Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Monument Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Big Island of Hawaii , United States

Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Monument Kailua-Kona, Big Island

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(540 reviews)

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

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you are new to snorkeling this is the ideal choice! Particularly good for families with younger children or swimmers who aren’t certain if they are “seaworthy” enough for one of our longer trips.

This trip is much slower-paced and affords guests time to become more familiar and comfortable with the exciting and beautiful sport of snorkeling. Our crew will be happy to help you adjust your mask, fins, and snorkel and help you become comfortable viewing the tropical fish while using a flotation assistance device we call a “noodle”. You'll even watch for dolphins and whales along the way!

We offer several different times slots to fit your schedule. The times shown indicate the check in time. Tour duration includes time to checkin and receive gear. Snorkel participants must be comfortable swimming.

Looking for more snorkel time? We also offer a Deluxe Snorkel Tour that includes snorkeling at two different reefs. Check out our other listings for more details.

Available options

Snorkel Tour to Captain Cook Monument Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Ride Along-No Snorkel

No Snorkel: This option is for those that don't swim or just want to stay on the boat. This option cannot be modified.

What's included

Juices and bottled water

Sightseeing along coast of sea caves & lava tubes

Pool Noodles

Historical narration of Captain Cook's fate at Kealakekua Bay

Detailed itinerary

We offer several different times, each tour being 2.5 hours on the water. These trips provide the longest snorkel times at Kealakekua Bay with approximately an 30-40 minutes of snorkel time. This adventure promises views of 100’s of different varieties of tropical fish along with an occasional “Honu” (Hawaiian green sea turtle). Your Captain will share Hawaiian History and get you up and personal with sea caves and lava tubes. If you are new to or have never snorkeled before this is the ideal choice!

The times shown indicate the check in time. Tour duration includes time to checkin and receive gear. Snorkel participants must be confortable swimming.

What's not included

Gratuities for your crew always appreciated

Please bring towel and cover-up

Use reef safe sunscreen (zinc based is recommended- no oxybenzone and octinoxate. lotion, no spray)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

349 reviews

5★

310

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

191 reviews

5★

174

4★

3★

2★

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 to attend tour is 6yrs old

Must be comfortable treading water and swimming unassisted

Electronic Waiver required to be signed prior to tour

Must be under 285 lbs

Must be able to climb up a metal ladder to get back in the boat

Our vessels are RHIBS (zodiac style boats; seating is on a pontoon).

Minors must be accompanied by an adult at all times

We have full discretion to refuse service to guests based on attire, behavior, physical fitness & condition

Restroom facilities not available on boat

Not recommended for travelers with neck problems

Meeting point

To Check in: Keauhou Shopping Center, 78-6831 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740. Located in inside the center in the courtyard behind Tropics, KTA & Bianelli's. Once checked in, you will drive to Keauhou Bay where the crew will greet you for the tour. If Ubering, schedule 2 stops in the app.

Important notes

1ST, proceed to our store to checkin. Keauhou Shopping Center, 78-6831 Alii Drive (Located in courtyard behind Tropics & Bianelli's). Park & walk into shopping center. 2ND, you will drive to Keauhou Bay, 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St.

Transportation to store & to Keauhou Bay is guest responsibility. If Ubering, schedule 2 stops in app so driver will wait for you. No need to return to store post tour

Tour Times (total duration includes checkin time):
(8am Reservation) Checkin 8am at store (Store does not open until 8am); Tour departs Bay 9am; Returns 1130am
(1045am Reservation) Checkin 1045am at store; Tour departs Bay 1145am; Returns 215pm
(1215pm Reservation) Checkin 1215pm at store; Tour departs Bay 115pm; Returns 345pm
(130pm Reservation) Checkin 130pm at store; Tour departs Bay 230pm; Returns 5pm

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:
* Guests snorkeling must know how to swim
* standing/going ashore prohibited
* Min. age-6 yrs old; Minors must be accompanied by adult at all times, whether on the boat or in water
* Not for travelers with heart, neck, back problems or may be pregnant

PARKING at Bay: Parking is along Kaleiopapa St. on right & left Find a spot & walk down to restroom area (don't park in boat trailer or wash down areas)

WHAT TO BRING:
* Reef safe (zinc/mineral) sunscreen LOTION only. No other chemicals
* Towel, Rash guards, hats, sunglasses (bring a small bag for storage)
* Shoes easy to take off (barefoot boat)
* Gratuities appreciated

PROVIDED: Masks, snorkels, fins, Snacks, fresh fruit, water, juice

WAIVER: Copy & paste link into browser to sign our waiver (1 for each guest): https://waiver.smartwaiver.com/w/622bb9a21e486/web/

We run a small passenger vessel, seats are saved just for you. If you do not show for your tour, we do not offer reschedules, credits or refunds, no exceptions. Min. numbers apply. If min are not met, you will be offered an alt. tour or refund. If we deem ocean conditions unsafe, we will contact you to reschedule your tour. Tours run in rain.

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