Kealakekua Bay: Dolphin & Sea Cave Snorkel Tour Small Group

Summary

Snorkeling Kealakekua Bay wild dolphins sea caves Kona coast

You’ll speed along Kona’s rugged coast in a small group Zodiac boat, snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay near the Captain Cook Monument with all gear provided. Explore sea caves if weather allows, watch for wild dolphins gliding past, and snack on fresh pineapple between swims. It’s lively, unscripted—and leaves you with salt in your hair and a real memory to take home.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the air tasted different down by Keauhou Bay—salty but also sweet, almost like the pineapple we’d get later. Our guide, Kaleo, tossed us life jackets with a grin and told us to “hang on tight” because this wasn’t your average cruise. The Zodiac boat felt like a toy compared to those big tour catamarans; it bounced across the chop and I had to laugh when my hat nearly flew off. There were only about ten of us, so everyone could actually hear Kaleo’s stories—he pointed out old lava tubes along the cliffs and explained how they formed after eruptions. I kept thinking how raw this part of Hawaii feels, not polished or showy.

We slowed near Kealakekua Bay and Kaleo handed out snorkel gear (I forgot my own mask but theirs fit fine). The water was that unreal blue you see in postcards but never believe is real—until you’re floating above it. I remember dipping my face in and hearing nothing but my own breathing and the distant clicks from somewhere deeper. Coral everywhere, flashes of yellow fish darting around. Someone shouted “dolphins!” and for a second I just froze—there they were, maybe six or seven spinner dolphins gliding past, totally ignoring us. Not gonna lie, my heart was racing. You can’t really plan for that kind of moment.

Afterwards we zipped over to some sea caves—I didn’t expect to go inside one, honestly, but the swell was calm enough. Inside it smelled damp and cool; echoes bounced off the rock walls while sunlight cut through in weird angles. Kaleo told us about ancient Hawaiian legends tied to these spots (I wish I remembered more details—should’ve paid better attention instead of gawking at everything). Back on board someone passed around pineapple slices that tasted extra sharp after all that saltwater. My hands were still wrinkled from swimming when we headed back toward Kailua-Kona, wind slapping our faces awake again.

I still think about that feeling—the mix of nerves and awe as dolphins slipped by under those cliffs. If you want a day trip from Kailua-Kona that’s more than just ticking boxes (and don’t mind getting splashed), this combo tour is probably it. Just bring a sense of humor for climbing back onto the boat—it’s trickier than you’d think.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and explore Kealakekua Bay

• Ride Zodiac RIB speed boat
• Snorkel coral reef at Captain Cook Monument
• Snorkel in sea cave (weather permitting)
• Explore sea caves, lava tubes, and coves
• Look for wild dolphins and whales
• Enjoy fresh pineapple and bottled water

Top questions

How long is the Dolphin & Sea Cave Snorkel Combo tour?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling gear included on the Kealakekua Bay tour?

Yes, snorkels and masks are provided free of charge for all guests.

Are wild dolphin sightings guaranteed?

No, encounters with wild dolphins or whales are possible but not guaranteed.

What is the maximum group size for this Kona snorkel tour?

The small group tour accommodates up to 14 customers per trip.

Is lunch included on this day trip from Kailua-Kona?

No full lunch is provided, but fresh pineapple slices and bottled water are included onboard.

Can children join the Captain Cook Monument snorkel tour?

Children aged 6 years old and up are permitted on board with adult supervision.

Are wetsuits or prescription masks available?

No wetsuits or prescription masks are included; wetsuits can be rented separately before check-in nearby.

Where does the tour depart from?

The tour departs from either Keauhou Bay or Kailua-Kona depending on your booking date/time slot.

What’s included

Your day includes a high-speed Zodiac boat ride along Kona’s coastline with stops for snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay by Captain Cook Monument; all snorkel gear and floatation devices are provided free of charge; fresh pineapple slices and bottled water are served onboard before returning to shore in Kailua-Kona or Keauhou Bay.