Please arrive 15 mins early. Mahalo!

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings

5.0

(43 Ratings)

5 stars

4 stars

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Chrisrj9379rm

May 12, 2025

2 Tours 2 unforgettable experiences. - We had the pleasure of experiencing two incredible tours with Hawaiian Marine Life Charters: the Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel and the Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour. Both were unforgettable and showed why this company deserves top marks for professionalism, knowledge, and passion for marine conservation. 1. Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel – 5/5 This was, hands down, one of the most magical experiences we’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, the crew made us feel safe and welcome. After a short, smooth ride out to the manta ray site, we received a quick but thorough safety briefing. Once in the water, we floated on special light boards that attract plankton—and the manta rays followed. Within minutes, these gentle giants were gliding inches beneath us. Some were over 12 feet across, flipping and dancing through the water with surreal grace. The guides were informative, sharing fascinating facts about each individual ray (yes, they know them by name!) and the efforts to protect them. The staff’s respect for the ocean and its creatures really stood out. 2. Captain Cook Monument Snorkel Tour – 5/5 This morning tour was equally impressive but in a different way. We cruised down the beautiful Kona coast while our guide pointed out lava tubes, sea caves, and historic landmarks. When we arrived at Kealakekua Bay, the water was incredibly clear—visibility was easily 100 feet. The coral reef near the Captain Cook Monument is vibrant and teeming with life. We saw everything from colorful parrotfish and angelfish to a curious eel and even a pod of spinner dolphins on the way back. What sets Hawaiian Marine Life Charters apart is how well they balance fun with education. The guides are passionate, experienced, and eager to share the history of the area and tips on reef-safe snorkeling. If you’re in Kona and looking for authentic, small-group marine adventures with a company that truly cares about the ocean, Hawaiian Marine Life Charters is it. The Manta Ray Snorkel is a must-do bucket list experience, and the Captain Cook Monument tour is the perfect way to explore one of Hawaii’s best snorkeling sites.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Samanthatc1824rm

May 7, 2025

Amazing - So so much fun and very informative! Great atmosphere and made the whole morning so cool! Also did the night snorkeling with the mantarays which was just as enjoyable!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

748lisaj

Apr 5, 2025

Wonderful snorkel experience with educational bonus! - Wow! This was a perfect tour! All the equipment was provided and safety was top priority ! For those folks who needed assistance the crew was on point! The educational review was so interesting as well. We had a bonus seeing both whales and sharks on the ride to the cove. Wonderful experience and would rate this captain and crew 11+ !!! It was so great we booked another tour during the trip. The small group is the way to go for sure. Thank you for a wonderful tour!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Lorirs2991ex

Feb 14, 2025

Awesome, knowledgeable guide, avoid crowded tours - First tour with Brian was so great, we did a second with him! If you are wanting to avoid huge, crowded tours, this is the way to go. He even searched for and found turtles on the way back bc they were on my list.

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Keri

Jan 7, 2025

Incredible Snorkeling Experience at Kealakekua Bay! - Our snorkeling trip to Kealakekua Bay was absolutely unforgettable! The adventure started off perfectly as we spotted humpback whales during the boat ride to the bay—such a breathtaking sight! Once in the bay, we were greeted by a pod of playful spinner dolphins, which made the experience even more magical. The highlight of the trip was Captain Brian, who was not only knowledgeable but also a fantastic storyteller. He shared an amazing recount of the history of the bay, making the excursion both educational and entertaining. You could tell he’s passionate about this beautiful place. It’s an experience we’ll cherish forever and can’t recommend enough. If you’re in Hawaii, Kealakekua Bay is an absolute must!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Tricia_s

Dec 31, 2024

Beautiful spot, plenty of... - Beautiful spot, plenty of time to explore, knowledgeable and friendly guides - perfect for the entire family

Review provided by Viator

Amy

Dec 24, 2024

Amazing experience - outstanding guides - whales, dolphins, and snorkeling! - I wasn’t sure what to expect when we arrived this morning, but our guide Christa and our captain, Brian, were AMAZING. I thoroughly enjoyed the boat ride to the snorkeling spot in spite of some spicy waves. The snorkeling was really good, but mostly because of Christa talking about the fish we were seeing. The snacks after our swim were just right, and we were able to see a pod of spinner dolphins, well, spinning. Then, we got a very cool history of some local landmarks and a humpback whale!!! Do this. You won’t regret it!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Angel_a

Oct 23, 2024

Fun, adventurous - Had a great time with my friends here. We saw a ton of fish and learned about the history of the big island, the natives and captain cook. He offered tons of snacks and drinks along the way too. Definitely would recommend if you’re looking for a lowkey setting with family or friends.

Review provided by Viator

Amir_d

Oct 23, 2024

Worth it - a great option for day snorkeling tour - This particular tour is a great option for a captain cook day time snorkeling tour. Went with my friends, guide was super chill and knowledgeable about the area. Made sure everyone had what they needed, and showed us some interesting locations after the snorkeling.

Review provided by Viator

Pixielegfiend

Oct 11, 2024

Definitely do this and Manta Ray night dives - So worth the money. Snorkeling is the best on the island. We saw at least 25 varieties of fish, eels and corals. It's absolutely gorgeous and it's too hard to hike - though, knock yourself out of you love a difficult hike Better you than me, and I'm in great shape!

Review provided by Tripadvisor

Check Availability

From $1,461

(Per Boat)

From $1,461 (Per Boat)

up to 15 guests

1 - Traveler