Why choose one incredible snorkel spot when you can experience two? Dolphin Discoveries' Kona Snorkel Tour takes you to the Big Island's most breathtaking underwater destinations in a single peaceful morning on the water.
Your adventure begins at the legendary Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant coral, tropical fish, sea turtles, and spinner dolphins. Crystal-clear waters and rich marine life make this one of Hawaii's most celebrated snorkel sites. Then, we head to the historic Place of Refuge (Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau), where ancient Hawaiian culture meets stunning coastal beauty beneath the surface.
Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned ocean explorer, this early morning tour offers calm conditions, stunning visibility, and an unforgettable double dose of Kona's underwater world.
Embark on the experience of a lifetime exploring some of the most vivid snorkeling destinations in the world. Our experienced and compassionate captain and crew are dedicated to ensuring that you get the most out of your time on the water. While our Captain Cook Snorkel Tour offers an amazing time on the water, that tour stops at one spot, Kealakekua Bay. This Kona Snorkel Tour is perfect for those who want to spend more time in the water and see the hundreds of tropical fish that are native to Hawaii at two different locations.
Our Kona Coast snorkel tour goes above and beyond both any other snorkeling experience we offer and most snorkeling tours on the island. We visit two different popular reefs, each renowned for their lush and vibrant marine life. These reefs are home to hundreds of species of fish and serve as a center of activity for marine plant and animal life.
Snorkeling at the Captain Cook Monument promises an incredible show for marine enthusiasts. The waters of Kealakekua Bay are home to a thriving coral reef that hosts an incredible variety of marine life. As you snorkel, you can expect to encounter vibrant corals, schools of tropical fish, and Honu (sea turtles). The bay's clear tropical waters offer excellent visibility, making it easy to see all the action beneath the surface. Lucky snorkelers may even spot native spinner dolphins in the deeper waters of the bay. It is a snorkeling experience that combines natural wonder with a touch of history, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
While the hundreds of species of tropical fish you will see on our snorkeling adventure are something to write home about, that is only scratching the surface of what you can expect when embarking on our Kona Snorkel Tour at Dolphin Discoveries.
If you are booking your snorkel excursion during the winter, you may be able to see Humpback Whales breaching off the side of the boat. This is not to discount the spinner dolphins, manta rays, and Honu who call Hawaii home. These animals are known to frequent the same reefs we visit.
If you are ever unsure what fish you are seeing, ask our crew. They are passionate about Hawaiian marine life and know almost everything about each specimen we encounter.

The Place of Refuge, also known as Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, is home to another incredible coral reef and a wide variety of tropical marine life. Outside of its popularity as a snorkel destination, it is also home to one of the most sacred spaces in Native Hawaiian history. This was a place where those who broke kapu, the sacred laws, were able to go.
In order to keep the sanctity of the native site, visitation is extremely limited. Only accredited boats like ours at Dolphin Discoveries are allowed to conduct tours along the reef. If you wish to snorkel this incredible reef, we highly recommend hopping aboard our intimate Kona Snorkel Tour to explore this sacred place, guided by local experts in both the island's natural world and history. Spend as much time coming face to gills with some of the most incredible marine life as you do learning about this remarkable spot on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Your safety is paramount on our Kona snorkel tours, and we at Dolphin Discoveries take every measure to ensure your well-being throughout the Big Island snorkel experience. Central to this commitment are our expert guides, who play a crucial role in providing a secure and enjoyable experience.
Our guides are seasoned professionals with an in-depth understanding of the unique conditions and marine life encountered on our Kona Snorkel Tour. They are well versed in marine preservation, safety procedures, and emergency response, ensuring that you and your group are in capable hands at all times. With our expert guides on your side, you can snorkel with peace of mind. You will have the best gear, the best instruction, and the most fun to top it off.
Prepare to embark on an extraordinary Kona snorkeling tour with Dolphin Discoveries, where we are committed to providing you not only with the best in-water experience but also ensuring your safety as a top priority. Our tours are designed to be memorable and truly special, with the goal of creating memories that will last you and your loved ones a lifetime.
Dolphin Discoveries takes pride in offering you the chance to explore the vibrant underwater world of Kona, known for its beautiful tropical waters and thriving marine life. Our expert crew members are not only well-versed in snorkeling but also possess a deep understanding of the local marine environment. With us, you are not just a participant. You are part of a journey that delves into the mysteries and wonders of the ocean.
The Dolphin Discoveries Kona Snorkel Tour is the perfect adventure for any family or group of friends. Tours are open to guests ages 6 and up. The entire tour is 5 hours, including prep time prior to departure, giving you ample time in the water as well as time to catch some rays aboard the boat as we sail to the most popular snorkel destinations on the Big Island.
We snorkel the beautiful marine sanctuary at Kealakekua Bay, home of Captain Cook's Monument, and the Place of Refuge at Pu'uhonua O Honaunau. We provide guests with Kona snorkeling, cultural, and environmental information relevant to the Island of Hawaii and its history. Your captain will also show you several spectacular volcanic geological phenomena along the coast, including sea caves and lava tubes. Read our Know Before You Go guide to come fully prepared.
We are a Veteran Owned and Operated business based right here in Kona, Hawaii. Dolphin Discoveries takes pride in offering you the chance to explore the vibrant underwater world of Kona, known for its beautiful tropical waters and thriving marine life. Our expert crew members possess a deep understanding of the local marine environment and are committed to making your experience both memorable and safe. We have earned TripAdvisor's Certificate of Excellence five consecutive years running, with over 5,100 reviews and a 4.8 rating. Read our reviews.
These tours fill up fast. Book your spot today using the calendar on this page, or contact our team with any questions.
When you book you will receive a booking confirmation email with a Get Directions button that links to Google Maps. You will first arrive at our retail store located in the Keauhou Shopping Center: 78-6831 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, Space F-146 (the sign on the door says 174). Located in the courtyard behind Tropics Tap House and KTA Grocery Store. Park near either of these establishments and walk the remainder of the way into the courtyard.
Once you arrive at our retail location your crew will check you in and outfit you with the gear needed for tour.
From there you will drive down to Keauhou Bay, 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, where you will meet your crew. They will assist you aboard our vessel and off you go for a fantastic snorkel adventure.
There is no need to arrive early. We have built in time for you to get checked in, get your snorkeling gear, and have time to drive to the bay. Your check-in time is located on your booking confirmation email.
You should sign your waiver as soon as you receive your booking confirmation email. There is a link on the email for our online waiver. Each adult needs to sign their own waiver. Only one adult needs to sign for each minor.
You should sign your waiver as soon as you receive your booking confirmation email. There is a link on the email for our online waiver. Each adult needs to sign their own waiver. Only one adult needs to sign for each minor.
Our charters depart on time. If you are running late you should call 808-322-8000 as soon as possible.
In your booking confirmation email you will receive parking instructions.
In your booking confirmation email you will receive parking instructions.
Snorkel Kealakekua Bay, home of Captain Cook's Monument and one of the highest-rated snorkel spots on the Big Island of Hawaii. Tropical fish, Hawaiian sea turtles, and the occasional pod of dolphins — all in some of the clearest water on the Kona Coast.

Slip into the ocean at night and let our crew guide you to where Kona's manta rays feed. These gentle giants can reach wingspans of up to 18 feet and will glide right beneath you. If you only have time for one snorkel trip on the Big Island, this is the one.