Big Island Kona Snorkel Tour: Dolphins, Caves & Captain Cook Reef

Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Big Island Kona Snorkel Tour: Dolphins, Caves & Captain Cook Reef

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(1336 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

What Makes Our Daytime Snorkel to Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook monument Unique
Fast, agile Zodiac RIB boat (used by Navy SEALs) gets you to the bay quickly and allows access to hidden sea caves, lava tubes, and scenic coastline features

Small group size ensures a personal, uncrowded experience—unlike big boats carrying 30 to 80 people

Snorkel the pristine coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and historic site of the Captain Cook Monument

Opportunity to explore areas larger boats can’t reach, including caves and cove topography

Chance sightings of wild dolphins or whales during your ride along the coast.
Wildlife not guaranteed

Fresh pineapple and bottled water included, adding comfort and hospitality to the adventure

Locally owned, family-run company focused on guest experience, safety, and cultural respect

Available options

Snorkeling in the water

12 & younger

For guest that are 12 or young

What's included

Use of Snorkeling equipment

Bottled water

Snacks

Snorkel Tour

What's not included

Hotel pick-up and drop off

Private Tour

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

638 reviews

5★

511

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

698 reviews

5★

605

4★

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1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Minimum age is 6 years

Maximum weight cannot exceed 300lbs per person.

Meeting point

please check your ticket details / ticket PDF

Important notes

ALOHA!
MUST READ EVERYTHING BELOW:

*CHECK-IN TIME:
A minimum of 10 minutes early
BEFORE YOUR TOUR TIME

*CHECK IN ADDRESS:
78-7100 Kaleiopapa st.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740

Get here early to find parking on the side of the street
DO NOT PARK IN THE TRAILER STALLS

Meet at the solo restroom building across from the boat ramp or at the Lamp post next to the boat ramp

There will NOT be an employee at the dock.
The crew will get you from underneath the light pole upon returning from previous trip

*EQUIPTMENT:
Mask & snorkel are included on your ticket price.
NO FINS are not needed no currents here at this bay its like a pool

*TOUR DURATION & DELAY POLICY:
Up to an hour late on RARE situations!
Tour durations are estimates — not exact. Delays can occur due to:

Weather conditions
Boat traffic
Mechanical issues
Other unforeseen circumstances

*ABOUT THE BOAT
RIB Zodiac Navy Seal

*Wildlife dolphins Guarantee Policy
Come again for FREE, if not seen!
WILDLIFE IS NOT GUARANTEED TO SHOW UP

*TOUR LENGTH
Tours last approximately 2.5 hours

*Average Time in Water:
1 hour depending on many different situations

*RESTRICTIONS
For your safety, guests must:

MUST KNOW HOW TO SWIM AND TREAD WATER WITH YOUR OWN STRENGTH
Be physically able to climb up a boat ladder
Must weigh less than 275 LBS
Not have back/neck problems
Not be pregnant

*WHAT TO BRING
arrive in swimsuits.
Sandals
sun screen

Phone
Vehicle keys
Wallet
We keep the items above in a container for you.
Small Bag no bigger than a football

****BOAT CAPACITY POLICY
Minimum of 8 guests required for a tour to operate.
If the tour doesn't meet this minimum, we’ll move you to another time or day.
You will be contacted at least 30 minutes prior if your tour needs to be rescheduled.
(This rarely happens.)

*Gratuity for your captain & crew if wanted!

About Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and youngest of the Hawaiian Islands, known for its diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, active volcanoes, and lush rainforests. It offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

This national park is home to two active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. It offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and the opportunity to witness volcanic activity up close.

Nature/Adventure Full day Moderate ($30 per vehicle)

Mauna Kea Summit

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Nature/Adventure Half day to full day Free (but requires acclimatization)

Waipio Valley

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Nature/Cultural Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Hapuna Beach State Park

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Beach Half day Free (but parking fee applies)

Akaka Falls State Park

Akaka Falls is a stunning 442-foot waterfall surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. The park offers a scenic loop trail leading to the falls.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate ($5 per person)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A raw fish salad marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions, often served with rice.

Appetizer Contains fish, can be made with various types of seafood

Loco Moco

A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.

Main Course Contains beef, eggs, and gluten (from the gravy)

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice flavored with syrups and often topped with sweetened condensed milk or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, can be made with various toppings

Kona Coffee

A premium coffee grown in the Kona region, known for its rich and smooth flavor.

Drink Caffeinated, can be decaffeinated

Popular Activities

Hiking Volcano exploration Water sports Beach lounging Spa treatments Scenic drives Traditional Hawaiian luaus Local markets

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

This is the best time to visit the Big Island, with pleasant weather and fewer tourists. The ocean is warm, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.

21-30°C 70-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST, GMT-10:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

The Big Island is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of natural hazards such as volcanic activity and ocean conditions.

Important Precautions:

• Rent a car with full insurance coverage
• Be cautious when purchasing souvenirs and tours, and research options in advance
• Be aware of ocean conditions and currents when swimming and snorkeling

Getting there

By air

Kona International Airport • 20 km from Kona
Hilo International Airport • 10 km from Hilo

By bus

Hilo, Kona

Getting around

Public transport

The Hele-On Bus is the public bus system on the Big Island. It is affordable but has limited routes and schedules.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kona Hilo Waimea

Day trips

Mauna Kea Summit

30 km from Waimea • Half day to full day

Mauna Kea is the highest point in Hawaii and offers stunning views, stargazing opportunities, and a unique alpine environment.

Waipio Valley

60 km from Hilo • Half day

Waipio Valley is a lush, scenic valley known for its taro farms, waterfalls, and black sand beach. It is also a significant cultural site for Native Hawaiians.

Hapuna Beach State Park

30 km from Waimea • Half day

Hapuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island, offering swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing opportunities.

Festivals

Merrie Monarch Festival • April Kona Coffee Cultural Festival • November Ironman World Championship • October

Pro tips

Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace and access remote areas
Visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park early in the day to avoid crowds and see the best views
Pack layers, as temperatures can vary significantly depending on the elevation and location
Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic taste of the Big Island
Respect the environment and local culture, and follow guidelines for visiting protected areas and sacred sites