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Explore Vibrant Coral Reefs on a Kona Snorkel Safari in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii - Kailua-Kona

Explore Vibrant Coral Reefs on a Kona Snorkel Safari in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kailua-Konamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

2–3 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for anyone comfortable swimming and moderate snorkeling; children 5+ with adult supervision.

Overview

Discover the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of Hawaii’s Kona Coast on a 2.5-hour guided snorkeling safari. Explore two handpicked sites with expert guides in small groups from Kailua-Kona’s Honokohau Harbor.

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Kona Snorkel Safari

2.5 Hours | Small Groups With 14 Guests Max

Boat Tour
Guided Tour
Snorkel

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Adventure Photos

Kona Snorkel Safari photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a 2.5-hour snorkeling adventure in Kailua Kona, Hawaii, where expert guides lead you to vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. Enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Kona Coast, with historical insights, and savor tropical snacks as you explore two carefully selected snorkeling sites in an intimate group setting.

Join us for an unforgettable snorkeling experience in the pristine waters of Kailua Kona, Hawaii. Our expert guides will take you to the best snorkel spots in Kona, carefully selected based on the day's conditions and wildlife sightings. You'll have the opportunity to explore the vibrant coral reefs and encounter a variety of marine life up close.

Our tour boat is equipped with all the necessary snorkeling gear, including masks, fins, and snorkels. We also provide flotation devices for those who need them. Our experienced guides will provide you with safety instructions and snorkeling tips before you dive in, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

Our RHIB boat, Manta Raiv, provides an intimate experience for a maximum of 14 passengers. Manta Raiv cuts through Kona's waters with ease, allowing us to quickly reach various snorkeling sites. When it's time to snorkel, you'll enter and exit the water with a swim ladder.

The boat ride from Honokohau Harbor to the first snorkel site takes 5-20 minutes, depending on the snorkeling site we select based on the day's conditions. As we travel along the Kona Coast, your US Coast Guard certified captain and crew will educate you with historical facts about the surrounding areas. Upon reaching the snorkeling site, your swim guide will assist you into the water and guide you across the reef to the best snorkeling spots. We typically visit two snorkeling sites per tour, and spend up to 45 minutes in the water at each site.

This 2.5 hour adventure comes with everything you need to snorkel, including a high-quality mask, snorkel, and fins. All you need is a bathing suit and you’ll be ready to go! Along with snorkel gear, you’ll be offered island-sourced pineapple, non-alcoholic refreshments, and snacks. We recommend you bring a towel, hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera. There’s room on the boat for your backpack, purse, and other reasonably sized items.


Important:

We have a minimum age requirement of 5 years old, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult. We have a maximum weight requirement of 280 pounds.


Safe and Humane Practices:

We do not allow touching or harassing of wildlife. Your swim guide will educate you on our humane approach to engaging with marine life.


Our Boat:

Our boat, Manta Raiv, carries up to 14 guests and has a bimini cover for shade. There is no restroom on Manta Raiv.


Safety:

All captains are US Coast Guard certified. All captains and crew are trained in First Aid and CPR. Life vests for all passengers are on board.


Sunscreen:

Please apply reef-safe sunscreen prior to your tour. Sunscreen is a huge threat to our delicate coral reefs, and it’s important to use environmentally safe sunscreen that’s applied at least 30 minutes before entering the water.


Weather Condition:

If the seas are too rough, we will reschedule your tour. We would rather skip a tour than make you uncomfortable. Please make sure we have your cell phone # for the unlikely event of a cancellation due to weather conditions.

Adventure Tips

Apply reef-safe sunscreen before arrival

Protect Hawaii's delicate reefs by using reef-safe sunscreen and applying it before your trip starts.

Arrive early for check-in

Arriving 15 minutes before departure ensures a smooth boarding experience at Honokohau Harbor.

Use provided flotation devices if needed

Flotation aids are available to support any swimmer looking for extra safety and comfort in the water.

Follow your guide’s wildlife interaction tips

Respect marine wildlife by adhering to safe practices suggested by your professional snorkel guide.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian green sea turtles
  • Colorful reef fish like parrotfish and butterflyfish

History

Honokohau Harbor has historic significance as a traditional Hawaiian fishing and trading area now serving as a gateway to marine recreation.

Conservation

The tour strictly follows guidelines for minimal impact on delicate reefs, promoting reef-safe sunscreen use and safe wildlife interaction.

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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Swimsuit

Essential

Wear your swimsuit to the harbor for convenience and comfort during the snorkel segments.

summer specific

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protect both your skin and the coral ecosystem on this tropical adventure.

summer specific

Towel

Essential

A towel is useful after snorkeling to dry off during the boat ride back.

Waterproof camera or GoPro

Capture vibrant underwater scenes with waterproof camera gear; rentals available.

summer specific