South Kona: Snorkeling Kealakekua Bay & Lava Caves by Boat

Summary

Snorkel wild South Kona coast sea caves black sand beach Kealakekua

You’ll ride out past Kona’s usual crowds into wild blue water, snorkeling Kealakekua Bay and exploring sea caves only reachable by boat. With local guides sharing stories and lunch included, you’ll swim with tropical fish and maybe spot dolphins or turtles—plus get time at a hidden black sand beach most folks never see.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely left the harbor before the water changed color—suddenly this insane blue, almost glassy. I could smell salt and sunscreen (mine, mostly), and our captain, Kaleo, was already pointing out shapes along the cliffs. “That’s where my uncle used to fish,” he said, and it felt like we were getting let in on some family secret. The boat was small enough that you could hear everyone’s laughter over the motor, which is rare. I kept thinking: this is farther than I’ve ever been down the South Kona coast.

The first stop was Kealakekua Bay. It’s famous for a reason—I mean, you put your face in and there are these clouds of yellow tangs everywhere. Our guide handed me a mask that didn’t fog up (bless her) and showed us how to spot the little cleaner wrasses doing their thing on bigger fish. At one point I heard someone shout “dolphins!” but honestly I was too busy following this green sea turtle along the rocks. The sun came out strong right then and everything looked sharper underwater—almost too much color.

After sandwiches (I went with turkey—should’ve tried tuna), we drifted toward Puʻuhonua O Honaunau. There’s something about being close to a place with so much history; Kaleo told us stories about ancient Hawaiians seeking refuge here, his voice kind of quiet over the water. We ducked into a lava tube—cold shadows inside after all that sun—and I remember touching the rock wall just because it felt weirdly smooth for something so old. Last stop was a black sand beach with nobody else around except some nervous crabs skittering away from our toes. That silence hit different after all the boat noise.

I didn’t expect to feel so tired but also kind of lucky by the end—like we’d seen parts of Hawaii most people don’t even know how to look for. Still think about that turtle sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel three South Kona locations

• Arrive in swimsuit with towel
• Receive snorkeling gear and flotation devices
• Explore Kealakekua Bay snorkeling site
• Snorkel at Puʻuhonua O Honaunau
• Visit private black sand beach snorkeling spot
• Explore sea caves and lava tubes by vessel
• Learn history and culture from captain and crew
• Enjoy provided lunch, snacks, water, and juice

Top questions

How many snorkeling spots are included on this South Kona tour?

The tour includes three snorkeling locations: Kealakekua Bay, Puʻuhonua O Honaunau, and a remote black sand beach.

Is lunch provided during the South Kona snorkeling expedition?

Yes, each guest receives a sandwich box lunch with choices like turkey, tuna, ham, roast beef or veggie sandwiches.

Are snorkeling gear and flotation devices included?

All necessary snorkeling gear and flotation devices are provided as part of the tour.

Will we visit sea caves or lava tubes on this trip?

Yes, exploring sea caves and lava tubes along the South Kona coast is part of the experience.

Can beginners join this snorkeling tour from Kona?

A moderate level of fitness and some swimming/snorkeling experience is recommended for participants.

Does this day trip include pickup or transportation?

The tour does not specify hotel pickup but mentions public transportation options nearby.

What marine life might we see while snorkeling in South Kona?

You may encounter pilot whales, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, and various tropical fish species.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women or people with back injuries?

No, pregnant women and individuals with back injuries are restricted from joining due to safety reasons.

What’s included

Your day covers three unique snorkel sites along South Kona—including Kealakekua Bay—with all gear and flotation devices provided. You’ll have snacks plus water or juice throughout the trip and a sandwich box lunch (your choice of filling). Local guides lead every stop; just bring reef-safe sunscreen and your towel.