Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 45 minutes
Mobile ticket
Captain Cook Snorkel Tour !
What Makes Our Daytime Snorkel to Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook monument Unique
Fast, agile Zodiac RIB boat (used by Navy SEALs) gets you to the bay quickly and allows access to hidden sea caves, lava tubes, and scenic coastline features
Small group size ensures a personal, uncrowded experience—unlike big boats carrying 30 to 80 people
Snorkel the pristine coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and historic site of the Captain Cook Monument
Opportunity to explore areas larger boats can’t reach, including caves and cove topography
Chance sightings of wild dolphins or whales during your ride along the coast.
Wildlife not guaranteed
Fresh pineapple and bottled water included, adding comfort and hospitality to the adventure
Locally owned, family-run company focused on guest experience, safety, and cultural respect
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum age is 6 years
Maximum weight cannot exceed 300lbs per person.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Captain Cook Snorkel Tour! Skip the crowded tourist boats with 30 to 80 people and join our small-group snorkel tour aboard a Navy-style Zodiac RIB speed boat. We’ll take you on a fast, scenic ride to Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook Monument and some of the clearest, most vibrant coral reef snorkeling on the Big Island. Explore sea caves, coves along the rugged Kona coastline—places larger boats can’t access. You may even spot dolphins, whales, or other marine wildlife along the way (wildlife sightings are NOT guaranteed). Your tour includes snorkel mask & snorkel, pineapple and water. Wetsuits and lifejackets are available for rent at check-in if desired. Our crew will guide you every step of the way, ensuring comfort, safety, and a memorable experience. ⏱️ Tour duration is approximately 2–3 hours (2.5 hours on average), but can vary depending on ocean conditions, snorkeling time, and wildlife activity. Come explore the Big Island coast with us—the local way, without the crowds.
What‘s Included
Use of Snorkeling equipment
Bottled water
Snacks
Snorkel Tour
Hotel pick-up and drop off
Private Tour
Options
Snorkeling in the water
12 & younger
For guest that are 12 or young
Reviews
1,405 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
The only confusing thing...
Angela T,,Feb 3, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00David and Chip were the perfect guides. They shared local knowledge, island history, and answered all of our questions. We even had a bonus whale sighting. The only confusing thing was where to meet for the tour. We ended up in the correct area but there wasn’t a sign or anything on the boat assuring that we were in the right spot. Once the deckhand came over to the group and did the check in everything was smooth sailing and amazing.
Awesome Tour! Well worth it!
Tabecca L,,Feb 2, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00David and Chip were awesome, knowledgeable and attentive. Captain Cook’s was amazing. Highly recommend!
Fun tour!
Laurene N,,Jan 31, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We thoroughly enjoyed the experience!! The snorkeling was great and so were the dolphins!! We loved Captain Cook cove.
So many fish!
175mjw,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00So many fish! Dolphin break dancing! Thrilling boat ride! The color of the water was cobalt and turquoise. The water temperature was perfect and the floatie made it much easier to use the snorkel.
We are so glad we picked...
Asha R,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00We are so glad we picked the first trip of the day! Thanks Captain Shaka and Erica for a great morning.
The boat ride to the...
Elizabeth B,,Jan 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00The boat ride to the snorkel spot is pretty fast and exciting. The way back is a bit slower with some sightseeing and excellent commentary from the staff. It was a fabulous experience!
Best ever!
Marsha W,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was so much fun! It was a smaller local tour. Sage &Chip were knowledgeable, organized, and entertaining!!! The fish 🐠 were amazing, and the fresh pineapple 🍍 was so refreshing after being in the water 💦. I would highly recommend them!!!
Snorkeling with the fishes
T9492KQdeboraht,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The Captain and crew were very friendly and helpful. (Bad with remembering names, one was very young and other has long beard) We had first time snorkeler who had great time. We all saw different fishes in water and dolphins from the boat. Overall great time.
Make a reservation here
Samuel M,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This is an amazing snorkeling spot, and an outstanding captain and crew. I would advise anyone who is interested in snorkeling on Hawaii to book with this company.
Informative tour, but equipment (and lack thereof) made snorkeling mediocre
Emily W,,Jan 28, 2026
- Review from Viator
3.00The good: The captain was great, the boat ride was fun, there was good information about the island, its history, and the sea caves. We saw whales and the snorkeling was beautiful. The bad: No fins were provided for the snorkeling and they gave you a yellow flotation device that you had to keep with you. I understand the interest in safety, but this made it very difficult to dive and get around, especially with no fins. If you’re just interested in casually floating around the surface, this is the tour for you. If you’re looking to do any more intensive snorkeling I’d use another company.
-10% off
From US$71.10Was US$79.00
Want a private experience? Upgrade to a private tour
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Operated by Kona Snorkel Tours