Big Island of Hawaii is a top destination for snorkeling thanks to its crystal-clear waters, diverse marine life, and volcanic underwater formations. What sets it apart from other Hawaiian islands is the sheer variety of ecosystems you can explore—from manta rays dancing underneath the stars to vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Personally, we love the $1 for its magic of floating alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat. It’s a truly surreal experience that combines adventure with the chance to witness one of Hawaii’s most iconic sights.
While the Big Island offers tours for every style—whether you prefer a leisurely snorkel, a high-speed zodiac ride, or a private charter—each provides a unique perspective on Hawaii’s underwater world. Below, we present the 16 best snorkeling experiences, carefully ranked and described to help you find the perfect fit for your trip.
1. Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
This tour is renowned for its up-close encounters with wild manta rays along Hawaii’s Kona Coast. It’s a small-group cruise with all equipment included, featuring purpose-built lightboards that attract plankton—manta rays’ favorite snack. Floating on a traditional Hawaiian sailing canoe adds a cultural touch to this unforgettable night adventure.
Rated 5.0/5 by over 600 reviewers, this tour consistently amazes visitors. Guests frequently mention how “magical” it is to see multiple rays swimming inches from you, with one saying it was “the most incredible experience I’ve ever had.” The tour includes wetsuit tops for warmth, and the crew’s friendly professionalism makes all the difference. Since sightings are nearly guaranteed, this is a top choice for those seeking a night-time highlight.
Bottom Line: Perfect for night lovers, marine life enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a safe, well-backed manta experience with a cultural twist.
2. Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour – 4 hour Kona Zodiac Adventure
This Zodiac raft tour takes you into the depths of Kealakekua Bay, one of Hawaii’s most famous snorkeling spots. The fast, agile boat allows access to quiet, less crowded areas and even the Captain Cook monument. The tour explores the Kona coastline, with chances to see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish.
Guests rave about the “bumpy ride” being part of the fun, especially early in the year when water temperatures are cooler. The guides are praised for sharing detailed island history, adding context to the underwater sights. The tour lasts about four hours, making it a good choice for those eager to cover multiple sites without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventure seekers who want quick, dynamic access to prime coral reefs and marine life, with a focus on education and observation.
3. Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona
If you’re looking for a less expensive but equally memorable manta encounter, this 2.5-hour tour offers nearly guaranteed sightings of manta rays in their feeding grounds. The tour provides all snorkel gear, snacks, drinks, and warm wetsuits, making it accessible even for beginners or those concerned about the cold.
Rated 5.0/5 by over 340 reviews, visitors often describe it as “magical” and “not to be missed.” Guides are attentive, and the experience of floating with rays wingspan of up to 15 feet is described as “breathtaking.” Its shorter duration and friendly price make it appealing for families or travelers on a tighter schedule.
Bottom Line: For a hassle-free, guided night snorkel with high success and comfort, this tour hits the spot.
4. Deluxe Morning Snorkeling Adventure
This four-hour small-group tour explores Honaunau Bay and Kealakekua Bay, two of the island’s top snorkeling locations. It includes visits to sea caves, lava tubes, and a chance to see dolphins, turtles, and whales depending on the season. The tour is praised for its engaging guides and comprehensive itinerary.
Rated 5.0/5, guests appreciate the personalized experience and the opportunity to learn about the volcanic formations and Hawaiian culture. The small group size (maximum 14) ensures a relaxed atmosphere, and the multiple stops maximize underwater encounters.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded choice for those wanting an educational, intimate experience at prime sites with excellent marine life viewing.
5. Kona Snorkeling: Beat the Crowd to Kealakekua Bay
This 5-hour tour is designed for those who prefer avoiding the crowds. Traveling via Zodiac raft, you can access less accessible, quieter areas of Kealakekua Bay. It includes sandwiches, snacks, and reef-safe sunscreen, making it a comfortable, all-in-one experience.
Rated 5.0/5, reviews highlight the personalized service and the ability to see a variety of marine life, including turtles and dolphins. The knowledgeable guides ensure you get a true sense of the bay’s beauty without the crowds or noise of larger boats.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a more exclusive, quiet snorkeling trip with plenty of wildlife.
6. Small Group Snorkeling Expedition South Kona
For the adventurous, this five-hour tour hits three snorkeling spots, including secretive sea caves and lava tubes. Lunch and snacks are included, along with the chance to see whales, dolphins, and spinner dolphins.
Rated 5.0/5, many guests appreciate the remote, less-visited locations that are often unknown even to locals. The guides’ knowledge about island geology and marine species helps turn each stop into a learning experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting to explore multiple sites and see a wide variety of marine creatures in less crowded surroundings.
7. Captain Cook Reef Snorkeling of Kealakekua Bay
This 4-hour trip emphasizes the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay, offering snorkeling combined with a picnic lunch. It’s suitable for both beginners and experienced snorkelers who want to explore the vibrant reef ecosystem, with the added bonus of learning about Captain Cook’s historic landing site.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers mention the professional crew and the ease of gear provided. The calm waters and the chance to see diverse fish species—plus dolphins—make it a solid pick for families and curious snorkelers alike.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, informative experience with excellent waters and historical insights, this is a top choice.
8. Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience in Kona with Lunch
This three-hour tour combines snorkeling with sea turtle encounters and scenic coast views. It departs on a 53-foot catamaran, with onboard lunch and drinks, including two alcoholic options.
Rated 5.0/5, visitors highlight the beautiful coastlines and the opportunity to swim alongside green sea turtles. The relaxed schedule makes it perfect for families or those wanting a leisurely half-day experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting marine encounters combined with coastal scenery and a relaxed vibe.
9. 4 Hour Super-Raft Snorkeling Experience in Kailua-Kona
This half-day adventure in a super-raft offers spacious seating, shade, and the chance to snorkel at hard-to-reach reefs. Breakfast, lunch, drinks, and gear are provided, with a good chance of dolphin sightings.
Rated 5.0/5, reviews praise the comfort and ease of the boat, making it a standout for families or travelers who want a more relaxed, less crowded experience. The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want comfort, flexibility, and dolphin encounters.
10. Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling
This 3-hour tour focuses on snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay with all gear provided, including guidance. It’s especially suitable for those who want to explore the underwater world while learning about the bay’s ecological and historical significance.
Rated 5.0/5, travelers mention the friendly guides and the abundance of tropical fish. It’s a great low-key option for families and beginner snorkelers.
Bottom Line: Good for a shorter, well-rounded snorkeling trip with historical and ecological insights.
11. 3 Hour Big Island Dolphin Watch Boat Tour, Snorkeling & BBQ Lunch
This combo tour offers dolphin watching, snorkeling, and a Hawaiian-style BBQ lunch in just three hours. It’s a lively experience that combines wildlife spotting with underwater exploration and tasty local food.
Rated 5.0/5, reviewers note the friendly crew and the opportunity to see dolphins and fish in one trip. The short duration makes it suitable for travelers with limited time.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a quick, fun mix of wildlife, snorkeling, and local cuisine.
12. Sunset Cruise & Manta Night Snorkeling Charter
This private charter combines sunset cruising with night snorkeling with manta rays on a luxurious vessel. Up to six people can enjoy this exclusive experience, perfect for special occasions or romantic trips.
Rated 5.0/5, the tours are praised for their personalized service and the breathtaking underwater manta encounters at night, illuminated by special lights. It’s the most upscale option for a memorable night.
Bottom Line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking privacy, luxury, and unforgettable manta ray watching.
13. Dolphin, Sea Cave, Captain Cook, Kealakekua Bay Reef Snorkeling
This 2.5-hour small-group tour combines snorkeling, sea cave exploring, and dolphin spotting aboard an authentic Navy SEAL Zodiac. It explores areas larger boats can’t reach, offering a personalized experience.
Rated 4.5/5, guests enjoy the fun ride and variety of marine life. The experience is perfect if you want to go beyond typical reefs and see caves and underwater tunnels.
Bottom Line: For an energetic, small-group trip focusing on unique locations and marine diversity.
14. Private Big Island Snorkeling
This private tour is tailored to your preference, with a maximum of six people. Your captain chooses remote, pristine spots based on your interests and skill level, ensuring a highly personalized experience.
Rated 4.5/5, reviews highlight the personalized attention, underwater photos, and legendary marine creatures like turtles and rays.
Bottom Line: Best for families or groups wanting custom, private access to Hawaii’s best hidden reefs.
15. 4 Hour Private Snorkeling Tour in Kona
This luxury private tour offers complete flexibility, with your own captain and guide. It’s perfect for groups wanting a totally customized experience, with the option to visit specific sites or explore new ones.
Rated 2 reviews, the high price reflects its exclusive nature, but the ability to design your own adventure is unmatched.
Bottom Line: For a completely personalized, luxury experience, this private tour is hard to beat.
16. Kona Snorkeling Adventure Open Charter
This 4.5-hour open charter offers a relaxed day exploring the Kona coast’s reefs and marine life. The knowledgeable crew shares stories and highlights the region’s natural wonders, making it a good, balanced option.
Rated 2 reviews, it’s suitable for travelers who want a straightforward, engaging, less hurried experience.
Bottom Line: For a casual, informative, and flexible boat trip, this charter fits well.
How to Choose Your Perfect Big Island Snorkeling Tour
When picking a snorkeling tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For example, if you’re eager to swim with manta rays at night, the Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night offers a magical experience at a fair price. If you prefer exploring multiple sites with fewer crowds, the Small Group Snorkeling Expedition South Kona is a good pick.
For those seeking a private, tailor-made adventure, the Private Big Island Snorkeling allows full customization, while travelers on a budget might favor the Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure for its affordability and high success rate.
Booking early is advised, especially during peak season, to secure your spot on these popular trips.
Final Thoughts
The Big Island offers a diverse range of snorkeling experiences—from the awe-inspiring manta ray night swims to tranquil reef explorations. For an adrenaline rush, try the Super-Raft Snorkeling in Kailua-Kona, or opt for the more relaxed Hawaiian Sea Turtles and Snorkeling Experience to enjoy Hawaii’s marine life at a leisurely pace. For privacy and luxury, the Sunset and Manta Night Charter delivers a memorable, upscale adventure.
Whatever your style, the key is to book early, pack your sense of curiosity, and get ready to discover the mesmerizing underwater world of Hawaii’s biggest island.