Adventure Brief
Explore the clear waters and vibrant reefs of Pawai Bay on a private Kona snorkeling trip accessible only by boat. Enjoy the serenity of this less-visited snorkeling paradise in Hawaii.
2–3 hours
easy
From $142.35
Family Friendly
Explore the clear waters and vibrant reefs of Pawai Bay on a private Kona snorkeling trip accessible only by boat. Enjoy the serenity of this less-visited snorkeling paradise in Hawaii.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have basic swimming skills and be comfortable in open water for short periods.
Wildlife
History
Pawai Bay's lava reefs were formed from ancient volcanic flows, integral to Hawaii’s island formation.
Conservation
Kona Snorkel Trips promotes reef-friendly practices and educates visitors on protecting fragile marine ecosystems.
Kona Snorkel Trips
Explore the clear waters and vibrant reefs of Pawai Bay on a private Kona snorkeling trip accessible only by boat. Enjoy the serenity of this less-visited snorkeling paradise in Hawaii.
Kona Snorkel Trips is a Kailua-Kona, Hawaii outfitter specializing in guided marine wildlife and snorkeling experiences. They operate a range of small-boat excursions focused on whale watching, daytime reef snorkeling, and night manta ray encounters. Signature offerings include two-hour Whale Watch cruises aboard the speedy boat Orca, snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay near the Captain Cook Monument, exclusive boat-access snorkeling at Pawai Bay, dedicated Night Manta Ray Snorkel tours, and a limited COMBO: Whale Watch & Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Kona Snorkel Trips also maintains a MANTA WAITLIST registration for customers seeking openings on sold-out manta outings; waitlisted guests are notified and charged only if space becomes available.
Guides provide on-water navigation, snorkeling set-up, and local natural history interpretation to support safe, informative encounters with endemic fish, coral reefs, dolphins, humpback whales, and manta rays. Tours emphasize small-group access to less-crowded snorkeling sites such as Pawai Bay and Kealakekua Bay’s protected reef systems. Night manta snorkeling uses underwater lights to observe manta rays as they feed.
Booking policies for waitlist items are clearly stated, and customers are charged upon confirmed availability. All trips launch from Kailua-Kona, offering convenient access for visitors staying on the Kona coast. Kona Snorkel Trips’ combination tours and specialized itineraries cater to travelers seeking wildlife-focused excursions, from sunset whale watching to guided nocturnal manta experiences. The business is positioned as a practical choice for travelers wanting guided, boat-based marine wildlife encounters in the Kona, Hawaii area. Reservations and waitlist sign-ups are available online and by phone directly.
Location
Kailua-Kona, HI
Based on the Kona coast
Tours Offered
6 Tours
Range of snorkel and wildlife trips
Launch Point
Kailua-Kona
Trips depart from the Kona coast
Waitlist
MANTA WAITLIST
Join for sold-out manta openings
Choose a day snorkel, join the MANTA WAITLIST, or book the Whale Watch + Manta combo for two unique wildlife encounters.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the coral reefs by using environmentally friendly sunscreen made for ocean use.
Stay Hydrated Before and After
Drink plenty of water before your trip, as snorkeling can be physically demanding and the sun is strong.
Wear a Rash Guard
A lightweight rash guard helps prevent sunburn and protects against minor scrapes from coral or rocks.
Listen to Your Guide
Follow the safety instructions and local tips provided by your guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Mask and Snorkel Set
High-quality gear ensures clear vision and comfortable breathing underwater.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin and the marine ecosystem during sunny summer outings.
summer
Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and guards against coral scratches.
summer
Waterproof Camera or GoPro
Capture vivid underwater moments and memories of your adventure.