Big Island: South Kona Morning Snorkel at Kealakekua & Honaunau

Summary

Snorkeling South Kona’s sea caves and bays with stories, snacks, laughter

You’ll slip into warm Pacific waters at Kealakekua Bay & Pu’uhonua O Honaunau, guided by locals who share real stories as you snorkel among bright fish and explore sea caves. With snacks, gear, and small group comfort included, you’ll feel both welcome and wide awake—long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever seen water this clear?” That’s what our captain shouted as we slowed near Kealakekua Bay. I was still fumbling with my mask, a bit nervous honestly — I hadn’t snorkeled in years. But the way the sun bounced off those black lava cliffs and the water looked almost fake-blue, I just had to get in. Our guide, Kaleo, tossed me a float board and grinned. “No pressure,” he said. “Just float and watch.” And wow — schools of yellow tang darted right below me, so close I could almost touch them (I didn’t). There was this quiet under the surface except for my own breathing; it made me forget everyone else for a minute.

We’d started early from Kona, maybe 30 minutes down the coast — the air still cool enough that my towel felt good on my shoulders. The boat wasn’t crowded at all (maybe 12 of us?), so you could actually hear Kaleo’s stories about Captain Cook and why Pu’uhonua O Honaunau is called the Place of Refuge. He pointed out these old stone walls on shore; said if you broke a law centuries ago, that’s where you’d run to avoid punishment. I tried to picture it while munching on pineapple from the snack tray (sticky fingers, but worth it). At one point we ducked into a little sea cave — dark and echoey inside — and someone joked about pirates hiding out. It smelled like salt and something earthy I couldn’t place.

I’ll admit: climbing back onto the boat with wet legs is less than graceful (my flip-flop nearly floated away), but nobody cared. It was one of those mornings where everyone just laughs at themselves — even when someone tried to pronounce “Honaunau” and totally butchered it (me again). On the ride back up the coast, juice in hand, I watched flying fish skip across the water while Kaleo told us how lava tubes formed after eruptions. It’s wild to think how much history sits under your feet here. I still think about that first breath underwater — how peaceful it felt compared to everything above.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel two Kona Bay locations

• Arrive with towel and sunscreen
• Receive snorkeling gear and flotation devices
• Visit Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook's Monument
• Explore sea caves and lava tubes
• Visit Puʻuhonua O Honaunau Place of Refuge
• Listen to captain's cultural and historical stories
• Enjoy provided snacks during tour

Top questions

How long does the snorkeling tour last?

The tour covers two snorkeling spots along South Kona; exact duration isn’t specified but expect a half-day morning adventure.

Is snorkeling experience required for this Big Island tour?

No—snorkeling experience is recommended but not necessary; flotation devices are provided.

Where does the tour go?

The tour visits Kealakekua Bay (near Captain Cook Monument) and Puʻuhonua O Honaunau.

Are snacks or drinks included?

Yes—snacks plus bottled water and juice are included during your trip.

How many people are on each boat?

The Deluxe Morning Adventure takes a maximum of 14 guests per tour.

Is hotel pickup available?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby.

Can pregnant women join this snorkeling trip?

No—pregnant women or people with back injuries are restricted from joining.

What should I bring for this day trip to Kealakekua Bay?

You just need your towel and reef-safe sunscreen; all gear is provided.

What’s included

Your morning includes all snorkeling gear (masks, vests, view finder boards), bottled water, juice, snacks like fresh fruit onboard, plus flotation devices for comfort—all you really need is your towel and some reef-safe sunscreen before heading out along South Kona’s bays.