Kona’s Deluxe Snorkel – Snorkel Captain Cook and Place of Refuge

If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii’s Big Island and considering a snorkeling tour, this one from Dolphin Discoveries has been getting rave reviews, and for good reason. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines spectacular underwater scenery with engaging cultural stories—a mix that keeps most travelers happy. We love how it offers access to two iconic snorkeling locations in one trip, making it feel like a full day of adventure packed into just five hours. Plus, the guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

One standout feature is the small group size—with a maximum of 28 travelers—allowing for a more personal experience. The second is the variety of sights, from coral gardens teeming with tropical fish to sea caves and lava tubes along the coast. That said, it’s worth noting that the price, at $129 per person, offers good value if you’re eager to see diverse marine life and learn some local history. But it’s not a tour for everyone—swimmers need to be comfortable in open water and able to tread water or swim unassisted, so it’s best suited for those with at least moderate swimming skills.

If you’re someone who appreciates expert guides, underwater beauty, and cultural context, this trip will likely hit the mark. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, less active day or have children under 6, this might not be the best fit. Keep reading for all the details you need to decide if this is your perfect Big Island adventure.

Key Points

• Two top snorkeling spots in one tour: Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay.
• Expert guides share history, culture, and environmental info, enriching the experience.
• Crystalline waters and abundant marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and even dolphins.
• Snorkeling equipment provided, making it easier for beginners and seasoned snorkelers alike.
• Small groups ensure a more personalized, friendly vibe.
• Good value for a 5-hour tour with snacks, drinks, and multiple snorkeling stops.

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour departs early from Keauhou Bay, offering a full-day experience that combines two of Kona’s best snorkeling locations with some coastal sightseeing. The first stop, the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay, is a highlight for many. Known for its calm waters and excellent visibility, this marine sanctuary is home to over 100 kinds of tropical fish. The bay’s historical significance, along with the underwater scenery, makes it a compelling site. Several reviews mention the dolphin sightings as a bonus during the boat ride out, which adds a touch of magic.

The second stop, Honaunau Bay, also called the Place of Refuge, offers a completely different experience. It’s characterized by beautiful coral shelves, white sandy patches, and a chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles, or “Honu.” The water here tends to be clear most of the year, creating ideal snorkeling conditions. Travelers have highlighted the vivid coral and the diversity of fish, making it a favorite among those who love underwater life.

Along the way, the guide will point out sea caves and lava tubes—geological formations that are as much a part of the adventure as the snorkel itself. These features are especially fascinating to those interested in volcanic geology, and reviews like Paul_M’s praise the guides’ ability to combine fun with education.

The Snorkeling Experience

You’re booked into a 5-hour tour, which includes all necessary snorkeling gear—masks, fins, snorkels, and even pool noodles for added buoyancy if needed. The water-based parts of the trip are what most travelers seem to love the most. As Vincent_V put it, the snorkeling was very good, especially at Captain Cook Monument. The clarity of the water and the variety of fish are two reasons why many say it ranks among their favorite Hawaii snorkeling experiences.

Several reviews mention the opportunity to swim with sea turtles or see spinner dolphins and humpback whales, depending on the season. The guides are praised for their patience and helpfulness, especially when working with first-timers or nervous swimmers. One reviewer noted that the crew is attentive to safety and willing to go the extra mile to ensure you’re comfortable in the water.

The second snorkeling spot, Honaunau Bay, gets high marks for its spectacular coral and potential turtle sightings. Some guests mention the choppier waters at the second location, especially if the sea is rough that day, but overall, the visibility remains excellent.

Coastal and Marine Highlights

While snorkeling is the main feature, the tour doesn’t stop there. Expect to see sea caves and lava tubes along the coast, formations that are both photogenic and educational. The guides often share stories and details about the volcanic activity that created these features, which adds a layer of interest beyond just the underwater scenes.

The boat ride itself tends to be described as smooth and scenic, with some guests emphasizing the beautiful coastline views. If you’re lucky, you might spot spinner dolphins, whales, or even manta rays—a few reviewers got to swim with the manta rays during a different trip, but it shows the diversity of marine life in the area.

In terms of the boat, it’s a zodiac-style vessel, which some find a bit bumpy on the return trip, but most appreciate that it allows closer access to caves and coves than larger boats would.

The Guides and Overall Value

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience. Agnes, in particular, receives a lot of compliments for helping guests learn to snorkel and sharing Hawaiian mythology, making the trip both fun and educational.

Pricing at $129 per person is seen as fair for a five-hour experience with multiple stops, snacks, drinks, and all gear included. The small group size enhances the overall vibe, making it feel more like a friendly outing than a crowded tour.

The reviews also highlight the efficiency of equipment setup and departure times, ensuring you start on time and maximize your day. It’s clear that the company values customer service, with many reviews mentioning how helpful and accommodating the crew is.

Downsides and Considerations

While most feedback is positive, some guests note that the boat ride can be a bit rough, especially on the way back. If you’re prone to seasickness or have neck problems, this is worth considering. Plus, the water conditions can vary, so snorkeling at Honaunau Bay might be choppier depending on the day.

The tour has a minimum age of 6, so it’s not suitable for very young children. Also, travelers should have moderate swimming ability—being comfortable in open water and able to tread water is essential.

Lastly, there are no restroom facilities on the boat, so plan accordingly.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This trip is great for adventurous travelers who want a mixture of marine life, geological features, and cultural stories. It’s ideal for those with moderate swimming skills who appreciate personalized guides and small-group experiences. If you’re traveling with older kids or teens who are comfortable in the water, they’ll likely love it too.

It’s also a good pick for those interested in learning about Hawaiian history and geology—the guides do a fine job blending education with fun. But if your main goal is a relaxing beach day or traveling with very young children, you might want to consider other options.

In the end, this snorkeling tour from Dolphin Discoveries offers a well-balanced experience that combines beautiful underwater scenery, coastal geology, and engaging storytelling. It’s clear from the reviews that guides are passionate and knowledgeable, and the marine environments visited are truly stunning. For those who love snorkeling, learning about Hawaii’s history, and seeing vibrant sea life, this tour provides strong value.

The experience is particularly worth considering if you prefer small groups and personalized attention, and are comfortable in open water. The price point reflects the quality of locations visited and the overall service, making it a worthwhile addition to your Big Island adventures—especially if you’re eager to explore Kona’s marine treasures.

This trip is best suited for adventurers who want a comprehensive, engaging, and scenic snorkeling outing that leaves plenty of room for memorable encounters with Hawaii’s underwater world. It’s a solid choice for anyone who values good guides, interesting sites, and a variety of marine life.

What are the main snorkeling spots included in this tour?
You’ll visit Kealakekua Bay, known for its calm waters and vibrant marine life, and Honaunau Bay, famous for its coral shelves and sea turtles.

Is snorkeling gear included?
Yes, all snorkeling equipment—masks, fins, snorkels, and pool noodles—are provided, making it easier for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, snorkeling stops, and coastal sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Bring a towel, cover-up, reef-safe sunscreen (zinc-based recommended), and perhaps a camera or waterproof case for photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, but only for kids aged 6 and above who are comfortable swimming and treading water.

Are there any physical requirements?
You should have moderate swimming ability and be comfortable in open water. Participants need to be able to climb a metal ladder to re-board the boat.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Bad weather may result in rescheduling or refund.

Are restroom facilities available on the boat?
No, there are no restroom facilities on the vessel, so plan accordingly.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and beautiful snorkeling experience on the Big Island, this tour offers a great combination of all three. Just be prepared for a bit of boat motion, and you’ll likely come away with plenty of unforgettable memories.