Top 10 Unforgettable Things To Do in Kona, Hawaii (2026 Guide)

Welcome to Kailua-Kona, the vibrant heart of the Big Island where adventure meets paradise. Whether you're dreaming of swimming with gentle giants of the sea or exploring historic bays, figuring out what to do in Kona is an exciting first step. To help you plan an unforgettable trip, we've curated the definitive list of top experiences, with a special focus on the world-class underwater adventures offered by Kona Snorkel Trips, Hawaii's top-rated and most-reviewed snorkel company.

This comprehensive guide moves beyond generic suggestions to give you the actionable details needed to build your perfect Big Island itinerary. We will break down everything you need to know, from logistics like ideal tour times and difficulty levels to highlighting family-friendly options and insider booking tips. We’ll explore Kona’s most iconic activities, including the world-famous Manta Ray Night Snorkel and the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay, home to the Captain Cook Monument.

This list is designed for every type of traveler, from first-time snorkelers and seasoned divers to families seeking shared memories and adventurers looking for their next thrill. You’ll find fresh perspectives on popular excursions, uncover unique tours like underwater photography and coral conservation, and get practical advice to ensure a seamless experience. Our goal is to equip you with all the information necessary to dive confidently into the best adventures Kona has to offer, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Get ready to explore the essential list of things to do in Kona.

1. Manta Ray Night Snorkel: A Magical Underwater Ballet

Imagine floating in the calm, dark waters of the Pacific as giant, graceful manta rays glide and somersault just inches below you. This is not a scene from a documentary; it's the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, an experience so profound and unique it consistently ranks as a must-do activity in Kona. The adventure begins as boats head out after sunset to specific coastal locations where powerful lights are shone into the water. This light attracts swarms of plankton, the primary food source for manta rays, creating an underwater buffet that draws these gentle giants in for a spectacular feeding display.

This world-renowned wildlife encounter offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures, some with wingspans exceeding 15 feet, in their natural habitat. As a top thing to do in Kona, this tour is a cornerstone of any Big Island itinerary. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips have perfected the experience, providing custom-built light boards for snorkelers to hold onto, ensuring a stable, front-row seat to the underwater ballet. For those seeking another excellent tour, Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaii also offers a fantastic and highly-rated adventure.

Key Tips for Your Manta Ray Snorkel

To make the most of this unforgettable night, a little preparation goes a long way.

• Book Far in Advance: This is arguably the most popular tour in Kona. Seats fill up weeks, sometimes months, ahead of time, especially during peak season.
• Trust Your Crew: The guides are experts in manta ray behavior and ocean safety. Follow their instructions closely for your safety and the well-being of the animals.
• Stay Calm and Float: The best encounters happen when you relax. Hold onto the light board and float peacefully. Excessive kicking and splashing can scare the mantas away.
• Protect the Rays: Never touch a manta ray. Their skin has a protective mucus coating that can be harmed by human touch. You can discover more fun facts about these amazing animals to appreciate them even more.

2. Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour: History and Marine Majesty

Step back in time while exploring one of Hawaiʻi's most vibrant marine sanctuaries on a Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour. This iconic excursion takes you to historic Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine life conservation district inaccessible by road. The journey itself, along the stunning Kona coast, is part of the adventure, culminating at the site where British explorer Captain James Cook first landed and eventually met his demise. The calm, crystal-clear waters here are teeming with life, offering an underwater spectacle of colorful coral reefs and countless tropical fish.

This tour is consistently ranked as a top thing to do in Kona because it perfectly blends rich history, breathtaking scenery, and world-class snorkeling. The bay's protected status ensures the coral is healthy and the fish populations are abundant, making it an ideal spot for snorkelers of all skill levels. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips offer exceptional guided experiences, providing all the necessary gear and expert knowledge about the area's history and marine ecosystem. For another highly-rated option, Captain Cook Snorkeling Tours also provides a fantastic adventure to this historic location.

Key Tips for Your Captain Cook Snorkel Tour

A little preparation will ensure your historical and underwater adventure is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

• Prevent Seasickness: If you are prone to motion sickness, take medication about 30 minutes before your boat departs to ensure a comfortable ride.
• Sun Protection is Key: The Hawaiian sun is strong. Apply reef-safe sunscreen generously and consider wearing a rash guard for extra protection from the sun and potential abrasions.
• Arrive Early: Get to the check-in location at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure time for a stress-free start to your tour.
• Consider Afternoon Tours: While morning tours are popular, afternoon trips often have fewer crowds, offering a more serene experience in the bay.

3. Pawai Bay Local Snorkeling Adventure

For those looking to escape the more crowded spots and discover a local favorite, Pawai Bay offers an authentic and rewarding snorkeling adventure. This protected marine sanctuary is a hidden gem, providing a more intimate glimpse into Kona’s vibrant underwater world. The bay’s relative seclusion means healthier coral formations and a chance to see marine life in a less trafficked environment, making it a truly special thing to do in Kona. The calm, clear waters are ideal for observing intricate coral gardens and the diverse fish that call them home.

Unlike more famous locations, Pawai Bay delivers a sense of discovery and tranquility. It’s the kind of place Kona residents go to enjoy the ocean, and its growing reputation among dedicated snorkelers is a testament to its pristine condition. Operators like Kona Snorkel Trips frequently include this special spot on their deluxe morning tours, providing access to an area that is difficult to reach without a boat. Their local knowledge ensures you experience the bay at its best, combining top-tier snorkeling with an authentic Hawaiian atmosphere.

Key Tips for Your Pawai Bay Snorkel

To maximize your time at this local treasure, keep these tips in mind.

• Go in the Morning: The water at Pawai Bay is typically calmest and clearest in the morning hours, offering the best visibility for spotting marine life.
• Choose a Local Guide: Booking with a locally-owned operator is key. Their guides possess invaluable knowledge about the bay’s unique ecosystems and current conditions.
• Observe Respectfully: As a protected area, it’s crucial to practice mindful snorkeling. Look but don't touch the coral or marine animals to help preserve this special place.
• Listen to the Ocean: Take a moment to simply float and listen. The sounds of parrotfish nibbling on coral and the gentle ocean currents create a truly immersive experience.

4. Seasonal Whale Watching Tours: A Majestic Ocean Encounter

Each winter, the calm, warm waters off the Kona coast become a nursery for thousands of migrating humpback whales, offering one of the most breathtaking wildlife spectacles on the planet. From November through April, these gentle giants journey to Hawaii to breed, give birth, and nurture their calves. A seasonal whale watching tour provides a front-row seat to this incredible display of nature, where you can witness 40-ton adults breach clear out of the water or hear the unforgettable melody of a male's song. This is an essential winter activity for anyone wondering what to do in Kona.

This incredible experience is more than just sightseeing; it's an educational journey. Expert guides on tours like those offered by Kona Snorkel Trips share fascinating insights into the whales' behavior, migration patterns, and the ongoing conservation efforts to protect them. These seasonal adventures often combine the thrill of whale watching with fantastic snorkeling opportunities, making for a truly comprehensive day on the water. Observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat within the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is a profound and humbling experience that will stay with you long after your vacation ends.

Key Tips for Your Whale Watching Tour

To maximize your chances of an amazing encounter and ensure a comfortable trip, keep these tips in mind.

• Book Early in the Season: Whale watching is a limited-time opportunity. Tours fill up quickly, especially from January to March when sightings are most frequent.
• Bring a Zoom Lens: Whales are often spotted at a distance to respect their space. A camera with a good zoom lens will help you capture incredible photos of breaches and tail slaps.
• Be Patient and Observe: Whale watching requires patience. Spend time quietly scanning the horizon, and listen to your crew, who are experts at spotting the first signs of activity.
• Prepare for the Elements: Even on a sunny day, it can be cool on the water. Wear layers, and don't forget high-quality sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a hat. You can learn more about what to expect during whale season in Hawaii to be fully prepared.

5. Coral Reef Education and Conservation Tour: Snorkel with a Purpose

Take your snorkeling adventure to a deeper level by transforming it into an immersive educational experience. A Coral Reef Education and Conservation Tour goes beyond just looking at fish; it’s an opportunity to understand the intricate and fragile ecosystem thriving beneath the waves. These specialized tours are guided by marine experts who share their knowledge about coral species, marine life behavior, and the critical conservation efforts needed to protect Hawaii's precious reefs. It's a fantastic way to combine recreation with meaningful learning, making it a standout thing to do in Kona.

This engaging activity offers a unique perspective on the underwater world, turning a beautiful snorkel into a living classroom. You'll learn to identify different types of coral, understand their role in the marine environment, and discover how responsible tourism practices can help preserve them for future generations. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips lead the way by integrating educational components into their tours, often collaborating with local research initiatives to provide the most current and impactful information. This commitment to education makes their snorkeling tours not just fun, but also profoundly enriching.

Key Tips for Your Educational Snorkel Tour

To maximize your learning and enjoyment, keep these tips in mind.

• Request an Expert Guide: When booking, inquire about guides with strong backgrounds in marine biology or conservation to enhance your educational experience.
• Be an Active Learner: Don't be shy. Ask your guide questions about unfamiliar fish, coral formations, or conservation challenges you observe.
• Practice Reef-Safe Snorkeling: Always use reef-safe sunscreen and remember the golden rule: look but don't touch. Avoid standing on or kicking the delicate coral.
• Review Before You Go: Familiarize yourself with a few common Hawaiian fish and coral species beforehand. This will give you a great foundation for what you'll learn in the water.
• Support Conservation: After your tour, consider donating to a local reef conservation organization to help protect the beautiful ecosystems you've just explored.

6. Book a Private Group Snorkeling Charter: Your Exclusive Ocean Adventure

For those seeking a truly personalized and intimate ocean experience, booking a private group snorkeling charter is the ultimate way to explore Kona's pristine waters. Imagine having an entire boat, a dedicated captain, and an expert guide just for your family, friends, or special event. This exclusive adventure allows you to customize your itinerary completely, from choosing the snorkel spots to deciding how long you linger in each paradise, creating a day that perfectly matches your group's desires and skill levels.

A private charter elevates any vacation, making it an ideal choice for honeymoons, anniversaries, corporate retreats, or multi-generational family gatherings. It’s one of the most flexible and luxurious things to do in Kona, offering unmatched privacy and attention. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips specialize in these bespoke tours, providing top-of-the-line vessels and experienced crews who know the best-kept secrets of the Kona coast. You can escape the crowds and enjoy a day on the water tailored precisely to you.

Key Tips for Your Private Snorkel Charter

To ensure your custom ocean adventure is seamless and unforgettable, a bit of planning is key.

• Book Well in Advance: Private charters are limited and highly sought after, especially during peak seasons. Booking at least 2-4 weeks ahead is recommended to secure your preferred date.
• Communicate Your Vision: Clearly discuss your group's interests, special requests, and any celebrations with the booking agent. The more they know, the better they can tailor the experience.
• Provide a Guest Profile: Inform the company about your group's size, age range, and swimming abilities. This helps the crew plan the safest and most enjoyable itinerary for everyone.
• Plan for Everyone: If some guests prefer not to snorkel, discuss other activities like sunbathing, wildlife watching, or simply relaxing on the boat.
• Consider Upgrades: For special occasions, ask about catering options, professional photography services, or other enhancements to make your day even more memorable.

7. Beginner-Friendly First-Time Snorkel Experience

For many visitors, the idea of exploring Kona’s vibrant underwater world is exciting, but the reality of snorkeling for the first time can be intimidating. If you're a nervous swimmer or completely new to snorkeling, a specialized beginner-friendly tour is designed to transform apprehension into confidence. These experiences prioritize comfort and safety above all, creating a pressure-free environment where you can learn at your own pace. The journey begins in calm, shallow waters, allowing you to get comfortable with the equipment and breathing techniques under the patient guidance of an instructor.

The goal is to build a solid foundation of skills and comfort before you even venture out to prime snorkel sites. This focus on one-on-one instruction makes it a perfect thing to do in Kona for families with young children or any adult who has felt hesitant to try. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips are known for their patient, PADI-certified instructors who excel at making first-timers feel at ease. The countless positive reviews from guests who started their day anxious and ended it as enthusiastic snorkelers are a testament to this supportive approach.

Key Tips for Your First Snorkel Adventure

To ensure your first time is a success, focus on comfort and communication.

• Communicate Your Concerns: Be open with your guides about any anxieties you have. They are trained to provide personalized tips and encouragement to help you feel secure.
• Ensure a Proper Fit: Ill-fitting gear is a common source of frustration. Your instructor will help you make sure your mask has a good seal and your fins are comfortable.
• Start Shallow: Take your time in shallow water where you can stand. Practice putting your face in the water and breathing through the snorkel until it feels natural.
• Relax and Breathe Slowly: Focus on calm, steady breaths. Rushing or panicking will make the experience difficult. Remember, the goal is to relax and enjoy the view. You can discover more tips for how to snorkel to feel even more prepared.

8. Scuba Diving Transition for Snorkelers: Exploring Deeper Realms

For avid snorkelers who feel the pull of the deeper blue, transitioning to scuba diving is a natural and exhilarating next step. Kona’s clear, vibrant waters provide the perfect classroom for this journey. Introductory programs are specifically designed to bridge the gap between floating on the surface and breathing underwater, allowing you to explore the rich marine ecosystems that lie just beyond the reach of a snorkel. These courses provide a safe, structured path to discovering a whole new dimension of the underwater world, making it an excellent thing to do in Kona for those ready for a bigger adventure.

This progression builds on your existing comfort in the water, opening up opportunities to see different marine life and underwater topographies. Programs like the PADI Discover Scuba Diving course are ideal, offering a taste of diving under professional supervision. They typically involve a brief classroom session to cover the basics of safety and equipment, followed by skills practice in a calm, confined water setting. The experience culminates in a supervised open-water dive, allowing you to apply your new skills and witness the magic of Kona’s reefs from a breathtaking new perspective.

Key Tips for Your Scuba Diving Transition

Making a smooth and safe transition from snorkeling to scuba requires a bit of preparation and the right mindset.

• Start with an Intro Course: Before committing to a full certification, try a "Discover Scuba Diving" experience to see if you enjoy it. This is a low-pressure way to learn the fundamentals.
• Invest in a Good Mask: While you may already have one for snorkeling, ensure you have a proper, well-fitting dive mask. A comfortable mask that seals perfectly is crucial for an enjoyable dive.
• Practice Buoyancy: One of the biggest new skills is managing your buoyancy. Focus on your instructor’s guidance for controlling your ascent and descent with your breath.
• Don't Rush Certification: Take your time with the PADI Open Water Diver certification. Master each skill and build your confidence in shallow water before venturing deeper.

9. Underwater Photography and Videography Tour: Capture Your Kona Memories

Transform your snorkeling adventure from a fleeting memory into a stunning collection of photos and videos. For those who want to bring home more than just a tan, a specialized Underwater Photography and Videography Tour is an incredible way to document the vibrant marine world of the Big Island. These tours are designed for everyone from smartphone shooters to seasoned photographers with professional gear, offering expert guidance on capturing the perfect underwater shot. Guides are often skilled photographers themselves, teaching techniques for composition, lighting, and how to approach marine life without disturbing it.

This experience elevates a standard snorkel trip into a creative workshop in one of the world's most beautiful natural studios. It’s an amazing thing to do in Kona because it combines the thrill of discovery with the rewarding skill of photography, ensuring you can share the magic of Hawaiʻi's reefs with friends and family back home. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips provide guidance and take you to photogenic spots teeming with colorful fish and intricate coral formations, perfect for building your underwater portfolio.

Key Tips for Your Underwater Photography Tour

To get the most out of your shutter time beneath the waves, a bit of planning makes all the difference.

• Practice Above Water: Before your tour, get comfortable with your camera's settings and controls. Practice holding it steady and accessing key functions so it becomes second nature once you're in the water.
• Get Close, But Not Too Close: The best underwater photos are taken from a close distance to your subject to reduce the amount of water between the lens and the subject, which improves color and clarity. However, always respect marine life and keep a safe, non-intrusive distance.
• Learn Basic Post-Processing: Water filters out red light, often leaving photos with a blue or green tint. Learning simple white balance correction and color-grading techniques can bring your images back to life.
• Bring Extra Power and Storage: Taking photos and videos drains batteries quickly. Always bring a fully charged spare battery and a memory card with plenty of free space.

10. Gift Card Experiences for Memorable Occasions

Searching for the perfect gift for an adventurer or ocean lover? Instead of a physical item, give the unforgettable gift of a Kona experience. A gift card for a snorkel tour allows the recipient to choose their own adventure, creating lasting memories against the stunning backdrop of the Big Island. This is an ideal present for birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or any special celebration, offering a unique combination of adventure and natural beauty.

This thoughtful approach to gift-giving ensures your present is one of the most exciting things to do in Kona for the recipient. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips offer gift cards that can be redeemed for any of their world-class excursions, from the magical Manta Ray Night Snorkel to the historic Captain Cook tour. This flexibility lets the recipient select the exact experience that calls to them and book it when it fits their schedule. If you're looking for the perfect present that goes beyond material items, you can find more ideas for adventure and experience gifts for birthdays that are sure to impress.

Key Tips for Gifting a Kona Experience

To ensure your gift is a massive success, here are a few simple tips.

• Book in Advance: Purchase the gift card a few weeks before the special occasion to ensure it arrives on time. Consider attractive packaging to enhance the presentation.
• Suggest an Itinerary: Include a personal note with a recommendation for a specific tour you think they would love. This can help a hesitant recipient make a choice.
• Encourage Early Booking: Advise the recipient to book their tour well in advance, especially if they plan to visit during peak season, as popular tours fill up quickly.
• Follow Up: Gently check in with the recipient after a while to encourage them to use their gift card and embark on their incredible Kona adventure.

Top 10 Kona Ocean Activities Comparison

Ready to Plan Your Perfect Kona Itinerary?

The vibrant, sun-drenched coast of Kona is more than just a destination; it's a gateway to an underwater universe teeming with life, history, and unparalleled beauty. As we've explored, the sheer variety of things to do in Kona can be both thrilling and a bit overwhelming. From the ethereal, ballet-like dance of gentle giants on the Manta Ray Night Snorkel to the crystal-clear historical waters of Kealakekua Bay on a Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour, your Hawaiian adventure is a canvas waiting for you to paint your own masterpiece of memories.

We've covered a comprehensive list of experiences, each offering a unique window into the soul of the Big Island. Whether you're a seasoned diver looking to share your passion with snorkeling family members, a first-timer feeling the thrill of breathing underwater for the first time, or a family seeking a safe and educational outing, Kona's waters have a perfect spot for you. The key takeaway from this guide isn't just what to do, but how to do it right. Choosing a top-tier operator who prioritizes small groups, expert guidance, and marine conservation is the single most important decision you'll make. This choice transforms a simple activity into a profound, respectful, and deeply personal encounter with nature.

Your Blueprint for an Unforgettable Kona Adventure

To truly maximize your time, it's essential to move from inspiration to action. Start by identifying your "must-do" activities. Is the world-famous Manta Ray Night Snorkel at the absolute top of your list? Are you captivated by the history and vibrant reef life at the Captain Cook monument?

Once you have your priorities, consider these actionable next steps:

• Build a Flexible Itinerary: Don't overschedule your days. Pair a morning snorkel adventure like the one to Kealakekua Bay with a relaxed afternoon exploring Ali‘i Drive. Reserve an evening for the Manta Ray tour, leaving your day free for lounging or visiting a local coffee farm.
• Book Key Tours in Advance: Premier experiences, especially those with small group sizes like the tours offered by Kona Snorkel Trips, fill up quickly. This is particularly true during peak seasons. Booking ahead secures your spot and reduces travel-day stress, allowing you to simply enjoy the anticipation.
• Prepare for Your Adventure: Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and an underwater camera. Just as importantly, prepare for the unexpected. To ensure peace of mind during your Big Island adventure, consider learning how to choose the right travel insurance for your adventure, so you're covered for any situation.

The Kona Snorkel Trips Difference: Why Your Choice of Guide Matters

Throughout this guide, we've highlighted the importance of a quality experience. Companies like Kona Snorkel Trips elevate every outing by focusing on what truly matters: your safety, your enjoyment, and the health of the ocean. Their expert guides aren't just boat captains; they are passionate marine naturalists who bring the underwater world to life with fascinating insights and a deep respect for the ecosystem. Opting for their award-winning Captain Cook tour or their awe-inspiring Manta Ray night snorkel isn't just booking a boat ride; it's investing in a premium, intimate, and unforgettable memory.

Your journey to Kona is an opportunity to connect with one of the planet's most magical marine environments. By choosing your activities wisely and booking with a trusted, top-rated company, you ensure that your trip will be everything you dreamed of and more. The vibrant coral gardens, the graceful manta rays, and the warm aloha spirit are all waiting for you.

Ready to turn your dream Kona vacation into a reality? Explore the award-winning, small-group snorkel tours offered by Kona Snorkel Trips. As the #1 rated and most reviewed snorkel company in Hawaii, they provide the ultimate platform for experiencing all the incredible things to do in Kona's pristine waters.