Top Big Island Snorkeling Tours – Book Your Adventure Today!

Planning Your Big Island Snorkeling Adventure

Planning a Big Island snorkeling tour? This list of the 7 best Big Island snorkeling tours for 2025 simplifies your search for the perfect underwater adventure. Whether you're seeking manta ray encounters or vibrant coral gardens, discover the ideal tour operator to match your needs. This guide helps you navigate the many options available and quickly choose the right Big Island snorkeling tour for an unforgettable experience.

1. Kona Snorkel Trips

Kona Snorkel Trips earns its top spot on this list of Big Island snorkeling tours for a multitude of reasons. As Hawaii's highest rated and most reviewed snorkel company, boasting over 7,700 five-star Google reviews, they clearly deliver exceptional experiences. Their commitment to safety, education, and personalized service shines through in every aspect of their operation, from the lifeguard-certified guides to the meticulously maintained equipment. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a complete beginner, Kona Snorkel Trips offers an unforgettable Big Island adventure. They offer a diverse range of tours, catering to varying interests and experience levels. Looking for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter? Their exclusive Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a must-do. Interested in exploring historical waters? Their Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay provides a unique blend of history and marine exploration. They also offer trips to lesser-known gems like Pawai Bay, allowing you to escape the crowds and discover hidden underwater paradises.

Beyond the popular choices, Kona Snorkel Trips curates experiences tailored to different needs. Families with younger children will appreciate the gentle, shallow-water explorations, while more adventurous snorkelers can opt for deeper dives and drift snorkeling. The company’s strong environmental commitment also ensures that all interactions with the marine ecosystem are sustainable and responsible, a critical aspect of preserving Hawaii's delicate underwater world. Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips and the incredible snorkel spots they frequent.

Pricing for their premier big island snorkeling tours starts at a competitive $129, offering excellent value considering the quality of service and equipment provided. They also offer gift cards with no expiration date, making them perfect presents for ocean lovers and adventurous spirits. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island and considering exploring its vibrant underwater world, Kona Snorkel Trips is an excellent choice.

Pros:

• Highest rated and most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii with over 7,700 five-star reviews
• Varied tour options, including exclusive Manta Ray Night Snorkel and Captain Cook marine sanctuary excursions
• Lifeguard-certified guides focused on safety, education, and personalized guest experiences
• Strong environmental commitment, ensuring sustainable and responsible marine interactions
• Flexible pricing with tours starting from $129 and convenient gift card offerings

Cons:

• Due to their popularity, tours can book up quickly, so early reservation is recommended, especially during peak season.
• Some tours, such as the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, may have age or physical requirements, potentially limiting participation for very young children or individuals with mobility issues.

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com

2. Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours

Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours earns its spot on this list of top Big Island snorkeling tours by offering a premium experience focusing on comfort, education, and access to one of the most sought-after snorkeling locations: Kealakekua Bay. If you're looking for a memorable and hassle-free adventure exploring the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii, Sea Paradise is worth serious consideration. Their focus on small groups and high-quality service caters to a variety of snorkelers, from families with young children to experienced ocean enthusiasts.

Explore the Pristine Waters of Kealakekua Bay: Their signature tour takes you to the historic Captain Cook Monument, a sheltered bay teeming with colorful fish and coral. This protected area offers calm waters ideal for snorkelers of all skill levels, including beginners and families. Marine naturalists onboard provide insightful information about the marine ecosystem and the historical significance of the area, enriching your snorkeling experience.

Comfort and Convenience Aboard a Custom Catamaran: Sea Paradise operates a spacious 50-foot custom catamaran designed for comfort and stability. Features include ample shaded areas to relax between snorkeling sessions, a freshwater shower to rinse off saltwater, and restrooms for convenience. This makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone, particularly families with children or those who prefer a higher level of comfort.

High-Quality Equipment and Expert Guidance: All necessary snorkeling equipment, including optical masks for those with prescription needs, is provided. This eliminates the need to rent or purchase gear, saving you time and money. Certified guides are available to provide instruction and ensure your safety throughout the tour. Their expertise and personalized attention further enhance the overall experience.

What's Included:

• Small group experience (maximum 24 passengers)
• Access to Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument
• Snorkeling equipment (including prescription masks)
• Instruction from certified guides
• Hawaiian-style breakfast and lunch
• Beverages
• Use of onboard amenities (shade, freshwater shower, restrooms)

Pros:

• Consistently high ratings for customer service
• Educational experience thanks to onboard marine naturalists
• High-quality equipment and a well-maintained vessel
• Food quality frequently praised in reviews

Cons:

• Higher price point than some competitors (tours start at $149+)
• Popular tours often book up weeks in advance, so plan ahead
• Some locations are weather-dependent, meaning tours could be canceled or rescheduled

Is Sea Paradise Right For You? Sea Paradise is an excellent choice for Big Island snorkeling tours if you value a premium experience with small groups, expert guidance, and access to a premier snorkeling location. Families, first-time snorkelers, and those seeking a comfortable and educational adventure will particularly appreciate what Sea Paradise offers. While the price point is higher than some budget-friendly options, the included amenities, high-quality service, and positive customer reviews justify the cost for many.

Book Your Adventure: https://seaparadisehawaii.com

3. Fair Wind Cruises

Fair Wind Cruises stands out as a top choice for big island snorkeling tours, offering a blend of history, adventure, and comfort. Operating since 1971, they've built a solid reputation for providing exceptional experiences at Kealakekua Bay. Their two vessels, the 60-foot Fair Wind II and the slightly smaller but luxurious 55-foot Hula Kai, cater to various preferences and group sizes, making them a versatile option for diverse travelers seeking unforgettable snorkeling adventures. They offer both morning and afternoon big island snorkeling tours, with the morning option providing a more comprehensive experience that includes more than just snorkeling, while the afternoon tours focus primarily on exploring the underwater world. Their commitment to ocean conservation and Hawaiian cultural education adds a valuable layer to the experience, ensuring a respectful and enriching encounter with the bay's natural and historical significance.

One of the key advantages of choosing Fair Wind Cruises is their exclusive mooring permit at Captain Cook Monument, a prime snorkeling spot within Kealakekua Bay. This privileged access ensures you can immerse yourself in the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life without competing with other boats for the best vantage points. Learn more about Fair Wind Cruises and their dedication to preserving this special area. The Fair Wind II boasts exciting features like water slides and a dive platform, adding an extra layer of fun for adventurous families. Meanwhile, the Hula Kai offers a more intimate setting for those seeking a slightly less crowded experience. Practical amenities like freshwater showers and equipment rinse stations further enhance the post-snorkeling comfort.

While pricing can vary depending on the chosen tour and time of year, Fair Wind Cruises generally operates on an all-inclusive model, meaning the advertised price covers snorkeling gear, meals/snacks, and other onboard activities. This transparency eliminates unexpected costs and simplifies budgeting for your big island snorkeling tours adventure.

Pros:

• Established reputation: Over 50 years of experience ensures a smooth and reliable operation.
• Stable vessels: The large catamarans minimize seasickness, making them suitable for those prone to motion sickness.
• All-inclusive pricing: No hidden fees, simplifying the booking process.
• Family-friendly: Variety of onboard activities caters to different age groups.

Cons:

• Larger group sizes: The Fair Wind II can accommodate up to 100 guests, which might feel crowded during peak season.
• Commercial atmosphere: The scale of the operation can feel less personal compared to smaller, boutique operators.

Website: https://www.fairwind.com

Fair Wind Cruises deserves a spot on this list because it provides a dependable, comprehensive, and exciting way to experience the wonders of Kealakekua Bay. Whether you're a first-time snorkeler or a seasoned enthusiast, their diverse offerings, commitment to conservation, and convenient amenities make them a strong contender for your big island snorkeling tour.

4. Kona Snorkel Trips

For those seeking a more intimate and educational big island snorkeling tours experience, Kona Snorkel Trips offers a compelling option. They specialize in small group adventures, catering to a maximum of 14 passengers, which allows for personalized attention from their marine biologist guides. Their 'Deluxe Morning Tour' is a popular choice, combining visits to two of the Kona coast's premier snorkeling locations: Kealakekua Bay and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau (Place of Refuge). This multi-site approach lets you experience diverse reef ecosystems in a single trip.

Kona Snorkel Trips operates the Pueo Kai, a custom-built 34-foot rigid-hull inflatable boat (RHIB). While larger catamarans offer more stability, the Pueo Kai's speed allows for faster transit between locations, maximizing your time in the water. This adventure-style format makes it a great fit for active travelers looking to cover more ground. The included breakfast, lunch, and premium snorkel equipment further enhance the value. The marine biologist guides don't just lead the tour; they provide insightful commentary about the Hawaiian reef and its inhabitants, making it an enriching experience for ocean lovers and marine life enthusiasts.

This tour is particularly well-suited for families with older children and teens who can handle a more active experience, adventurous travelers seeking a faster-paced outing, and anyone interested in learning more about the underwater world. While first-time snorkelers are welcome, the potentially choppier ride on a smaller vessel might be a consideration for those prone to seasickness. Similarly, scuba divers looking for a relaxed day with their non-diving family members may find the catamaran format of other tours more suitable.

Features:

• Multi-site snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay and Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau
• Small groups (max 14 passengers)
• Fast, adventure-style RHIB experience
• Guided by marine biologists
• Breakfast, lunch, and premium snorkel equipment provided

Pros:

• Access to multiple snorkel sites in one trip
• Personalized attention with small group size
• Educational experience with expert guides
• Faster travel time means more snorkeling time

Cons:

• Higher price point (tours start at $179 per person)
• Smaller boat can mean more motion for those sensitive to seasickness
• More physically demanding than larger catamaran tours

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com

Kona Snorkel Trips earns its place on this list by offering a distinct focus on education and adventure. It's an excellent choice for those prioritizing a more intimate and insightful big island snorkeling tours experience, even with the higher price tag. If you're seeking a fast-paced, learning-focused adventure on the water, Kona Snorkel Trips should be at the top of your consideration list.

5. Body Glove Ocean Adventures

Body Glove Ocean Adventures offers a unique take on big island snorkeling tours, focusing on family fun and a comfortable experience. Their primary destination is the protected Pawai Bay, known for its vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. This makes it an excellent choice for families with children or those looking for a more relaxed snorkeling experience. The tour operates aboard their spacious 65-foot catamaran, specifically designed for navigating Hawaiian waters. This provides a stable and comfortable platform for enjoying the ocean, even if some in your group are prone to seasickness.

Beyond snorkeling, Body Glove enhances the experience with a range of onboard activities. A 20-foot water slide and high jump platform provide thrills for adventurous spirits, while custom dive stairs ensure easy entry and exit from the water for all skill levels. The inclusion of Hawaiian cultural storytelling and live music on the return journey adds another layer of enjoyment, making it a well-rounded experience for those interested in learning about local traditions. Breakfast and a BBQ lunch are prepared onboard, ensuring you're well-fed throughout the adventure. A cocktail bar offers premium refreshments for an additional cost, providing an option for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

One of the key advantages of Body Glove is its consistent departure location from Kailua Pier, making it exceptionally convenient for cruise ship passengers. This eliminates the need for complicated transfers and allows you to maximize your time on the island. Furthermore, Pawai Bay serves as a reliable alternative snorkeling location when conditions at the popular Kealakekua Bay are unfavorable. For those curious about other aspects of snorkeling in Kona, learn more about Body Glove Ocean Adventures and other tours. This resource can provide helpful information for planning your trip.

While Body Glove offers a fantastic big island snorkeling tour experience, it's important to consider the group size. With a capacity of up to 80 passengers, the experience might feel less intimate compared to smaller tour operators. While the snorkeling at Pawai Bay is generally considered good, some seasoned snorkelers might find Kealakekua Bay more exceptional in terms of coral and marine life diversity. Keep in mind the additional cost for premium beverages if you plan on indulging.

Body Glove Ocean Adventures caters particularly well to families and those seeking a comfortable and entertaining snorkeling experience with multiple activity options. The spacious vessel, diverse offerings, and convenient location make it a strong contender among big island snorkeling tours. For up-to-date pricing and booking information, visit their website: https://www.bodyglovehawaii.com.

6. Kohala Sail & Sea

For a truly intimate and personalized big island snorkeling tours experience, Kohala Sail & Sea stands out. Unlike larger, Kona-based operators, Kohala Sail & Sea focuses on the less-traveled northern Kona and Kohala coastline, offering access to secluded snorkeling sites away from the crowds. Their tours are conducted on a 34-foot monohull sailing vessel, accommodating a maximum of six guests. This small group size allows for a highly customized experience with personalized attention from the captain/owners who are passionate about sharing the beauty of the Kohala Coast. Their signature tour combines the thrill of sailing with snorkeling at pristine reefs, often frequented by spinner dolphins and, seasonally, humpback whales.

This tour is perfect for those seeking a more authentic sailing experience combined with exceptional snorkeling. The smaller vessel and personalized itinerary make it ideal for families, small groups of friends, or couples looking for a unique adventure. While the price point is premium (starting at $199+ per person), the intimate setting, access to secluded locations, and potential for incredible marine life encounters justify the cost for discerning travelers. A gourmet lunch featuring locally sourced ingredients is included, further enhancing the premium experience.

Features:

• Ultra-small group experience (maximum 6 guests)
• Exploration of less-visited Kohala Coast snorkel sites
• True sailing experience on a monohull sailboat
• Gourmet lunch with locally sourced ingredients
• Personalized attention and flexible itinerary

Pros:

• Access to less crowded snorkeling locations
• Authentic sailing experience
• Higher chance of marine mammal encounters
• Extremely personalized service with captain/owners

Cons:

• Premium pricing ($199+ per person)
• Sailing vessel offers less stability than catamarans (something to consider if you're prone to seasickness)
• Weather conditions more likely to affect tours in the Kohala area (tours may be cancelled due to wind or sea conditions)
• Less consistent reef access than South Kona tours (due to weather and sea conditions)

If you're seeking a more adventurous and intimate big island snorkeling tours experience and are willing to pay a premium for it, Kohala Sail & Sea is an excellent choice. Be sure to check out their website for more information: https://www.kohalasailandsea.com. You can also learn more about Kohala Sail & Sea and other snorkeling options. This unique experience is particularly well-suited for experienced snorkelers, ocean lovers, and those seeking a truly personalized adventure. It's also a fantastic option for families with older children or scuba divers who have family members who prefer snorkeling. For those prioritizing an exclusive and memorable experience over cost, this tour is a must-consider.

7. Keauhou Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure

For a truly unforgettable Big Island snorkeling tour, consider the Keauhou Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure. This unique experience specializes in nighttime snorkeling excursions, offering a rare opportunity to witness the majestic manta rays feeding on plankton. Departing from Keauhou Bay in the evening, the tour takes you to known manta ray feeding grounds. You'll float on the surface holding onto specialized LED-lit flotation devices which attract the plankton, and in turn, these gentle giants.

This Big Island snorkeling tour earns its spot on this list because it provides a dramatically different experience compared to typical daytime reef snorkeling. While daytime tours offer vibrant coral and colorful fish, this nighttime adventure focuses on the unique magic of encountering manta rays in their natural feeding environment. The custom-designed LED float boards are a game-changer, creating a localized plankton buffet that draws the manta rays close, offering incredible viewing opportunities. Expert guides provide thorough briefings on manta ray behavior and safe interaction protocols, ensuring both your safety and the well-being of these magnificent creatures. Small groups with a maximum of 14 passengers per boat ensure a more personalized experience. For those wanting to capture the magic, professional underwater photographers are available. Wetsuits are provided for comfort in the cooler night waters.

Learn more about Keauhou Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure

While pricing information isn't readily available and should be checked directly on the website, similar tours typically range from $100-$150 per person. No specific technical requirements are needed beyond basic swimming ability, though being comfortable in the water at night is essential. This tour is a fantastic option for families, marine life enthusiasts, and even experienced scuba divers looking for a unique Big Island activity. If you're a first-time snorkeler, the nighttime setting might feel intimidating, so consider your comfort level.

Pros:

• Unique wildlife encounter different from daytime reef snorkeling.
• High success rate for manta ray sightings (over 80%).
• Knowledgeable guides focused on conservation.
• Shorter overall time commitment than daytime tours.
• Small group size for a more personalized experience.

Cons:

• Night snorkeling can be intimidating for beginners.
• Experience highly dependent on manta ray appearances (though the high success rate is reassuring).
• Limited visibility beyond the illuminated area.
• Cold water exposure compared to daytime snorkeling.

Website: https://mantarayshawaii.com

Big Island Snorkeling Tours Comparison

Choosing Your Perfect Snorkeling Tour

Finding the right Big Island snorkeling tours can feel overwhelming with so many incredible options. From the thrilling manta ray night swims with Keauhou Manta Ray Snorkel Adventure to the family-friendly cruises offered by Fair Wind Cruises and Body Glove Ocean Adventures, and the specialized tours like Kona Snorkel Trips and Sea Paradise Snorkel Tours, there’s an underwater experience waiting for everyone. Remember to consider your budget, group size, and desired experience – whether it's exploring vibrant coral reefs alongside Kohala Sail & Sea or seeking specific marine encounters. If you're looking for a reputable tour operator in Kona, check out Kona Honu Divers – Snorkeling Tours from Kona Honu Divers. Their expertise and local knowledge can enhance your snorkeling adventure.

No matter your skill level, from first-time snorkelers to seasoned scuba divers looking for a family-friendly activity, the Big Island’s diverse marine life and crystal-clear waters promise an unforgettable adventure. Your perfect snorkeling experience is just a click away. Ready to dive into the magic of the Big Island's underwater world? Explore the diverse offerings of Kona Snorkel Trips, a leading provider of Big Island snorkeling tours, and book your underwater adventure today!