Top Big Island Snorkeling Tours – Book Today!

Discover the Magic of Big Island Snorkeling

Planning your perfect Big Island snorkeling adventure can be overwhelming. This list simplifies your search by showcasing seven top-rated Big Island snorkeling tours, from Kona Snorkel Trips to Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions. Whether you're seeking thrilling manta ray night dives or a relaxing family-friendly cruise, this guide helps you quickly find the ideal tour to explore Hawaii's breathtaking underwater world. Discover the best options for your needs and budget.

1. Kona Snorkel Trips: Dive into Unforgettable Big Island Snorkeling Tours

Kona Snorkel Trips consistently earns top marks as one of the highest-rated and most-reviewed big island snorkeling tours providers. With over 7,700 five-star Google reviews, their reputation speaks for itself. They offer a diverse range of experiences catering to various interests and skill levels, making them a fantastic option for anyone seeking an extraordinary underwater adventure. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or dipping your toes in the water for the first time, Kona Snorkel Trips offers a unique blend of adventure, professionalism, and local expertise, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Why Choose Kona Snorkel Trips for your Big Island Snorkeling Adventure?

This company’s focus on quality and guest satisfaction sets them apart. They boast lifeguard-certified guides who are not just knowledgeable about marine life but also passionate about sharing their expertise. Their commitment to safety and environmental stewardship is evident in every aspect of their tours, ensuring both your enjoyment and the preservation of Hawaii's precious ecosystem. Beyond the standard snorkel trips, they specialize in unique offerings like the breathtaking Manta Ray Night Snorkel and the historically significant Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour in Kealakekua Bay. Learn more about Kona Snorkel Trips to explore their wide array of tour offerings.

A Closer Look at the Experiences:

From swimming alongside graceful manta rays to exploring vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, Kona Snorkel Trips curates experiences to suit every taste. Seasonal whale watching tours add another dimension to their offerings, providing opportunities to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. They cater to all experience levels, offering introductory tours for beginners and more challenging excursions for seasoned snorkelers. Looking for a special experience? The Manta Ray Night Snorkel is a highly sought-after tour that promises an unforgettable encounter.

What to Expect:

• Expert Guides: Benefit from the expertise of lifeguard-certified guides who prioritize your safety and enhance your understanding of the marine environment.
• Diverse Tours: Choose from a wide selection of tours, including night swims, historical explorations, and seasonal whale watching.
• Environmental Responsibility: Kona Snorkel Trips is committed to sustainable practices, ensuring minimal impact on the delicate marine ecosystems.
• Personalized Service: Experience a high level of personal attention and care, making your snorkel trip truly special.

Pricing and Booking:

Popular tours start at an accessible $129, with seasonal discounts often available, such as 20% off when booking multiple tours. Due to high demand, especially for popular options like the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, advance booking is strongly recommended.

Pros:

• Highest rated and most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii.
• Unique opportunities for manta ray night snorkels and historical bay explorations.
• Wide variety of tours for all skill levels.
• Strong emphasis on safety, environmental responsibility, and personalized service.
• Competitive pricing.

Cons:

• Some tours have moderate fitness level requirements or minimum age restrictions (e.g., Captain Cook Tour for ages 3+).
• Advance booking is often necessary due to the popularity of certain tours.

Website: https://konasnorkeltrips.com

Kona Snorkel Trips stands out as a top choice for big island snorkeling tours, offering a perfect blend of adventure, education, and respect for the ocean. Whether you're a family seeking a memorable vacation activity, a marine life enthusiast eager to explore the underwater world, or simply looking for a fun and exciting ocean adventure, Kona Snorkel Trips provides an exceptional experience that will leave you with lasting memories.

2. Sea Paradise Kona Hawaii

Sea Paradise Kona Hawaii distinguishes itself among Big Island snorkeling tours by offering a premium experience focused on Kealakekua Bay, a renowned snorkeling haven. Their signature tour aboard the 50-foot catamaran 'Hoku Nui' promises a comfortable and stable journey to this protected marine conservation area, teeming with vibrant marine life. They cater to a variety of snorkelers, from first-timers to seasoned enthusiasts, with complimentary gear, instruction, and flotation devices. The experienced crew enhances the trip with insights into Hawaiian culture and the bay's diverse ecosystem. For those seeking a more luxurious and educational snorkeling adventure, Sea Paradise stands out as a top choice.

Beyond their signature Kealakekua Bay tour, Sea Paradise offers flexible tour options, including morning and afternoon departures. The spacious catamaran 'Hoku Nui' features shaded seating areas and freshwater showers, ensuring comfort throughout the trip. Breakfast, lunch, and drinks (including alcoholic beverages after snorkeling) are included, adding to the all-inclusive feel. Small group sizes allow for personalized attention from the crew, creating a more intimate and enriching snorkeling experience. While pricing isn't explicitly listed on their main site, expect a higher price point compared to some competitors, reflecting the premium nature of their tours. Learn more about Sea Paradise Kona Hawaii and explore their various offerings.

Pros:

• Exceptional Crew: The highly-rated crew prioritizes safety and customer satisfaction, ensuring a positive experience for all.
• Prime Location: Kealakekua Bay, a top snorkeling spot on the Big Island, offers incredible underwater visibility and abundant marine life.
• Stable & Comfortable Catamaran: The 'Hoku Nui' provides a smooth ride, even in choppier conditions, making it suitable for those prone to seasickness.
• Flexible Tour Options: Morning and afternoon departures cater to various schedules.

Cons:

• Higher Price Point: Expect to pay a premium for the quality of service and the Kealakekua Bay experience.
• Weather Dependent: Tours are subject to cancellation due to unfavorable weather conditions.
• Advance Booking Recommended: Due to popularity, booking weeks in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.

Sea Paradise deserves a spot on this list of Big Island snorkeling tours because it provides a high-quality, comfortable, and educational experience at one of the island's best snorkeling destinations. While the price point may be higher than some competitors, the included amenities, experienced crew, and focus on Kealakekua Bay make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a memorable snorkeling adventure. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers, families, marine life enthusiasts, and even first-time snorkelers looking for a premium experience. If you prioritize comfort, a knowledgeable crew, and access to a pristine snorkeling location, Sea Paradise Kona Hawaii is an excellent choice for your big island snorkeling tours.

3. Fair Wind Cruises

For a quintessential Big Island snorkeling experience with a focus on comfort and family fun, Fair Wind Cruises is a strong contender. Operating since 1971, this established company brings decades of experience to their tours of Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook Monument. They offer excursions aboard their two spacious catamarans, the 60-foot Fair Wind II and the 55-foot Hula Kai, providing ample space and amenities for a relaxing and enjoyable day on the water. If you're looking for a well-organized, all-inclusive snorkeling tour with a focus on service and a touch of luxury, Fair Wind Cruises deserves a place on your shortlist for big island snorkeling tours.

Fair Wind Cruises distinguishes itself through features like an exclusive mooring in Kealakekua Bay, allowing their guests quicker access to the prime snorkeling areas near the Captain Cook Monument. Their custom-built catamarans boast water slides, dive platforms, and comfortable onboard facilities, including hot showers and changing rooms. They offer both morning and afternoon tours of varying durations, accommodating different schedules. High-quality snorkel gear, instruction, and various flotation devices are provided, catering to both beginners and experienced snorkelers. A significant highlight is their extensive food and beverage service, which includes freshly prepared meals, making it a truly all-inclusive experience.

While specific pricing isn't readily available and may vary based on the chosen tour and time of year, expect premium pricing compared to smaller, more basic operators. You can learn more about Fair Wind Cruises and explore booking options on their website.

Pros:

• Stability and comfort: Large, stable vessels make the trip comfortable, even for those prone to seasickness, and suitable for all ages and experience levels, making it an excellent choice for families.
• Multiple activities: Water slides and a high jump platform provide entertainment beyond snorkeling, appealing to a broader range of interests.
• Excellent amenities: Hot showers and changing rooms add a touch of luxury to the experience.
• Reputable and reliable: A long-standing reputation and consistently positive reviews provide peace of mind.

Cons:

• Group size: Larger group sizes can lead to a more crowded snorkeling experience, especially at popular spots within Kealakekua Bay.
• Premium pricing: Fair Wind Cruises typically sits at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to smaller, locally-owned operators.
• Fixed schedules: Tours operate on a fixed schedule, offering less flexibility for customized experiences.

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

4. Kona Ocean Adventures: Intimate Snorkeling Experiences

Kona Ocean Adventures earns its spot on this list of best Big Island snorkeling tours by offering a distinctly personalized experience. If you're seeking an intimate encounter with the vibrant underwater world of Hawaii, away from the crowds of larger tours, this is an excellent choice. Their focus on small groups and flexible itineraries allows for a truly unique adventure tailored to your interests and the day's conditions. Learn more about Kona Ocean Adventures

This operator specializes in small-group excursions, capping their tours at a maximum of six guests. This intimate setting allows their experienced guides to provide personalized attention and cater to individual snorkeling levels, making it perfect for families with mixed experience levels, first-time snorkelers, or even seasoned scuba divers with families seeking a more relaxed snorkeling experience. Kona Ocean Adventures prioritizes finding the best snorkeling spots each day, utilizing smaller, faster boats to access hidden gems and less crowded locations often unreachable by larger tour vessels. This means you'll likely encounter more diverse marine life and enjoy a more tranquil snorkeling experience.

They offer several types of Big Island snorkeling tours, including dolphin encounters, exhilarating manta ray night snorkeling, and daytime explorations that often include Kealakekua Bay and other prime snorkeling locations along the Kona coast. These varied itineraries appeal to diverse interests, from adventurous travelers and marine life enthusiasts to family vacationers looking for a memorable ocean experience.

Features:

• Small group sizes (maximum 6 guests): Ensures a personalized experience with dedicated guide attention.
• Multiple snorkeling locations: Maximizes your chances of seeing diverse marine life.
• High chance of dolphin encounters: A major draw for many, and factored into many of their tours.
• All equipment provided including premium snorkel gear: No need to worry about bringing your own.
• Professional underwater photography available: Capture stunning memories of your adventure.

Pros:

• Intimate experience with highly personalized service: Perfect for families and those seeking a more exclusive experience.
• Ability to visit less crowded snorkeling spots: Enjoy the tranquility and see more marine life.
• Flexible itineraries based on conditions and marine life activity: Your guide can adapt the tour for the best possible experience.
• Higher chance of wildlife encounters due to smaller boat and experienced guides: Experienced guides know the best spots and how to approach wildlife responsibly.

Cons:

• Premium pricing reflects small group size: Expect to pay more for this personalized service.
• Smaller boats may mean rougher ride in choppy conditions: Something to consider if you're prone to seasickness.
• Less onboard amenities compared to larger vessels: Focus is on the snorkeling experience rather than onboard luxuries.
• Tours book up quickly due to limited capacity: Book in advance, especially during peak season.

While pricing information isn't readily available and may vary depending on the specific tour, you should expect a premium price point reflecting the exclusive, small-group nature of the experience. This personalized approach to Big Island snorkeling tours positions Kona Ocean Adventures as a top choice for discerning travelers looking for something beyond the typical crowded boat tour. Visit their website for booking and further details: https://www.konaoceanadventures.com/

5. Body Glove Cruises

Body Glove Cruises offers a comprehensive big island snorkeling tour experience aboard their spacious 65-foot catamaran, the Kanoa II. This tour caters to a wide range of snorkelers, from families with young children to experienced water enthusiasts seeking a relaxing and entertaining day on the water. Focusing on the Kona Coast, Body Glove combines the thrill of snorkeling with the laid-back atmosphere of a cruise, making it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. Their signature tour includes a visit to Pawai Bay, a protected cove teeming with vibrant marine life, perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels. While not venturing to Kealakekua Bay, they provide a unique experience centered around entertainment and comfort. This approach makes them an excellent option for those prioritizing a fun, all-inclusive experience over reaching a specific snorkel destination.

The Kanoa II boasts two decks, a thrilling water slide, and ample shaded areas, ensuring comfort throughout the trip. The tour emphasizes Hawaiian culture and history, featuring live entertainment, historical narration about the coastline, and traditional elements. A substantial breakfast and BBQ lunch are included, and premium bar options are available for those seeking a more festive experience. Morning snorkel tours typically offer approximately 1.5 hours of water time, giving ample opportunity to explore the underwater world of Pawai Bay. Learn more about Body Glove Cruises for details on specific tour routes and schedules.

While pricing can vary, Body Glove Cruises generally provides great value for its inclusive offerings of food, drinks, and entertainment. This makes it a strong competitor amongst other big island snorkeling tours, especially for families seeking a budget-friendly option. The stability of the large vessel also makes it a suitable choice for those prone to seasickness. However, it's worth noting that the larger group sizes (up to 150 passengers) can lead to a more crowded experience, both on board and in the water during snorkeling. Also, dedicated snorkel tours often provide more extended time in the water. So, if maximizing your snorkeling time is paramount, you might consider exploring alternative options. Finally, Body Glove does not usually visit Kealakekua Bay, often considered the premium snorkeling spot on the Big Island, so keep that in mind if that's a must-see for your snorkeling adventure. Nevertheless, Body Glove Cruises earns its place on this list by offering a unique blend of entertainment, cultural immersion, and snorkeling adventure, perfectly suited for families and those looking for a relaxed and enjoyable day on the water.

6. Kohala Divers: Intimate Big Island Snorkeling Tours

Kohala Divers distinguishes itself from other big island snorkeling tours by offering a more personalized and intimate experience. Catering specifically to visitors of the Kohala Coast resorts, such as Waikoloa and Mauna Lani, they prioritize smaller groups and venture to less-frequented snorkeling spots along the North Kona and South Kohala coastlines. This focus allows for a more tailored experience, making it ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the marine environment and avoiding the hustle and bustle of larger tour boats.

For families with young children or first-time snorkelers, the small group setting ensures individualized attention and instruction from their highly knowledgeable guides, many of whom have backgrounds in marine biology. Experienced snorkelers and ocean enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to explore hidden gems and discover the vibrant marine life thriving in these less-trafficked locations. Beyond standard snorkeling tours, Kohala Divers also offers unique experiences like manta ray night snorkeling and seasonal whale watching excursions from their custom dive boats.

Features and Benefits:

• Small Group Tours (6-12 guests): This allows for personalized attention from guides and a more intimate snorkeling experience.
• Less Crowded Snorkeling Spots: Discover hidden gems and enjoy the underwater world without the crowds.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Learn about the local marine ecosystem from experts with marine biology backgrounds.
• High-Quality Equipment: Beginners can feel confident with provided top-notch gear and thorough instruction.
• Convenient Location: Easy access for guests staying in Waikoloa and Kohala resort areas.
• Flexible Itineraries: Tours can be adapted based on weather conditions and guest preferences.

Pros:

• More personalized attention and instruction from expert guides
• Access to less crowded, pristine snorkeling locations
• Flexible itineraries catering to guest preferences and conditions
• Deeper understanding of the marine environment thanks to knowledgeable staff

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to larger group tours
• Limited onboard amenities compared to larger vessels
• Weather-dependent operations, especially during winter months
• Does not visit the popular Kealakekua Bay

Implementation/Setup Tips:

Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, due to the limited capacity of their small group tours. Contact Kohala Divers directly through their website or by phone to inquire about specific tour dates, times, and pricing. Mention any specific interests or needs you have, such as beginner instruction or accessibility requirements.

Pricing: While specific pricing isn't available on their website, expect a higher price point than larger group tours due to the personalized nature of the experience. Contact Kohala Divers directly for current rates.

Kohala Divers earns its spot on this list by providing a premium, personalized big island snorkeling tour experience. If you're seeking a more intimate and educational adventure, away from the throngs of tourists, and prioritize quality over quantity, Kohala Divers is an excellent choice. Their focus on small groups, expert guidance, and access to less-visited locations makes them a fantastic option for families, beginners, and experienced snorkelers alike. Visit their website (https://www.kohaladivers.com/) for more information and to book your unforgettable snorkeling adventure.

7. Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions

For those seeking a thrilling and fast-paced way to experience the best Big Island snorkeling tours, Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions offers an unforgettable adventure. Instead of leisurely cruising, imagine zipping across the waves on a rigid-hull inflatable raft (RHIB), wind in your hair, en route to secluded snorkeling spots inaccessible to larger vessels. This tour is perfect for adventurous spirits who crave a more intimate experience and the chance to explore hidden gems.

Operating since 1974, Captain Zodiac has perfected the art of combining exhilarating boat rides with exceptional snorkeling opportunities. Their smaller, nimble rafts can navigate close to the coastline, allowing you to explore sea caves and lava tubes that larger boats simply can't reach. One of the key highlights is their access to a premium mooring at Kealakekua Bay, placing you right near the Captain Cook Monument, a prime snorkeling location teeming with vibrant marine life. While larger boats are restricted to more distant moorings, Captain Zodiac's privileged access translates to more time in the water at this highly sought-after spot.

With a maximum of 16 passengers per boat, these Big Island snorkeling tours offer a personalized experience that larger catamaran tours often lack. The experienced crew provides insightful narration about the coastline, its history, and the diverse marine life you'll encounter. Dry snacks and drinks are provided onboard to keep you energized, though the offerings are less extensive than what you might find on a larger vessel with full catering.

Features:

• Fast, maneuverable RHIB boats allowing access to exclusive locations
• Exploration of sea caves and lava tubes
• Premium mooring at Kealakekua Bay near Captain Cook Monument
• Small groups (maximum 16 passengers)
• Dry snacks and drinks provided

Pros:

• Adventurous, fast-paced, and exhilarating boat ride
• Access to locations unreachable by larger boats
• Intimate, small-group experience with personalized attention
• Longer snorkeling time at premium locations like Kealakekua Bay

Cons:

• Rougher ride not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or very young children
• Fewer onboard amenities (no restrooms, limited shade)
• More physically demanding than larger catamaran tours
• Can be a wet ride

Website: https://www.captainzodiac.com/

While pricing can vary, it's generally competitive with other premium Big Island snorkeling tours. Check their website for current pricing and availability. If you're seeking an adventurous, up-close-and-personal snorkeling experience, Captain Zodiac is a fantastic choice. Just be prepared for a more active and potentially wet ride compared to the more relaxed pace of a larger boat. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers, marine life enthusiasts, and experienced snorkelers seeking unique exploration. However, it's important to consider the physical demands and potential for a rougher ride when deciding if this is the right Big Island snorkeling tour for you.

Top 7 Big Island Snorkeling Tours Compared

Choosing the Perfect Snorkeling Adventure

From thrilling manta ray night dives with Kona Ocean Adventures to exploring the calm waters of Kealakekua Bay with Fair Wind Cruises, the Big Island offers diverse snorkeling experiences. We’ve explored some fantastic options, including Kona Snorkel Trips, Sea Paradise Kona Hawaii, Body Glove Cruises, Kohala Divers, and Captain Zodiac Raft Expeditions, each offering unique features and catering to different interests. When selecting your Big Island snorkeling tour, consider factors like your experience level (beginner-friendly options abound!), group size (some tours are better for families, while others are ideal for solo travelers), budget, and desired amenities (like onboard meals or equipment rentals). If you're still unsure which tour is right for you, check out this helpful resource: 5 Best Big Island Snorkeling Tours from Kona Honu Divers. This guide offers further insights into some top-rated snorkeling adventures.

No matter which Big Island snorkeling tour you choose, remember to respect the delicate marine ecosystem. Follow your guide’s instructions, avoid touching the coral or disturbing marine life, and use reef-safe sunscreen. By being mindful, you can help preserve the beauty of these underwater worlds for generations to come.

Ready to dive in and experience the vibrant coral reefs and incredible marine life firsthand? Begin your underwater adventure by exploring the exciting Big Island snorkeling tours offered by Kona Snorkel Trips. They offer a variety of options perfect for discovering the underwater wonders of Hawaii.