Kealakekua Bay, the site of the Captain Cook monument on the Big Island of Hawaii, offers some of the best snorkeling in the entire state of Hawaii. This protected Marine Sanctuary and state park boasts a coral reef and crystal clear waters with abundant marine life and breathtaking visibility. While it’s possible to hike or kayak to the bay, the easiest way to reach this breathtaking coral reef is by boat.
Kealakekua Bay is the largest Marine Life Conservation District in Hawaii. Since the bay is protected from fishing, it holds a large variety of marine life with more abundance than other bays on Hawaii Island. Between the crystal clear waters, the massive schools of colorful tropical fish, and the playful pods of wild spinner dolphins that frequent the bay, you’ll remember this snorkel experience for a lifetime.
Our boat, Makua, provides an intimate experience for a maximum of 6 passengers. With a less-crowded bay and a private boating experience, your group will soak up the snorkeling goodness with maximum comfort.
The boat ride from Honokohau Harbor to Kealakekua Bay takes up to 45 minutes, depending on conditions. As we travel south along the Kona Coast, your US Coast Guard certified captain and crew will educate you with historical facts about the surrounding areas. Upon reaching the snorkel site at Kealakekua Bay, your swim guide will assist you into the water and guide you across the reef to the best snorkeling spots in the bay. You’ll spend a maximum of one hour in the water before returning to the boat.
This 4-hour adventure comes with everything you need to snorkel, including a high-quality mask, snorkel, and fins. All you need is a bathing suit and you’ll be ready to go! Along with snorkel gear, you’ll be offered island-sourced pineapple, non-alcoholic refreshments, chips, and a special treat. We recommend you bring a towel, hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera. There’s room on the boat for your backpack, purse, and other reasonably sized items.
Important:
We have a minimum age requirement of 4 years old, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult. We have a maximum weight requirement of 270 pounds.
Safe and Humane Practices:
We do not allow touching or harassing of wildlife. Your swim guide will educate you on our humane approach to engaging with marine life.
Our Boat:
Our boat, Makua, comes with comfortable padded seats and plenty of shade. There is no restroom on Makua.
Safety:
All captains are US Coast Guard certified. All captains and crew are trained in First Aid and CPR. Life vests for all passengers are on board.
Sunscreen:
Please apply reef-safe sunscreen prior to your tour. Sunscreen is a huge threat to our delicate coral reefs, and it’s important to use environmentally safe sunscreen that’s applied at least 30 minutes before entering the water.
Weather Condition:
If the seas are too rough, we will reschedule your tour. We would rather skip a tour than make you uncomfortable. Please make sure we have your cell phone # for the unlikely event of a cancellation due to weather conditions.