Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private
Overview
This tide pool is a local secret. It's off the beaten path. A miracle of nature. We'll use a jungle/lava rock coastal trail. Each way takes 15-20 minutes. Only your group will participate. You’ll learn about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment. You'll also have time to explore/relax privately.
- The pool is like an infinity pool overlooking cliffs. The water is crystal clear. You’ll see amazing views of the island. Sea turtles are a common sight in the ocean in the distance.
- The pool is like an aquarium with fish, hermit crabs, rock crabs, sea cucumbers, brittle stars, shrimp, snails, spaghetti worms, pink coralline algae, seaweed, shells, & cool rocks.
- The pool is calm/safe with a deep (3-5ft.) & shallow (1-3 ft.) area.
What's Included
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
Meeting Location
15-121 Kahakai Boulevard
Pāhoa, HI 96778, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
What To Expect
The hike is comprised of jungle and boulder fields. I don't recommend this hike for anyone with a disability or children under 5. The exact lower age cutoff depends on the child/parent. There's no upper age cutoff or fitness requirement. Please note that the tide pool is very rocky. The boulder fields on the hike and the rocks surrounding the pool are especially slippery during rainy conditions. While the pool it's often fully accessible, sometimes only certain parts are accessible. Almost always there's an area to submerge yourself. Rarely, the levels are too low or the conditions too rough for swimming. If the pool can’t be entered, the guide will take you to explore a nearby area that is magical and beautiful.
There are no ticks and very few mosquitoes.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
Frequently Asked Questions
(13)Q: Do you take pregnant customers snorkeling?
Cancellation Policy
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-347173P1
Traveler Photos
Reviews
Average 4.77 out of 5 stars based on 92 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
Additional Info
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Frequently Asked Questions (13)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Hawaii customers.
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Yes, we allow pregnant women to go on snorkeling. However, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before doing so to assess your individual health and pregnancy stage.
Jan 2022Yes, this is possible, as long as you are comfortable going into the water. All Cool Hawaii snorkeling tours adhere to strict safety regulations and have been designed to be enjoyed by all.
Your safety is our #1 priority, which is why:
- You will be wearing a flotation device at all times.
- On many tours, there is a stairway from the boat into the water so you won’t have to “jump” in!
- There are trained staff in the water and watching from the boat at all times.
For these reasons, we believe that even non-swimmers can have a wonderful time on our snorkeling trips, however, the final judgment call is yours to make. Please note we do not give refunds if you decide not to snorkel on the trip.
Oct 2021The snorkel gear we use on Cool Hawaii tours is high quality and for your protection, the equipment is sanitized after each use. However, if you feel more comfortable using your own snorkeling equipment, feel free to bring it on the tour. Please note, there is no discount for providing your own equipment and we can’t be responsible for any lost or damaged items.
May 2023First-time snorkelers can be assured of one-on-one instruction and assistance. We find introducing folks to our world very rewarding!
Oct 2021There are no legal age limits for snorkeling. We have found that age 5 or 6 is a good age to learn the basics of snorkeling, however, it’s entirely up to individuals to make the best choice for their family.
Sep 2021If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.
Feb 2023- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Apr 2025There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025Accessibility information for the Secret Tide Pool Hike - Jungle & Coast - Private is as follows:
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Secret Tide Pool Hike – Jungle & Coast – Private will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Hawaii. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Recommendations for what else to do on Big Island.
- Teaching about the pool's ecosystem and the local environment.
- Guidance to the tide pool and time in the pool.
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Wear hiking shoes, hiking sandals, or athletic shoes for the hike. Hiking shoes are most ideal. If you wear sandals, closed-toe are most ideal.
- Wear water shoes at the tide pool. Closed-toe shoes with durable soles are most ideal. I don't recommend flip flops.
- Wear a bathing suit and bring a towel. There are no bathrooms at the tide pool.
- Many people bring a snorkeling mask or goggles.
- Apply "reef safe" sunscreen before the hike to minimize its contact with the tide pool water. Bug spray is unnecessary because there are no ticks and very few bugs or mosquitoes.
- Some people bring a first aid kit (I don't carry one).
