Kealakekua Bay: Sail & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument Tour

Summary

Sailing past lava cliffs to snorkel captain cook monument in kona

You’ll sail along Kona’s dramatic lava coast to Kealakekua Bay, then snorkel right by the Captain Cook Monument with all gear included. Watch for spinner dolphins, snack on fresh fruit and chips between swims, and soak up that unreal Big Island light before heading back — it’s a feeling that lingers long after you dry off.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the color of the water — not just blue, but this wild, shifting turquoise that almost looked fake. We’d barely left the harbor when our guide, Malia, pointed out a pod of spinner dolphins off the bow. Everyone rushed over, cameras out, but honestly I just stood there grinning like an idiot. The Kona coastline felt close enough to touch, all black lava ledges with little green tufts clinging on. I didn’t expect to feel so small in such a good way.

When we anchored at Kealakekua Bay, you could see straight down through the water — schools of yellow fish flickering under us like confetti. I fumbled with my mask (always takes me forever), but Malia just laughed and tossed me a noodle float. “No shame,” she said. The snorkeling near the Captain Cook Monument was better than any aquarium — coral fans waving in slow motion, parrotfish crunching away at something invisible. At one point I tried to say “humuhumunukunukuapua’a” (the state fish) and Li cracked up so hard he nearly lost his snorkel.

I still remember how salty my lips tasted after climbing back on deck. Someone passed around pineapple slices and chips — nothing fancy but exactly right after swimming. The sun was warm but not too much; breeze coming off the bay kept everything comfortable. There’s this quiet moment when you’re drying off and everyone’s just looking at the cliffs and nobody says anything for a minute or two. Felt kind of sacred, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Afternoon sail and snorkeling tour

• Depart from meeting location
• Sail along Kona coastline
• Arrive at Captain Cook Monument
• Snorkel in Kealakekua Bay marine sanctuary
• Return to departure location

Top questions

How long is the Captain Cook Monument sail & snorkel tour?

The tour lasts about three hours from departure to return.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this Kealakekua Bay tour?

Yes, masks, fins, snorkels, and flotation noodles are included for all guests.

Are snacks or drinks included during the tour?

Yes, light snacks like chips and fruit plus beverages are provided onboard.

Can beginners join this snorkeling trip from Kona?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels and provides flotation support if needed.

Will we see dolphins at Kealakekua Bay?

Dolphins are commonly spotted in the bay but sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Does this Captain Cook Monument tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; check departure details when booking.

Is reef-safe sunscreen available on board?

Yes, reef-safe sunscreen is provided for all guests during the trip.

What’s included

Your afternoon includes sailing down Kona’s coast with stops for snorkeling near the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay; all masks, fins, snorkels and flotation noodles; filtered water; reef-safe sunscreen; plus light snacks like chips, fruit and drinks before returning to shore together.