Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay

On this 3-hour snorkeling tour, we’ll leave Keauhou Harbor and head south to snorkel in the world-famous Kealakekua Bay. While enjoying fresh fruit, snacks, and beverages, we cruise from Keahou Harbor into the crystal pure blue waters of the Kona coast. The crew will point out fascinating spots along the Kona coastline, which is rich in Hawaiian history, as the boat is sailing. The snorkel tour at Kealakekua Bay will last roughly 3 hours.

South Kona is home to a variety of historically significant Hawaiian Heritage sites that are rich in mana (spiritual power). We keep a watchful eye on the Kona shoreline as we cruise south toward Kealakekua Bay for any interesting marine species. Your group will learn about the rich history and legends surrounding the Kealakekua Bay State Historical District.

“Kealakekua” translates roughly as “Pathway to the Gods.” The spectacular Pali Kapu O Keua (the sheer cliff face) at Kealakekua Bay was formerly a Hawaiian Ali’i burial site (royalty). In the 1700s, large fishing communities flourished on both the north and south ends of the bay, with several thousand Hawaiians living there.

Many Ali’i decided to settle in this location since it was said to be the final resting place of Keōua Nui (considered to be the Father of Kings). We supply snorkeling equipment, masks, and fins. We recommend that you wear your swimsuit, bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen (applied before entering the boat), and sunglasses. It might be a good idea to bring a light coverup or jacket for the boat ride back to the harbor.

Enjoy non-alcoholic beverages such as water and Hawaiian juices. With a limit of 12 passengers, our US Coast Guard-certified vessel provides a small group experience. For the Kealakekua Bay snorkel tour, please arrive 15 minutes before the planned departure time. We will check you in and take you to the boat at the scheduled departure time. We require a minimum age of three. Children aged 3 and above are welcome if they can comfortably swim 25 yards in the water. If you can’t swim, you can stay aboard.

Everyone on the boat, regardless of age or stature, requires a ticket. The US Coast Guard has certified our boat for a maximum of 12 passengers, which we cannot exceed. Everyone on the boat, regardless of whether they are going into the water, requires a ticket. You will be able to enjoy our snorkeling tours securely if you can comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean. For safety reasons, if you cannot comfortably swim 25 yards in the ocean, we ask that you purchase a ticket to ride along on the boat but not enter the water.

What are you waiting for? Join us now and snorkel at Kealakekua Bay!