A 50-minute glass-bottom cruise from Kailua-Kona that brings you within inches of coral gardens and tropical fish. Ideal for families and non-snorkelers, the tour includes naturalist commentary and seasonal marine sightings.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Stepping onto the Kailua-Kona pier, salt air pulls your attention seaward and Marian—a low-slung, 36-foot glass-bottom boat—waits with bright blue and yellow flags snapping overhead. The boat slips away from the dark lava coastline and skims the reef; through the glass, the reef seems to breathe, fish darting like intentional flashes of color and corals rolling gently with the swell.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
50 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; passengers should be able to step aboard and remain seated for the short cruise.
Wildlife
History
Kailua Bay has long been an important Hawaiian fishing and canoe-landing area; the current pier and coastal development date to the 20th century as Kona grew into a community hub.
Conservation
Kona’s reefs face pressure from warming waters and runoff; tours emphasize ‘look-don’t-touch’ practices and reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Glass-Bottom Boat Reef Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early and check the flags
Plan to be at the Kailua-Kona pier 10–15 minutes before departure; look for Marian’s blue & yellow flags midway down the pier.
Protect against sun and glare
Bring SPF-rated sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses—reflected sun off the water increases UV exposure.
Prepare for seasickness if susceptible
If you get queasy, take motion-sickness medication ahead of time and sit near the boat’s center for a steadier ride.
Listen to the naturalist
Ask questions—guides give identification tips for fish, coral types, and seasonal whale or dolphin behavior.
Over-the-counter motion-sickness medication
Useful for anyone prone to nausea on even mild swells.
Sunscreen (reef-safe)
Protects skin and the reef—choose a mineral-based, reef-safe formula.
summer
Polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare so you can better view fish and coral through the glass panels.
summer
Light windbreaker or long-sleeve layer
Even short boat rides can be breezy; a light layer wards off sun and wind.
spring