Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Adventure in Kailua-Kona
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good health, comfortable swimming in open water, and able to snorkel for extended periods.
Overview
Experience crystal-clear waters, playful dolphins, and rich history at Kealakekua Bay. Join Hawaii Oceanic for an unforgettable snorkeling tour to the Captain Cook Monument.
Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) Snorkel
All Snorkel Gear Included | Includes Snacks And Drinks
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 3-hour snorkel tour at Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii's renowned marine sanctuary. Experience crystal-clear waters, encounter playful Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, and explore rich historical sites along the Kona coastline. Enjoy an hour and a half of snorkeling amidst vibrant marine life, making unforgettable memories in this stunning paradise.
Duration
- 3 hours
- 8:00 am or 11:00 am Departure
What’s Included
- Snorkel Gear
- Snacks & Beverages
About The Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument) Snorkel Tour
Experience the incredibly clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii's most famous protected marine sanctuary, in one of our most popular tours!
This tour is appropriate for snorkelers of all skill levels, including beginners.
Itinerary
- Please arrive 15 minutes before your departure time for check-in at Keauhou Small boat harbor, 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740.
We cruise from Keauhou harbor out into crystal clear blue waters. While the boat is underway, the crew will point out interesting features along the Kona coastline, which is rich in Hawaiian history. South Kona has a bevy of historically significant Hawaiian Heritage sites, full of mana (spiritual power). Staying close to the Kona coast as we travel south towards Kealakekua Bay, we watch closely for any interesting marine life.
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins We may stop the boat to enjoy the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) putting on a show. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest close to shore during the day and will sometimes interact with the boat, bowriding and playing in our wake.
After a brief show from the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback whales, and whatever else of interest is found along our way, we arrive at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay, the site of the Captain James Cook monument.
After snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay for about an hour and a half, we start heading back to the harbor while keeping an eye out for more exciting marine life we may encounter on the way home.
TERMS Must have a minimum of 6 total passengers for this tour to go out.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to complete check-in and safety briefing smoothly.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and Hawaii’s coral reefs by applying only reef-safe sunscreen before the tour.
Bring a Waterproof Camera
Capture underwater moments with a waterproof camera or GoPro to preserve your adventure memories.
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on hot sunny days out on the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
- Green Sea Turtles
History
Kealakekua Bay is the site where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaii and later died, marking a significant moment in Hawaiian and world history.
Conservation
Kealakekua Bay is a marine sanctuary with strict conservation rules to protect its coral reefs and native species, ensuring sustainable tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin without harming marine ecosystems.
summer specific
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture stunning underwater and wildlife photos.
Swimwear and Rash Guard
Provides comfort and sun protection while snorkeling.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated throughout your adventure.