Embark on a one-of-a-kind journey for adventure seekers eager to explore the pristine waters of the South Kona Coast. What makes this snorkeling tour unique is not only our commitment to sustainability—from biodiesel-powered boats to composting waste and eliminating single-use plastics—but also the breathtaking destinations we visit. Snorkel at two, world-class sites, including the iconic Kealakekua Bay and an exclusive, crowd-free location featuring dramatic underwater lava formations and arches. Glide through crystal-clear waters teeming with tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs, and occasional encounters with dolphins or manta rays. Along the way, soak in the rich history and rugged beauty of the Kona Coast, where lava cliffs and sea caves tell the story of Hawai‘i’s volcanic past. With top-tier snorkeling gear, a knowledgeable crew, and a thoughtfully crafted plant-based menu, this tour blends adventure, sustainability, and culture for an unforgettable experience.
Prices change with the date; the lowest is shown.
In demand: 18 of the next 30 departures are already sold out.
From the operator’s live schedule on Viator, checked Oct 22.
Embark on a memorable journey with Hula Kai, departing from Keauhou Bay, the birthplace of King Kamehameha III. As you cruise along the Kona Coast, immerse yourself in a Hawaiian cultural expedition enriched with captivating historical narratives. Our lifeguard-certified crew will assist you with snorkel gear to explore the blue ocean and discover coral, tropical fish, turtles, rays, dolphins, and whales. Explore two snorkel locations (weather permitting), enjoy a plant-based breakfast and lunch, and take advantage of standup paddleboards and snorkel gear. Our commitment to environmental protection through sustainable practices and mindful dining sets us apart. Our curated menu features plant-based meals, locally sourced when possible, reflecting our dedication to minimizing environmental impact and promoting guest health. Enjoy a cash bar with beer, wine, mai tais, and champagne as we cruise back to port.
Located approximately 10-miles South of Kealakekua Bay, our Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour often visits the remote and serene Pali Kaholo region, consisting of Rob’s Reef and Turtle Rock (weather depending). Rob’s Reef – A definite favorite with its amazing underwater sea arches and sea caves in the Pali (cliff). Amidst the colorful array of fish and marine life located here, snorkelers may find a unique school of Pyramid Butterflyfish – which are usually only seen in deeper waters. Turtle Rock – As the name suggests, this area is frequented by Green Sea Turtles. The vibrant coral and black sand together in this area create a beautiful contrast. There are also several rock islands and ridges extending below and above the water. Nearby is Lepeamoa, a large rock formation resembling a rooster’s comb.
WEATHER DEPENDING - This large red volcanic cone is named for the type of cinder which it produced. Pu'u - meaning hill and hau, a special stone that was soft, porous, and once used for polishing canoes. Located north of Kealakekua Bay, it is situated between Nenue Point to the North and Keawakaheka Bay to the South, marking the boundary between North and South Kona. The top of Pu’u Ohau (Red Hill) is Kapu, or forbidden, as it is the ancient burial site of High Chiefess Kamaeokalani, grandmother of King Kalakaua and Queen Liliuokalani. Today, the Red Hill area has become known for its excellent snorkeling amongst the many reefs and abundant marine life it sustains.
WEATHER DEPENDING - Kealakekua Bay is one of the best Kona snorkel sites on Hawaii Island. With its natural wind protection, remote location and designations as an underwater state park, marine sanctuary, and site of the Captain Cook Monument, Kealakekua Bay is earning a reputation as the best snorkeling destination in Hawaii.
Kealakekua Bay is home of the Captain Cook Monument. The British established the Captain Cook monument in memory of the site where Cook met his demise. View the monument from the vessel and from snorkeling in the bay.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
Excurgo comparison of 525 Viator tours, recalculated daily.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch lasts about 5h 30min. The itinerary has 5 stops.
Prices start at $205 per person for this Big Island of Hawaii experience, booked through Viator with the price shown before checkout. There is 1 booking option, so the final price depends on the option you choose.
According to the operator’s current schedule, it runs every day, starting at 9:00 AM.
It can: 18 of the next 30 departures are already sold out, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Yes. Cancel at least 1 day before the start for a full refund. Later cancellations are non-refundable.
The meeting point is Check in at the Fair Wind office located on Keauhou Bay. Boarding begins 15 minutes after the listed tour check-in time. Free Parking along Kaleiopapa Street. Hotel pickup is not part of this experience.
The experience is available in EN.
It is a small-group experience with a maximum of 40 participants.
Yes, bookings are confirmed instantly.
Travellers rate it 4.9 out of 5 across 326 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor; it is run by Kona Sunrise Charters.
Reviews collected by Viator and Tripadvisor
This is the third time we have enjoyed ourselves on the Kula Kia. Always friendly captain and crew. Food is delicious and fresh. A wonderful relaxing adventure.
Aloha Thomas! Thank you joining us for a third trip aboard Hula Kai. We are happy you have enjoyed your continued ocean adventure with us. Mahalo, Christopher
Dante, Derek and the entire staff did a great job. Snorkeling was fantastic and the food exceeded our expectations. Great service great fun and probably the best money spent on our Hawaiian vacation
Aloha Patrick! Thank you for joining u sfor a trip aboard Fair Wind. We hope you join us again soon! Mahalo, Christopher
Our 2nd time using this company, but first time on the smaller group boat Hula Kai. Less hectic than the larger groups so well worth it. Good descriptions from the captain as we cruised to our destinations- saw spinner dolphins too! Yes the food is vegan, but all was very good-get out of your comfort zone and try something new! Love their sustainability goals and use of reusable cups, plates and cutlery. Well done!
Aloha! Thank you for taking the time to share your experience aboard the Hula Kai, and thank you for recognizing our sustainability efforts. Mahalo, Christopher
We had an amazing day out on the water on this adventure. The first of the two snorkel locations was our favorite. Seeing a huge dolphin pod was extra and epic. Good food for breakfast and lunch. Comfortable boat seats. We would do this trip again!
From the check in, boarding the boat and the crew this was a fantastic morning. The equipment is top notch, even the vegan food was really good. The captain and the crew really looked after us, and made the trip really fun. The snorkeling spot is great, and we got to see a lot of marine life. Definitely would do this again.
The crew was out standing and cheerfully and organized, I'd highly recommend! Boat was big and clean.
Great Crew! Safe-Fun-Beautiful
We had a fabulous day on the Captain Jack boat. We scheduled this trip to spread ashes and snorkel. We were a party of 6. Captain Dante and crew member Calais took excellent care of us. They gently took us to a place where we scattered ashes that was so beautiful. We will remember it always. Well done Fair Winds cruises.
Our experience on the Kona Coast Snorkel Tour with Fair Wind Cruises was absolutely amazing from start to finish. After already doing the manta ray night snorkel with them a couple of nights before, we were excited to go out with them again, and once again they delivered an incredible experience. The crew onboard was interactive, friendly, and constantly engaging with guests throughout the trip. They even offered to take photos while we were snorkeling, which made the experience feel much more personal and memorable. You could really tell the entire team genuinely cared about both the guests and the ocean around them. One moment that really stood out to us was when the crew spotted a fishing net and other trash floating in the water. They actually stopped what they were doing to remove it because they were more concerned about protecting the marine life and keeping the ocean safe. Seeing a crew take that kind of pride in caring for the wildlife and environment was honestly refreshing and admirable. The snorkeling itself was fantastic, and we were even lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins during the trip. On top of that, the crew shared so much information about the island, the coastline, and areas you would only ever get to experience from the water and not from land. It made the entire trip feel educational, adventurous, and unforgettable all at once. Highly recommend this tour to anyone wanting an amazing snorkeling experience with a crew that truly cares about the ocean, wildlife, and their guests.
There was a problem with the boat for our original excursion, but Fair Wind got us on another cruise. We had a great time because they offered us the chance to Snuba dive. That was a great experience. Joe was our guide and he was so patient when I was having problems with my mask. I wasn't able to dive because of it but was able to switch out masks and he offered me to go on the second round so I didn't miss out. Had a great time and couldn't be happier with our day!
| Tour | Duration | Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Luxury Kona Coast Snorkel Tour Including Lunch | 5h 30min | 4.9 (326) | $205 | |
 Waikoloa Catamaran Snorkel Sail Including Lunch | 3 hours | 4.7 (112) | $189 | View |
 Kona Catamaran Snorkel Sail with Lunch | 3 hours | 4.7 (114) | $169 | View |
 Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-Kona | 4h 30min | 4.8 (836) | $184 | View |
 Kona Afternoon Snorkel to Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay | 3 hours | 4.9 (742) | $136 | View |
 Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch | 4 hours | 4.9 (2,513) | $85 | View |
 Lahaina Maui Sea Turtle Snorkel Sail Adventure w/Lunch & Open Bar | 5 hours | 4.9 (139) | $193 | View |