EXPLORE ALL THAT IS BEAUTIFUL IN KAILUA KONA
South of Kailua-Kona lies Kealakekua Bay, a place where Hawaiian history, natural beauty, and marine life intertwine. Meaning “Pathway of the Gods,” this bay was once a landing site for ancient voyagers and the final anchorage of British explorer Captain James Cook in 1779. Today it is protected as a Marine Life Conservation District, making it one of Hawaii’s most vibrant snorkel locations.
Our Captain Cook Snorkel Tour departs daily from Keauhou Bay aboard the luxury catamaran Hoku Nui. As we sail south, the rugged lava cliffs rise above a mirror-smooth sea, and dolphins sometimes race alongside the bow. Upon arrival, you’ll drift over colorful coral gardens alive with schools of tang, parrotfish, and butterflyfish in water so clear you can see 40 feet below.
“The best snorkel of our lives — crystal clear water and an incredible crew who shared so much history.” — Sarah P., Los Angeles
“The captain’s respect for the bay was beautiful. We learned about Cook and the Hawaiian people — so much more than a tour.” — Ian & Mika S., Auckland
“Educational, peaceful, and full of life — we saw turtles, schools of fish, and felt completely safe.” — Clara N., New York
“As a Ride-Along, I was mesmerized by the view of the monument and the stories from our guide.” — Dale K., Vancouver
“A must-do in Kona — this tour connects you to the heart of Hawaii’s ocean and culture.” — Hoku L., Honolulu
All snorkelers must know how to swim. Beginner snorkelers with strong swimming skills are welcome on a tour near the Captain Cook Monument. Non-swimmers may join as Ride-Along Guests to enjoy the journey, stories, and scenery from the deck of Hoku Nui.
This is a sacred place. Listen to your guide’s instructions and keep voices low; this is a place of history and spirit. Learn more about the bay’s cultural background in our Kealakekua Bay Guide.
Use the provided floatation to avoid standing or touching coral. Our Responsible Tourism Tips share more ways to protect Hawaii’s reefs.
Removing coral or rocks is illegal and disrupts the ecosystem.
Greet fellow snorkelers with respect, aloha, and gratitude — malama i ke kai.
We welcome a mid-size number of guests aboard our spacious vessel to ensure a comfortable and intimate experience. Our crew is deeply connected to the Kona Coastline and are expertly trained to spot wildlife without interfering with their natural behavior. Each tour supports reef monitoring and local conservation initiatives.
Depart Keauhou Bay sailing down the Kona coast to snorkel in the pristine waters near the Captain Cook Monument in Kealakekua Bay and “Red Hill.” Breakfast and lunch included.
The Captain Cook Snorkel Tour combines top-tier reef snorkeling with in-depth storytelling about Hawaiian history, geology, and culture. Guests visit the waters below the Captain Cook Monument, learning about the events of 1779, Hawaiian-European contact, and the ongoing cultural significance of the bay, all while exploring a rich, protected reef system.
You do not need to be an expert snorkeler, but you must be a strong and confident swimmer if you plan to enter the water. Our crew provides detailed briefings, gear support, and flotation devices, making the experience accessible to beginners who are comfortable swimming in open ocean conditions.
Snorkelers at Kealakekua Bay often encounter schools of colorful reef fish such as tang, parrotfish, and butterflyfish, as well as healthy coral structures and, occasionally, honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) or other pelagic visitors. Because the bay is protected, fish tend to be more abundant and the reef more vibrant than in many unprotected areas.
Departures at Keauhou Bay
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96740
Phone: 808-322-2500
