Shark Search Kona: Swim with Hawaii’s Apex Predators on a Thrilling Guided Tour
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition with swimming proficiency; physical endurance helps with snorkeling and boat activity.
Overview
Dive into Kona’s wild ocean to swim with scalloped hammerheads, oceanic white tip sharks, and more on this expert-led 5-hour adventure. Discover why Shark Search offers one of Hawaii’s most thrilling marine experiences.
Shark Search
$179 | 5 Hours | Shark Specific Tour
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating shark swimming adventure off the Kona coast, where you may encounter majestic scalloped hammerheads and migratory Oceanic White Tips. Led by expert guides, each trip promises unpredictable wildlife interactions, ensuring a thrilling experience that goes beyond ordinary snorkeling. Dive into the wild and face the ocean's apex predators!
On these trips we prioritize looking for sharks to swim with! Whether it be our schooling scalloped hammerheads that may be found in the winter and spring, or our migratory Oceanic White Tips that frequent the deep waters off the Kona coast, these trips are aimed to bring you face to face with the oceans apex predators.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for Calm Seas
Getting to Honokōhau Harbor at least 15 minutes before departure helps ensure a smooth boarding and optimal conditions for the tour.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect Hawaii’s delicate marine ecosystems by using mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen—sprays and chemical sunscreens harm coral and marine life.
Be Comfortable in the Water
This tour requires confident swimming and basic snorkel skills, as you’ll be venturing offshore and possibly into deeper water.
Pack Light but Prepared
Bring a towel, sun-protective clothing, and a warm layer for the boat ride home to stay comfortable throughout the trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Scalloped hammerhead shark
- Oceanic white tip shark
History
Kona’s waters have long been revered by Native Hawaiians for their rich marine life and cultural significance as fishing grounds.
Conservation
Shark Search promotes sustainable tourism by emphasizing respect for sharks and minimizing environmental impact with reef-safe products and responsible wildlife practices.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protect the fragile coral reefs and marine life around Kona while staying safe in the sun.
summer specific
Snorkel mask and fins
Although gear is provided, bringing your own can improve comfort and visibility underwater.
Waterproof camera or GoPro
Capture thrilling shark encounters and Kona’s underwater seascapes.
Light layered clothing
Wear sun-protective layers and a warm top for the boat ride back, especially in cooler mornings.