Best Big Island Snorkeling Tours | Top Underwater Adventures

Dive into Paradise: Exploring the Best Snorkeling on the Big Island

Planning your Big Island snorkeling adventure? This list of the top 7 Big Island snorkeling tours for 2025 helps you find the perfect underwater experience. Whether you're seeking a family-friendly outing or a thrilling night swim with manta rays, we've got you covered. Quickly compare tours from reputable providers like Kona Snorkel Trips and Fair Wind Cruises to find the ideal excursion for your budget and interests, eliminating the hassle of researching countless options. Dive in and discover the magic!

1. Kona Snorkel Trips

If you're seeking top-tier big island snorkeling tours, Kona Snorkel Trips should be at the top of your list. As Hawaii's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkeling company, boasting a remarkable 5.0-star rating from over 7,700 customers, they've set a high bar for aquatic adventures. They specialize in a range of snorkeling experiences, including their renowned Manta Ray Night Snorkel and the historically significant Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour, promising an unforgettable exploration of the Big Island's underwater world. Their commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and personalized attention, delivered by lifeguard-certified and knowledgeable guides, ensures a truly enriching experience.

Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler, a family looking for a memorable adventure, or simply an ocean lover eager to explore Hawaii's vibrant marine life, Kona Snorkel Trips caters to diverse interests and skill levels. From swimming with manta rays illuminated by custom-built snorkel boards to discovering the teeming coral reefs of Kealakekua Bay on the Captain Cook tour, each excursion blends excitement with education. For those interested in exploring other snorkeling locations around Kona, Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips by checking out their blog. They also offer seasonal whale watching tours and private charters for a truly bespoke experience. Rave reviews frequently mention exceptional guides like Shay, Faith, and Alexis, highlighting the personalized touch that makes this company stand out.

Pricing for the Captain Cook tour starts at $129, while the Manta Ray Night Snorkel begins at $139. Kona Snorkel Trips also offers a 20% discount on second bookings and flexible gift cards with no expiration date, making it a perfect option for gifting an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.

Pros:

• Highest rated snorkeling company in Hawaii with over 7,700 five-star reviews, guaranteeing a trusted and high-quality experience.
• Unique snorkeling adventures, including the world-famous Manta Ray Night Snorkel and pristine marine sanctuary tours at Captain Cook Monument.
• Certified, knowledgeable, and friendly guides dedicated to safety, environmental responsibility, and personalized tours.
• Competitive pricing with added value through discounts on multiple bookings and gift cards.
• Comprehensive offerings, including seasonal whale watching and private charters tailored for diverse interests and skill levels.

Cons:

• Tours may involve moderate physical activity, potentially posing a challenge for individuals with limited swimming ability or mobility issues.
• Popular tours, particularly the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, tend to book up quickly; early reservations are highly recommended.

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com

2. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Cruises stands out among Big Island snorkeling tours, offering a premium experience to Kealakekua Bay, a renowned snorkeling haven and home to the Captain Cook Monument. This tour is a fantastic option for those seeking a comfortable and exciting way to explore one of Hawaii's most pristine underwater worlds. Their spacious 60-foot catamaran is equipped with everything you need for a memorable day on the water, including water slides, a dive platform, snorkel gear, flotation devices, and ample deck space for relaxation. They offer both morning and afternoon tours, led by experienced guides who share their knowledge of marine conservation and Hawaiian culture.

One of the key advantages of choosing Fair Wind Cruises is their direct access to the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve. This protected area teems with vibrant coral reefs and a diverse array of fish, making it an ideal spot for snorkelers of all levels. Learn more about Fair Wind Cruises and their offerings at Kealakekua Bay. For those seeking an even more immersive experience, an optional SNUBA adventure is available for an additional fee, allowing you to explore the underwater world with greater freedom.

Morning tours include a delicious breakfast and BBQ lunch, ensuring you're fueled up for your snorkeling adventure. Fair Wind also thoughtfully provides reef-safe sunscreen, helping to protect the delicate coral ecosystem. Families will appreciate the family-friendly atmosphere, with activities catering to all ages. From the thrill of the water slides to the wonder of exploring the reef, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

While Fair Wind Cruises is a top-tier choice for big island snorkeling tours, it's worth noting that the experience comes at a premium. Tours start at $159 for adults, making it more expensive than some competitors. Morning tours can also get crowded during peak season, so booking in advance is recommended. Finally, the set departure schedules offer limited flexibility in terms of timing.

Features:

• Direct access to Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve
• Large 60-foot catamaran with water slides and dive platform
• Breakfast and BBQ lunch included on morning tours
• Reef-safe sunscreen provided
• Optional SNUBA experience available (additional fee)

Pros:

• Access to one of the island's most pristine snorkeling locations
• Well-maintained equipment and robust safety protocols
• Family-friendly with activities for all ages
• High-quality food served onboard

Cons:

• More expensive than some competitors (tours start at $159 for adults)
• Morning tours can be crowded during peak season
• Limited flexibility on timing due to set departure schedules

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

3. Sea Paradise

If you're seeking a more personalized and intimate big island snorkeling tours experience, Sea Paradise is an excellent choice. They specialize in small group excursions to Kealakekua Bay and other pristine South Kona locations, offering a unique advantage over larger tour operators. Their smaller vessels can navigate into secluded coves and shallow reefs inaccessible to larger boats, revealing hidden snorkeling gems and minimizing crowds. This focus on smaller groups also allows for a higher level of personalized attention from their knowledgeable marine naturalists, who enrich the experience with insights into the area's cultural and historical significance.

Sea Paradise offers morning, afternoon, and private charter options, catering to various schedules and preferences. Morning tours typically include a continental breakfast and a deli lunch, ensuring you're energized for your underwater adventures. All necessary snorkeling equipment and instruction are provided, making it suitable for first-time snorkelers. Beyond snorkeling, Sea Paradise tours often provide excellent opportunities for dolphin spotting, as these playful creatures frequent the waters of South Kona.

Features:

• Small group tours (maximum of 24 passengers)
• Access to multiple snorkeling locations including Kealakekua Bay
• Includes all snorkel equipment and instruction
• Dolphin spotting opportunities
• Continental breakfast and deli lunch on morning tours

Pros:

• Personalized attention with smaller groups
• Access to less crowded snorkeling locations
• Flexible tour options including private charters
• High likelihood of spotting dolphins in their natural habitat

Cons:

• Smaller boats may mean more motion for those prone to seasickness
• Less onboard amenities compared to larger vessels
• Higher price point for private tours (pricing details not readily available on the website, contact Sea Paradise directly for a quote)

Why Sea Paradise Deserves a Spot on this List:

Sea Paradise distinguishes itself from other big island snorkeling tours by prioritizing quality over quantity. The smaller group size, access to exclusive locations, and personalized service create a more intimate and enriching snorkeling experience. This makes it ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the marine environment and Hawaiian culture, rather than a crowded, generic tour. Families, marine life enthusiasts, and those prone to seasickness on larger vessels will especially appreciate the smaller boat experience.

Implementation Tip:

If you're susceptible to motion sickness, consider taking preventative measures before your tour. Booking a morning tour might also be preferable, as the waters tend to be calmer earlier in the day. For private charters, contact Sea Paradise directly to discuss your specific needs and get a customized quote.

Website: https://www.seaparadise.com/

4. Body Glove Cruises

For a luxurious and culturally enriching big island snorkeling tour, Body Glove Cruises stands out as a top contender. Operating along the Kona Coast on their spacious 65-foot catamaran, they offer several snorkeling adventures, including a unique cruise that blends underwater exploration with Hawaiian history and cultural education. This makes them a great option for travelers interested in more than just seeing fish. Beyond snorkeling, the vessel itself boasts impressive amenities like a 15-foot water slide, freshwater showers, and a premium sound system, ensuring a comfortable and entertaining experience for all ages. Tours typically run for 4.5 hours, allowing ample time for snorkeling and enjoying the onboard features, along with a historical narration of the coastline’s significant sites.

Body Glove Cruises deserves a spot on this list because it caters to a variety of big island snorkeling tour needs, from families seeking fun and comfort to those interested in learning about Hawaiian culture. The inclusion of breakfast and a Hawaiian-style lunch, along with cocktails, adds to the overall value. Some cruises even feature live music entertainment, elevating the experience further. They offer multiple snorkeling locations depending on the conditions, ensuring a safe and rewarding snorkeling experience. For those fascinated by manta rays, you might want to Learn more about Body Glove Cruises and their related offerings.

Features:

• 65-foot custom catamaran with water slide and viewing windows
• Breakfast and Hawaiian-style lunch with cocktails included
• Historical narration of coastline and cultural sites
• Live music entertainment on some cruises
• Multiple snorkeling locations depending on conditions
• Professional underwater photographers available

Pros:

• Excellent onboard amenities and comfort
• Strong focus on Hawaiian culture and history
• Consistently high ratings for food quality

Cons:

• Snorkeling locations may vary based on conditions (not always at Kealakekua Bay)
• Larger groups can mean a more crowded experience
• Premium pricing ($145+ per adult)

Website: https://www.bodyglove.com/

If you're seeking a big island snorkeling tour that combines comfort, culture, and adventure, Body Glove Cruises is worth considering. While the price point is higher than some other options, the included amenities, food, and historical narration make it a compelling choice for those looking for a premium experience. Be aware that snorkeling locations can vary, and the larger group size might impact the intimacy of the experience. However, for families, first-time snorkelers, and those seeking a comfortable and entertaining snorkeling adventure, Body Glove Cruises offers a well-rounded package.

5. Kona Honu Divers

For those seeking a more intimate and enriching big island snorkeling tours experience, Kona Honu Divers stands out. They prioritize small groups and personalized service, ensuring each guest receives individual attention from their expert guides. Instead of herding large groups onto crowded boats, Kona Honu Divers focuses on quality over quantity. This allows for a more tailored experience, catering to the specific interests and skill levels of the participants. They often visit multiple snorkeling locations in a single trip, maximizing your underwater exploration time. Their comfortable boats are designed for easy water access, a crucial factor for beginners and those with mobility concerns.

One of Kona Honu Divers' specialties is their manta ray night snorkeling tours. This unique experience allows you to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat under the moonlight. While pricing details for specific tours aren't publicly listed and require contacting them directly, the investment promises an unforgettable encounter with these gentle giants. All necessary high-quality equipment, including masks, fins, and snorkels, is included, eliminating the hassle and expense of renting or bringing your own.

What truly sets Kona Honu Divers apart is their team of marine naturalist guides. These guides aren't just boat captains; they possess extensive knowledge of Hawaiian marine life and ocean ecology. They provide insightful commentary throughout the tour, enriching your understanding of the underwater world and the importance of conservation. This educational aspect makes Kona Honu Divers an excellent choice for families with children interested in marine biology and oceanography, as well as serious snorkelers looking for a deeper level of engagement.

Pros:

• Exceptionally knowledgeable staff with diving expertise, providing valuable insights into the marine environment.
• Unique night manta ray snorkeling experience, a truly memorable adventure.
• Flexible schedule and location options based on conditions, ensuring the best possible snorkeling experience.
• Excellent for serious snorkelers seeking high-quality, personalized tours.

Cons:

• Less emphasis on amenities and entertainment than larger tour boats. If you're looking for party vibes and water slides, this might not be the best fit.
• Higher price point, especially for specialized tours like the manta ray night snorkel.
• May not be ideal for complete beginners or very young children due to the focus on in-depth exploration and education. While they cater to all experience levels, their strength lies in catering to those with some existing snorkeling experience or a strong desire to learn.

Website: https://konahonudivers.com/

Kona Honu Divers earns its place on this list by providing a distinct alternative to larger, more commercial snorkeling tours. It caters to those who value personalized service, in-depth education, and unique experiences like the manta ray night snorkel. While it may not be the cheapest option, the quality of the experience and the expertise of the guides make it a worthwhile investment for discerning snorkelers seeking a deeper connection with the ocean. Contact Kona Honu Divers directly to discuss pricing and tailor a tour to your specific needs and interests.

6. Dolphin Discoveries

For those seeking a truly unforgettable big island snorkeling tours experience, Dolphin Discoveries offers an exceptional opportunity to connect with the island's incredible marine life. Their specialty lies in crafting wildlife-focused snorkeling tours that prioritize encounters with spinner dolphins, spotted dolphins, and even seasonal humpback whales. This focus makes them a unique choice among the many big island snorkeling tour operators.

Dolphin Discoveries distinguishes itself through its commitment to responsible wildlife viewing. Their intimate tours, accommodating only 6-12 guests, are led by experienced marine biologists or naturalists who provide insightful commentary and ensure ethical interactions with the animals. These guides leverage their specialized knowledge of marine mammal behavior to maximize your chances of a memorable encounter while minimizing disturbance to the dolphins' natural habitat. Tours depart from Kailua-Kona in the mornings, coinciding with peak dolphin activity times. Itineraries are flexible, adapting to real-time wildlife sightings to provide the best possible experience. All necessary snorkel gear and flotation devices are included, making it hassle-free for participants.

Features and Benefits:

• Dolphin and Whale Encounters: Focus on interactions with spinner dolphins, spotted dolphins, and (seasonally) humpback whales.
• Small Group Size: Intimate tours with a maximum of 12 passengers allow for personalized attention.
• Expert Guides: Marine biologists and naturalists provide in-depth knowledge and promote responsible wildlife viewing.
• Flexible Itineraries: Tours adapt to current wildlife sightings for optimized encounter opportunities.
• All Gear Included: Snorkel equipment and flotation devices are provided for convenience.

Pros:

• Specialized Knowledge: Guides possess deep understanding of marine mammal behavior.
• High Success Rate: Dolphin encounters are common on these tours.
• Ethical Viewing Practices: Respect for the marine environment and its inhabitants is prioritized.
• Personalized Experience: Small group size ensures individual attention.

Cons:

• No Guarantees: While the success rate is high, wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
• Limited Reef Focus: The tours primarily concentrate on marine mammals, not coral reef exploration.
• Higher Price Point: Expect to pay $155+ per person, reflecting the specialized nature of the tour.
• Weather Dependent: Tours are subject to cancellation due to unfavorable weather or ocean conditions.

For those passionate about encountering dolphins in their natural habitat, Dolphin Discoveries provides an enriching and ethical experience. While the price point is higher than some other big island snorkeling tours, the specialized focus, small group size, and expert guidance offer a unique value proposition. Learn more about Dolphin Discoveries and consider booking your adventure today. Visit their website at https://www.dolphindiscoveries.com/ for more information and booking details.

7. Kohala Divers

For a more exclusive Big Island snorkeling tour experience, consider Kohala Divers. Operating from the Kohala Coast on the northwest side of the island, they provide access to snorkeling sites less frequented than those in the bustling south Kona area. This makes them a fantastic option for those seeking a more intimate encounter with Hawaii's underwater world as part of their big island snorkeling tours. They cater to both snorkelers and scuba divers, focusing on the pristine reefs of the north Kona and Kohala coasts. Their commitment to small groups and personalized service from experienced guides ensures a high-quality experience.

Kohala Divers shines by offering access to exclusive north Kona and Kohala Coast snorkeling locations, often less crowded than their southern counterparts. This is a huge draw for those staying in the Waikoloa/Kohala resort areas, eliminating lengthy travel times. They provide premium snorkeling equipment, so you don't have to worry about bringing your own. For those wanting to capture their underwater adventures, an optional underwater photography service is available. They offer both morning and afternoon tour options, providing flexibility for scheduling your day. Learn more about Kohala Divers and the Waikoloa area for more information about snorkeling in this region.

While Kohala Divers offers an exceptional experience, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks. The weather and ocean conditions on the Kohala Coast can be less predictable than in south Kona, occasionally leading to cancellations. Their boats, designed for smaller groups, may have fewer amenities compared to larger tour operators. Food options might also be more limited on certain tours. Finally, be sure to check their website for specific tour requirements, as some may have higher minimum age restrictions.

Pros:

• Less crowded snorkeling locations than south Kona sites
• Excellent for guests staying in Waikoloa/Kohala resort areas
• High-quality gear and safety standards
• Knowledgeable staff with extensive local experience

Cons:

• Weather and ocean conditions on the Kohala Coast can be less predictable
• Fewer amenities on boats compared to larger operators
• Limited food options on some tours
• Higher minimum age requirements for some tours

Website: https://kohaladivers.com/

Kohala Divers earns a spot on this list of big island snorkeling tours due to its focus on providing a high-quality, personalized experience in some of the most pristine and less-visited snorkeling locations on the Big Island. While pricing information isn't readily available on their website and requires a booking inquiry, their focus on smaller groups and exclusive locations suggests that it caters to a slightly higher-end market segment. If you prioritize personalized service, access to exclusive locations, and don't mind potentially higher costs, Kohala Divers is a superb choice for your big island snorkeling adventure.

Big Island Snorkeling Tours Comparison

Making the Most of Your Big Island Snorkeling Adventure

From thrilling manta ray night swims to exploring the vibrant coral gardens of Kealakekua Bay, finding the perfect Big Island snorkeling tour is key to an unforgettable underwater experience. This article has highlighted seven exceptional tour operators – Kona Snorkel Trips, Fair Wind Cruises, Sea Paradise, Body Glove Cruises, Kona Honu Divers, Dolphin Discoveries, and Kohala Divers – each catering to different interests and experience levels. Remember the key takeaways: research the specific marine life you hope to encounter, consider the tour’s duration and inclusions (like equipment rentals or meals), and read reviews to gauge the overall experience. Choosing the right tour operator is crucial for ensuring a safe, enjoyable, and enriching snorkeling adventure.

For families with young children, a catamaran cruise like those offered by Body Glove or Fair Wind might be ideal. More experienced snorkelers seeking thrilling encounters might prefer Kona Honu Divers or Dolphin Discoveries for their specialized trips. And for those looking for a personalized, smaller group experience, companies like Sea Paradise or Kohala Divers are excellent options. Don't forget to factor in your budget and desired location on the Big Island when making your decision. No matter your experience level, a well-chosen Big Island snorkeling tour will unlock a world of underwater wonder.

Ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover the magic of Hawaii's reefs? Start your Big Island snorkeling adventure with Kona Snorkel Trips, offering a wide range of tours perfect for every type of ocean enthusiast. Visit Kona Snorkel Trips to explore their exciting options and book your unforgettable underwater journey today!