Experience an unforgettable 3-hour snorkeling adventure along Hawaii’s Kona Coast. Swim with dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish on this private Ocean Encounters tour.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in average physical condition comfortable with swimming and snorkeling.
Wildlife
History
Kailua-Kona is rich in Hawaiian culture and was once home to King Kamehameha’s birthplace, adding depth to ocean experiences.
Conservation
Ocean Encounters actively participates in marine preservation efforts, promoting reef-safe practices and educating guests about local ecosystems.
Ocean Encounters
Experience an unforgettable 3-hour snorkeling adventure along Hawaii’s Kona Coast. Swim with dolphins, turtles, and colorful fish on this private Ocean Encounters tour.
Ocean Encounters is a Kailua-Kona, Hawaii boat operator offering a range of snorkeling, manta ray night snorkel, whale watch, and private charter experiences. Operating from Honokohau Harbor and Kona waters, the company runs boats sized and equipped for comfort, stability, and guest safety. Trips include Private Charter OE1 and OE2 on spacious vessels, Morning Reef Snorkel to Makalawena Bay, multiple Manta Ray Night Snorkel departures with a guaranteed-sighting offer on select trips, Whale Watch excursions timed with humpback migration, and guided Ultimate Ocean Encounter snorkeling along the Kona Coast.
Most excursions include snorkeling gear, refreshments or light snacks, and knowledgeable captains and crew who provide guidance, historical context, and safety instruction. Specific trip durations vary: Morning Reef Snorkel runs approximately four hours, Ultimate Ocean Encounter is a three-hour snorkeling adventure, and several whale watch and manta night snorkel departures are approximately two and a half hours. Private charters offer customizable snorkeling and fishing options on comfortable vessels with modern gear.
Ocean Encounters serves families, first-time snorkelers, and experienced ocean-goers. The company emphasizes guest experience through stable boats, included equipment, and opportunities to see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, colorful reef fish, manta rays, and migrating humpback whales. The manta ray night snorkel includes a guarantee of sightings on some departures or a free return. With local knowledge of Kona waters and curated itineraries, Ocean Encounters delivers reliable, memorable marine adventures in Hawaii. Booking options and schedules are listed on The Adventure Collective and the operator's reservation listings for Kona departures regularly.
Departure
Kailua-Kona
Departs from Kailua-Kona, Honokohau Harbor
Vessels
46 ft 'Ocean Encounter'
Upper deck and stable platform for viewing
Tours Offered
10 tours
Snorkel, manta night, whale watch, private charters
Trip Lengths
2.5–4 hrs
2.5 to 4 hour tour durations
Check available departures on The Adventure Collective and secure gear-included, crew-guided tours from Kailua-Kona today.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin while preserving marine life by using sunscreen that doesn’t harm coral reefs.
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water before and after your snorkeling tour to avoid dehydration under the sun.
Listen to Crew Instructions
Pay close attention to safety briefings and snorkeling tips for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Use Snorkel Gear Properly
Practice using your snorkel mask and fins before entering the water to prevent discomfort during the trip.
Reef-safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while being eco-friendly to Hawaii’s fragile coral reefs.
summer
Snorkeling Mask and Fins
Essential for exploring underwater and seeing marine life clearly.
Light Rash Guard
Provides sun protection and helps prevent irritation from saltwater.
spring
Waterproof Camera
Great for capturing your underwater encounters and the stunning seascape.