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    1. Local experiences
    2. /Things to do in Kailua-Kona…
    3. /Water Activities
    4. /Snorkeling
    5. /Kona Coast Guided Snorkeling Tour
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    Kona Coast Guided Snorkeling Tour

    Snorkel Kona’s reefs with first-time-friendly guidance and included gear

    4.3 stars• 452 reviews
    From$137/ personincl. taxes and fees

    Duration

    3 hrs

    Includes

    Snorkel gear, snacks, drinks

    Highlights

    Explore Kona Coast waters with a crew that supports first-time snorkelers. Look for reef life while learning snorkel tips and local stories along the way.

    • Spot spinner dolphins, turtles, whales, colorful fish, and vibrant reef
    • Learn snorkel techniques and Kona Coast history from the crew
    • Use flotation devices and get in-water support if you are new to snorkeling
    • Bring a swimsuit, towel, and camera

    What's Included

    • Snorkel gear
    • Flotation devices
    • Light snacks
    • Drinks
    • Snorkel instruction

    Important details

    • Arrive 30 minutes before departure
    • Basic swimming experience is required for snorkeling activities
    • Requires boarding and unboarding the boat without ramps; the boat is not wheelchair accessible
    • Requires using the swim step and ladder to enter and exit the water for snorkeling
    • Bring an additional snorkeling vest if you or your child need more flotation than the supplied devices provide
    • This tour takes place on Hawaiʻi, the Big Island

    Cancellation Policy

    Make changes or cancellations at least 48 hours before departure. The operator may move you to a comparable boat if necessary.

    FAQs

    Bring a swimsuit, towel, and camera. If you have your own snorkel gear, you can use it.

    You need basic swimming experience to participate in the snorkeling activities. First-time snorkelers are welcome, and crew support is available if you feel uncomfortable at first.

    No. The boats are not wheelchair accessible. You must be able to board and unboard the boat, and use the swim step and ladder if you snorkel.

    Meeting details

    Bite Me Sportfishing charter desk, Honokohau Marina

    Experience provided by Ocean Encounters

    Related locations

    How can we help?

    We are here to assist with special requests, large groups, last minute needs, and any questions you may have.

    Call or text 1-877-GREET-WELL

    Report an issue

    Reference #EYEN9D

    ADULT

    $137.59

    0

    CHILD

    $103.48

    0

    RIDE ALONG

    $92.11

    0

    Infant

    $92.11

    Infant, Baby, Toddler (Under 2)

    0

    Why book through Greetwell?

    • No Added Fees

      No booking or service fees, ever

    • Concierge Support Included

      Real humans ready to help with timing, questions, or special requests

    • Free Cancellation Available

      Most experiences can be cancelled for a full refund

    Discover what we've curated for you

    Review summary

    4.3
    Very Good
    452 reviews•Google Maps
    342
    25
    14
    11
    52

    Whale watching and manta ray snorkeling in Kona doesn't get much better than this. Captains like Momi, Rory, and Lena consistently earn praise for finding the wildlife and keeping guests informed, while crew members like Justice, Maddie, and Laura bring genuine enthusiasm to every trip. The manta ray night snorkel stands out as a crowd favorite, with guests describing close encounters that left them speechless. A few practical things worth knowing before you go: bring a towel and a light jacket or sweatshirt, because the boat ride back can feel cold when you're wet. If you're prone to seasickness, taking something like Dramamine beforehand is strongly recommended for the night manta tour. First-timers, including those who consider themselves nervous snorkelers, consistently report feeling well taken care of by the crew, so don't let anxiety hold you back from booking.

    What people are saying

    Review 1 of 5
    5/5

    An absolutely unforgettable experience! Our family of six had the most incredible time on the sunset manta ray snorkeling excursion with Ocean Encounters! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. Captain Momi was phenomenal! She made everyone feel safe and comfortable, and watching her expertly back the boat into the harbor in the dark was seriously impressive. Captain Momi is an absolute baddie behind the helm! The crew Lena, Josh, and Madison were beyond amazing. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about sharing everything they knew about manta rays. Their excitement made the experience even more special. We had the pleasure of seeing two baby manta rays one of which they informed us was named Milkyway, it was one of the most magical experiences we've ever had. Watching them gracefully glide beneath us was absolutely mesmerizing, they go so close right up against the light board, doing rolls beneathe us. The crew made sure everyone had an amazing view while teaching us about manta behavior and the importance of protecting them. The crew also thought of every detail. They kept everyone hydrated with water throughout the trip and had snacks waiting for us on the ride back. My husband and father-in-law are both tall, stocky men, and we were pleasantly surprised that they had wetsuit tops that fit them comfortably—a small detail that really shows they cater to all guests. If you're looking for an unforgettable manta ray experience on the Big Island, I can't recommend Ocean Encounters enough. A huge mahalo to Captain Momi, **King** (the best co-captain and sweetest dog ever!), Lena, Josh, and Madison for making this such an incredible evening. This is a memory our family will cherish forever, and we'd book with them again in a heartbeat!

    Photo of Claire Preston

    Claire Preston

    June 28, 2026

    Review 1 of 1
    5/5

    An absolutely unforgettable experience! Our family of six had the most incredible time on the sunset manta ray snorkeling excursion with Ocean Encounters! From start to finish, everything exceeded our expectations. Captain Momi was phenomenal! She made everyone feel safe and comfortable, and watching her expertly back the boat into the harbor in the dark was seriously impressive. Captain Momi is an absolute baddie behind the helm! The crew Lena, Josh, and Madison were beyond amazing. They were friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely passionate about sharing everything they knew about manta rays. Their excitement made the experience even more special. We had the pleasure of seeing two baby manta rays one of which they informed us was named Milkyway, it was one of the most magical experiences we've ever had. Watching them gracefully glide beneath us was absolutely mesmerizing, they go so close right up against the light board, doing rolls beneathe us. The crew made sure everyone had an amazing view while teaching us about manta behavior and the importance of protecting them. The crew also thought of every detail. They kept everyone hydrated with water throughout the trip and had snacks waiting for us on the ride back. My husband and father-in-law are both tall, stocky men, and we were pleasantly surprised that they had wetsuit tops that fit them comfortably—a small detail that really shows they cater to all guests. If you're looking for an unforgettable manta ray experience on the Big Island, I can't recommend Ocean Encounters enough. A huge mahalo to Captain Momi, **King** (the best co-captain and sweetest dog ever!), Lena, Josh, and Madison for making this such an incredible evening. This is a memory our family will cherish forever, and we'd book with them again in a heartbeat!

    Photo of Claire Preston

    Claire Preston

    June 28, 2026

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