Top Experiences in Kealakekua Bay

Discover the history, beauty and culture of the Big Island on this half day tour of the Kona coast. See sacred Hawaiian temples and ancient petroglyphs at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park, and walk to Honokohau Beach to spot native wildlife. Admire scenic views of Kealakekua Bay, and go on a walking tour of Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, considered a sacred site. You’ll also visit a bee farm and coffee plantation for tastings at both, plus lunch. Numbers are limited to 12 to ensure you enjoy a small-group experience.

Set Sail down the Majestic Kona Coastline with breathtaking views of landscaped ledges of ancient lava flows. As you arrive at the "World Famous Captain Cook Monument" your snorkeling adventure will begin in the turquoise waters and vibrant reef of the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay. Make sure to bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful schools of fish, pods of spinner dolphins that are also commonly spotted in the bay. “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” guide book says, “snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay near the monument is perhaps the best you will find anywhere in the state”.

A three hour tour you won't want to miss! Set Sail down the Majestic Kona Coastline with breathtaking views of landscaped ledges of ancient lava flows. As you arrive at the "World Famous Captain Cook Monument" your snorkeling adventure will begin in the turquoise waters and vibrant reef of the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay. Make sure to bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful schools of fish, pods of spinner dolphins that are also commonly spotted in the bay. “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” guide book says, “snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay near the monument is perhaps the best you will find anywhere in the state”.

Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey across Hawaii's Big Island. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the island's famous highlights including Volcanoes National Park, the Place of Refuge and Akaka Falls, as well as the best spots for seeing turtles and more lessor known spots across the island.

Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along the route, all based on your location.

And enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.

Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
Travel at your own pace
Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use
One-time purchase, no time limits or expiry, free updates
Like having a tour guide along for the drive

Purchase one tour per vehicle.

Set out from Kailua-Kona for a half-day snorkeling activity to Kealakekua Bay/Captain Cook, one of the top snorkeling destinations on the Big Island. Look for dolphins and other marine life in the wild, and then use the provided snorkeling gear upon arrival in Kealakekua Bay. This tour is suitable for all levels of experience and includes a picnic lunch.

Embark on a unique adventure aboard the comfortable Hula Kai on the Kona Coast Snorkel Cruise. What sets us apart is our commitment to environmental preservation through sustainable business practices (e.g. boats fueled with biodiesel, composting of waste, no single-use plastics) & mindful dining. Our carefully curated plant-based menu, much of which is locally sourced from the island, reflecting our commitment to minimizing negative impact on climate change while focusing on the health of our guests and planet.

As you explore the historically rich Kona Coast, you'll delve into captivating stories at significant sites, including the Captain Cook Monument & the Royal Holua Slide. The tour offers two unique snorkel destinations, showcasing the breathtaking marine life of Pali Kaholo, Red Hill, or the iconic Kealakekua Bay.

Hula Kai invites you to a unique blend of history, culture, and sustainable exploration along the mesmerizing Kona Coast-a journey unlike any other.

Join us for an unforgettable exploration that tantalizes the senses and leaves you with a greater appreciation for both cultural heritage and the renowned coffee of the region. Our immersive tour invites you to wander through the verdant coffee fields, where the story of Kona coffee unfolds from cultivation to the perfect cup. As the aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingers, we transition to Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historic Park, the City of Refuge, a sanctuary steeped in ancient Hawaiian history. Explore sacred temples, ancient dwellings, and the serene coastal landscape, where the past comes alive. From the rich aroma of freshly roasted beans to the echoes of the past, this tour promises an enriching blend of flavors and narratives, creating a memorable exploration of both Kona’s coffee heritage and the cultural significance that graces the national historic parks.

Adventure down the Southern Kona Coast on our fleet of covered boats for everyone’s comfort. Snorkel the pristine Puʻuhonua O Honaunau (The Place of Refuge) and Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cooks Monument) on this 4.5 hour adventure. Our Captain and Crew will share the history and culturally significant sites as we journey the coastline, along with the geographically fascinating features of lava tubes and sea caves. Take advantage of our later start time and spend the day at two of the worlds magnificent bays. Lunch, sanitized snorkeling gear, flotation devices all included. An easy morning enjoying the very best of the Kona coast.

Skim across the waves on an exciting Big Island Zodiac tour to Kealakekua Bay, site of the Captain Cook monument and Hawaii's finest marine sanctuary. Snorkel with a rainbow of tropical fish among beautiful coral gardens in the bay's clear, crystal waters. Enjoy the delightful picnic snack provided before you head out again. Our Zodiac rafts allow us to hug the shoreline and get into areas where other boats can't. Join us to explore vast sea caves, lava tubes and the rugged beauty of the coastline.

Perfect for all size of couples, families or extended families. Experience Kealakekua Bay, the best place to snorkel on the Big Island or find a totally new and secluded snorkel area.

Choose whether you'd like to focus more heavily on world-class snorkeling, wildlife searching, or private spots.

After snorkeling, your captain has lunch and beverages for you. Hear all about the history of the area, the Captain Cook story. On the return trip, we hug the rugged coastline, and explore places Zodiacs with shallow drafts can get into! We show you natural blowholes, exposed lava tubes, and sea caves!

Perfect for all size of couples, families or extended families. Experience Kealakekua Bay, the best place to snorkel on the Big Island or find a totally new and secluded snorkel area.

Choose whether you'd like to focus more heavily on world-class snorkeling, wildlife searching, or private spots.

After snorkeling, your captain has lunch and beverages for you. Hear all about the history of the area, the Captain Cook story. On the return trip, we hug the rugged coastline, and explore places Zodiacs with shallow drafts can get into! We show you natural blowholes, exposed lava tubes, and sea caves!

Join us for a beautiful ocean tour traveling the Kona coastline to Kealakekua Bay where you will experience a world-renowned reef snorkeling site. This area has plentiful reef fish life and our guides will teach you about the fragile reef ecosystem. This tour is great for those who do not want an entire day on the water but still want to experience the beauty of Kona’s amazing blue waters and colorful reef.

We welcome beginners and children on this beautiful coastal adventure but ask that anyone attending to know how to swim and still meet the safety criteria. Light snacks and drinks will be provided and you’re welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy while viewing the massive cliff face and views in the area. Kids under 12 are required by the Coast Guard to wear a life vest when onboard at all times. Reef safe (zinc only) sunscreen is REQUIRED BY LAW on this tour. You are welcome to use ours.

A three hour tour you won't want to miss! Set Sail down the Majestic Kona Coastline with breathtaking views of landscaped ledges of ancient lava flows. As you arrive at the "World Famous Captain Cook Monument" your snorkeling adventure will begin in the turquoise waters and vibrant reef of the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay. Make sure to bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful schools of fish, pods of spinner dolphins that are also commonly spotted in the bay. “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” guide book says, “snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay near the monument is perhaps the best you will find anywhere in the state”.

If you're looking for an unforgettable ocean adventure, our award-winning morning snorkel cruise to Kealakekua Bay, site of Captain Cook Monument and a protected sanctuary, is a must-do experience.

Embark on a journey through Hawai'i Island's rich history as our captain and crew highlight the significance of historical sites, enriching your understanding of Hawai'i's culture and history.

Upon entering Kealakekua Bay, immerse yourself in the pristine waters, encountering vibrant marine life or embrace the thrills from our water slides and high dive. Snorkel gear and a variety of floation options are available for your use.

As we journey back to Keahou Bay, our naturalist will unravel the intricacies of Hawai'i's ecology and marine biodiversity, enlightening you on fish species, coral reef dynamics, and the imperative of ocean conservation.

Upon returning, we bid you "Aloha" as you leave with cherished memories of breathtaking landscapes, marine life, and unforgettable experiences

Set Sail down the Majestic Kona Coastline with breathtaking views of landscaped ledges of ancient lava flows. As you arrive at the "World Famous Captain Cook Monument" your snorkeling adventure will begin in the turquoise waters and vibrant reef of the marine sanctuary of Kealakekua Bay. Make sure to bring an underwater camera to capture the colorful schools of fish, pods of spinner dolphins that are also commonly spotted in the bay. “Hawaii The Big Island Revealed” guide book says, “snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay near the monument is perhaps the best you will find anywhere in the state”.

Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Big Island Tour Bundle comes with five socially-distanced audio driving tours:

• South Island Epic Coastal Journey (8-10 hour tour)
• North Island Jungle Adventure Loop (8-10 hour tour)
• Kona Big Kahuna Loop (4-6 hour tour)
• Kohala Coast and Backcountry Tour (3-5 hour tour)
• Volcanoes National Park Tour (6-8 hour tour)

The app uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn navigation to historic sites, popular attractions, world-class beaches and scenic hikes.

All Shaka Guide Tours...
• Never expire - take them multiple times or buy in advance
• Work 100% offline - no data or wifi necessary
• Let you take the tour when you want - download the tour and choose the day that works best for you

*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Aloha Kayak Co. exclusive tour permit to launch and land on both sides of the bay has a limit of 12 guests per guided tour. We are permitted for 2 tours daily, one afternoon, and one morning. Once on the water at one of the most pristine kayaking locations in the world, you will visit a protected Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) while being narrated about the history and culture of the area. Along the way to our destination you will have the opportunity to see clear blue waters, Ancient Hawaiian Temples, Burial Caves, Towering Sea Cliffs and watch the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins play and rest in their natural habitat. We will spend time exploring the Captain Cook Monument snorkel area, snorkeling one of the most pristine coral shelves in the world, abundant with wildlife and breathtaking underwater landscapes.We will visit the monument and walk trails with historical sites all around us.

Come with us as we explore the fascinating volcanic landscape looping around the southern coast of the Big Island!

Shaka Guide is your perfect companion with turn-by-turn directions, information on what to do & see, and a truckload of interesting stories and Hawaiian legends of this amazing island!

Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.

Why you need it:

✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline

✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $19.99 for lifetime access

✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up

✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)

✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way (and some corny joke's that might make you laugh)

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

A fun bite-sized loop tour that begins in North Kona and takes you down south to Puuhonua and back!

Hear cool stories about King Kamehameha, Captain Cook, and the sacred rituals of ancient Hawaii.

Shaka Guide is your local guide with turn-by-turn directions, information on what to do & see, and a ton of fun stories.

Rated the #1 best GPS tour app for Hawaii with over 6,000+ raving reviews and 200,000+ downloads.

Why you need it:

✅ You don't need service because you can download the tours & use them offline

✅ Much cheaper than a tour bus at only $19.99 for lifetime access

✅ Save time planning your trip because we have the best stops lined up

✅ Freedom to stop and go as you please, unlike a tour bus where you are confined to the pre-determined route (no fun!)

✅ Hear cool and fun stories along the way

*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

Experience the beauty of the Kona Coast at picturesque Kealakekua Bay on an afternoon snorkel cruise. With equipment onboard and expert instruction available, the Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Cruise is great for the whole family.

The waters off the Kona Coast, from Keauhou to Kealakekua Bay, enjoy some of the calmest water conditions throughout the day in Hawai’i - protected from stronger easterly winds by Hualalai Mountain. As we head south, Kealakekua Bay’s waters offer some of the best visibility in the entire state and a wealth of tropical reefs to explore. We provide guidance, snorkel gear, flotation devices, and also have a high dive and two 15 foot water slides so that you can enjoy this fantastic site to its max for the afternoon!

We take you on an unparalleled yacht to experience the beauty and grandeur of the Kona coast and its most bejeweled underwater treasures. Every guest is provided with use of an inflatable snorkel safety vest and snorkel gear including prescription masks if needed. Cabins for rest and rejuvenation and private changing areas, plus in-cabin restrooms and fresh-water showers for comfort and convenience.

Skim across the waves on an exciting Big Island Zodiac tour to Kealakekua Bay, site of the Captain Cook monument and Hawaii's finest marine sanctuary. Snorkel with a rainbow of tropical fish among beautiful coral gardens in the bay's clear, crystal waters. Enjoy the delightful tropical snacks provided before you head out again, exploring vast sea caves, lava tubes and the rugged beauty of the coastline.

Step off your cruise and step back in time on this tour of historic Kona. On this cruise ship excursion, we share Kailua-Kona’s history to set the stage for your trip back in time to Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park – an ancient Hawaiian village of refuge for kapu (law) breakers.

We show you a beautiful scenic view overlooking Kealakekua Bay – an underwater preserve and where a monument to Captain Cook stands. Here, he sailed in and was received as the god, Lono, yet he proved to be a mere mortal and was slain. Visit the Painted Church – the tiny church Belgian priests painted to be a grand cathedral. Experience history as rich as the brew at the Kona coffee factory we visit as well.

Come aboard UliUli Moana with us and watch the sun go down behind the Kona Coast.

All of our charters are private so this can be a romantic cruise for two or a bachelorette party up to six!

We will provide you with a complimentary bottle of champagne or sparking grape juice to toast with at the start of your trip. Bring any other booze you would like, and we will provide cups, ice, and mixers! The crew will be sure to keep your drinks filled up.

Cruise coastline, admire marine life, such as fish, dolphins, whales (seasonal), or other ocean creatures we might see on the tour. Explore sea caves and other historical areas where ancient Hawaiians made history and created legends that are still being told to Hawaiian children and visitors who come to Hawaii year after year. Join us for a guided tour of Kealakekua Bay where Captain Cook Monument is located. Adore Hawai'i, doing what Hawaiians enjoy doing in Paradise. Hawaiian style. Living the dream.

We carry a maximum of 14 passengers so we can offer a more intimate snorkel experience than the larger "cattle boats" in Kona.

In addition to delivering a more private experience, our small group size allows for more time in the water. Our passengers are able to quickly enter and exit the water as we explore Kealakekua Bay.

If you book all 14 seats on any trip, you will have your own private charter. In addition to being the only party on the boat, you'll be able to work with your captain to customize your trip to your liking. For instance, you'll be able to decide whether to pick up and move to a new location or continue snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay (time and conditions permitting).

Don't miss this opportunity to snorkel the famous Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument, in a private small-group experience that's unmatched. Get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime!

On this 5-hour small-group tour you will visit one of the oldest and most historic coffee farms in Kona from the comfort of an 11 passenger Mercedes van. Travel to a must-see site, the Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, plus the Painted Church, a Catholic cathedral in the Hawaiian jungle. Overlook the Captain Cook Memorial and visit Turtle Lagoon where Honu's Hawaiian green sea turtles can be observed. Includes free photography.

Try your kayak tour, Hawaiian style, with our traditional one-of-a-kind outrigger canoes. We offer Outrigger Canoe Tours to the famous Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay. On this guided Big Island outrigger canoe tour, hear the history of Captain Cook as well as surrounding temples, and, after paddling past the sea cliffs and caves, you'll snorkel and swim in the clear waters of this Marine Life Conservation Area.

If you are new to or have never snorkeled before this is the ideal choice! Particularly good for families with younger children or swimmers who aren’t certain if they are “seaworthy” enough for one of our longer trips.

This trip is much slower-paced and affords guests time to become more familiar and comfortable with the exciting and beautiful sport of snorkeling. Our crew will be happy to help you adjust your mask, fins, and snorkel and help you become comfortable viewing the tropical fish while using a flotation assistance device we call a “noodle”. You'll even watch for dolphins and whales along the way!

Looking for more snorkel time? We also offer a Deluxe Snorkel Tour that includes snorkeling at two different reefs. Check out our other listings for more details regarding that tour.

Join us early and be one of the first each morning to see the underwater beauty near Cook's Monument and Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park. We leave early so that we can have you in the water before the crowds. Usually, at this time of day, the waters of the Kona coast are crystal clear and offer great visibility. View over 100 different varieties of tropical fish along with an occasional reef shark or sea turtle. These lively snorkeling spots are home to a variety of marine life.

Depending on the day, we may even enjoy a little sightseeing along the coastline where you can view sea caves and lava tubes. If you are lucky, you may spot a pod of dolphins or a whale, which can be found here year-round (humpback whale migration is seasonal!)

We cruise from Keauhou harbor out into crystal clear blue waters. While the boat is underway, the crew will point out interesting features along the Kona coastline, which is rich in Hawaiian history. South Kona has a bevy of historically significant Hawaiian Heritage sites, full of mana (spiritual power). Staying close to the Kona coast as we travel south towards Kealakekua Bay, we watch closely for any interesting marine life.

We may stop the boat to enjoy the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins (Stenella longirostris) putting on a show. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins rest close to shore during the day and will sometimes interact with the boat, bow-riding and playing in our wake.

After a brief show from the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins, Humpback whales, and whatever else of interest is found along our way, we arrive at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay, the site of the Captain James Cook monument.

After snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay for about an hour and a half, we start heading back to the harbor.

Aloha! Welcome to a private shuttle service! While you can't always rely on Uber and Lyft outside the city limits, we've got you covered for an unforgettable adventure. Here we are your super easy choice for a planned shuttle service to explore the wonders of the western side of the island. As you step off your cruise ship onto the shores of the Big Island, we will be waiting for you on the Kailua pier.

Our journey begins with scenic drive on the coastline of Kona and a visit to a local coffee farm, where you'll indulge in a tasting and have the unique opportunity to take home some authentic 100% Kona coffee, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Next, we'll make a stop at Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau, a national historic sacred site. You'll have the chance for photo opportunities and self-guided relaxation around the temples, and ocean breezes at this revered location.

Let's explore beyond the downtown areas and uncover the hidden gems that make the Big Island truly special.

When you visit our honey farm in Hawaii you will enter the world of bees and beekeeping and gain a unique perspective on this important industry. And if you decide to take our beekeeping tour you'll have a box seat for viewing actual hives from a safe and secure screened area. Our beekeepers are eager to answer all your questions about bees and honey.

We also provide free honey samples, and you will gain a much greater appreciation for the difference between raw honey and the honey bears on most grocery shelves.

Body Glove Cruises newest ocean adventure awaits you!

Step aboard our luxurious 41ft Super-Raft for a fun filled morning on the water. Enjoy the thrill of a raft ride with none of the drawbacks. Our vessel is equipped with tons of seating, shade, and a bathroom! The Kona Explorers speed and agility allows for snorkeling in at least two different snorkeling sites! There's also an excellent chance of seeing marine mammals in route!

Light breakfast, picnic style lunch, island crafted soft drinks and all snorkeling gear are included.

Just bring your towel and a smile!

Set sail on the west coast of Hawaii Island for a 3-hour cruise to Captain Cook’s Monument for dinner, as a local historian shares stories and legends of the sites you will see along the way. First cocktail is on the house! Listen in to live Hawaiian music and enjoy a magnificent sunset as you sail back to Kona. Don’t forget your camera and keep an eye out for dolphins and seasonal whales.

Current menu is
Mauna Loa Macadamia Nuts
Local Baby Spinach, Rincon Farms Strawberries, Big Island Feta Cheese, Candied Macadamia nuts with a Waimea Strawberry Vinaigrette (GF)
Kona Coffee Braised Short Rib (GF) with Creamy Mashed Potatoes featuring a Kona Coffee Red Eye Demi-Glace (GF) and Island Baked Coconut Dinner Rolls served with Butter (Vegetarian)
Vegetarian Option: Thai Coconut Curry with Hamakua Sweet Potatoes, Hawaiian Breadfruit, Carrots, & Bell Peppers (Vegan/GF) and Steamed Jasmine Rice (Vegan/GF) Must be requested 48 hours in advance.
Dessert: Chocolate Torte with Raspberry Topping