Quick Details
Departure Location: Honokohau Harbor in Kona, Hawaii
Duration: 2 hours
Trip Time: 8:00am; 1:30pm
Not Suitable For: Non-swimmers, expectant mothers, or those with regular back or neck issues
Inclusions: Mask, snorkel, fins, additional flotation
Prices vary with demand. Plus tax and fees. Learn how to get the best price. Wildlife often appears, but isn’t guaranteed.
KONA SNORKELING AT PAWAI BAY
Visit one of Kona’s most beautiful and exclusive local snorkeling spots, only accessible by boat. Only a handful of visitors get to snorkel here each day, and you could be one of them! Our snorkeling trip takes place in Pawai Bay (pronounced Pa-vai) – ocean permitting. This beautiful lava rock coastline is set aside for the use of native Hawaiian children, inaccessible to non-natives from shore.
Important Details
- For safety, basic swimming skills are required to enter the water
- Expectant mothers or those with regular back or neck issues are not permitted on this tour due to the adventurous nature of our retired Navy SEAL boat
- We do not recommend our vessel for those 75 and older due to the adventurous nature of our retired Navy SEAL boat
- You must be in good physical and mental health
- Non-swimmers can enjoy the dramatic and spectacular Kona coastline while relaxing in the sun on the boat
- An adult must accompany those under 18 years of age, but 3 or older at all times
- For safety, you must be able to converse in English
We are fortunate to be able to moor in the bay and share the beautiful shallow reef wildlife and educational briefings with guests about the wildlife we encounter. This secluded location is a true local gem and is known as one of the most beautiful local snorkel spots in Kona.
Just after boarding, we depart Kona’s harbor, keeping a watchful eye out for *Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Jump in the water to snorkel Kona’s most beautiful local snorkel spot at Pawai, where massive schools of fish, lava rock arches, and gorgeous reefs await discovery.
You’ll spend less time on the boat and more time in the water. Plus, you’ll likely have the whole area to yourself. Kealakekua Bay can get crowded so why not explore some of Kona’s local reefs.
*Please note that the spinner dolphins and whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Act and we can only observe from the designated distance. If dolphins try to engage we have to take evasive measures to disengage from them.
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- Basic swimming skills – must be able to swim or float unassisted
- Non-swimmers are not permitted to enter the water
- Beginner or first time snorkelers welcome
- Basic swimming skills – must be able to swim or float unassisted
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- Mask, snorkel, fins, additional flotation
- Snacks, juice, sparkling water
Snorkel tips & basic instruction
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- Swimsuit (please arrive in it)
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Sun-protective cover-up
- Reef-safe non-aerosol sunscreen – Please read for further info on choosing safe sunscreen
- Towel
- Waterproof camera (GoPro’s avail to rent)
Storage space is limited on the vessel.
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Refundable Ticket:
Cancellation: Full refund if canceled up to 48 hours before the trip.
Rebooking: Free rebooking up to 48 hours before the trip.All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing at least 48 hours before the trip’s start. Reservations made within 48 hours are not eligible for a refund.
Non-Refundable Ticket:
Cancellation: No refunds.
Rebooking: Rebooking allowed up to 48 hours before the trip.Trip Protection for Refundable Tickets
If you purchased trip protection, your cancellation window has been extended up to 12 hours before the start of the tour. You’ll be fully refunded for the ticket (minus the trip protection and fees). Request should be made by email.Trip protection may not be added within 12 hours before the start of the tour.
No Shows and Late Arrivals will not be refunded.
We commit to our employees and other guests and adhere to our cancellation policy regardless of circumstances. We suggest traveler’s insurance for any issues such as illness, weather delays, and other circumstances that prohibit travel or participation on your part for any of your travel plans.
What if we cancel?
We reserve the right to cancel for any reason, including, but not limited to weather, ocean conditions, passenger count, mechanical issues, safety for you, our guests, and our crew. We’ll do our best to reschedule your trip based on availability or you’ll be issued a refund in full.
We are not responsible if we can not contact you for important information regarding the charter. We do not call international numbers.
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We specialize in creating unforgettable adventures on the water. Join us for a journey departing from Honokohau Harbor aboard our comfortable pontoon boat as we cruise south around Kaiwi Point. This rugged coastline is only accessible by boat, allowing us to explore the pristine waters of Pawai Bay, a unique marine reserve teeming with life. In just 15 minutes, we’ll arrive at this magical spot, where colorful reef fish, eels, sea stars, and even turtles, manta rays, and spotted eagle rays await.
The reef at Pawai Bay begins at a striking vertical lava wall, plunging to a coral-covered bottom 15 feet below before gently sloping to around 40 feet. The diverse coral formations provide a perfect hiding place for a variety of marine creatures. With calm waters practically year-round, you’ll be able to spot vibrant fish, shy octopuses, and the occasional eel poking its head out from the reef. Our knowledgeable guides will take you to the best spots, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
Kona boasts the highest rate of endemic fish in the world, meaning many of the species here are found nowhere else. As you explore, keep an eye out for the stunning Wiliwili nuku nuku oi oi butterflyfish and the impressive Kokala pufferfish. Our guides are eager to share not only the marine wonders but also the rich history and culture of the island.
This quick, convenient Kona snorkel tour offers a fast turnaround, so you’ll be back in time to spend the day at the beach relaxing or to hit happy hour. We provide all the necessary snorkeling gear and even a quick tutorial for those needing a refresher. With a friendly captain and crew on board, we’re dedicated to making your trip as enjoyable as possible. Our small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, and for those wanting even more exclusivity, we offer private tours.
At Kona Snorkel Trips, we strive to make your vacation unforgettable. Our tours are crafted to maximize water time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Hawaiian reefs. Pawai Bay offers breathtaking underwater scenery with its lava arches and pinnacles, just a short swim from the boat. If you’re interested in extending your adventure, check out our other tours at Kealakekua Bay or join us for a manta ray snorkel tour. You can even combine multiple tours for special package pricing.
There’s so much to explore in Kona. After your snorkel adventure, visit the turtle beach in Kaloko National Park to the north, where you can see honu (sea turtles) resting on the shore. Book your trip today with the Big Island’s top-rated snorkel company. With our dedication to detail and focus on customer experience, we ensure your comfort is our highest priority. Spend your precious vacation time with us, and discover why Kona Snorkel Trips is the best choice for your Hawaiian adventure. Join us on an afternoon Kona snorkel tour—you won’t be disappointed!
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Your health is important to us. Kindly read the medical questionnaire listed below. You acknowledge your responsibility for any omissions related to the failure to disclose any present or previous health conditions. If you have a positive response you will seek approval from a physician prior to joining a tour with Splashers Ocean Adventures, Inc DBA Kona Snorkel Trips.