Marine Wildlife & Snorkeling with Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari

Read the full experience

Located along the sun-soaked coast of Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii, Ali'i Ocean Tours offers an adrenaline-pumping marine adventure that’s perfect for ocean lovers. The Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari is a 5-hour tour designed to bring you face-to-face with some of Hawaii’s most iconic marine creatures, including sharks, manta rays, dolphins, sea turtles, and whales (seasonally). This unique journey combines snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and scenic coastline cruising, providing an all-in-one experience that’s both thrilling and educational. Starting early in the morning from Kailua-Kona, the tour boat sets out into the clear, turquoise waters of Kailua Bay. As you cruise past lava rock formations and rugged shoreline, the guide shares fascinating insights about the area's volcanic history and marine ecology. Once at each snorkeling site, you'll plunge into vibrant reefs, teeming with colorful fish, sea urchins, and coral. The chance to swim alongside gentle manta rays or swift reef sharks makes this trip stand out. The highlight, however, is the chance to see humpback whales (in season), orcas, and pilot whales from the boat. Ali'i Ocean Tours is known for its attentive staff and eco-friendly approach, ensuring minimal impact on these delicate ecosystems. Guests enjoy a freshly prepared lunch during the tour, fueling the afternoon’s marine encounters. The experience combines exhilarating wildlife sightings with the serenity of the open ocean, making it a memorable day for families, couples, and adventurers alike. This tour is a prime choice for those wanting to access Kona’s extraordinary marine habitat while learning more about conservation efforts. With a focus on safety, comfort, and authentic encounters, Ali'i Ocean Tours’ Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari offers a truly immersive Hawaiian ocean adventure that keeps visitors captivated and connected to nature.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

5 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for all fitness levels, with easy swimming involved

Frequently asked questions

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, all snorkeling gear is included and sanitized for each guest.

What is the best time of year to see whales?

Humpback whales are most commonly seen from December to April.

Are children allowed on the tour?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly, with options suitable for children over age 5.

What should I wear?

Light, quick-drying clothes, swimwear, and a hat are recommended.

Is the water cold?

Hawaii’s waters are warm year-round, typically between 77-82°F (25-28°C).

What if I get seasick?

Taking motion sickness medication beforehand is advised if you're prone to seasickness.

Local insights

Wildlife

Spinner dolphins
Humpback whales

History

This area was formed by volcanic activity over 200,000 years ago, shaping the dynamic marine environment you see today.

Conservation

Ali'i Ocean Tours commits to marine conservation and follows strict guidelines to protect Hawaii’s fragile reef systems.

About Ali'i Ocean Tours

Ali'i Ocean Tours is a Kona-based ocean tour operator located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. The company offers a variety of guided marine experiences, including private charters, reef snorkels, dolphin encounters, manta ray swims, ocean safaris, and whale watching. Trips listed by the operator include the Private Charter (Ali'i Package), Private Charter (5 Star Package), Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari, Daytime Manta Encounter and Whale Watch, Afternoon Kealakekua Bay Snorkel, K-Bay Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter, and Whale Watching Tours. Guides and crew provide safety briefings, snorkeling instruction, and wildlife viewing from vessels such as the Hoku ‘Elima. The Private Charter (Ali'i Package) and Private Charter (5 Star Package) allow customizable itineraries; the 5 Star package description notes more than 30 years of experience guiding guests to ideal viewing areas. Kealakekua Bay departures and Honokohau Harbor departures are included among offered trips. Ali'i Ocean Tours emphasizes small-group and private experiences to maintain comfort, an intimate atmosphere, and high-quality service. Equipment, light refreshments, and trained staff support reef snorkeling and paddleboarding opportunities where specified. The Kona BIG 5 Ocean Safari focuses on searching for key marine species along Kona’s coastline and includes snorkeling and lunch on longer trips. The Daytime Manta Encounter and Whale Watch offers guided swims with manta rays and searches for humpback whales during applicable seasons. All claims reflect supplied trip descriptions and location details. Prospective guests should review specific trip pages or contact Ali'i Ocean Tours for current schedules, availability, and exact vessel information. Bookings and questions are handled through their Kona office.

Base locationKailua-Kona, Hawaii

Tours offered7+

Adventure tips

Bring reef-safe sunscreenProtect yourself and the marine environment while enjoying the water.

Stay hydratedDrink plenty of water throughout the tour to prevent dehydration.

Wear a hat and sunglassesProtect your eyes and face from the sun during boat transit and snorkeling.

Listen to safety instructionsPay close attention to the crew’s guidance for a safe experience.

Recommended gear

Snorkel gear: Provided by the tour, including mask, snorkel, and fins, for underwater viewing.
Sunscreen: A reef-safe sunscreen protects your skin from UV rays without harming marine life.
Hat and sunglasses: Extra sun protection while on deck or during breaks.
Waterproof camera: Capture underwater moments and scenic ocean vistas.