Discover vibrant reefs and marine life on a private 4-hour snorkel tour from Honokohau Harbor. Explore iconic spots like the Captain Cook Monument while enjoying snacks and premium gear.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability recommended
Wildlife
History
Kealakekua Bay is historically significant as the site where Captain James Cook made his last landing in 1779.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting coral reefs through reef-safe practices and educating visitors to minimize environmental impact.
Snorkel Big Island
Discover vibrant reefs and marine life on a private 4-hour snorkel tour from Honokohau Harbor. Explore iconic spots like the Captain Cook Monument while enjoying snacks and premium gear.
Snorkel Big Island is a Kailua-Kona, Hawaii–based snorkeling operator specializing in manta ray night snorkels and daytime reef trips. The company runs small, personalized groups led by experienced crew and licensed captains, offering safe, guided excursions from Honokohau Harbor and nearby launch points along the Kona Coast.
For more than 12 years Snorkel Big Island has operated manta ray snorkel excursions, focusing on attention to detail, safety, and expert guides. Trips include Honokohau Manta Ray Night Snorkel, a dedicated night snorkel to manta aggregation sites; morning and morning 2.5-hour snorkels along the Kona Coast; and 4-hour Kealakekua snorkel trips that may visit the Captain Cook Monument or secluded reefs depending on conditions. All listed tours provide snorkel gear and, on longer trips, snacks as indicated.
Safety requirements are clearly communicated: prior swimming and snorkeling experience is required for manta tours, guests must be able to independently climb a side or vertical boat ladder, and some trips are not recommended for pregnant guests or those with recent surgery or mobility restrictions. Check-in times may be up to forty minutes before departure.
As a family-run business, Snorkel Big Island emphasizes stewardship of land, ocean, and wildlife, and prides itself on personalized service and expert local knowledge. Guests are encouraged to arrive on time for their scheduled tour to ensure the best possible experience. Licensed captains and dedicated guides select manta sites near the Kona airport or Keauhou based on sightings to maximize chances of close encounters with giant manta rays for visitors.
Location
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Launches from Honokohau Harbor
Years Experience
12+ years
Operating manta night snorkels
Family-Run
Locally operated
Personalized small groups
Trip Lengths
1.75–4 hours
Short night and longer morning trips
Book small-group manta encounters and Kona Coast snorkels with licensed captains — arrive on time for check-in (may be up to 40 minutes early).
Arrive Early to Check In
Arriving 15 minutes before your scheduled departure ensures smooth boarding and time to get fitted with snorkeling gear.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and Hawaii’s delicate coral reefs by applying reef-safe sunscreen before the tour.
Stay Hydrated
Bring a water bottle and drink plenty of fluids before and after snorkeling to stay hydrated in the tropical heat.
Keep an Eye on Weather
Check the weather conditions beforehand as rough seas can impact snorkeling quality and safety.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming coral reefs.
summer
Waterproof Camera
Ideal for capturing underwater life and stunning coastal views.
Swimsuit
Comfortable and quick-drying gear for a fun snorkeling experience.
Light Rash Guard
Provides extra sun protection and warmth in cooler months.
spring