Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument Snorkel - Small-Group Experience
5
Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument Snorkel - Small-Group Experience
By Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures
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About
Ages 5-75, max of 14 per group
Duration: 4h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Live guide: English
More
- Use of Snorkelling equipment
What's not included- Bring your own towel, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and swimsuit.
- Start:
- Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures, 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USAPlease meet us at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor located on Highway 19, two miles north of Kailua-Kona or five miles south of the Kona Airport. Follow directions to the Boat Launch ramp area restrooms and pavilion.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 163071P5- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not recommended for travellers with back problems
- Not recommended for pregnant travellers
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Must be able to swim without the assistance of a floatation device.
- Maximum weight of 280 pounds per traveler.
- Not recommended for travelers with neck problems
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 163071P5
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- B9956CWjustino0 contributionsOhana and MemoriesHad an amazing time seeing the beautiful Manta Rays! Our guide and captin (Jake and Jeff) were amazing. They were extremely knowledgeable and made you feel like a friend. Highly recommend this great adventure!Written 2 October 2024
- N3268YOrachelm0 contributionsNight manta ray snorkel experienceThis was such an amazing experience getting up close with the manta rays. Erika was really knowledgeable about the manta rays, including the specifics of local ones, whilst we watched them cruise around us. Adam and the crew ensured our safety whilst on board the vessel, with good tunes playing as we cruised out to snorkel location Couldn't recommend this enough!Written 10 September 2024
- Nan S0 contributionsBeautiful experience!An amazing experience sailing into the dark starry sea and the getting into the ocean watching the beautiful manta rays. Everything is calm and d safe and on the premises of the Mantas. Highly recommend also with teenagers.Written 23 July 2024
- 801heidio0 contributionsAmazing experience ce!!The night swim was beyond words. I’ve never experienced anything like it. Captain Jeff and Jacob did a great job of keeping everyone safe while providing information and a great experience. Would absolutely recommend this!Written 12 July 2024
- Wattetiparoch0 contributionsUnforgettable.Had a great time. Hit the jackpot seeing almost non-stop manta action. Also hit the jackpot with an excellent quide, Sara(h?). Sara was a pro, who really knows her stuff. She really made the experience a special treat.Written 26 June 2024
- Alexis N0 contributionsBest time ever!This experience was definitely top 3 coolest things I’ve done in my life. Giant gentle mantas inches from your face, glowing plankton and fish. Our guide, Jacob, and his crew (include Kai, the bestest dog) were so wonderful. Because we were such a small group, they were able to make sure each of us were comfortable, and we were able to go where the hot spots were. I highly recommend this small group tour over the giant boats.Written 19 June 2024
- 33heatherb0 contributionsFantastic excursionJacob, Jeff, and the girl with the beautiful name that I can't remember (starts with an M) were fantastic. We had two of our moms along with us and the crew was great with them making sure they were comfortable. The tour was my sister-in-law's idea and I'm so glad we did it. I have never been that close to wildlife, let alone that close to a huge sea creature. Only little swimming needed.....can highly recommend.Written 15 June 2024
- Julie D0 contributionsManta Heaven!10/10 HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! We had originally booked with Hawaii Oceanic as we wanted a small group experience. However, the company contacted us that day to let us know they did not have enough people booked for the small group excursion, so they offered us a trip with their sister company, Coral Reef Adventures for the same time/day. We could not have asked for a better experience! The crew was so incredibly nice. We went out before sunset and watched the beautiful sunset, then about 10 minutes later we were in the water. It was only dusk and we saw TONS of Mantas. It truly was Manta Heaven, as they called it. They swam so close to us that we would have to move out of their way! They were beautiful & majestic and I will absolutely be taking my kids to the Big Island when they’re older to experience the Manta Magic as well!Written 9 June 2024
- 582marinl0 contributionsAmazing must do experience!This was absolutely amazing!! Jacob, Jeff, and others (can’t remember their names) were incredible. They took very good care of us, made sure we were comfortable, and encouraged lots of questions. The boat ride out to the snorkel area was only 20-30 minutes. Once we got in the water, the rays started to show up so fast! They would swim within a few inches of our faces. One also touched me just barely. It was a once in a lifetime experience. You do get a little cold so definitely use the wet suit they offer, and your shoulders may be sore just from holding on to the board for 30 whole minutes. Overall, I highly recommend you check this out!!Written 5 June 2024
- Y2639NLsuzannes0 contributionsMust-do on the Big Island with the best crewWow! We had the experience of a lifetime with Jacob, Captain Jeff and First Mate Kaya. They were exceptional guides for our late night manta ray snorkel. We were lucky to see 18+ beautiful manta rays on a perfect night. I was very nervous about the trip, but Jacob, Jeff and Kaya made me feel at ease. They gave clear instructions throughout the excursion and were very helpful. As soon as we were underway to the snorkel site, I felt right at ease. That feeling continued throughout the night, until we safely docked. We also appreciated the snacks and drinks that were provided after the tour. The manta ray snorkel is a must-do on the Big Island and I highly recommend Coral Reef Snorkel Adventures, especially the late night tour.Written 4 June 2024
- bobn3430 contributionsMagical bucket list item checked offWent on 8:30 pm manta ray snorkle adventure. Boat ride is about 20 minutes and a bit bumpy but exhilarating. Crew had just set light board in the water and we hadn't got in water yet when Manta rays started swimming up to it to eat plankton. We were in the water about an hour and there was maybe a 5 minute period with no rays. Crew said, typically they would see 2 to 3 rays on a tour. We saw at least 10, including the biggest ray in the bay. The rays easily come within a foot of you and rubbed up against me an my wife a few times. Gentle giants who just want a snack, it was a magical encounter with a giant from the deep. Most rays were about 8 foot across, but a few were probably 15 foot. One of the most amazing experiences of my life and that's making a statement. Crew was professional and very helpful.Written 2 June 2024
- bbabe_560 contributionsIncredible and magical.This was in my opinion one of the most incredible and magical adventures ever. The crew that took us out were awesome and made everyone feel comfortable, even me who is a terrible swimmer. I highly recommend this group for your night time Manta Ray swim.Written 30 April 2024
- jasmined570 contributions30 minute slice of heaven 😍Mahalo nui Guides Maianna and Jacob, Captain Jeff and Co captain Kaya (((♡))) I felt so safe tonight which has been an emotion void from me for so long. My breathing felt so smooth and I surrendered to the excitement of the unknown. Your energy guiding me to visit amakua is seen and felt with all my heartstrings. Being in the ocean at night is a big fear I have had, I felt so ready for our swim tonight I remember jumping in as soon as possible and staying as long as feasible (((♡)))the heart shape patterns and the polka dots on their bellies captivated my eyes as I watched them dance and twril. Mahalo nui loa ✨ until we meet againWritten 26 April 2024
- malinimel0 contributionsAmazing Manta Ray Snorkel Experience!We recommend the sunset tour. We had a beautiful sunset leaving the harbor. You go into the water when it's still a little light to get your bearings, and while snorkeling it gets dark (it doesn't get dark on the later tours ;)). At this time the manta rays are not yet full, so the chances of seeing many are very good. Compared to other operators, this is a small group, so very efficient with issuing wetsuits and snorkeling gear. Great guides, good equipment, fun little boat. During snorkeling our guide moved the board sometimes to get the best number of manta rays. We saw a lot and it was overwhelming. They offer snacks and drinks.Written 25 April 2024
- ChristineB810 contributionsAmazing!This was one of the most amazing experiences I have ever done. All the employees (Jacob, Carmel, and I cannot remember the captains name, and the dig Kaia) were amazing, run and helpful! And the sunset was beautiful!!Written 19 April 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
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5.0
74 reviews
Excellent
69
Very good
1
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4
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0
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Tony C
10 contributions
Getting to snorkel with an entire ocean of beautiful fish was one of the most amazing snorkels we have ever done. And we have snorkeled in a lot of places. Brent our guide was so knowledgeable and showed and explained everything we saw. Capt Jeff was amazing as well, giving us stops that told the history of the island and the forefathers. Amazing experience all around. Thanks to the entire team for making that happen.
Written 23 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Annaleise93
Seattle, WA13 contributions
Dec 2022
small boat snorkel trip. I wanted a small boat/group that left early, as I know that is THE BEST for snorkeling. Brent and Captain Shelly were welcoming, very experienced and made me feel at ease. Brent shared some interesting Hawaiian history, and got in the water and helped us to find areas with more fish. Excellent variety of fish in the cove we went to. .Entry into and out of water was very east. They have a great swim step ladder for getting out of the boat. Shealley did a great job finding spinner dolphins to view on way home in a few spots. and did an extra little circle around a group of dolphins when we were already close to harbor. delicious fresh pineapple in addition to simple snacks and canned drinks.
Written 8 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
seertel78
Holly Springs, NC11 contributions
We had an amazing snorkel trip on October 3rd, with Captain Shelly and Swim Guide Kanani! They were both amazing! Kanani was very engaging with our young kids 11, 7, 5, and 5. She helped us spot tons of sea creatures, even turtles and an eel. When our twins got too cold in the water, Captain Shelly was happy to have them on the boat. They got to go up in the crows nest and eat cookies… they might have been as thrilled with that as they were with snorkeling.
They stopped along the way several times to give us stories and info re: the island and history.
Back at the harbor, Kanani suggested we check out Turtle Beach and we are so glad that we did. TONS of turtles.
All around a great time!!
They stopped along the way several times to give us stories and info re: the island and history.
Back at the harbor, Kanani suggested we check out Turtle Beach and we are so glad that we did. TONS of turtles.
All around a great time!!
Written 12 October 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
FarAwayForFun
2 contributions
Jul 2021 • Family
I can't say enough about how great Captain Shelley and crew member Eric were. My sister uses a walker and needed assistance getting in and out the boat and the water. They were amazing with her. Both love what they do and shared their love of Hawaii. Eric swam with us pointing out different fish and generally watching out for all of us. It felt like friends taking other friends out for an afternoon of fun. Highly recommend this tour!!!
Written 20 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Evan G
2 contributions
Apr 2022 • Couples
Great experience snorkeling the captain cook monument on the big island. Very small private group with us and one other couple which made for a differentiated experience. Captain Shelly is great and their personal guide will go into the water with you to point out all the various fish and make sure everyone is comfortable. The guide will also point out several historical landmarks on the way back and provide info. Complimentary snacks and beverages was also appreciated. Highly recommend for someone looking to snorkel outside of a large group environment.
Written 13 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Josh
2 contributions
Mar 2022
I cannot recommend this group enough. Shelly and Brent were fantastic hosts to our family group of 6 to the Captain Cook monument!! They were knowledgeable, down to earth and passionate about what they do. If you have a group of 6 or less, this is TOTALLY the way to go! We went on the early trip out to Captain Cook and got there before the bigger tour groups got there. They were full of historical facts about the monument and points between there and the harbor, as well as the aquatic life we saw while there. We even got to spot a whale and her calf and Shelly shared her wealth of knowledge about them. Our whole group learned so much during our trip with them.
Written 9 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Haley F
2 contributions
Mar 2024 • Solo
This snorkel tour (captain cook) is an absolute must. The boat ride to and from the snorkel spot alone is worth the $$. Beautiful view of the island. Captain Bob and Sarah tried their best to get us to see dolphins, sharks, even whales! The snorkeling was unreal. The fresh cut pineapple was a cherry on top. The emails and directions were clear and easy to read (I think that’s an important detail that gets overlooked) This Oregon girl appreciates the locals making sure tourists have a great time. Thank you!!
Written 6 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Patty O
Ventura, CA8 contributions
Mar 2022 • Friends
Outstanding experience!!! We went out with Brent and Captain Shelley on March 31 at 7:30a.m. There were only 6 of us. Before getting into the water, Brent told us the history of Captain Cook. He then helped everyone with their snorkel gear and instructions. Once in the water Brent stayed close by ensuring everyone was safe and had a great experience, explaining everything we were seeing in the water. Once back on the boat we had the luck of seeing dolphins swimming right next to our boat. I would highly recommend Coral Reef Adventures!!!!!
Written 3 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Danielle C
52 contributions
Sept 2022
Our group of 4 ended up having the boat to ourselves with Captain Sandy and Brent. Excellent ride out with local stories and pointing out historical areas on the way back. The water clarity was amazing. We took the early morning trip and were glad of it. Hardly anyone else in the area while we were in the water. I've done "cattle boat" snorkels elsewhere in the past and it was definitely worth the extra $$ to go on a small boat! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Written 29 September 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Johnny
Bend, OR33 contributions
Feb 2023
Captain Shelly, “Captain Ron”, and rock star Brent gave us an amazing morning at Captain Cook’s snorkeling. Having Brent in the water with us telling what we are seeing as well as the history while IN THE WATER was fabulous. Highly recommend!
Written 2 February 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessica L
San Francisco, California
Hello, would you do a trip for 7? We have 1 extra child
Written 21 August 2021
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