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Small-Group Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay in Captain Cook, Big Island

524 Reviews 4.94 out of 5 stars Based on 524 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 99% of reviewers |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Big Island of Hawaii, USA
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 52 (33) days in advance.

3 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Instant confirmation

Overview

We cruise from Keauhou harbor out into crystal clear blue waters. While the boat is underway, the crew will point out interesting features along the Kona coastline, which is rich in Hawaiian history. South Kona has a bevy of historically significant Hawaiian Heritage sites, full of mana (spiritual power). Staying close to the Kona coast as we travel south towards Kealakekua Bay, we watch closely for any interesting marine life.

We may stop the boat to enjoy the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) putting on a show. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest close to shore during the day and will sometimes interact with the boat, bow-riding and playing in our wake.

After a brief show from the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback whales, and whatever else of interest is found along our way, we arrive at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay, the site of the Captain James Cook monument.

After snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay for about an hour and a half, we start heading back to the harbor.

What's Included

  • Snacks Island sourced pineapple and chips
  • Bottled water
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Meals
  • Bring your own towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and waterproof camera
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

78-7138 Kaleiopapa Street
Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, the site of the Captain Cook Monument on The Big Island of Hawaii, in a small-group experience.

Kealakekua Bay is a protected marine sanctuary, boasting arguably the best snorkeling in the entire state of Hawaii. Due to the state's environmental protections, Kealakekua Bay boasts an abundance of marine life that includes Nai'a (Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins), Caluiflower Coral, Yellow Tang fish, pencil urchin, and dozens of other marine species that call the bay home.

Your tour will include a maximim of 12 passengers, which is a more private experience than the "cattle boats" in Kona that carry 100 passengers or more. By being part of a smaller group, it's quicker for the group to enter and exit the boat, which allows for more time snorkeling on the beautiful coral reef.

On our way to and from Kealakekua Bay, our Captain and crew will point out historically and culturally significant areas of the Kona coast. We often see Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and humpback whales (during the winter) on this tour!

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Must be able to swim without the assistance of a floatation device.
  • Maximum weight of 280 pounds per traveler.
  • Children 7 and older are welcome on the tour if they can comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean.

Frequently Asked Questions (15)

Q: Does your boat have a shade covering?

A: Yes, there’s a small shaded area on the boat. Read more Dec 2022

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-40277P5

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.94
524 reviews

Average 4.94 out of 5 stars based on 524 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
503
4 stars
15
3 stars
2
2 stars
2
1 star
2
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 52 (33) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • SnacksIsland sourced pineapple and chips
  • Bottled water
  • Use of Snorkelling equipment
  • Nonalcoholic refreshments
  • Meals
  • Bring your own towel, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and waterproof camera
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers with neck problems
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Must be able to swim without the assistance of a floatation device.
  • Maximum weight of 280 pounds per traveler.
  • Children 7 and older are welcome on the tour if they can comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean.
  • Our boat is certified by the US Coast Guard for 12 passengers, and we can not exceed this limit.
  • For safety purposes, if you can not comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean, we ask that you purchase a ticket to ride along on the boat, but not enter the water.
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 11 travelers

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