Kailua Kona, Hawaii

Kona Snorkel Trips is a family-owned and operated boat tour company based in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. With a strong reputation reflected in five-star ratings on TripAdvisor and Google, the company offers expertly guided snorkeling and whale watching adventures. Departing from their private dock at Honokohau Marina, guests benefit from convenient parking and a comfortable boarding experience aboard the Orca, a 28-foot vessel formerly used by U.S. Navy Seals. The crew is lifeguard certified and committed to safety and environmental stewardship, including the use of propeller guards and providing reef-safe sunscreen to protect the local marine ecosystem. The company specializes in a variety of tours including daytime snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay’s marine sanctuary, manta ray night snorkels at Garden Eel Cove, and seasonal whale watching excursions. Their tours cater to a wide range of guests, from first-time snorkelers to experienced swimmers, with flotation devices and wetsuits provided as needed. Private charters are also available, accommodating up to 19 passengers for a personalized experience. Throughout each trip, guides share insights on the island’s history and marine life, ensuring an educational and memorable outing in the pristine waters off Kona’s coastline.

Located in Kona, Hawaii, Kona Manta Rays Snorkel Tours offers a unique underwater experience centered around the majestic manta rays native to the area. With years of expertise in marine tours, the company specializes in night snorkeling excursions that provide close encounters with these gentle giants. Their knowledgeable guides ensure a safe and educational adventure, using high-quality snorkeling equipment to enhance visibility and comfort. The tours take place in carefully selected locations known for frequent manta ray sightings, making each trip both exciting and memorable. The company caters to a wide range of customers, from first-time snorkelers to experienced divers seeking an extraordinary marine experience. Guests are guided through calm waters illuminated by underwater lights that attract plankton, drawing manta rays into view. This immersive experience allows participants to observe the graceful movements of manta rays in their natural habitat. The tours emphasize environmental respect and safety, offering an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Hawaii’s vibrant ocean life.

Located in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, this dive operator specializes in providing exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling experiences along the renowned Kona coast. With a reputation as Hawaii’s top dive operator and a five-star rating, the company offers a wide range of charters including day dives, night dives, and private scuba and snorkeling charters. Their experienced crew and well-equipped fleet of boats ensure safety and comfort while exploring over 40 local dive sites, including unique environments such as caves, lava tubes, and coral reefs. The operator is particularly noted for its world-famous manta ray night dives, which attract divers and snorkelers eager to witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat. The business caters to divers of all skill levels, from beginners seeking open water certification to advanced divers looking for challenging underwater adventures. Daytime options include local two-tank dives, advanced two-tank dives, and long-range excursions, while night offerings feature manta ray dives, blackwater dives, and reef dives. Snorkeling tours highlight secluded coral reefs and seasonal whale watching, with private charters available for personalized group experiences. Equipment rentals and a comprehensive dive shop support guests’ needs, and the knowledgeable staff provides attentive service without over-guiding, creating a balanced and memorable underwater experience for both individuals and groups.

Fair Wind Cruises is a family-owned and operated snorkel tour company based in Kailua-Kona, Hawai‘i Island, with a history dating back to 1971. Renowned for its commitment to sustainability and ocean stewardship, the company operates first-class vessels such as the Fair Wind II and the Hula Kai, which feature amenities including shade canopies, restrooms, freshwater showers, and water slides. Their tours focus on exploring the pristine waters of Kealakekua Bay and the remote South Kona coastline, areas celebrated for their abundant marine life and historical significance, including the Captain Cook Monument. Fair Wind Cruises is distinguished by its eco-friendly practices, such as using biodiesel fuel, solar energy, reef-safe sunscreen, and offering plant-based meals sourced from local farms, all designed to minimize environmental impact while providing a high-quality experience. The company offers a variety of snorkeling tours suitable for all skill levels, from family-friendly morning and afternoon excursions to more advanced adventures like the Manta Ray Night Snorkel. Guests can choose from group tours or private charters aboard vessels equipped with flotation devices, snorkel classes, and prescription masks to enhance comfort and safety. The tours include island-inspired meals and opportunities to see diverse sea life, including dolphins and manta rays, in calm, protected waters. With a focus on education and guest enjoyment, Fair Wind Cruises combines expert guidance with a relaxed atmosphere, making it a premier choice for visitors seeking an immersive and responsible ocean experience on Hawai‘i Island.

Kailani Tours Hawaii, based in Kailua-Kona, offers luxury guided tours that showcase the diverse natural and cultural highlights of the Big Island. With extensive experience and National Park-certified guides, the company provides personalized, small-group tours with a maximum of 12 guests, ensuring an intimate and educational experience. Their fleet includes luxury Mercedes Sprinter vans and SUVs, equipped for comfort and convenience. What sets Kailani Tours apart is their commitment to sharing the island’s rich history and geology through interactive storytelling, combined with gourmet food and beverage offerings during the excursions. The company’s tour offerings range from full-day volcano and island highlights tours to deluxe experiences featuring gourmet dinners and custom private charters tailored to individual preferences. Guests can explore iconic sites such as Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, Punalu’u Black Sand Beach, and local coffee farms, with frequent stops for sightseeing and refreshments. Kailani Tours caters to a variety of travelers, including families, couples, and small groups seeking a stress-free, immersive adventure. Their knowledgeable guides provide all necessary gear and amenities, creating a seamless and memorable journey through the island’s scenic landscapes and cultural landmarks.

My Kona Adventures is a premier tour operator based in Kona, Hawaii, specializing in unique marine wildlife experiences on the Big Island. With a strong reputation supported by over 1,000 five-star reviews, the company offers expertly guided boat and snorkeling tours that highlight the natural beauty and distinctive marine life of the region. What sets this business apart is its focus on intimate, small-group excursions that provide personalized attention and ensure the safety and comfort of both guests and wildlife. Their signature offering, the Manta Ray Night Snorkel, allows visitors to witness the graceful manta rays feeding at night, creating a memorable and immersive Hawaiian adventure. The company’s flagship tour departs from Kailua and Keauhou Bay piers, providing all necessary snorkeling gear, with wetsuit rentals available for added comfort. Guests embark on a boat ride timed to catch the Kona sunset before entering the water, where underwater lights attract plankton and, subsequently, manta rays. The tours are designed for up to 12 participants, fostering a close-up and safe encounter with these gentle giants as they perform acrobatic barrel rolls and feed just beneath the surface. Knowledgeable guides accompany swimmers throughout the experience, offering insights about the manta rays and Hawaiian marine ecology, making the adventure both educational and exhilarating for visitors of varying experience levels.

Sea Paradise Hawaii is a well-established ocean adventure company based in Keauhou Bay, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, with over 40 years of experience in providing eco-conscious marine tours. Operating aboard the 50-foot luxury sailing catamaran Hoku Nui, the company offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and cultural storytelling that highlights the natural beauty and ecological significance of Kona’s reefs and marine life. Their commitment to responsible exploration and conservation sets them apart, as they integrate reef-safe practices and support local research initiatives to protect the ocean environment. The knowledgeable crew, including marine naturalists and storytellers, ensure each voyage is both informative and engaging, making Sea Paradise a trusted choice for visitors seeking an authentic Hawaiian ocean experience. The company offers a variety of tours including morning and afternoon snorkeling excursions at Kealakekua Bay, known for its pristine waters and vibrant coral gardens, as well as night snorkeling tours to swim with manta rays at the world-famous Manta Ray Village. Each tour includes high-quality snorkel gear, reef-safe sunscreen education, and refreshments, catering to both swimmers and non-swimmers through options like the Manta Ride-Along Guest experience. Guests can also book private charters aboard the Hoku Nui for a personalized adventure. Throughout every journey, Sea Paradise emphasizes cultural respect, marine education, and sustainable tourism, providing an enriching and memorable experience for families, nature enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers alike.

Located on the Kona Coast of Hawaii’s Big Island, Captain Zodiac is the state’s original Zodiac snorkeling tour company with over 50 years of experience. Renowned for its commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and cultural education, the company offers an intimate and informative marine adventure. Operating from Honokohau Harbor in Kailua-Kona, the tours explore the remote marine preserve of Kealakekua Bay, famous for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and the historic Captain Cook Monument. The use of highly maneuverable 24-foot Zodiac Hurricane RHIB rafts allows guests to access sea caves, lava tubes, and other unique coastal features that larger vessels cannot reach, enhancing the overall experience. Captain Zodiac provides a variety of tours including snorkeling excursions, seasonal whale watching, and private boat charters suitable for all ages above four years. Their snorkeling tours focus on Kealakekua Bay’s clear, calm waters, offering opportunities to see Hawaiian spinner dolphins, humpback whales, pilot whales, and sea turtles up close. The small-group format, with a maximum of 16 passengers per raft, ensures personalized attention and a comfortable setting. Expert captains and crew share insights on marine science, Hawaiian history, and local folklore, making each trip both educational and engaging. The company also emphasizes sustainable practices, including the use of reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles, to protect the natural environment for future visitors.

Aqua-Aston Hospitality, headquartered in Honolulu, Hawaii, has been a pioneer in vacation condo rentals since 1948. Specializing in full-service resorts, boutique hotels, and condominium properties across Hawaii’s four major islands—Maui, Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi Island, and Kauaʻi—this company offers travelers an authentic island experience with the comforts of home. Their extensive portfolio includes over 20 condo resorts featuring spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, private lanais, and resort amenities such as professional housekeeping and maintenance. Aqua-Aston’s deep local roots and partnerships with renowned brands like Marriott and Hilton ensure a blend of genuine Hawaiian hospitality and world-class service. The company caters to a diverse clientele, including families, couples, honeymooners, and extended-stay travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Guests can choose from a variety of destinations, each offering unique attractions such as snorkeling and manta ray dives in Kailua-Kona, volcanic explorations on Hawaiʻi Island, and vibrant cultural experiences on Oʻahu. Properties like Aston Kona by the Sea provide oceanfront views, tropical man-made beaches, and convenient access to local markets and historic sites. With a dedicated team of hospitality professionals and a commitment to creating memorable island getaways, Aqua-Aston delivers personalized service that embraces the timeless aloha spirit.

Boss Frog's is a well-established rental and activity company serving the Hawaiian islands of Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, with over 30 years of experience in the industry. The business operates multiple convenient locations across these islands, including nine stores on Maui, three on Kauai, and one in Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. Specializing in snorkel gear rentals, the company also offers bicycles, surfboards, stand-up paddleboards, bodyboards, and various beach accessories such as chairs and umbrellas. What sets this company apart is its comprehensive approach to vacation needs, combining quality equipment with expert local knowledge and a wide range of discounted activities. The company provides an extensive selection of services tailored to visitors of all ages and experience levels, including snorkeling tours to renowned sites like Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, sunset dinner cruises, and Lanai snorkeling excursions. Their fleet of vessels, such as the spacious Malolo catamaran and the triple-decker Calypso, enhances the snorkeling experience with comfortable amenities and well-equipped gear. Beyond rentals and tours, Boss Frog's offers discount tickets for popular island activities including luaus, helicopter rides, zipline tours, and ATV adventures, making it a one-stop resource for families and individual travelers seeking to explore Hawaii’s natural beauty. The knowledgeable staff also provides valuable guidance on local conditions, best snorkeling spots, and other vacation tips to ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Atlantis Adventures is a well-established tour company based in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, specializing in ocean excursions that showcase the natural beauty of the Big Island. With over 25 years of experience, the company offers expertly guided snorkeling and scuba diving trips, providing access to some of the most pristine underwater environments in the region. Their commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, combined with a fleet of modern vessels and knowledgeable staff, sets them apart as a trusted choice for both novice and experienced adventurers. The company offers a variety of activities including snorkeling tours to vibrant coral reefs, manta ray night dives, and scuba diving excursions suitable for all skill levels. These experiences are designed to immerse guests in Hawaii’s unique marine life, featuring clear waters and abundant sea creatures. Atlantis Adventures caters to families, couples, and individual travelers seeking memorable and educational ocean experiences. Each trip emphasizes comfort and personalized attention, ensuring that participants enjoy a seamless and engaging adventure on the water.

Hawaii Nautical is a family-owned company based in Hawaii, offering luxury ocean experiences across Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. With over 25 years of experience, it operates the state’s largest inter-island fleet, providing a range of activities including snorkel cruises, sunset sails, day sails, and private charters. The company is distinguished by its commitment to safety, eco-conscious practices, and respect for Hawaii’s marine life and culture. As the state’s first Dolphin SMART-recognized operator, it emphasizes sustainable tourism and reef conservation, ensuring guests enjoy the islands’ natural beauty responsibly. The company’s offerings cater to a variety of travelers seeking personalized and memorable ocean adventures. Guests can choose from group tours or private charters aboard spacious, well-equipped yachts departing from multiple harbors on each island. Experiences include whale watching, snorkeling, scenic day sails, and sunset cruises, all designed to showcase breathtaking island views and marine wildlife. With a focus on genuine aloha service and customizable itineraries, Hawaii Nautical provides an immersive and comfortable way to explore Hawaii’s coastal waters.