Explore Hawaii’s Kona Coast like never before on a private snorkeling adventure featuring wild dolphins, sea caves, and vibrant reefs. Perfect for those seeking thrilling ocean encounters and scenic exploration under expert guidance.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable swimming in open water and able to handle moderate physical activity onboard and during snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
The Captain Cook Monument marks the spot where the British explorer Captain James Cook was killed in 1779, a key historic site in Hawaiian history.
Conservation
Tours focus on sustainable practices to protect fragile coral reefs and marine life, encouraging reef-safe products and enforcing no-touch snorkeling guidelines.
Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours
Explore Hawaii’s Kona Coast like never before on a private snorkeling adventure featuring wild dolphins, sea caves, and vibrant reefs. Perfect for those seeking thrilling ocean encounters and scenic exploration under expert guidance.
Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours is a Kailua‑Kona based ocean adventure operator offering guided snorkel trips, manta ray night snorkels, dolphin and sea cave excursions, private charters, and equipment rentals.
The company runs small-group experiences along the Kona Coast, emphasizing marine encounters at Kealakekua Bay, the Captain Cook Monument, Keauhou Harbor, and nearby sea caves and lava tubes.
Trips use fast, stable vessels such as Zodiac RIB speed boats—built like Navy SEAL craft—and a speedy power catamaran for private charters. The daytime Captain Cook / Kealakekua Bay snorkel adventures include snorkel gear, fresh pineapple, and bottled water; wetsuits, lifejackets, and GoPros are available for rent at the BIO storefront during check‑in. Private charters add secluded beach swims, food and drinks, and a personalized itinerary.
Night manta snorkels in Keauhou offer intimate encounters under powerful custom light boards using over 150,000 lumens of blue dive light. Manta trips feature a Manta Guarantee policy: if a manta is not seen, guests may return for a free repeat trip based on availability. Tours advertise smaller group sizes—often limited to 17 or fewer or a maximum of 13 on select departures—and a shorter boat ride to the manta site (about three minutes), improving access and time on the water.
Safety is a priority: tours include a licensed captain, swim guide, and certified lifeguard. Hawaii Island & Ocean Tours focuses on authentic wildlife viewing, guided snorkeling, and locally informed experiences for visitors seeking active, marine-based adventures in Kona and memorable ocean excursions for every visitor.
Small Groups
≤17 guests
Intimate tours reduce crowding
Prime Locations
Kailua‑Kona
Kealakekua Bay & Keauhou
Fast Access
3-minute manta ride
More time at the manta site
Manta Guarantee
Free return*
Based on availability; see policy
Book small-group Kealakekua Bay snorkels, dolphin and sea cave combos, late-night manta snorkels, or private charters from Kailua‑Kona — limited availability.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect both your skin and Hawaii’s coral reefs by using reef-safe sunscreen before and during your trip.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to receive safety briefings and get familiar with your gear.
Secure Loose Items on the Zodiac
Zodiac rides can be fast and bumpy; ensure phones, cameras, and other items are securely stowed or waterproofed.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your time on the boat and in the sun.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming Hawaii’s coral reefs.
summer
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Capture underwater moments and marine wildlife in vibrant detail.
Lightweight rash guard
Provides sun protection and warmth in cooler water temperatures.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the adventure without adding waste.