Body Glove – Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch
You step aboard a spacious state-of-the-art catamaran and cruise south along the Kona Coast toward the protected marine sanctuary of Red Hill....
Kona Bays and Reef Water
Big Island Snorkeling
Big Island snorkeling follows the Kona and Kohala coastline into reef water, lava shoreline, sea caves and marine sanctuary areas. Head toward Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, a Kona reef stop or a Hilo beach snorkel for tropical fish, honu and blue water below the boat.
Your Big Island Snorkeling Tour
Snorkeling on the Big Island often starts with the coastline itself. Kona and Kealakekua routes can pass lava cliffs, sea caves, blowholes and archways before the boat settles near clear reef water. Kohala sails bring a different side of the island, with resort coastline, open decks and calm places selected for the day's conditions.
Big Island snorkeling tours may include Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, Kona Coast reef stops, Kohala Coast snorkel sails or Hilo beach snorkeling at Sea Turtle Lagoon and Black Sand Beach. Some tours are catamaran cruises with meals, some use faster rafts, and others are shorter guided beach snorkels for guests who want an easier first step into the water.
Pick the route by ocean comfort, tour length and how much boat time your party wants. Kealakekua and Honaunau routes are strong choices for reef scenery, raft tours feel closer to the water, catamarans give more room on deck, and Hilo beach snorkeling can be a gentler option for newer snorkelers.
Big Island Snorkeling
Body Glove – Morning Super Raft Snorkel
Speed along the Kona Coast aboard the 41-foot Super Raft Kona Explorer, whose cushioned seats, shade canopy and on-board restroom keep comfort...
Captain Zodiac – Beat the Crowd Snorkeling Tour
Push off from Honokohau Harbor at 10 am and cruise 14 miles of lava coastline while earlier tours head back to port....
Captain Zodiac – Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour
Climb into a speedy 24 ft Zodiac raft and trace 14 miles of Kona’s lava-carved shoreline. Your captain threads through sea caves,...
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Dolphin Discoveries – Captain Cook Snorkel Adventure
You climb into a comfortable rigid-hull raft and set a course south along Kona’s rugged shoreline. Sea caves and lava tubes carved...
Hawaii Nautical – Kona Turtle Snorkel Sail
Kona’s lava-lined coast and clear blue water create a beautiful setting for this three-hour sail aboard Spirit of Aloha. Departing from Honokohau...
Hilo Ocean Adventures – Beach Snorkel Sea Turtle Lagoon & Black Sand Beach
Wade into the calm, brackish lagoons near Hilo’s black-sand shoreline and let a knowledgeable guide ease you through the basics of snorkeling....
Sea Paradise – Afternoon Sail & Snorkel Tour
Afternoon trade winds carry Hoku Nui south from Keauhou Bay toward the clear waters of Kealakekua Bay. The sail takes about 45...
Big Island Snorkeling FAQ
What types of Big Island snorkeling tours can I book?
Big Island snorkeling tours may include Kona Coast catamaran cruises, raft snorkel tours, Kealakekua Bay routes, Honaunau Bay stops, Kohala Coast sails and guided Hilo beach snorkels. Check the current tour list for available departure areas, boat styles and inclusions.
How long are Big Island snorkeling tours?
Current Big Island snorkeling tours range from about 2.5 to 5 hours. Shorter tours may focus on one snorkel area, while longer cruises may include meals, coastline sightseeing, dolphin watching or more time on the water.
Where are the best Big Island snorkeling areas?
Popular tour areas include Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, Kona Coast reef sites, Kohala Coast snorkel areas and Hilo beach snorkel spots. The best location can change with weather, swell, visibility and the tour route.
What marine life might I see while snorkeling?
You may see tropical fish, coral, honu, dolphins or seasonal whales from the boat. Marine life is wild, so sightings depend on ocean conditions, season and location and are never guaranteed.
What should I know before booking Big Island snorkeling?
Check tour length, departure harbor, boat style, snorkel gear, meal inclusions, swimming comfort and ocean conditions. For raft tours, expect a faster and wetter ride. For first-time snorkelers, look for guided support and calmer water options.