Big Island Snorkeling Tours | Unforgettable Underwater Adventures

Discover the Magic of Snorkeling on the Big Island

Planning your Big Island snorkeling adventure? Choosing the right tour can be tough. This list of the 7 best Big Island snorkeling tours for 2025 simplifies your planning, offering options for every budget and experience level, from Kona snorkel trips to Kohala Coast adventures. Discover top-rated operators like Kona Honu Divers, Fair Wind Cruises, Body Glove Ocean Adventures, and Sea Paradise, making your Big Island snorkeling dreams a reality.

1. Kona Snorkel Trips: Experience the Best of Big Island Snorkeling Tours

Kona Snorkel Trips consistently earns its place at the top of Big Island snorkeling tours, boasting an impressive reputation as Hawaii's highest-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company. With over 7,700 five-star Google reviews, it's clear they're doing something right. If you're seeking an unforgettable underwater adventure, Kona Snorkel Trips offers a compelling blend of exceptional experiences, top-notch safety, and personalized service that caters to families, first-time snorkelers, and seasoned ocean enthusiasts alike.

One of their signature offerings is the mesmerizing Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Using custom-built boards equipped with high-powered lights, you'll witness these graceful giants up close in their natural habitat, creating a truly magical experience. For history buffs, the Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay combines underwater exploration with a glimpse into Hawaii's rich past. Beyond these highlights, Kona Snorkel Trips explores a variety of breathtaking locations, including local favorites like Pawai Bay, showcasing the diverse marine life that thrives in these waters. Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips to explore the full range of destinations they cover.

What sets Kona Snorkel Trips apart is their unwavering commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. All tours are led by lifeguard-certified guides who prioritize not only your well-being but also environmental stewardship. Their knowledgeable team provides personalized attention, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and confident in the water. This dedication extends beyond snorkeling, with seasonal whale watching tours and private boat charters offering even more ways to experience the ocean’s wonders.

Pros:

• Exceptional reputation: Boasting over 7,700 five-star Google reviews, they are the highest-rated snorkel company in Hawaii.
• Unique Manta Ray Night Snorkel: Experience the magic of manta rays up close with their custom-lit boards.
• Diverse tour options: From historical sites to vibrant coral reefs, whale watching to private charters, they cater to a wide range of interests.
• Safety and service focused: Lifeguard-certified guides prioritize safety, environmental responsibility, and personalized service.
• Flexible Gifting: Gift cards with no expiration date make for a thoughtful present for any occasion.

Cons:

• Premium pricing: Starting at $129 for 2-4 hour tours, their offerings are positioned at a higher price point than some local competitors.
• Limited availability: Due to popularity, booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is highly recommended.

Kona Snorkel Trips offers tours ranging from 2 to 4 hours, starting at $129. While this represents a premium compared to some budget-friendly options, the quality of the experience, the expertise of the guides, and the unique offerings like the Manta Ray Night Snorkel justify the investment. If you're looking for a truly memorable and high-quality big island snorkeling tour, Kona Snorkel Trips is an excellent choice.

Visit their website at https://konasnorkeltrips.com to book your adventure and create unforgettable memories in the beautiful Hawaiian waters.

2. Sea Paradise Sailing & Snorkel Adventures

For a premium Big Island snorkeling tour experience, consider Sea Paradise Sailing & Snorkel Adventures. They specialize in intimate excursions to Kealakekua Bay, a renowned snorkeling destination on the Kona Coast, famed for its vibrant coral reefs and the historical Captain Cook Monument. This makes them an excellent choice for those seeking a more personalized and less crowded adventure amidst some of Hawaii's most pristine underwater scenery. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, Sea Paradise caters to all skill levels with their professional guides and high-quality equipment. They offer multiple daily departures, giving you flexibility in planning your Big Island snorkeling tours.

What sets Sea Paradise apart is their commitment to small group sizes, capped at a maximum of 24 passengers on their spacious 50-foot sailing catamaran. This means more room to relax, more personalized attention from the crew, and a less crowded snorkeling experience in Kealakekua Bay. Their experienced marine naturalist guides provide valuable insights into the local ecosystem, enhancing your appreciation for the underwater world. Beyond the snorkeling, the tour includes freshly prepared breakfast, lunch, and beverages onboard, adding to the overall luxurious feel. The catamaran itself offers ample shaded seating, ensuring comfort throughout the journey.

Features:

• Kealakekua Bay snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument
• Small group sizes (maximum 24 passengers)
• 50-foot sailing catamaran with shaded seating
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and beverages
• Professional marine naturalists as guides

Pros:

• Less crowded experience due to limited passenger capacity
• High-quality food prepared fresh onboard
• Excellent safety record and knowledgeable staff
• Multiple daily departure options

Cons:

• Higher price point than some competitors ($149+ per adult)
• Tours can be canceled due to unfavorable weather conditions
• Booking well in advance is recommended due to limited availability

Pricing: Starting from $149+ per adult.

Implementation Tip: Since Sea Paradise's Big Island snorkeling tours are popular and often book up quickly, it’s highly recommended to reserve your spot well in advance, especially during peak season. Check their website for current pricing and availability.

Comparison: While other operators offer snorkeling tours to Kealakekua Bay, Sea Paradise distinguishes itself through its focus on small groups, high-quality amenities, and the inclusion of meals. If you prioritize a more intimate and luxurious experience, Sea Paradise is a strong contender amongst Big Island snorkeling tours.

Website: https://seaparadise.com

3. Fair Wind Cruises: A Classic Big Island Snorkeling Experience

Fair Wind Cruises stands out as a long-standing pillar in the Big Island snorkeling tour scene. Operating since 1971, this company boasts decades of experience navigating the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay. Their daily trips are conducted aboard two vessels: the custom-built 60-foot catamaran Fair Wind II and the newer, larger Hula Kai. This option is particularly appealing to families and larger groups looking for a comfortable and amenity-rich snorkeling experience. With a focus on a fun, family-friendly environment, Fair Wind Cruises offers a complete package that caters to a broad range of snorkelers, making it a popular choice for big island snorkeling tours.

Fair Wind Cruises offers both morning and afternoon Kealakekua Bay snorkel tours. Their larger vessels provide ample space and amenities including water slides and diving platforms, making them a great option for families with children and those seeking a more stable ride. Full onboard facilities, including freshwater showers and restrooms, add to the overall comfort and convenience. Depending on the specific tour you choose, breakfast and/or lunch are included. All necessary snorkeling gear, instruction, and flotation devices are also provided, catering to both experienced snorkelers and first-timers.

While pricing details can vary depending on the specific tour and time of year, it's helpful to check their website for the most up-to-date information. Comparing Fair Wind Cruises to smaller, more intimate snorkeling tour operators, you'll find that Fair Wind offers a different experience. The trade-off for the larger vessel and extensive amenities is a potentially more crowded snorkeling experience and less personalized attention. The larger vessel size also contributes to a higher environmental impact compared to smaller boats.

Pros:

• Great for families: The extra amenities like water slides and diving platforms make it an engaging experience for children.
• Stable vessels: The larger catamarans are ideal for those prone to seasickness.
• Experienced and safe: Fair Wind Cruises has a long-standing reputation for safety and excellent service.
• Variety of options: Multiple tour options are available at different price points to fit various budgets.

Cons:

• Larger groups: Can lead to a less intimate and more crowded snorkeling experience.
• Less personalized attention: The crew may have less time to dedicate to individual snorkelers compared to smaller tours.
• Environmental impact: Larger vessels have a greater environmental footprint.

For those seeking a classic, comfortable, and family-friendly big island snorkeling tour, Fair Wind Cruises provides a reliable and enjoyable option. Visit their website for booking and more details: https://www.fair-wind.com

4. Kona Snorkel Trips: An Intimate Big Island Snorkeling Adventure

If you're seeking a more personalized and intimate big island snorkeling tours experience, Kona Snorkel Trips deserves a spot on your radar. Instead of crowded boats and rushed itineraries, Kona Snorkel Trips focuses on small-group adventures aboard their custom 40-foot power catamaran, the Makai. With a maximum capacity of just 14 passengers, you'll enjoy a significantly more personal experience compared to larger tour operators. This intimate setting allows for greater interaction with the knowledgeable captain and crew, who are eager to share their local expertise and passion for the underwater world.

Their primary destination is the historically significant Kealakekua Bay, home to the Captain Cook Monument and vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. However, Kona Snorkel Trips prides itself on flexibility. Depending on the day's conditions and passenger preferences, they might explore other pristine snorkeling locations, offering a unique element of surprise and adventure. This adaptability allows them to avoid crowds and seek out the best snorkeling opportunities, increasing your chances of encountering diverse marine life like colorful reef fish, graceful manta rays, and even playful dolphins. For a deeper dive into their offerings and potential destinations, learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips.

A continental breakfast and a deli lunch are included in the tour price, ensuring you're fueled for your underwater explorations. The smaller group size also means quicker and easier entry and exit from the water, making this a great option for families with younger children or less experienced snorkelers.

While Kona Snorkel Trips offers a premium experience, it comes at a premium price, starting at $165+ per adult. The limited capacity also means booking in advance is essential, especially during peak season. And while the Makai is comfortable, it naturally offers fewer onboard amenities than larger vessels, like waterslides or extensive seating areas. This tour might not be ideal for large families or groups due to the capacity limitations.

Features:

• Very small group size (maximum 14 passengers)
• Custom 40-foot power catamaran
• Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay snorkeling (plus other potential locations)
• Continental breakfast and deli lunch included
• Flexible itinerary based on conditions and passenger preferences

Pros:

• Intimate experience with personal attention from the captain and crew
• Ability to avoid crowds and optimize snorkeling conditions by adjusting the schedule
• Knowledgeable captain and crew with local expertise, enriching your experience
• Higher chance of wildlife encounters with a smaller, quieter group

Cons:

• Premium pricing ($165+ per adult)
• Limited availability due to small capacity
• Fewer onboard amenities than larger vessels
• May not be ideal for large families or groups

Website: https://www.konasnorkeltrips.com

Kona Snorkel Trips caters specifically to those seeking a more intimate and personalized big island snorkeling tours experience. If you value personalized service, flexibility, and the opportunity to connect with the ocean's wonders in a small-group setting, this tour might be the perfect fit for you.

5. Body Glove Ocean Adventures

Body Glove Ocean Adventures offers a unique blend of historical sightseeing and snorkeling adventure along the Kona Coast, making it a solid option among Big Island snorkeling tours. Their cruises aboard the 65-foot catamaran Kanoa II take you to the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, a significant historical and cultural site. This tour is ideal for those looking for a more comprehensive experience beyond just snorkeling, incorporating education and entertainment into their time on the water.

The Kanoa II boasts amenities designed for comfort and fun, including a thrilling 20-foot water slide, large viewing windows for observing marine life from the comfort of the boat, and ample deck space for soaking up the Hawaiian sun. They offer multiple departure times throughout the day, including morning snorkel excursions and afternoon cruises that combine snorkeling with sunset viewing. Depending on the tour you choose, breakfast or lunch is included in the price. Some cruises even feature a cocktail bar and live entertainment, adding to the festive atmosphere.

This tour earns its place on this list due to its accessibility and multi-faceted approach. It’s suitable for a wide range of Big Island snorkeling tour seekers, from families with children to those interested in learning about Hawaiian history and culture. The stable catamaran also makes it a good option for people with mobility concerns.

Features:

• Historical narration during Kealakekua Bay cruises
• 65-foot catamaran with a water slide and large viewing windows
• Breakfast or lunch included (depending on the tour time)
• Multiple daily departure options
• Cocktail bar and live entertainment on select cruises

Pros:

• Good value for money (starting at $129+ per adult)
• Combination of entertainment and snorkeling experience
• Large, stable vessel suitable for those with mobility concerns
• Educational component with historical narration

Cons:

• Larger passenger capacity (up to 150) can lead to a more crowded experience
• Less time spent in the water compared to some specialized snorkel tours
• The lively atmosphere might not appeal to serious snorkelers seeking a more tranquil experience
• Can be noisy with larger groups

Pricing: Starting at $129+ per adult

Website: https://www.bodyglovehawaii.com

Comparison with Similar Tours: Compared to smaller, more specialized Big Island snorkeling tours, Body Glove offers a more comprehensive experience. While you may spend less time actually snorkeling, the added historical context, onboard amenities, and entertainment make it a strong contender for families or those seeking a blend of activities. If your primary goal is maximizing underwater time, a smaller boat tour might be preferable.

Implementation/Setup Tips: Booking online in advance is recommended, especially during peak season. Consider your preferences for atmosphere and activity levels when choosing between morning and afternoon departures. If you're prone to seasickness, take precautions before embarking.

6. Kohala Divers: Explore the Hidden Gems of Big Island Snorkeling Tours

Kohala Divers distinguishes itself from other big island snorkeling tours by offering a more specialized and intimate experience. Focusing on the less-visited northern reefs of the Kohala Coast, they provide access to unique snorkeling sites teeming with marine life. While primarily a scuba diving operation, their snorkel tours benefit immensely from their expert knowledge of the local waters and marine ecosystems. This makes them a fantastic choice for discerning snorkelers looking for a more enriching experience beyond the typical tourist hotspots.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of the underwater world, Kohala Divers often features marine biologist guides on their tours. Imagine snorkeling alongside an expert who can identify the various species you encounter and explain the intricate workings of the reef ecosystem. This personalized attention, combined with small group sizes (typically 6-12 snorkelers), creates a truly immersive and educational snorkeling adventure. They offer flexible itineraries tailored to the day's conditions and marine life activity, meaning you might find yourself exploring a secluded cove one day and observing a turtle cleaning station the next. High-quality snorkeling equipment is included, so you don't need to worry about bringing your own gear.

Kohala Divers caters to a variety of snorkeling enthusiasts, from first-timers seeking a guided introduction to the underwater world to experienced snorkelers looking for unique and less crowded locations. Families with scuba divers can enjoy separate but equally rewarding experiences, with the divers exploring deeper while the snorkelers explore the vibrant reefs closer to the surface. This makes Kohala Divers an excellent choice for multi-generational families or groups with varying interests.

Features:

• Access to less crowded north Kona and Kohala Coast snorkel sites
• Marine biologist guides on many tours
• Small group sizes (typically 6-12 snorkelers)
• High-quality equipment included
• Flexible itineraries based on conditions and marine life activity

Pros:

• Access to less visited snorkeling locations, providing a more exclusive experience.
• Higher level of marine biology expertise for a truly educational adventure.
• Personalized attention from guides due to smaller group sizes.
• Opportunity to see different marine life than on typical south Kona tours.

Cons:

• Higher price point for specialized tours ($155+ per person).
• Fewer daily departures than larger operators, requiring advance booking.
• Less amenities onboard smaller vessels compared to larger tour boats.
• Locations may have less consistent visibility than protected bays like Kealakekua Bay.

Implementation Tip: Book your Kohala Divers big island snorkeling tour well in advance, especially during peak season, as their smaller groups and limited departures fill up quickly. Check their website for specific tour schedules and availability.

Website: https://www.kohaladivers.com

7. Kona Honu Divers

For a truly unforgettable addition to your Big Island snorkeling tours itinerary, consider Kona Honu Divers. They specialize in creating magical encounters with manta rays during their signature night snorkeling tours. While daytime reef snorkeling is available, their expertise lies in guiding small groups to witness these gentle giants feeding in their natural habitat at Garden Eel Cove (Manta Ray Village).

Kona Honu Divers distinguishes itself through its intimate approach. They utilize smaller vessels (28-38 feet), ensuring a more personalized experience compared to some larger tour operators. Their expert guides possess in-depth knowledge of manta ray behavior, significantly increasing the chances of a successful encounter. They provide all the necessary equipment, including wetsuits and specialized lights that attract plankton, drawing the manta rays closer to the surface for an up-close and personal viewing experience for snorkelers.

This experience earns its place on this list because it offers a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures in their natural environment. It's an exceptional choice for marine life enthusiasts and those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling adventure.

Features:

• Specialized manta ray night snorkeling experience
• Small group sizes on 28-38 foot vessels
• All necessary equipment including wetsuits and special lights
• Professional guides with extensive manta ray knowledge
• Daytime reef snorkeling options also available

Pros:

• Unique opportunity to snorkel with manta rays
• Knowledgeable guides specialized in manta behavior
• Higher success rate of manta ray encounters
• Less crowded than some larger manta tour operators

Cons:

• Night snorkeling can be intimidating for beginners
• Weather dependent with a higher cancellation rate
• More expensive than standard day snorkeling ($135-175 per adult)
• Limited to specific locations where mantas feed

Implementation Tip: Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as space on these smaller boats fills up quickly. If you're a beginner or nervous about night snorkeling, communicate your concerns with the tour operator. They can provide guidance and reassurance to make your experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Comparison: While other Big Island snorkeling tours may offer manta ray encounters, Kona Honu Divers specializes in these experiences, leading to a higher likelihood of sightings. Their smaller group sizes and specialized knowledge contribute to a more intimate and enriching experience.

Pricing: Manta ray night snorkeling tours typically range from $135 to $175 per adult. Check their website for the latest pricing and availability.

Website: https://www.konahonudivers.com

Kona Honu Divers offers a truly special experience for those looking for something beyond the typical Big Island snorkeling tours. It's ideal for adventurous travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone seeking an unforgettable encounter with these magnificent creatures.

Big Island Snorkeling Tours Comparison

Make a Splash: Book Your Big Island Adventure Today!

From swimming with manta rays at night with Kona Honu Divers to exploring the pristine reefs with Fair Wind Cruises, the Big Island offers a diverse range of big island snorkeling tours to suit every taste and experience level. We've highlighted seven top-rated tour operators, including Kona Snorkel Trips, Sea Paradise Sailing & Snorkel Adventures, Body Glove Ocean Adventures, and Kohala Divers, each offering unique features and itineraries. Remember to consider factors like group size, experience level, and desired marine life encounters when choosing your ideal tour. For those seeking ultimate luxury and seclusion, PARK Magazine highlights some incredible options for a private island rental in their article "Top 8 Private Island Rental Deals to Book in 2025". These exclusive getaways offer unparalleled privacy and access to pristine snorkeling spots, perfect for discerning travelers. No matter your preference, the Big Island's underwater world awaits. Ready to dive in? Explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs with Kona Snorkel Trips, a fantastic option for big island snorkeling tours. Discover their exciting range of tours and book your underwater adventure today: Kona Snorkel Trips