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Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) Snorkel Adventure

Guided

Duration: 3.5 hours

Features

Kid Friendly
Locally Owned
Wildlife
Small Group Sizes
Free Cancellation
On the Water
Instant Book
$125 Person ($125)
(Ages 7 to 70. All minors must be accompanied by a paying adult supervisor. Must weigh less than 270 pounds.)
$1,499 Private Charter ($1,499)
(Max 14 people. Ages 7 to 70. All minors must be accompanied by a paying adult supervisor. Must weight less than 270 pounds.)
$50 GoPro Hero 9 Black - Camera Rental

Description

Snorkel the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay!

Explore one of Hawaii Island’s most protected and abundant marine sanctuaries with this small-group snorkel tour to Kealakekua Bay, home to the historic Captain Cook Monument. With a maximum of 14 guests, this intimate tour ensures personalized guidance from your professional instructor as you float above healthy coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Kealakekua Bay is Hawaii’s largest Marine Life Conservation District, protected from fishing and human impact, which allows fish, turtles, rays, and occasional reef sharks to thrive. Snorkel among massive schools of tropical fish and, if you’re lucky, spot pods of wild spinner dolphins playing nearby. The clear waters and well-preserved coral make it an ideal location for first-time snorkelers and experienced adventurers alike.
The journey begins at Honokohau Harbor with a scenic 45-minute boat ride along the Kona Coast. During the ride, your US Coast Guard–certified captain and crew share historical and natural insights about the area. Once at the bay, you’ll enjoy up to an hour in the water before returning, making this tour a memorable way to experience the Big Island’s coral reefs, wildlife, and history.

Duration of Adventure

  • 3.5 Hours
  • The boat ride is 40-50 minutes, depending on ocean conditions.

Location / Where to Meet

Ages & Requirements

  • Age limits of 7 to 70 years old. All minors must be accompanied by a paying adult supervisor.
  • Everyone who enters the water needs to be able to comfortably swim a minimum of 25 yards (23 m) in the ocean without a life jacket.
  • All guests must be proficient at snorkeling.
  • Guests cannot have neck problems, back problems, heart problems, other serious medical conditions, or are pregnant.
  • There is a 270 lb (122.5 kg) weight limit.
  • Everyone must be able to climb a short ladder to re-board the boat. This tour is not wheelchair accessible.
  • We require a minimum of 6 guests to run all tours. If we do not reach our minimum, we will offer to rebook you to a different tour or issue a full refund.
  • There is a maximum of 14 guests allowed on the tour.
  • Guests must follow humane and safe practices around marine wildlife, as instructed by the guide.

What’s Included

  • Snorkel Gear (Mask, Snorkel, Fins)
  • We provide foam noodles to all guests, and life jackets by request.
  • Island-Sourced Pineapple, Non-Alcoholic Refreshments, Chips, and a Special Treat
  • Boat Transportation to Snorkel Sites
  • Flotation devices and life vests are available for all passengers.

Not Included

  • Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides and captain!
  • GoPro Rental for an extra fee.
  • There are no restrooms available on board.

What to Bring / Wear

  • Swimsuit & Towel
  • Reusable Water Bottle
  • Reef-Safe Sunscreen
  • Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats
  • Dry Bag
  • Snacks & Water
  • Required Paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
  • Seasickness Medications - If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take sea sickness medication at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled snorkel time.
  • Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
  • Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get lost or damaged by the water.

Wildlife Guidelines

Please be respectful of the fact that coral is a living organism and any standing, touching, or knocking over will irreparably damage the organism that takes a very long time to grow and is essential to our marine reefs. Please also be respectful of any marine animals including but not limited to turtles, rays, sharks, seals, and dolphins. Please never chase, harass, feed, or TOUCH any of the marine species. Enjoy their company if they approach from a distance and calmly move away from them if in their path.

ADVENTURE PROVIDED BY Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures

FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim?

Yes! Everyone who enters the water needs to be able to comfortably swim a minimum of 25 yards (23 m) in the ocean without a life jacket.

Do you provide floatation devices?

Yes. We provide foam noodles to all guests, and life jackets by request.

Is there a minimum required amount of guests?

We require a minimum of 6 guests to run all tours. If we do not reach our minimum, we will offer to rebook you to a different tour or issue a full refund. Alternatively, you can purchase additional tickets to reach the minimum of 6 guests, which will ensure the trip can run.

What marine life can I see when snorkeling at  Kealakekua Bay in Kailua-Kona, Big Island, Hawaii?

Snorkelers at Kealakekua Bay can see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), a variety of reef fish including butterflyfish, parrotfish, and surgeonfish, as well as schools of tropical fish. The bay is also home to rays, occasional reef sharks, and spinner dolphins. In the winter months, humpback whales may be visible from the surface. The coral reefs provide shelter and food for a diverse range of marine life.

What sunscreen can I use and why does it matter?

Common sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs, as the particles are small enough to be absorbed by corals, causing toxicity and coral bleaching. Reef-friendly sunscreens are formulated without these harmful chemicals. Reef-SAFE sunscreens go a step further by using non-nano particles, which are too large for corals to ingest, helping to preserve marine ecosystems. 

Please avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, octinoxate, and parabens. Consider wearing sun-protective clothing, like long-sleeve rash guards, as an alternative to sunscreen. If you choose a mineral-based sunscreen, ensure it is labeled ‘non-nano.’

What are some Snorkel Safety 101 tips?

TripOutside recommends knowing how to swim before snorkeling, but participation is ultimately up to you and the tour operator's discretion.

  • Check ocean conditions and only snorkel at lifeguarded beaches. The chance of rescue is much higher with trained lifeguards present.
  • Never snorkel alone. Always bring a buddy. Beginners should consider booking a guided tour.
  • Rest after flying. Flying can dehydrate and exhaust you—give your body at least a day to acclimate before snorkeling.
  • Test your gear on land or in a pool first. Make sure your mask fits snugly, you can breathe through the snorkel, and you know how to clear water if needed.
  • Practice with fins. You should be able to scissor kick while swimming. Avoid doggie paddling—it won’t get you far.
  • Don’t wear fins on land. Walk into the water, get past the waves, then put your fins on. Remove them before exiting.
  • Take it slow. Breathe calmly, relax, and avoid overexertion to keep your heart rate low.
  • Know your limits. If you’re feeling tired, anxious, or unsure about conditions, skip the snorkel session. Panic in the water is dangerous.
  • Stay aware of currents and tides. Even experienced swimmers can get pulled out. Know how to identify rip currents and how to escape them (swim parallel to shore).

Can I snorkel with a mustache or beard?

You can snorkel with a beard or mustache but it can prevent a tight seal between the mask and your face, which may cause water to leak in. It is often recommended to shave at least your mustache before diving. If you’d prefer not to shave your mustache, please bring petroleum jelly or chapstick with you. If you coat your mustache in that chapstick or jelly, it may be able to seal and prevent water from getting in.

Can I wear glasses or contacts while snorkeling?

Glasses cannot be worn while snorkeling, but contacts are perfectly fine and recommended for the best experience. Prescription masks are not available for rent, but you are welcome to bring your own.

Additionally, there is an automatic correction effect that occurs underwater due to light refraction, making things appear clearer, but contacts or a personal prescription mask will provide the best visibility.

Cancellation Policy

Customers will receive a full refund or credit with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund or credit in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows will be charged the full price.

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Availability

September 2025

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Location

Address

Kailua-Kona, HI,

US

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