Kealakekua Bay: Snorkel and Coastal Adventure With Lunch

Kealakekua Bay offers a truly remarkable experience for adventure-seekers and nature lovers alike. This 5-hour guided tour provides the chance to explore the breathtaking coastal scenery and dive into the crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. With the possibility of spotting spinner dolphins and sea turtles, and learning about the area’s rich history, this tour promises a unique blend of excitement and culture. Whether you’re a seasoned water enthusiast or simply seeking to connect with the beauty of Hawaii, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our article of 5 Top-Rated Kailua Kona Lunch Experiences.

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Key Points

This 5-hour guided tour from Kailua-Kona offers a boat cruise, 2.5 hours of snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, and a 15-minute lunch break on the boat.
Snorkelers can enjoy crystal-clear waters and have opportunities to see spinner dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles while learning about the area’s history.
The tour includes a 75-minute guided tour of the Captain Cook monument and natural features, with educational commentary from the captain throughout the experience.
The lunch menu consists of sandwiches, chips, fresh fruit, and cookies, with water, soft drinks, and iced tea provided.
This tour is not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or children under 8, and all participants must be able to get in and out of the boat unassisted.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

This Kealakekua Bay snorkel adventure is a 5-hour guided tour that takes guests on a boat cruise, snorkeling excursion, and coastal sightseeing.

The tour departs from Kailua-Kona and costs $179.69 per person.

The tour departs from Kailua-Kona and costs $179.69 per person.

During the tour, guests can enjoy a 1-hour boat ride, 2.5 hours of snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, a 15-minute lunch break, and an optional 75-minute photo stop and guided tour.

The tour is conducted in English and has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing guests to receive a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 1-hour boat cruise, sightseeing, rafting, and dolphin watching around Kealakekua Bay.

Next, guests will have 2.5 hours to snorkel in the crystal-clear waters, with a chance to spot spinner dolphins, manta rays, and turtles.

After snorkeling, the group will enjoy a 15-minute lunch on the boat.

The tour also includes an optional 75-minute photo stop and guided tour to see the Captain Cook monument, sea caves, lava tubes, and blowholes.

Throughout the experience, the captain will provide educational commentary about the history and natural wonders of Kealakekua Bay.

Snorkeling Experience

Guests can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, enjoying fewer crowds than more popular snorkel spots.

Before hitting the water, participants receive a detailed safety briefing. This allows them to feel comfortable as they explore the vibrant marine life.

Snorkelers may spot playful spinner dolphins, graceful manta rays, and majestic sea turtles. They can enjoy the underwater world for as long as they desire before returning to the boat for a delicious lunch.

The captain shares insights about the bay’s history and the significance of the Captain Cook monument, enhancing the educational experience.

Lunch and Educational Component

After the invigorating snorkeling experience, guests enjoy a delicious lunch served right on the boat. The captain provides a talk about the rich history of Kealakekua Bay and the Captain Cook monument during this 15-minute lunch break. Guests can learn fascinating details about the area’s culture and significance.

| Lunch Menu | Description |

| — | — |

| Sandwiches | Choice of roast turkey, ham, or vegetarian |

| Sides | Assorted chips, fresh fruit, cookies |

| Beverages | Water, soft drinks, iced tea |

This educational component adds depth to the tour, allowing guests to fully enjoy the local history and culture.

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Starting Location and Departure Time

The tour departs from MX9H+XJ in Kailua-Kona, a convenient starting location for exploring the scenic Kealakekua Bay. This location provides easy access to the bay and allows guests to begin their adventure promptly.

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, ensuring ample time to experience the highlights of the region. Guests will first embark on a boat cruise, sightseeing, and potential dolphin watching before arriving at the iconic Kealakekua Bay.

This well-planned itinerary maximizes the time spent engaging in the main activities, making the most of the day’s adventure.

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Booking Details and Cancellation Policy

One can reserve this tour by booking online or calling the tour provider.

The price per person is $179.69, and the tour duration is 5 hours. Guests enjoy the flexibility of reserving now and paying later.

Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund. This policy provides customers with peace of mind when planning their trip.

Important Considerations and Restrictions

Individuals with certain physical limitations may not be able to participate in this tour. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.

| Restrictions | Reason | Alternatives |

|——————-|——–|————–|

| Pregnant Women | Safety | Not applicable |

| Back Problems | Physical Difficulty | May need to opt for a gentler activity |

| Children Under 8 | Safety | Family-friendly tours catered to young children are available |

All participants must be able to get in and out of the boat unassisted. While the tour allows guests to snorkel for as long as desired, strong swimming abilities are recommended for optimal enjoyment.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Overwhelmingly positive customer feedback underscores the tour’s exceptional value.

One reviewer raved, "The crew was incredibly knowledgeable and fun – we learned so much!"

Others praised:

The breathtaking scenery and wildlife, including playful spinner dolphins
The delicious lunch and informative historical commentary from the captain
The convenience of a small group setting and personalized service

With a flawless 5-star rating, this Kealakekua Bay adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Hawaii’s Kona coast.

Ask Away

How Do I Get to the Starting Location?

The starting location is MX9H+XJ in Kailua-Kona. Visitors can drive themselves to this location or arrange transportation, such as a shuttle or taxi, to reach the departure point for the tour.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is not specified. However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, so parental discretion is advised for children.

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, participants can bring their own snorkeling gear for the tour. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but guests are welcome to use their own if they prefer. This allows for a more personalized experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Snorkeling Time?

Yes, guests can snorkel for as long as desired before lunch. The itinerary allows for 2.5 hours of snorkeling time, so visitors can extend their snorkeling experience within this timeframe.

Do I Need to Tip the Crew at the End of the Tour?

Tipping the crew at the end of a tour is generally at the discretion of the participant. While not required, it’s a common practice to tip guides and crew members who provide a high-quality experience.

Final Words

Kealakekua Bay’s guided snorkeling and coastal adventure offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the area’s natural beauty and rich history. The 5-hour tour includes a scenic boat cruise, 2.5 hours of snorkeling among vibrant marine life, and an educational lunch, providing a well-rounded experience for water enthusiasts. With rave customer reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an unforgettable adventure in Kealakekua Bay.