Snorkeling Sea Turtles at Hilo Ocean Adventures
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water and able to walk short distances over sand and rocks.
Overview
Step into Hawaii’s volcanic black sand beach lagoons with Hilo Ocean Adventures. Swim alongside sea turtles and vibrant reef life on this small-group, guided snorkel tour ideal for all skill levels.
Beach Snorkel - Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach
3 hours • Ages 8+ • Fully Guided and Narrated Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 3-hour guided snorkel tour along a stunning volcanic black sand beach. Discover vibrant marine life, including sea turtles and colorful reef fish, in pristine lagoons. With expert guidance and small group sizes, this adventure promises a safe, educational, and memorable experience for all ages.
Walk along a volcanic black sand beach and swim in a pristine lagoon where sea turtles often frequent on this fully narrated and guided snorkel tour.
Duration
3 hours
Ages
8yrs+, Minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
About
This is not a boat tour
The brackish water bays and lagoons around scenic Hilo are home to a wide variety of abundant sea life. Your local, experienced snorkel guide will teach you how the black sand beaches and volcanic islands are made as well as other fascinating facts about your lush surroundings.
Grab your goggles and look below the water's surface and discover an underwater world teeming with colorful corals, eels, eagle and manta rays and so much more! This area is well known for its large population of sea turtles and dizzying array of tropical reef fish.
New to snorkeling? Not a problem! Your expertly trained guide will teach you the basics and be with you every step of the way to ensure your safety and comfort. Children are also welcome to participate and will be introduced to Mother Nature in a most spectacular way.
This half-day, small group tour includes 2 snorkeling stops (Carl Smith & Richardsons Beach Parks), island snacks and juices, and memories that will last a lifetime. Sign up today.
Cancellation Policy
Customers will receive a full refund with 24 hours notice of cancellation. Customers will also receive a full refund in case of operator cancellation due to weather, should a tour fail to reach our minimum capacity (2) or other unforeseen circumstances. In all cases we will do our best to offer alternative dates for your tour. No-shows will be charged the full price. Late arrivals may be charged a late arrival fee. Contact us by phone to cancel or inquire about a cancellation.
Tour Disclaimer
This tour: Is not suitable for those who are pregnant, over 300lbs, have back / mobility problems, or cannot swim unassisted in the open ocean.
All tours: Leave promptly at the specified time. Tours will not be held back for late arrivals and missed tours will not be eligible for refund. If guests require rental gear for this adventure, they will be responsible for showing up before the specified time in order to have gear fitted and be ready for an on-time departure.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Gear Fitting
Plan to get to the meeting point early to allow time for snorkel gear fitting and safety briefings.
Wear Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect both your skin and the marine environment by using reef-friendly sunscreen before the tour.
Stay Within Designated Areas
Respect protected habitats by snorkeling only in guided zones to avoid disturbing wildlife or coral.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture vibrant marine life and black sand beach landscapes with waterproof photography gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian green sea turtles
- Eel species common in the reef lagoons
History
The black sand beaches formed from volcanic lava flows that cooled rapidly along the coastline, sculpting the unique terrain visitors see today.
Conservation
Hilo Ocean Adventures promotes reef-safe practices and educates visitors on protecting turtle habitats and coral health to support the fragile marine ecosystem.
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Adventure Hotspots in Hilo
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Snorkel Mask and Fins
A well-fitting mask and fins improve underwater mobility and visibility.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects skin without harming coral reefs.
summer specific
Waterproof Camera
Allows you to capture underwater moments and volcanic beach scenes.
Light Rash Guard
Provides UV protection and helps reduce chill in cooler months.
spring|fall|winter specific