Kailua Kona, with its stunning coastline and abundant marine life, is a fantastic place to enjoy a memorable lunch experience that combines good food with unforgettable scenery. The town’s proximity to vibrant coral reefs, historical sites like the Captain Cook Monument, and lush coastlines makes it ideal for tours that go beyond just a meal. Whether you’re craving a relaxing cruise with fresh sandwiches, a snorkeling adventure with local guides, or a private boat trip with tailored stops, Kailua Kona offers options that highlight the island’s natural beauty and rich maritime culture. If you want to turn your lunch break into an adventure, these five tours will give you a taste of the best.
For those interested in the sea, wildlife, or simply a scenic setting for lunch, Kailua Kona has something for every budget and schedule. From quick half-day trips to full-day private tours, these experiences blend delicious meals with some of the most iconic Hawaiian scenery.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of lunch experiences—from guided catamaran trips with snorkeling to private tours exploring volcanic coastlines and black sand beaches. All offer a superb mix of scenery, local cuisine, and marine encounters. To learn more or book, visit the individual experience pages, such as the Kailua-Kona: Captain Cook Reef Catamaran Day Trip with Lunch, which is one of the highest-rated options.
1. Kailua-Kona: Captain Cook Reef Catamaran Day Trip with Lunch
At number 1, this reef catamaran trip combines a scenic cruise with an opportunity to see the Captain Cook Monument, a site that marks where the explorer met his end. The tour lasts around 4 to 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape from the busy town. The trip includes a comfortable cruise through Kealakekua Bay, where you can feel the wind in your hair and enjoy a delicious onboard lunch of fresh fruit and sandwiches.
What sets this experience apart is the option to snorkel at the reef, revealing a vibrant underwater world of coral, tropical fish, and marine life. The staff provides snacks, juice, and water, ensuring you stay energized. Reviewers frequently mention the friendly crew, cheerful music, and the chance to see dolphins and pilot whales. One guest summed it up: “It was a fascinating experience, the staff was very attentive, and the snorkeling was incredible.”
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed yet active day, with excellent food, marine encounters, and views of the historic Captain Cook Monument.
2. Kailua-Kona: Big Island Morning Snorkeling Tour with Lunch
Number 2 on the list is the Big Island Morning Snorkeling Tour with Lunch. For about 4 hours, you’ll explore the west coast’s most scenic snorkeling spots, guided by in-water experts who know where the marine life is at its most active. This tour offers dolphin sightings, a chance to snorkel in remote, less crowded sites, and the thrill of exploring sea caves and lava formations.
The experience features breakfast snacks and a picnic lunch, making it a hassle-free way to enjoy both the island’s underwater beauty and its rugged coastline. Reviewers praise the crew’s friendliness and the intimate atmosphere, especially noting the chance to see turtles and enjoy snorkeling inside a sea cave. One guest commented, “The snorkeling sites were exquisite, and the lunch was delicious.”
Bottom line: If you love marine wildlife, small-group intimacy, and active exploration, this tour offers a memorable morning with excellent value.
3. Kealakekua Bay: Snorkel and Coastal Adventure with Lunch
Rising to number 3, this Kealakekua Bay adventure is perfect for those wanting a more exclusive experience with fewer people. With a 5-hour itinerary, it combines snorkeling in the bay with a scenic coastal tour of lava tubes, sea caves, and blowholes. After snorkeling, enjoy a tasty lunch aboard the boat, which offers a relaxed environment for soaking in the views or spotting spinner dolphins, manta rays, and turtles.
What makes this tour stand out is the limited group size, leading to a more personalized experience and deeper engagement with the marine environment. The guides are well-versed in local ecology and history, sharing stories about Captain Cook and the bay’s volcanic geology. One review highlights: “Great crew, very knowledgeable and fun to be with.”
Bottom line: This is the best choice for travelers wanting a quieter, more in-depth coastal and marine experience, combined with fresh, onboard food.
4. Hawai’i: Private Snorkeling Tour with Lunch and Drinks
Number 4 is a luxurious private option that offers a tailored experience. This private snorkeling tour is suitable for groups up to six, with the flexibility of departure times, ensuring you avoid crowds and customize your day. It includes exploring Kealakekua Bay, cruising past lava formations, and encountering dolphins and other marine life.
The boat is equipped with a tropical fruit platter, a sandwich lunch, and soft drinks, making it a true all-in-one experience. The guide’s expertise and flexibility mean you can select the sites you most want to visit and spend as much time snorkeling as you desire. Reviewers comment on the attentive service and the chance to view dolphins and manta rays in a quiet, private setting. As one guest noted, “It felt like having your own boat with friends, but with all the professional care.”
Bottom line: Perfect for couples, families, or groups seeking a personalized, comfortable adventure with top-notch food and marine encounters.
5. Big Island: Private Island Circle Tour with Lunch and Dinner
Our final pick is a full-day Private Island Circle Tour designed for those who want to see the entire island with a focus on lunch at scenic spots. Spanning 12.5 hours, this tour covers Waipio Valley, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and waterfalls in Hilo.
The experience includes stops for regional food, such as a picnic at Punalu’u and a visit to a Kona coffee farm, where you can taste fresh brews. The highlight is the comprehensive view of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes—volcanoes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches—paired with multiple meals to keep you energized. Reviewers mention the seamless organization and the chance to see iconic sights in one day.
Bottom line: This is ideal for travelers wanting a deep, all-encompassing island tour with plenty of food stops and a private, relaxed pace.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Kailua Kona
When selecting a lunch tour in Kailua Kona, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you prefer a relaxed cruise with a snorkeling component, the Captain Cook Reef Catamaran offers great value for its 4-hour duration. For marine wildlife lovers, the Big Island Morning Snorkeling Tour delivers excellent underwater encounters in a small group.
If you’re seeking a more exclusive experience, the Private Snorkeling Tour provides flexibility and privacy, while the Full Island Circle Tour covers the entire island with multiple food stops. Keep in mind that private tours tend to be pricier but offer tailored experiences, whereas group tours provide more affordability and social fun.
Booking early, especially for private or full-day tours, guarantees better availability and allows you to choose the most suitable times.
Final Thoughts
Kailua Kona offers a rich variety of lunch experiences that combine fantastic scenery, engaging marine adventures, and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. Whether you want a quick half-day snorkel cruise, a private boat outing, or a comprehensive island tour with multiple meals, there’s an option for every style and budget. Two standout choices are the Captain Cook Reef Catamaran for its balance of value and scenery, and the Private Snorkeling Tour for a more personalized, stress-free experience.
To make the most of your trip, consider booking your preferred experience well in advance. With these options, you can turn a simple lunch into a highlight of your Hawaiian holiday.