Kona's Deluxe Snorkel: Captain Cook Monument & Place of Refuge Adventure
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours (includes check-in)
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—must be able to swim unassisted, tread water, and climb a ladder back aboard.
Overview
Float over coral shelves beneath the Captain Cook Monument, then drop into Honaunau’s clear basins where turtles graze and sea caves pace the shoreline. This deluxe snorkel pairs marine sanctuary swimming with compact lessons in Hawaiian history and volcanic geology.
Kona's Deluxe Snorkel: Captain Cook Monument & Place of Refuge Adventure
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On a sun-bright morning the RHIB slips away from Keauhou Bay and the Kona coast falls into a strip of black rock and scrub, the island’s younger lava cooling into cliffs and pockets that the ocean has already started to carve. The boat hums, spray rhythmically tapping the hull, and the captain points toward a white stone obelisk marking the Captain Cook Monument—an anchor in history surrounded by water the color of diluted teal. You suit up on deck, fins clacking, and the crew runs through signals before the first jump.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Sign the e-waiver ahead of time
Complete the electronic waiver before arrival to avoid delays at check-in; the store opens at 8am and the launch sequence moves quickly.
Use reef-safe sunscreen only
Apply mineral-based sunscreen before boarding and bring a small towel—sprays and chemical sunscreens are prohibited to protect coral.
Bring a light dry bag
A small waterproof bag keeps phone, ID, and medications safe on a zodiac-style RHIB where space is limited.
Practice ladder re-entry
Be ready to climb a metal ladder back onto the boat; strong core and leg engagement makes reboarding easier after a snorkel.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle (Honu)
- Spinner dolphins
History
Kealakekua Bay marks the site where Captain James Cook made first prolonged contact in 1779; nearby Pu‘uhonua O Hōnaunau served as a royal place of refuge under ancient kapu laws.
Conservation
Kealakekua is a designated marine sanctuary with strict protections; visitors should use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid touching coral to reduce impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects the reef and keeps the crew compliant with local rules.
Rash guard
Adds sun protection and light thermal insulation while snorkeling.
Water shoes
Useful for walking on boat ramps and rocky shore areas at check-in/exit points.
Small dry bag
Keeps valuables and spare clothes dry on a small zodiac-style vessel.