Best Snorkeling Tours On Big Island
Just imagine what if you could swim surrounded by crystal water in a warm sea during which dolphins splash, sea turtles slowly swim, or colorful fishes swim past? For those of you who like clear water, colorful corals, and tropical fishes, the Big Island of Hawaii is the best snorkeling site.
Famously known for its overwater accommodations and diverse marine life, the island has a number of snorkeling options for beginners and advanced ones. While you are enjoying this activity, you could even capture big sharks and cruel waves in Kealakekua Bay. At the same time, you could also discover beautiful reefs, such as the South Kona Coast.
During every tour, your knowledgeable and experienced guides will provide the best insight into aquatic life, making it safe and informative. From lava tubes to sea caves and pristine reefs, the Big Island has it all!
If you are in search of a calm and serene tour or are looking for a thrilling adventure tour, snorkeling tours in the Big Island are for you. Below, we have listed 5 of the best snorkeling tours on the island. So, swim and dip and find out why the Big Island offers some of the finest snorkeling adventures in Hawaii.
Top 5 Snorkeling Tours on Big Island
Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel
- Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
- Trip Duration: 1 hour
- Departure Time: The earlier, the better
- Returning Time: 1 hour or sometimes more based on the departure time
Deluxe Kona Snorkel Trips & Dolphin Watch
- Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
- Trip Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Departure Time: You can select the time
- Returning Time: 4 hours 30 mins based on the departure time
Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel
- Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
- Trip Duration: 4 hours
- Departure Time: After sunset
- Returning Time: 4 hours based on the departure time
Big Island Morning Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter
- Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
- Trip Duration: 4 hours
- Departure Time: 8:30 AM (check-in at 8 AM)
- Returning Time: 12:30 PM
Afternoon Big Island Super Raft Snorkel
- Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
- Trip Duration: 2.5 hours
- Departure Time: 4:00 PM
- Returning Time: 7:00 PM
#1 - Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel ($180)
Tour Schedule
Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
Trip Duration: 1 hour
Departure Time: The earlier, the better
Returning Time: 1 hour or sometimes more based on the departure time
Snorkel in an eco-friendly way to watch the manta rays swimming peacefully as you paddle along the Pacific.
Manta rays are perhaps among the most beautiful and gentle beings that exist out there. Well, they are fish, in fact, which are related to rays and sharks, but trust me, when you’re up close on a manta ray night snorkel, it is as if you are witnessing something completely else.
Here is your chance to sail on one of our double-hulled canoes and snorkel with the manta rays in a different way. On this manta ray snorkel, our company will give you a one-of-a-kind experience even without going into the water.
Our canoe can accommodate only six people at once, so we recommend you be under the 250-pound weight limit. Also, if anyone with a physical disability is keen on taking this tour, please inform us beforehand so we can ensure a safe experience.
Over on the Kona Coast of the Big Island, these Manta Rays grow quite large, up to 15 feet wide, and over 3000 pounds. Also, they can live for up to 50 years!
While on Kona snorkeling tours, if you are lucky, you really could get eye to eye with an old manta, which can be 30+ years old. This experience is really something that you shouldn’t miss!
Note: While we offer all the possible facilities, we expect all canoe members to be ten years of age or older and physically fit to paddle and get back on the canoe. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!
What do we give on board?
Life Jackets
Snorkel
Wetsuit Tops
Full Face Snorkel masks
Ankle Floats
Dry Storage Box
What should you get?
Swimsuit or Board Shorts (to go inside the water)
Towel
Underwater Camera (if you have)
Small Bag (for necessary items)
#2 - Deluxe Kona Snorkel Trips & Dolphin Watch (Starting At $169)
Tour Schedule
Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
Trip Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes
Departure Time: You can select the time
Returning Time: 4 hours 30 mins based on the departure time
Want to snorkel while also watching the majestic dolphins? This tour gives you the best of both worlds!
This is one of the most popular Kona snorkel tours on the Big Island, and it is suitable for everyone. Whether you’re an experienced or a beginner, would like to enjoy this tour with your family and kids, or alone, you’ll definitely enjoy it. And don’t worry if you don’t know how to snorkel; we offer lessons as well.
Join us for a 4.5-hour cruise on a luxury catamaran as we depart from the Kailua Pier to the heart of Kailua Kona, where you’ll get to snorkel in a protected marine sanctuary, spot dolphins, and enjoy a tasty breakfast and lunch on board.
You’ll start the tour as we welcome you to the Kanoa II, our beautiful 65-foot catamaran, fully equipped and designed with all the essentials to make your cruise an amazing experience. Padded seating, special toilet facilities, dressing and washing areas, a luxurious bar, and a 20-foot-tall water slide mean you are ready for the time of your life.
As we move along the Kona Coast, you’ll see spinner dolphins frolicking in the boat’s trail. If you are lucky enough, you might also spot pilot whales. The coral reef and the tropical fish are even more stunning!
We will pull over to a bay about half a kilometer from Red Hill, and then you will have approximately 70 minutes to snorkel. The crew of this trip will also be friendly and knowledgeable, so they can take the time to explain some of the fun stories behind the history and tradition of this region.
You can rent snorkel equipment from us, including our biodegradable reef-safe sunscreen, life vests, and flotation jackets. Also, if anyone in your group has a physical disability, we have wheelchairs and wheelchair-accessible areas on the boat for a comfortable experience for all.
While you enjoy the view and the abundant marine life, don’t forget to try the delicious meals we have on board. Enjoy a continental breakfast and a BBQ lunch individually packed for everyone. For extra fun, there is a cash bar featuring local spirits, craft beers, or casual blended drinks.
If there are kids, they will definitely enjoy the water toys on board, which include paddle boards, tubes, sea view boards, noodles, and many others. One can even slide or jump into water out of the catamaran’s platform.
After this unforgettable experience, we will regain the town of Kailua-Kona with the memories of the exciting day. Also, since August 2019, we’ve made it easy to offset your cruise’s carbon emissions. Just leave the box checked when you book, and you’ll be cruising carbon-neutral while supporting our oceans.
What do we give on board?
Snorkel Gear and Flotation devices
Prescribed Snorkel Masks
Reef Safe Sunscreen
Breakfast- Fruit, Granola, Yogurt, Assorted Danishes
Lunch- Chips, BBQ Beef Burger, Cookie
Snacks and Drinks
Premium Bar with Local Spirits and Craft Beers
20 Foot Water Slide
15-Foot High Dive Platform
Dolphins and Other Marine Life Sightings
Double Wide Swim Step
2 Hours Snorkeling Chance in Red Hill
Note: Inform 48 hours before the tour for vegan/ vegetarian food options.
What should you get?
Swim Suit
Towel
Sunglasses
Underwater Camera (if you have)
Extra Cash or Credit Card (to purchase retail items or drinks on board)
We accept all major credit cards on board.
#3 - Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel ( Starting At $130)
Tour Schedule
Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
Trip Duration: 4 hours
Departure Time: After sunset
Returning Time: 4 hours based on the departure time
Looking for some nighttime fun in Hawaii? Try a manta ray night dive—it’s an unforgettable way to keep the excitement going while the city sleeps.
We welcome you to our spacious and large “Ocean Encounters” 46-foot boat, which is comfortable and open. It has a toilet, numerous shaded and covered areas, a cabin below, and seating upstairs for great views.
The “Delta” boats are stable, strong vessels ideal for the sparkling waters of Kona. We’ll go out for a sunset sail in the Pacific, just offshore from Kona. After that, we’ll take the plunge on a magical journey to swim with manta rays at night, an electrifying experience that you cannot miss out on.
While heading out from Honokohau Harbor to the dive site, our crew will tell you some interesting facts about manta rays and brief you on what will happen next.
After the sun is down, the sea will be full of green light emitted from the flashlights. You will be shocked to see manta rays come to meet you, swimming round and round, doing turns as they feast on tiny plankton attracted to the lights.
Our boat has a big swim step and fixed ladder, making it easy to embark and disembark and to move in and out of the water. The upper deck is even more amazing to behold.
Even if you are a first-time snorkeler, we will help you have a great experience. Our crew is very friendly and will make you very comfortable to experience the underwater beauty of Kona. They will be with you until you feel comfortable in the water. Also, there will be a 10-minute snorkel lesson for everyone so everyone can enjoy their time snorkeling properly.
What do we give on board?
Snorkel
Masks
Flotation Devices
Fins
Wet Suit
Light Snacks
Hot Chocolate
Hot Coffee
Snorkel Lesson
Dolphins and Other Marine Life Sightings
Double Wide Swim Step
2 Hours Snorkeling Chance in Red Hill
What should you get?
Towel
Sweatshirt/ Jacket
Dry Clothes
Underwater Camera (if you have one)
#4 - Big Island Morning Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter (Starting At $145.41)
Tour Schedule
Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
Trip Duration: 4 hours
Departure Time: 8:30 AM (check-in at 8 AM)
Returning Time: 12:30 PM
Grab your snorkel gear and dive into the warm Kona Coast waters for an amazing swim!
Wondering if first-time snorkelers can book this tour? Absolutely! We are known to give the best experience for those snorkeling for the time ever in their life. While our crew gives a clear 10-minute snorkel lesson, they’ll also be with you unless you are entirely comfortable.
On this 4-hour Ocean Encounters trip, we’ll cruise along the gorgeous Kona Coast, making our way north to Pu’u Ali’i Bay, where stunning Makalawena awaits. Seriously, it’s one of the most beautiful spots on the Big Island.
As we head south to Kealakekua Bay, we’ll be on the lookout for Hawaiian spinners and spotted dolphins. You’ll get a chance to hang out with them, so keep your camera ready! Seeing these dolphins in their natural habitat is something you won’t forget.
We’ll snorkel in the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, near the Captain Cook monument, where the marine life is vibrant, and the reef is alive with color. Bring your underwater camera to capture the schools of fish, coral, and maybe even some dolphins!
After snorkeling, we’ll relax and take in the bay’s beauty while enjoying a light lunch. We’ve got snacks to keep you fueled!
What do we give on board?
Snorkel
Masks
Flotation Devices
Fins
Wet Suit
Light Snacks
Hot Chocolate
Hot Coffee
Snorkel Lesson
Dolphins and Other Marine Life Sightings
Double Wide Swim Step
2 Hours Snorkeling Chance in Red Hill
What should you get?
Towel
Sweatshirt/ Jacket
Dry Clothes
Underwater Camera (if you have one)
#5 - Afternoon Big Island Super Raft Snorkel (Starting At $110)
Tour Schedule
Entry Using: Printed or Mobile Voucher
Trip Duration: 2.5 hours
Departure Time: 4:00 PM
Returning Time: 7:00 PM
Are you looking for fun and memorable experiences in the Pacific Ocean? Get our 41ft Super-Raft for a super fun, unforgettable luxury snorkeling adventure afternoon on the water!
You’ll be surprised to know what we can do! The fun is just about to begin with everything you need on the go. Whether you want your personal space with your family and loved ones, big and clean restrooms, comfortable seating, or ample shade, even on a sunny afternoon, our raft has got it all!
After boarding the 41-foot super raft, you can comfortably take your seat and enjoy the amenities on board. From cushioned seating to an onboard bathroom, we provide the most comfortable rafting tours.
Get ready for an exciting adventure to a secret snorkel spot for the best snorkeling experience located just south of Kona. For the entire duration, we’ll have experienced and knowledgeable guides who will show you the way while we provide you with some of the best snorkeling gear so you have the best time underwater.
While on this snorkeling tour, you’ll visit multiple snorkeling locations on the historical Kona Coast. Keep your eyes open at all times because the underwater is filled with colorful coral reefs, fishes, green sea turtles, and other unique aquatic creatures. Although the tour will be short, the vibrant marine life you experience with us will be something you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
And don’t worry if you feel hungry during the adventure. We’ve got some delicious snacks, along with plenty of water and soft drinks, to keep you energized and keep you going throughout.
Our tour operators will take you further, as you’ll be traveling on a high-speed raft to the best spots for the best snorkeling experience.
On this tour, you’ll get luxury, adventure, and fun, which will add to your fun-filled morning and afternoon of exploring the best Big Island snorkeling spots in Kona.
Note: Due to the excitement and adventure of this tour, we’re afraid we cannot accommodate pregnant women, children aged five and below, and those with back and neck problems and serious heart issues.
What do we give on board?
Delicious snack breakfast
Picnic style lunch
Snorkel gear ( while we do provide this, we recommend you to get your own if you can)
Unlimited water
Island-crafted soft drinks
Sunscreen
What should you get?
Swim Attire
Towel
Sunscreen
Sunglasses and Hat
Long-sleeve Jacket or Sweatshirt
Waterproof Camera
Motion Sickness Medicine
Something on the Tour Price
After you figure out which type of tour you’re interested in, the price will probably be the deciding factor on which one you book. Each tour has something unique to offer, so your experience will vary based on what you pay. Check out this price breakdown to help you choose:
Tour Name | Tour Details | Price |
| Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel | (2+ People)
| $180 |
| Deluxe Kona Snorkel Trips & Dolphin Watch | Infant ( age 5 & under) Free with every paying adult! | $0.01 |
Children (age 6-17)
| $99 | |
Adults (age 18 and above)
| $169 | |
| Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel | Ride Along to the snorkeling site | $80.78 |
Infant (age under 2)
| $80 | |
Children (age 2-11)
| $102.33 | |
Adults (age 12 and above)
| $130 | |
| Big Island Morning Reef Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter | Ride Along
| $80.78 |
| Infant (age 0-2) | $70.00 | |
| Children (age 2-11) | $102.33 | |
Adults (age 12 and above)
| $145.41 | |
| Afternoon Big Island Super Raft Snorkel | Children (age 6-17)
| $90 |
Adults (age 18 and above)
| $110 |
Even though you’ll need to pay for these tours upfront, we suggest bringing some extra cash. For some tours like “Deluxe Kona Snorkel Trips & Dolphin Watch,” you might want to buy drinks or snacks on board. Most amenities are included in the package, so you can focus on having a great time in the water without any worries.
Cancellation Policy of the Tours
Yes, if you change your mind, we do cater to cancellation requests. We have a 72-hour cancellation policy for each tour mentioned here. Once you cancel your tour before the estimated time, you’ll get the following:
A full refund of the tour within 72 hours of cancellation.
You’ll also get a full refund due to operator cancellation or bad weather.
You’ll be charged full price and won’t receive anything in case of late cancellation or no-show.
If you’re booking the tour on the same day, that will be considered as the final booking and will be non-refundable.
For some tours, like “Afternoon Big Island Super Raft Snorkel Tours,” you’ll also have to present a doctor’s note.
When do you need a doctor’s note to cancel?
To cancel within the allowed time, you’ll need a doctor’s note.
The note should be dated within 48 hours of the activity.
The note only covers the person it’s written for.
If the person with the note is a minor, one adult or guardian can also get a full refund.
Conclusion
The Big Island has a ton of amazing snorkeling tours, each offering something special and memorable with marine life. If you’re a tourist, picking the right one can be tricky, so we’ve picked out some of the top snorkel tours you should definitely consider.
While you might not be able to try them all, if you have the time and budget, we recommend checking out as many as you can. Each snorkel tour will give you a unique experience you’ll treasure forever, whether it’s a snorkel cruise or a boat ride. Just be sure to review the cancellation policies and book in advance to secure your spot on these incredible underwater adventures.
FAQs
Most tours require no prior experience. Guides provide instructions and safety briefings, and many tours cater to beginners.
For safety reasons, tours may be canceled or rescheduled in the event of adverse weather or rough sea conditions. Most operators will offer a refund or the option to reschedule if a tour is canceled.