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Kealakekua Bay / Captain Cook Monument
MARINE life CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Rated among the top snorkeling spots in North America and definitely the best snorkeling location in all of Hawaii, Kealakekua Bay is a special marine wonder because of its pristine waters. Designated a Marine Life Conservation District in 1969 by the State of Hawaii, ensures that the a portion of the bay is protected from fishing and collecting. Over 250 species of marine life call the bay home and you should be on the lookout for our Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, moray eels, spotted eagle rays, octopus, green sea turtles (honu), vibrant reef fish, and an amazing array of living corals.
This bay is also an extremely important cultural and historical site as it’s where Captain James Cook made his second landing in Hawaii in 1779 (after landing in Kauai in 1778) – the first western contact with the native Hawaiians after their solitary existence for hundreds of years. You’ll learn about this and have a deeper appreciation for its significance through the storytelling of our Captain and crew. Some of the best snorkeling is right by the Captain Cook Monument and the adjacent Ka`awaloa Cove.
Adult 13+
Youth/Child 5-12
*Gratuity not included and at guest discretion based upon the experience received”
Our small intimate groups redefine the term “marine life experience”. Consider a private charter for a wonderful personalized adventure.
- 9am – 12pm
- 1pm - 4pm
- 4 person min, max 6 Guests
- Complimentary snorkeling gear, additional floatation, cold drinks, And snacks
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
Related Experiences
Nightly Manta Ray Snorkel
- 6pm-8pm (Arrive 15 minutes early)
- Manta Ray tours need to be checked in 45 minutes before sunset
- Maximum 6 Guests
- Complimentary wetsuits, snorkeling gear, additional floatation, hot cocoa, cold drinks, and snacks.
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
- From - $110
Whale Watch Excursions
- 1pm – 3pm (Arrive 15 minutes early)
- Adult 13+ & Youth/Child 5-12
- Passengers - Maximum of 6
- Cold drinks & snacks
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
- From - $85
Private Charters
- 4 Hours - Morning or afternoon
- Maximum 6 Guests
- Complimentary snorkeling gear, additional floatation, cold drinks, and snacks.
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
- From - $950
Double Reef Snorkel, Dolphin Watch
- 1pm – 3pm (Arrive 15 minutes early)
- Adult 13+ & Youth/Child 5-12
- Passengers - Maximum of 6
- Cold drinks & snacks
- Free Cancellation up to 48 hours in advance.
- From - $85
choose Hawaii Marine Life Charters for your Kealakekua Bay Memories
Our small group experience and our fast and maneuverable RHIB vessel, Nature School II, will allow you to explore Kealakekua Bay with personalized service and an abundance of Aloha from our Captain and crew. Allow us to make your Kona snorkeling tour an amazing experience!
Let our expert guides lead you
Experience snorkeling like Nowhere Else
You may appreciate snorkeling because of the calmness you experience when swimming in nature. Kealakekua Bay goes far beyond this and helps you understand the connectedness of different aspects of nature, and the importance of our caring for them accordingly
Snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay offers an experience unlike any other. You’ll be amazed at the abundance and diversity of the life here. Our team will help you be on the lookout for amazing coral formations, tropical fish, rays, and turtles as well as our Hawaian Spinner Dolphins who make the bay a part-time home. The typically calm waters provide for a relaxed and enjoyable snorkeling adventure.
With our experienced guides leading your Kona Snorkeling Tour, you’ll receive insightful information about the marine ecosystem and the significant and colorful history of Captain Cook’s landing there in 1779. Their expertise enhances your understanding of the underwater world and helps you navigate these waters easily. You’ll also realize how simple it can be to swim with the natural inhabitants of the bay when an experienced guide leads you.
Create unforgettable memories
The breathtaking beauty of the bay and its inhabitants will leave you with unforgettable impressions. Take home these memories to share with others through reserving one of our GoPro camera rentals, snorkel stick and underwater housing. Limited availability.
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