Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour
Snorkel near the Captain Cook Monument and discover endemic fish
Duration
4 hrs
Includes
Snacks, drinks, snorkel gear
Highlights
Snorkel Kealakekua Bay's reef near the Captain Cook Monument, where endemic fish live only in Hawaii. Travel aboard a fast, wet boat with limited shade and storage.
- Ride along the Kona coast on an adventurous boat
- Discover fish found only in Hawaii
- Pack light for limited onboard storage
- Wear sun-protective clothing for limited shade
Itinerary
Our adventure at Honokohau Marina where we gear up to snorkel the waters off the Kona Coast. We head to the pristine marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay, known as one of the best snorkeling spots in the world and home to the famous Captain Cook Monument.
As we cruise along the stunning Kona coastline, we'll keep an eye out for Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural habitat, retreating to secluded coves after a night of hunting. Our journey into the open sea might even reward us with sightings of bottlenose dolphins, pilot whales, and spotted dolphins. And who knows? We might even spot a whale shark! During the winter months, we often see Humpback whales and their calves, which might treat us to some spectacular spouting and breaching.
When we reach Kealakekua Bay, you’ll have the chance to snorkel in clear, fish-filled waters, view vibrant coral reefs, and explore the marine life around the easily accessible Captain Cook Monument. We’ll provide snacks and drinks while sharing the intriguing stories of Captain Cook’s adventures. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the water and the underwater sights.
On our way back, we’ll take in the dramatic cliffs and explore ancient coastal sea caves formed by lava flows, all while learning about Hawaiian history and myths. Join us for this memorable day of exploration and fun on our Captain Cook snorkeling tour.
Check in and briefing: 15 - 20 minutes Travel time: one hour or so with history stops on the way Snorkel time: one hour to one hour 15 minutes Return travel time: one hour or more looking at seacaves & lavatubes or whales or dolphins
What's Included
- Mask and snorkel
- Fins
- Additional flotation
- Snacks and drinks
Important details
- Arrive 15–20 minutes before departure
- Complete the required digital waiver before arrival
- Ages 3+ only; anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian
- Requires basic swimming skills, comfort in the ocean, and the ability to climb a ladder to reboard the boat unassisted
- Requires good physical and mental health
- Not permitted for expectant mothers or those with back or neck issues
- Requires the ability to converse in English
- Bring only reef-safe, non-aerosol sunscreen; full-face masks are not permitted
- Bring the credit card used for booking and matching valid photo ID; they may be required at check-in
Cancellation Policy
Refundable tickets receive a full refund when canceled at least 48 hours before start; bookings made within 48 hours are not refundable. Non-refundable tickets have no refunds. With the Flexible Cancellation Upgrade, cancel up to 12 hours before start for a 50% refund. No refunds or rescheduling for no-shows or late arrivals. If the operator cancels, you'll receive a full refund or rescheduling based on availability.
FAQs
You need basic swimming skills to enter the water. If you don’t swim, you can still ride along and enjoy the Kona coastline from the boat.
This tour is not suitable for non-swimmers who want to enter the water, expectant mothers, or anyone with back or neck issues, injuries, or other health concerns. You must be in good physical and mental health, and you may be denied boarding or entry to the water if it’s unsafe (with no refund).
Kids ages 3+ can join. Guests 17 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.
Meeting details
Kona Snorkel Trips, 74-381 Kealakehe Parkway Suite E, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
