Explore the vibrant coral reefs of Kealakekua Bay on a private 3.5-hour snorkeling tour with expert guides. Discover marine life and history on this unforgettable Hawaii adventure.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; basic swimming ability required for snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
Kealakekua Bay is historically significant as the site where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii in 1779.
Conservation
Kealakekua Bay is a marine life conservation district, enforcing strict rules to protect its reefs and marine inhabitants.
Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures
Explore the vibrant coral reefs of Kealakekua Bay on a private 3.5-hour snorkeling tour with expert guides. Discover marine life and history on this unforgettable Hawaii adventure.
Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures operates small-group snorkeling tours based in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The company specializes in guided snorkeling trips to Kealakekua Bay and other prime Kona reef sites, offering curated experiences that combine marine viewing, local history, and safe, guided water time.
Trips run on the intimate Manta Raiv with a maximum of 14 guests, which enables quicker water entries and longer swim time compared with larger vessels. Offerings include the 3.5-hour Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook Monument Snorkel, the 1.5-hour Manta Ray Night Snorkel, and the 2.5-hour Kona Snorkel Safari. Guides provide historical insights about the Captain Cook Monument, route knowledge along the Kona Coast, and expert snorkeling instruction so guests can focus on observing coral reefs and marine life.
Snacks are included on select trips, and the small group size permits private-charter options when all 14 seats are booked, allowing trip customization with the captain when conditions and time permit. Safety and guest support are emphasized through guided group management and equipment handling.
Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures markets itself as a small-boat alternative to larger "cattle boat" tours, prioritizing longer time in the water, an intimate atmosphere, and guided encounters with Kona’s marine ecosystems.
Group Size
14 max
Intimate small-boat experience
Location
Kailua-Kona
Tours depart from Kona, Hawaii
Vessel
Manta Raiv
Intimate boat for small groups
Trip Lengths
1.5–3.5 hrs
Night and day snorkel options
Secure a seat on the Manta Raiv for Kealakekua Bay, a manta ray night snorkel, or a Kona snorkel safari — limited to 14 guests per trip.
Arrive Early for Check-In
Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect the marine environment by applying reef-safe sunscreen to avoid damaging coral reefs.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture the vivid underwater scenes with a waterproof camera or a secure phone case.
Stay Hydrated
Even with provided snacks, bring water to stay hydrated throughout your time on the boat and in the sun.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and the coral reefs during prolonged sun exposure.
summer
Snorkel Mask and Fins
Improves underwater visibility and swimming efficiency during snorkeling.
Waterproof Camera
Allows you to capture vibrant marine life and underwater moments.
Lightweight Rashguard
Provides sun protection and minimizes irritation in saltwater.
summer