Kona's Best Snorkel - Captain Cook Monument and Place of Refuge

Enjoy the two best snorkeling locations in one trip. Providing guests with snorkeling, as well as cultural, and environmental information relevant to the island of Hawaii and its history. Your captain will also show you several spectacular, unique volcanic geological phenomena including sea caves and lava tubes.

KEALAKEKUA BAY: Kealakekua Bay is a well-known historical site and underwater marine sanctuary. The large bay is situated to ensure calm waters year round and one of our best Kona snorkeling tours. The waters here are clear, offering great visibility. Kealakekua Bay is home to over 100 different varieties of tropical fish, and, at times, sleeping reef sharks. As we leave the bay, we may even spot some dolphin.

HONAUNAU BAY: Located off Pu’uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historic Park often referred to as the “Place of Refuge” is a famous snorkeling location. Honaunau Bay is a uniquely beautiful. Snorkeling here is quite different than snorkeling Kealakekua Bay and the waters have exceptional visibility most of the year. You get to explore beautiful coral shelves with white sandy patches in between. It is here that you might get to see a Honu (Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle).

Join us early and be one of the first each morning to see the underwater beauty near Cook's Monument and Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park. We leave early so that we can have you in the water before the crowds. Usually, at this time of day, the waters of the Kona coast are crystal clear and offer great visibility. View over 100 different varieties of tropical fish along with an occasional reef shark or sea turtle. These lively snorkeling spots are home to a variety of marine life.

Depending on the day, we may even enjoy a little sightseeing along the coastline where you can view sea caves and lava tubes. If you are lucky, you may spot a pod of dolphins or a whale, which can be found here year-round (humpback whale migration is seasonal!)

Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Not wheelchair accessible
Minors must be accompanied by an adult
Not recommended for child under 8
Must be under 285lbs
Must be comfortable swimming in the ocean
Near public transportation
Not recommended for travelers with back problems
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
Electronic Waiver required to be signed prior to tour
Must be able to climb up a metal ladder to get back in the boat
Our vessels are RHIBS (seating is on a pontoon).
Not recommended for travelers with neck problems
Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers