Unforgettable Big Island Snorkeling Tours in 2025

Discover the Magic of Big Island Snorkeling

Planning your perfect Big Island snorkeling adventure can be overwhelming. This list simplifies your search, showcasing seven top-rated Big Island snorkeling tours, from Kona snorkel trips to Kohala Coast excursions. Whether you're seeking thrilling manta ray night dives or family-friendly Fair Wind cruises, find the ideal tour to explore the underwater paradise Hawaii offers. Dive into our curated selection and start planning your unforgettable ocean adventure.

1. Kona Snorkel Trips

Kona Snorkel Trips consistently earns top marks as Hawaii's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company, offering an exceptional array of big island snorkeling tours. Their focus on safety, environmental responsibility, and personalized service sets them apart, creating unforgettable underwater adventures. Whether you dream of gliding alongside majestic manta rays at night or exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, Kona Snorkel Trips has a tour to suit your desires. They cater to diverse interests and experience levels, making them an ideal choice for families, first-time snorkelers, and seasoned marine enthusiasts alike.

Their signature Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a truly unique experience. Using custom-built snorkel boards equipped with high-powered lights, you'll witness these gentle giants feeding in their natural habitat – a breathtaking spectacle. Another popular choice is the Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour, which takes you to the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, a historic site rich in marine life. Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips and the various tours they offer. Beyond these specialized excursions, Kona Snorkel Trips also offers seasonal whale watching opportunities, adding another dimension to their already impressive lineup.

Guided by certified lifeguards and knowledgeable staff, you can feel confident in your safety and enjoy a truly enriching experience. Thorough pre-tour briefings ensure you're well-prepared, while the friendly crew provides personalized attention throughout your adventure. With a strong commitment to environmental conservation, Kona Snorkel Trips operates sustainably, minimizing their impact on the delicate marine ecosystem.

Pros:

• Highest rated and most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii with over 7,700 5-star Google reviews, providing social proof of their exceptional service.
• Specialized tours like the Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour offer unique experiences not easily found elsewhere.
• Certified, knowledgeable, and friendly guides prioritize safety and provide enriching insights into the underwater world.
• Demonstrated commitment to environmental safety and conservation practices.
• Competitive pricing starting at $129 for popular tours, with discounts like 20% off when booking a second tour, and gift cards with no expiration dates available, making it an excellent value.

Cons:

• High demand for popular tours like the Manta Ray Night Snorkel can lead to quick sellouts, requiring early booking.
• Some tours have age restrictions or physical requirements that may not be suitable for all travelers. Be sure to check the specific tour details before booking.

Kona Snorkel Trips deserves its place at the top of this list due to its consistently outstanding reviews, commitment to safety and education, and unique tour offerings. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or taking the plunge for the first time, Kona Snorkel Trips provides a thrilling and insightful way to experience the magic of Hawaii's underwater world. Visit their website at https://konasnorkeltrips.com to book your adventure.

2. Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours

For a premium big island snorkeling tours experience, consider Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours. They specialize in excursions to the historically significant Kealakekua Bay, home to the Captain Cook Monument, a popular snorkeling spot teeming with vibrant marine life. Their focus on this pristine location allows them to provide in-depth knowledge and a curated experience. This tour is ideal for those looking for a more intimate and educational snorkeling adventure.

Sea Paradise operates a 50-foot sailing catamaran, offering a stable and comfortable platform for snorkelers of all levels, from first-timers to seasoned pros. The spacious deck provides ample room for relaxation between snorkeling sessions, and the onboard freshwater showers are a welcome amenity after a dip in the ocean. Both morning and afternoon tours are available, and meals (breakfast or lunch) are included, adding to the overall value. All necessary snorkeling equipment, including fins, masks, and snorkels, is provided free of charge, along with flotation devices for those who need them. Instruction is also offered, making it a great option for beginners. Beyond snorkeling, Sea Paradise tours also offer opportunities for dolphin watching, adding another layer of excitement to the experience. You might even spot spinner dolphins or, depending on the season, majestic whales.

One of the key advantages of choosing Sea Paradise is their commitment to smaller group sizes compared to some of the larger tour operators. This translates to a more personalized experience and more attention from the crew, who are widely praised for their dedication to safety and exceptional customer service. The easy water entry from the boat's stairway platform is another plus, particularly for those with mobility concerns or young children. Learn more about Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours to see their schedule and offerings.

While Sea Paradise offers a high-quality experience, it's worth noting that their tours are at a higher price point than some competitors. Also, their tours primarily focus on Kealakekua Bay, so if you're looking to explore multiple snorkeling locations, you might consider other options. Finally, as with any ocean-based activity, tours may be cancelled due to unfavorable weather conditions. However, their commitment to safety and customer satisfaction makes them a strong contender for the best big island snorkeling tours. Check their website for current pricing and availability: https://www.seaparadise.com/

3. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Cruises stands out as a premier choice among Big Island snorkeling tours, particularly for families and those seeking a comprehensive ocean experience. Operating since 1971, their long-standing presence speaks volumes about their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. They specialize in excursions to the vibrant Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve, a protected area teeming with marine life. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, Fair Wind Cruises offers options tailored to different experience levels. Their focus extends beyond just snorkeling, encompassing a range of water activities to ensure a memorable day on the water.

Two Vessel Options Cater to Different Needs: Fair Wind Cruises operates two vessels: the Fair Wind II, a spacious 60-foot catamaran, and the more intimate Hula Kai. The Fair Wind II is ideal for families and larger groups, boasting amenities like water slides and a dive platform. The Hula Kai offers a more premium, less crowded experience for those seeking a touch of exclusivity. This dual vessel approach allows Fair Wind to cater to a wider range of preferences and group sizes.

Kealakekua Bay Exploration: Both vessels offer morning and afternoon tours to Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve. This location is renowned for its historical significance as the site of Captain Cook's landing and its abundant marine life. Fair Wind Cruises provides a comprehensive reef fish guide and identification assistance, enhancing the snorkeling experience for marine life enthusiasts.

Beyond Snorkeling: Fair Wind Cruises goes beyond basic snorkeling tours by offering a variety of water activities. The Fair Wind II features exhilarating water slides, a dive platform for those wanting to take the plunge, and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) for a more relaxed exploration of the bay. This makes it an excellent option for families with children and those seeking diverse water activities.

Full Meal Service and Amenities: A full meal service featuring freshly prepared food is included in the tour price, eliminating the hassle of packing your own lunch. This allows you to fully relax and enjoy the day's activities.

Pros:

• Excellent for families: The variety of activities, especially on the Fair Wind II, caters well to children and ensures everyone stays entertained.
• Experienced operator: Decades of experience translate into well-organized tours and a deep understanding of the local waters.
• Larger boat option offers stability and amenities: The Fair Wind II is a great choice for those prone to seasickness or who prefer a more stable platform.
• Reef fish identification assistance: Enhances the learning experience for those interested in marine biology.

Cons:

• Potential for Crowds: The Fair Wind II can get crowded, especially during peak season.
• Higher Price Point for Hula Kai: The premium experience offered by the Hula Kai comes at a higher price.

Pricing and Booking: While specific pricing varies depending on the chosen tour and vessel, expect to pay a premium for the Fair Wind experience, especially for the Hula Kai. Check their website for up-to-date pricing and availability.

Website: https://www.fair-wind.com/

Fair Wind Cruises earns its spot on this list of top Big Island snorkeling tours due to its long-standing reputation, focus on Kealakekua Bay, dual vessel options catering to different preferences, and the inclusion of multiple water activities beyond snorkeling. While it might be a higher price point than some other options, the comprehensive experience and family-friendly atmosphere make it a worthwhile investment for many looking to explore the underwater wonders of the Big Island.

4. Body Glove Cruises

Body Glove Cruises offers a comprehensive Big Island snorkeling tour experience, particularly suited for those seeking a blend of comfort, history, and underwater exploration. Operating the 65-foot catamaran Kanoa II, they provide daily adventures along the scenic Kona Coast, with a focus on the historically significant Kealakekua Bay. This tour stands out for its narrated historical and cultural component, making it a great option for those who want more than just a snorkeling trip. They cater to a broad range of experience levels, from first-time snorkelers to seasoned underwater enthusiasts, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and engaged.

Body Glove Cruises distinguishes itself with several key features. Their spacious catamaran offers ample deck space, covered seating, freshwater showers, and restrooms, prioritizing passenger comfort. A breakfast and lunch buffet with vegetarian options is included, often receiving high praise in reviews. Select cruises even feature live music entertainment, adding a festive touch to the experience. During the winter months, Body Glove Cruises also offers cocktail cruises and whale watching tours, expanding their offerings beyond snorkeling. Their commitment to education is evident through the knowledgeable crew who share insights into Hawaiian history and marine biology. This focus on education makes their Big Island snorkeling tours more enriching and memorable.

While pricing is generally on the premium end compared to smaller, more intimate snorkeling tour operators, the included amenities and structured program justify the cost for many. The larger vessel capacity, while providing stability and minimizing seasickness, can also lead to a more crowded experience compared to smaller boats. Additionally, the fixed routes may not offer the flexibility to adjust to daily snorkeling conditions, which smaller operators can sometimes provide.

Pros:

• Larger, stable vessel ideal for those prone to seasickness.
• High-quality food with vegetarian options.
• Multiple viewing decks and shade options.
• Knowledgeable crew providing historical and marine biology context.
• Amenities like freshwater showers and restrooms enhance comfort.

Cons:

• Larger passenger capacity can result in a more crowded experience.
• Fixed routes may not always optimize for current snorkeling conditions.
• Premium pricing compared to smaller operators.

Website: https://www.bodyglovehawaii.com/

Body Glove Cruises deserves a spot on this list of Big Island snorkeling tours because of its comprehensive approach. It balances comfort, historical education, and snorkeling in a well-organized package. This makes it an excellent choice for families, first-time snorkelers, and anyone seeking a structured and informative snorkeling adventure in Kealakekua Bay and along the Kona Coast. While the price point might be higher, the inclusions and the focus on history and education make it a valuable option for those seeking a more complete Big Island snorkeling tour experience.

5. Kona Snorkel Trips (Adventures in Paradise)

For those seeking a more intimate and personalized big island snorkeling tours experience, Kona Snorkel Trips (Adventures in Paradise) stands out. This family-owned operation prioritizes small groups and flexible itineraries, allowing for a truly customized adventure. Unlike larger commercial tours, they focus on less crowded locations along the Kona Coast, tailoring each trip to the prevailing ocean conditions and the preferences of their guests. This means you might explore the vibrant reefs of Kealakekua Bay one day and discover the hidden gems of the Place of Refuge (Honaunau) the next. This bespoke approach makes Kona Snorkel Trips ideal for those seeking a more exclusive and off-the-beaten-path snorkeling experience.

One of the key differentiators is the small group size, capped at a maximum of six passengers. This allows for a high level of personal attention from the guide, who actually enters the water with you. This is particularly beneficial for beginners or those who prefer a more guided experience. They provide high-quality snorkel gear, including prescription masks if needed, ensuring everyone can comfortably enjoy the underwater world. The ability to visit multiple snorkel sites in a single tour maximizes your chances of encountering diverse marine life and experiencing different underwater landscapes. Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips (Adventures in Paradise) for detailed information on their various offerings.

While pricing isn't explicitly stated and may vary based on the customized nature of the trips, expect a higher per-person cost compared to larger boat tours. This premium reflects the personalized service, smaller group size, and access to exclusive locations. The smaller boat size, while enhancing intimacy, can mean more motion, which might not be ideal for those prone to seasickness. Finally, due to the limited capacity, tours tend to book up quickly, so advance reservations are highly recommended.

Features:

• Small group tours with maximum 6 passengers
• Flexible itinerary based on ocean conditions and marine life sightings
• Multiple snorkel locations in one trip including lesser-known spots
• Personal attention and customized instruction for beginners
• High-quality snorkel gear including prescription masks if needed

Pros:

• Highly personalized experience with guide in water with guests
• Ability to visit multiple snorkel sites in one tour
• Access to less crowded snorkeling locations
• Flexible scheduling and customization options

Cons:

• Higher per-person cost than larger boat tours
• Smaller boat may mean more motion (not ideal for those prone to seasickness)
• Limited availability due to small group size – books up quickly

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com/

6. Kohala Sail & Sea

For a truly unique Big Island snorkeling tours experience, consider Kohala Sail & Sea. They specialize in exploring the less-traveled Kohala Coast, a region renowned for its pristine reefs and crystal-clear waters, often bypassed by the larger tour operators who concentrate on the Kona side. Departing from the Kawaihae Harbor, this tour offers a distinct advantage: access to secluded snorkeling spots away from the crowds. This makes it a fantastic option for those seeking a more intimate and personalized adventure beneath the waves. Their focus on smaller groups allows for a more tailored experience, catering to both seasoned snorkelers and those new to the activity.

Their custom-built 34-foot power catamaran adds another layer of comfort and stability to your big island snorkeling tours adventure. With a maximum capacity of just 12 passengers, you'll enjoy a personalized experience with ample space and attention from the crew. Shade is readily available on the catamaran, providing a welcome respite from the Hawaiian sun between snorkeling sessions. A noteworthy perk of choosing Kohala Sail & Sea is the inclusion of complimentary digital underwater photos. This allows you to capture and share the vibrant marine life and underwater beauty you encounter without the hassle of bringing your own waterproof camera. As a bonus, during the winter months (December-April), their tours incorporate seasonal whale watching, offering an incredible opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

While pricing information isn't readily available on their website, anticipate a higher price point compared to larger group tours due to the personalized nature of the experience and small group size. The Kohala Coast's location can also present a longer travel time for guests staying in the Kona area. Additionally, be aware that weather and ocean conditions on the north coast can be more variable than on the Kona side. However, the exceptional clarity of the water and access to less crowded, pristine reefs often make this trade-off worthwhile for discerning snorkelers.

Pros:

• Access to less crowded snorkeling sites on the Kohala Coast
• Excellent visibility conditions most of the year
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Free digital photos to remember your experience
• Seasonal whale watching included (December-April)

Cons:

• More distant location for guests staying in Kona area
• Higher price point due to small group size
• Weather and ocean conditions on north coast can be more variable

Website: https://www.kohalasailandsea.com/

Kohala Sail & Sea earns its place on this list by offering a premium, small-group big island snorkeling tours experience. It caters to those seeking a more intimate exploration of pristine reefs away from the bustling crowds. While potentially a longer trip and a bit more expensive, the unique access to the Kohala Coast, combined with the personalized service and added perks like free underwater photos, makes it a compelling choice for discerning travelers looking for an unforgettable snorkeling adventure.

7. Hang Loose Boat Tours: Explore the Big Island's Hidden Snorkeling Gems

If you're seeking adventure and crave a Big Island snorkeling tour that goes beyond the usual crowded spots, Hang Loose Boat Tours might be your perfect match. Their unique approach using rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) opens up a world of snorkeling possibilities inaccessible to larger vessels. This makes them an excellent choice for those looking for a more thrilling and personalized experience among the many big island snorkeling tours available.

Instead of lumbering catamarans, Hang Loose utilizes fast and maneuverable RIBs, allowing them to whisk you to multiple snorkeling locations in a single trip. This means more time in the water and less time in transit, a significant advantage for keen snorkelers. Think exploring secluded sea caves, venturing into lava tubes, and discovering hidden coves teeming with marine life. This focus on exploration sets them apart from other big island snorkeling tours that often stick to more mainstream locations.

What sets Hang Loose apart?

• Unique Access: Explore sea caves and lava tubes inaccessible to larger boats, offering a truly unique snorkeling adventure.
• Wildlife Encounters: Maximize your chances of encountering dolphins, turtles, and manta rays thanks to their targeted approach. Their nighttime manta ray snorkel tours are especially popular.
• Small Group Experience: With a maximum of 14 passengers, you'll enjoy a more intimate and personalized experience compared to larger tour groups.
• Variety of Tours: Choose from morning, afternoon, and special sunset/night tours to fit your schedule and preferences. The nighttime manta ray tours are a must for marine life enthusiasts.
• Fast and Efficient: The RIBs quickly transport you between locations, maximizing your snorkeling time.

Pros:

• Adventure-oriented experience with faster travel and multiple locations.
• Access to unique snorkeling spots other tours can't reach.
• High probability of wildlife encounters (dolphins, turtles, mantas).
• More time in the water and less on the boat.

Cons:

• The faster RIB ride can be bumpy and unsuitable for those with back problems or pregnant women.
• Fewer amenities than larger catamarans (minimal shade, basic facilities).
• Not ideal for absolute beginners or those seeking a relaxed, leisurely experience.
• May not be suitable for the elderly or those with mobility issues.

(Pricing information was not provided, please check their website for up-to-date details.)

Is Hang Loose Right for You?

Hang Loose Boat Tours is ideal for adventurous travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and experienced snorkelers looking to explore beyond the typical tourist spots. Families with older children and teens will also appreciate the exciting pace and unique locations. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, have mobility issues, or are a complete beginner, a larger catamaran tour might be a better fit.

Implementation Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Also, be sure to check the weather conditions and dress accordingly. Bringing a waterproof bag for your valuables is always a good idea.

For thrill-seekers and those yearning to uncover the Big Island's hidden snorkeling treasures, Hang Loose Boat Tours offers an unforgettable adventure. Check out their website for more information and booking: https://hanglooseboattours.com/

Top 7 Big Island Snorkeling Tours Comparison

Choosing Your Perfect Snorkeling Adventure

From thrilling manta ray night dives to exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with colorful fish, the Big Island offers incredible snorkeling experiences for every type of adventurer. We've explored seven outstanding Big Island snorkeling tours, each with its own unique strengths. Remember to consider your budget, experience level, and what you hope to see underwater when making your choice. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly catamaran cruise like Body Glove or a more intimate sailing experience with Kohala Sail & Sea, the perfect underwater adventure awaits. If you're looking for a reputable tour operator that specializes in snorkeling adventures, check out Kona Honu Divers – Snorkeling Tours from Kona Honu Divers. They offer a wide variety of options to suit diverse interests.

The most important takeaway? Don't miss the opportunity to explore the breathtaking underwater world that the Big Island has to offer! Ready to dive in and start planning your unforgettable Hawaiian snorkeling adventure? Check out Kona Snorkel Trips for a wide range of Big Island snorkeling tours catering to all skill levels and interests. Start exploring their options today and get ready for an incredible experience!