Kona’s Best Morning Snorkel: Captain Cook & Kealakekua Bay
Description
Since 1971, we've taken pride in offering a top-tier snorkeling experience backed by decades of expertise and a highly trained, lifeguard-certified crew. When you join us, you’re in the hands of professionals dedicated to safety, comfort, and making your time at Kealakekua Bay truly unforgettable. Our award-winning snorkel tour takes you to this protected marine sanctuary, home to the Captain Cook Monument and some of Hawai‘i’s most pristine waters. Along the way, our crew shares the rich cultural and historical significance of the coastline. Upon arrival, dive into crystal-clear waters, encounter vibrant marine life, or enjoy the thrills of our water slides and high dive. Snorkel gear and a variety of flotation options ensure a comfortable experience for all skill levels. As we return to Keauhou Bay, take in the stunning coastal views while learning about Hawai‘i’s marine ecosystem, coral reefs, and conservation efforts—an experience that stays with you long after the journey ends.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Keauhou Bay: Where Your Adventure Begins Nestled on the sunny Kona Coast, Keauhou Bay is more than just your departure point—it’s a place rich in Hawaiian history and natural beauty. As the birthplace of King Kamehameha III, the bay holds deep cultural significance, with a historic marker just steps from check-in. Surrounded by lava rock, swaying palms, and calm, crystal-clear waters, it’s a peaceful cove ideal for photos and spotting dolphins or sea turtles. This tranquil harbor sets the stage for your Fair Wind snorkel or sailing tour—making your journey memorable before it even begins.
Fair Wind Big Island Ocean Guides: Your Welcome Center by the Bay Your adventure begins at the Fair Wind Office -check-in area, located right at Keauhou Bay. This is where you'll meet our crew, check in for your tour, and get ready to board—just steps from the water. Our friendly team is here to help you feel prepared and excited for your trip. While you’re here, take a moment to browse our retail shop, which offers a curated selection of reef-safe sunscreen, stylish apparel, and locally made gifts. Whether you're grabbing last-minute essentials or a keepsake to remember your day, it’s all part of the experience we’re proud to share with our guests.
Kuamoʻo Point: A Coastline of Cultural Significance Rounding the curve of the bay, Kuamoʻo Point comes into view—a rugged lava promontory rich in both natural drama and historic weight. This coastal landmark borders the site of the Battle of Kuamoʻo and marks a moment of profound transition for the Hawaiian Islands. Today, its steep cliffs and crashing surf offer a powerful setting to reflect on the resilience and transformation of a culture deeply connected to both land and sea.
Lekeleke Burial Grounds: History Along the Shoreline As we continue south along the Kona Coast, keep an eye out for the rugged lava fields just south of Keauhou Bay—this is Lekeleke Burial Grounds, the site of the historic Battle of Kuamoʻo. In 1819, this shoreline witnessed a pivotal clash in Hawaiian history between defenders of ancient traditions and those embracing change after the passing of King Kamehameha I. The land remains a sacred resting place for those who fell in battle, and is preserved today as a place of cultural reflection. Though we view it from the water, it stands as a powerful reminder of Hawaiʻi’s dynamic past and enduring heritage.
Kealakekua Bay: A Marine Sanctuary with a Story As we arrive at Kealakekua Bay, you’ll immediately notice the brilliant blue water and dramatic cliffs surrounding this protected marine preserve. Recognized as one of Hawaiʻi’s best snorkeling destinations, the bay is home to vibrant coral gardens and an incredible variety of reef fish. Spinner dolphins are often seen here, and lucky snorkelers may even spot a honu (Hawaiian sea turtle) gliding through the calm water. The white obelisk on shore marks the site where Captain James Cook landed—and later lost his life—in 1779, making this a place of both natural wonder and deep historical resonance. Whether you’re snorkeling or taking it all in from the deck, Kealakekua Bay is a highlight of the journey.
Captain Cook Monument: A Historic Landmark in Kealakekua Bay On the northern edge of Kealakekua Bay stands the tall white obelisk known as the Captain Cook Monument. Erected by the British in 1874, it marks the location where Captain James Cook first came ashore in Hawaiʻi in 1779—and where he met his end just weeks later. From the water, the monument is a striking sight set against the lush cliffs of the bay. It serves as a reminder of the cultural crossroads that shaped this region’s history.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Must be comfortable in the ocean.
- Full face snorkel masks are not permitted on our vessels
Reviews(1,017)
Had a great time. My grandson enjoyed the slides and diving areas as well as all the different fish we saw. Priced good.
Wow what an amazing experience! Very well organized and executed. We had a family of 10 ranging in ages from 3 to almost 80 and they had resources on boat for everyone to enjoy themselves. My children got to see so many fish while riding comfortably on a boogie board with viewer and my mom who cannot swim was able to use an inner tube and a viewer to also explore the ocean. The staff were very patient and helpful. Thank you for an amazing experience!!
I highly recommend this snorkel trip - excellent guides and captain, great food, friendly and supportive staff. Only drawback was recommended arrival time approx an hour before boarding...lots of waiting around in heat/sun. Once we got going though, a great day!
Our snorkel tour was one of the best experiences of our trip to Hawaii. We are a three-generation family, from 3 years old to 73 years old, and we all thought it was fabulous. The boat was well-equipped with snorkel gear, the staff was friendly and helpful, the food was delicious....everything was perfect. The boat was full of guests, but not so many that it felt crowded. The bathrooms were very clean, and the boat provided plenty of shade when we needed to get out of the sun. The amount of time that was allocated for actual snorkeling was perfect -- everyone was tired and ready to go back to the hotel. We highly recommend this tour!
What a wonderful experience with my daughters! The captain and the crew were informative, delightful and attentive. The breakfast and lunch served was delicious. The views and the snorkeling were just amazing. Highly recommend this excursion to couples or families. I'd love to come back for the nighttime with the manta rays, another time.
All I knew is I wanted guidance while snorkeling and this tour seemed like a good fit. But it was so much more than that and I would do this experience over and over again as it is a great value for the admission fee. The guides told me it was a sold out tour, but the boat did not seem crowded at all and there was plenty of seating and places to leave our gear without bumping into others. On the cruise out some dolphins joined us and the crew slowed down so we could all see and they could tell us about them. They graciously passed out a delicious oatmeal breakfast as we traveled to Kealakekua. When we arrived the captain told us about the history of the bay and Captain Cook and before we stopped to park we took a silent moment to pay our respects to the land and to the people who came before. The snorkeling was fantastic and we saw at least 20 kinds of fish AND more dolphins. We were able to break for lunch when we wanted and the lunch was, again, delicious and the portions generous. I did not feel I had to wait too long before getting in the water again. For the kids, there were slides and inner tubes and looky-boards. For my 79 year old Mom it was so easy to walk down the steps, sit to put on fins, and just glide into the water - no jumping or diving in. The whole morning was about 4 hours and it felt like just the right amount of time. And on the way back you can buy a Mai Tai to put an exclamation point on the morning. So, yes, you should invest your vacation budget in this experience. Bring your underwater cameras and a towel. They have everything else: snorkel masks & fins, sunscreen, and floats. Enjoy!
Absolutely the best snorkel adventure. The crew was very accommodating and fun. They provided great service always with a smile. The boat was clean and very comfortable with lots of shade from the hot sun. The gear they provide is top notch and allows even those who cannot swim to get in the water and enjoy the fascinating reef life.
Awesome tour, great boats, and crew! We researched a few different companies, but ultimately went with Fairwinds - it was absolutely the right choice! The crew is knowledgeable and helpful, the boat was clean, they served a great breakfast and lunch. We saw amazing fish and dolphins. The boat was also positioned in one of the best parts of the Bay. The boat has two waterslides, which we all tried and loved! Highly recommend, looking forward to doing it again!
This trip is an absolute must do. The crew was extremely friendly and helpful to everyone on board. The breakfast and lunch were both great. The snorkeling was really great with lots of marine life to see. But what I thought was truly awesome was how family friendly this cruise was. Even though we did not have children with us, we couldn't help notice how great the crew was with the kids on board. They had a diving platform, two slides, and several different types of floatation devices available which gave anyone the opportunity to enjoy the water. The cruise out had stunning views of the coastline. It was such an enjoyable morning trip. I highly recommend this trip, especially if you are here with children.
Wonderful tour. Amazing guides. Delicious food. Knowledgeable and accommodating crew. Great spot. Sights were incredible! Pod of porpoises came by and hung out with us showing off their tricks. It was WILD! Super cool.
