See Kona’s Best Snorkeling Spot on a Kealakekua Bay Trip

It’s no secret that Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island is a very special place. But did you know that it’s one of Hawaii’s most important marine sanctuaries and one of the best spots to snorkel in Kona? Not only is it beautiful, but this amazing place is also full of history. Kealakekua Bay is where the explorer Captain Cook originally came to Hawaii and also where he died, and it serves as a powerful reminder of those who lived on the Island long before his arrival. Explore the natural beauty, history, and wildlife of Hawaii with Kona Ocean Adventures! On our awesome Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Trip, you’ll get to see beautiful coral reefs with tons of sea life, swim with Hawaiian green sea turtles, and get to know a part of Hawaii’s history. Whether you’re brand new to snorkeling or looking for a fun snorkeling excursion for your family, this Captain Cook trip with Kona Ocean Adventures is the perfect way to get to know the island.
What to Expect on This Big Island Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour
First-time snorkeler or searching for a kid-friendly adventure? This snorkeling tour in Kona, Hawaii, is great for everyone, even kids as young as three can join. The trip lasts about four hours, and you get two and a half hours to explore the clear waters of beautiful Kealakekua Bay.
We offer daily boat and snorkel tours at 7 AM and 11 AM, so you can pick the best time that best suits your schedule! The morning trip has cooler water, plus you have a better chance of seeing Hawaiian spinner dolphins as they’re generally more active during this time. The afternoon trip, on the other hand, features warmer waters and different sea life.
The best part of our snorkel tours in Kona? You don’t have to worry about bringing your own gear. Kona Ocean Adventures provides everything you need so you can have the best snorkel trip on the island. Our snorkel cruises include all the optimal gear, including high-quality masks, snorkels, and fins, so you and your family can snorkel with top visibility and ease! Take the best Big Island Captain Cook snorkeling trip this vacation, reserve your spot today!
What Animals Can You See On Our Kona Snorkeling Tour
Something that makes snorkeling in Kona so special is that Hawaii’s ocean life is some of the most unique in the world! There are so many animals you can’t find anywhere else, such as the Hawaiian Monk Seal and Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, which are endemic to the region. On our Kealakekua Bay snorkel tour, you’ll get to see some of these beautiful and wild creatures right in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for:
The Honu: Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle
The Hawaiian green sea turtle, or honu, is one of the most beloved animals in Hawaii. They can often be seen swimming gracefully around the bay or resting on the nearby coral reef. For Hawaiian people, the honu holds deep spiritual significance. When you see a Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle on your snorkel tour in Kona, it represents wisdom, peace, and good luck. Finding one gliding and swimming just below the water’s surface is a truly special moment and a highlight of any snorkel trip.
Naiʻa: Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
Imagine cruising along the Kailua-Kona Coastline, enjoying the phenomenal views, as dolphins leap from the nearby waves! Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, also known as naiʻa, are known for their friendly and playful nature, often leaping and twisting in the air! For the best chance to see naiʻa, we recommend booking our early morning snorkel tour near Captain Cook. For the locals, these dolphins represent joy and a connection to their ancestors.
Hawaiian Tropical Fish
Kealakekua Bay is teeming with tons of colorful tropical fish. Keep your eyes peeled for yellow tang (lauʻipala), parrotfish (uhu), raccoon butterflyfish (kīkākapu), and the reef triggerfish (humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa), Hawaii’s state fish! The amazing and vibrant coral reefs you can see while snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay make this one of the top diving spots in Kona.
The Best Kona Excursion for Families
If you’re looking for a great family trip in Kona, you’ve come to the right place! This Captain Cook Kona snorkeling tour is safe, fun, easy for beginners, and great for kids aged 3 and up. Children, teens, and grownups alike will love searching for colorful tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. Plus, the calm waters around Kealakekua Bay are perfect for younger kids and first-time snorkelers.
Rest easy! The crew at Kona Ocean Adventures is highly trained in snorkel safety and first aid. We’ll take you to a quiet and secret snorkel location, ideal for beginners, so you’ll get to explore away from all the crowds. Additionally, you’ll also get to enjoy amazing views of the Kailua-Kona coast, sea caves, and cliffs. Connect with nature and with each other on this fun Kona snorkel tour and cruise!
Book Your Kona Snorkeling Tour Online
Ready to experience some of the best snorkeling on the Big Island? We offer amazing Kona sightseeing cruises, manta ray snorkeling, and more. Book your Kealakekua Bay Tour with Kona Ocean Adventures today!