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Snorkeling Cruises & Tours

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Enjoy the best snorkeling in Hawaii with fun cruises and sails on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, and the Big Island, and explore some of Hawaii's best snorkeling spots with local experts and guides to point out the coral reefs, tropical fish, and turtles. With options for both beginner and experienced swimmers, we offer the best tours and most competitive prices, as well as a wide variety of options from boat cruises to shore adventures. Book now and see where is the best place to snorkel in Hawaii!
Your Guide to Hawaii Snorkeling Cruises & Tours
The ocean waters surrounding the island of Hawaii are home to some of the most beautiful snorkeling spots in the world, and whether you are going snorkeling at Molokini, Maui’s famous underwater volcanic crater, sailing along the towering cliffs of the Na Pali Coast on Kauai, heading into the water from the famous shores of Hanauma Bay and Electric Beach on Oahu, exploring around the Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, or even diving in to snorkel at Electric Beach, a favorite of Oahu local residents, you will have the amazing opportunity to experience a breathtaking underwater paradise. Choose from a wide selection of Waikiki snorkeling tours during your visit to Honolulu, check out Hawaii snorkeling on Maui, and even experience Kona Hawaii snorkeling to see an ocean paradise on a snorkel cruise and tour.

What to Expect & Know Before You Go
  • Hawaii snorkeling cruises and tours are some of the most popular activities on the island, and it is highly recommended that you make your reservations two to four weeks in advance.
  • With Hawaii’s warm sunny weather, don’t forget to bring sunscreen with you on your Hawaii snorkeling tour, and be sure to use reef safe sunscreen. Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals like xybenzone and octinoxate that can harm coral reefs and marine life. Reef safe sunscreens use natural and mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide sun protection without harming the environment.
  • Do not touch any marine life or the coral reefs during your snorkeling tour in Hawaii. Touching marine life can disturb or harm the animals, especially if you accidentally step on or break off pieces of coral, and many marine species are also fragile and can easily be damaged by human contact.
  • If you are planning on bringing an underwater camera (GoPro, mobile phone with an underwater case, etc.) on your snorkel tour in Hawaii, also bring a red lens filter to get the best shots. As you go underwater, the color red becomes less pronounced, and having a red lens filter will ensure vibrant and beautiful photos and videos.
  • You will have a good chance of seeing humpback whales in Hawaii during the winter months since they migrate from their feeding grounds in Alaska to Hawaii's warmer waters to mate, calve, and nurse their young. The whales begin to arrive in Hawaii in late November and stay until early May, and can be found throughout the waters around Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island.
  • To ensure the best possible experience, guests who are prone to seasickness should take a motion sickness preventative at least one hour prior to departure. No matter how calm the water may look, there will always be some rocking and swaying while out on the Hawaii ocean, and it is better to be safe than sorry if you have experienced seasickness in the past. There are also all natural alternatives including ginger pills and acupressure bands that you can try.
  • What to wear: Have your swimsuit on before boarding the boat since marine restrooms (heads) can be quite cramped depending on the boat. You will also want to wear a light jacket or sweatshirt to wear after you exit the water since it can get rather chilly.
  • What to bring: Reef safe sunscreen, sunglasses, flip flops or sandals, large towel, underwater camera or water-safe case for your phone, and a bottle of water.

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you need a tour to snorkel in Hawaii?
A: Although you do not need to go on a tour to snorkel in Hawaii, many of the snorkeling tours will take you to locations that cannot be reached without a boat or knowledge of where to enter the ocean. Expert guides also make it a safer experience since they will be on hand if you have any questions or safety concerns.

Q: What Hawaii island is best for snorkeling?
A: Each island offers a different experience, and it is hard to pick the best. Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, and the Big Island all have a number of snorkeling areas that can be accessed by the shore or by boat, and each one should be experienced so you can choose which one is the best.

Q: What month is best for snorkeling in Hawaii?
A: Snorkeling is available throughout the year in Hawaii, but depending on which island you go to, and which side of the island you will be exploring, the summer months between May and August are often considered the best.

Q: Where is good snorkeling in Hawaii?
A: Hawaii is a snorkeler's paradise with numerous beautiful spots, but some of the best include Electric Beach and Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Molokini Crater near Maui, Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island, and Tunnels Beach on Kauai are all great places to snorkel in Hawaii.

Q: Is snorkeling in Hawaii worth it?
A: Yes, snorkeling in Hawaii is definitely worth it! Hawaii is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse marine life in the world, and snorkeling is one of the best ways to experience it. The warm, clear waters of Hawaii offer incredible visibility and a wide range of marine species, from colorful fish and coral to sea turtles, manta rays, and even dolphins. Snorkeling in Hawaii also allows you to explore the unique underwater landscapes and volcanic formations that make the islands so special.

Q: What is the best snorkeling in Hawaii for beginners?
A: The best snorkeling spots in Hawaii for beginners are those with calm waters, easy entry and exit points, and shallow depths with plenty of marine life. Some of the best spots for beginners include Kahalu'u Beach on the Big Island, Hanauma Bay on Oahu, Poipu Beach Park on Kauai, and Wailea Beach and Kapalua Bay on Maui.

Q: Which Hawaiian Island has the best reefs?
A: All of the Hawaiian Islands have incredible reefs, but some are better than others depending on what you are looking for. Maui is known for its abundance of sea life and beautiful coral formations and some of the best snorkeling and diving spots on Maui include Molokini Crater, Honolua Bay, and Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve. Kauai's North Shore is home to some of the most pristine and untouched reefs in Hawaii, and Tunnels Beach, Ke'e Beach, and Hanalei Bay are popular spots for snorkeling and diving. Oahu has a variety of reefs to choose from, ranging from beginner-friendly spots like Hanauma Bay to more advanced spots like Shark's Cove and Electric Beach. Hawaii Island's best reefs are found on the Kona Coast like Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument which are both popular spots for snorkeling and diving.

Q: Can I snorkel with turtles in Hawaii?
A: Yes, you can snorkel with turtles in Hawaii! Hawaii is home to the Hawaiian green sea turtle, and these turtles can often be seen swimming and feeding in the shallow waters close to shore, and in deeper waters near coral reef formations.

Q: Can I snorkel with dolphins in Hawaii?
A: Federal law now prohibits going within 50 yards of dolphins in Hawaii, and swimming with dolphins in the wild is not allowed. Since dolphins are nocturnal and go out into deeper waters at night to feed, and back closer to shore during the day, they use this time to rest and relax. When Hawaiian spinner dolphins have to swim away from people or vessels that are closely approaching them, it disrupts their rest and puts them on high alert. This requires the dolphins to use extra energy to swim faster and change direction, preventing them from fully resting.

Q: Can I snorkel with sharks in Hawaii?
A: Yes, it is possible to snorkel with sharks in Hawaii, however, it's important to do so in a responsible and safe way with tour and activity providers that are properly vetted with expertly trained guides. Shark snorkeling tours are also only found on the island of Oahu.

Q: Can I snorkel with manta rays in Hawaii?
A: Yes, you can definitely go snorkeling among manta rays at night off the shores of Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii. These gentle marine creatures come out at night to feed on plankton, and the lights from the boat attract the plankton which brings in more manta rays to see.

Q: Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel in Hawaii?
A: Yes, knowing how to swim is important if you want to snorkel in Hawaii since snorkeling involves swimming on the surface of the water while wearing a mask and snorkel to breathe. You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but you should be comfortable swimming in the ocean and be able to tread water for at least a few minutes. For those who do not know how to swim, you should choose beginner snorkeling tours that depart from the shore and stay in shallow waters.

Q: Do I need to know how to swim to snorkel in Hawaii?
A: Yes, knowing how to swim is important if you want to snorkel in Hawaii since snorkeling involves swimming on the surface of the water while wearing a mask and snorkel to breathe. You do not need to be an expert swimmer, but you should be comfortable swimming in the ocean and be able to tread water for at least a few minutes. For those who do not know how to swim, you should choose beginner snorkeling tours that depart from the shore and stay in shallow waters.

Q: How do you stay safe during Hawaii snorkeling?
A: Snorkeling in Hawaii can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it's important to prioritize safety while you are in the water. Before you go snorkeling, check the weather and ocean conditions, and avoid snorkeling in rough water or strong currents, as these can be dangerous. You should always snorkel with a buddy, and keep an eye on each other since this can help prevent accidents and ensure that you are both safe. Don’t forget that Hawaii is home to a variety of marine life, and you will need to be aware of your surroundings and avoid touching or disturbing marine life. Snorkeling can also be physically demanding, so make sure you stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before and after your snorkeling session.

Q: How deep do you go when snorkeling in Hawaii?
A: The depth you go when snorkeling in Hawaii depends on the location and the specific conditions of the water. In general, most snorkeling spots in Hawaii are in relatively shallow water and are typically between 5 to 15 feet deep. However, some snorkeling locations in Hawaii may have deeper areas that can be accessed by more experienced snorkelers, and can have drop-offs that plunge down up to 30 feet or more.
Snorkeling Cruises & Tours
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41 Activities Availability varies by date for all activities.
Witness the awe-inspiring manta rays on a evening snorkel adventure
Includes snorkel gear, wetsuits to keep you warm and approximately 30 mins of in-water snorkel time
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Evening / Late-Night
1.5 hour(s)
Daily
Enjoy an exclusive snorkel cruise at a 51-foot luxury sailing catamaran yacht for maximum 6 guests
Choose from a shared or private experience and snorkel at Kona Coast or Kealakekua Bay
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 - 6.5 hour(s)
Daily
Embark on a ocean rafting adventure down the scenic South Kona Coast and snorkel at 2 pristine spots
Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay, and Honaunau Bay for a fantastic underwater adventure!
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
5 hour(s)
Daily
Embark on a 4-hour rafting and snorkeling adventure off of Kailua-Kona to two snorkel spots
Let expert in-water snorkelers guide you around amazing underwater worlds a few miles off-shore
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
4.5 hour(s)
Sun / Mon / Tue / Thu / Fri Only
Take an exhilarating 2.5-hour speed boat ride and snorkel at Kealakekua Bay
Includes snacks, water and snorkel gear. Small group snorkel with no more than 14 people
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3 hour(s)
Daily
Enjoy a luxury private boat charter and explore the underwater paradise of Kealakekua Bay
3 and 4-hour charter packages available for groups of up to 6 passengers
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
3.5 - 4.5 hour(s)
Daily
3 hour, 4 hour and 5 hour South Kona snorkeling tours
Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Daily
Set sail on a 4.5 hour snorkeling cruise to the Big Island's best snorkel spots at Kealakekua Bay
Enjoy a premium morning cruise featuring two snorkel stops, and a delicious breakfast and lunch
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
5 hour(s)
Daily
Join Ocean Sports on a fun 3-hour snorkel cruise along the scenic Kohala Coast
Includes picnic sandwiches and snacks, beers, wine, soft drinks, and tropical juices
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
3.5 hour(s)
Mon / Wed / Fri / Sat Only
Embark on an exciting ocean raft adventure to snorkel at Kealakekua Bay! 4 or 5-hour tours available
Witness a stunning marine life spectacle! See playful dolphins, turtles, and vibrant tropical fish
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning / Afternoon
4.5 - 5.5 hour(s)
Sun / Mon / Tue / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Join Iruka Hawaii on a thrilling 3-hour speed boat ride for a fun dolphin watch & snorkel tour
Swim in 2 snorkel spots to see tropical fishes, green sea turtles, and more
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Provided
Morning
3.5 hour(s)
Sun / Tue / Thu / Sat Only
Experience an incredible 1.5 hour Kona manta ray night time snorkeling experience
Includes wetsuits, snorkel gear, hot drinks and hot soup
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Evening
2 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Thu / Fri / Sat Only
Kayak to the iconic Captain Cook Monument for an exciting snorkeling adventure at Kealakekua Bay
This 2.5-hour kayaking tour is for intermediate to advanced kayak paddlers
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3 hour(s)
Mon / Tue / Wed / Fri Only
Enjoy a 4-hour cruise to one of the most beautiful & remote snorkel spots on the Big Island
Visit one of the last untouched Hawaiian ocean landmarks on a cruise to
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
4.5 hour(s)
Daily
3-hour Hilo snorkeling tour with turtles at a volcanic black sand beach
Fully guided and narrated beach snorkeling tour. Includes juice and snacks
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 hour(s)
Daily
Go on a private 2-hour snorkeling cruise to the top Big Island snorkel spots for up to 6 guests
Upgrade your snorkel experience to a premium package which includes champagne and a customized menu
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning / Afternoon
3.5 hour(s)
Daily
Embark on a 2-hour snorkeling cruise and explore the pristine reefs of Hilo
Swim into untouched coves and reef structures, see pods of dolphins. Includes juice and snacks
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
2.5 hour(s)
Sun / Mon / Wed / Fri Only
Explore the calm waters of Kona and snorkel among the majestic manta rays
Get ready for a three-hour unique experience with all necessary equipment included
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Afternoon / Evening
3.5 hour(s)
Daily
2 Hour Kona coast morning dolphin watch kayaking tour from Keauhou Bay
Watch spinner dolphins on an early morning Kona ocean kayaking adventure
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
2.5 hour(s)
Daily
Join Dolphin Discoveries on a 4-hour snorkeling and dolphin watching ocean rafting adventure
Snorkel at the Captain Cook monument at Kealakekua Bay and at Honaunau Bay!
Pick-up Not Provided
Meal Not Provided
Morning
5 hour(s)
Daily
123

Top-Rated Activities for Big Island

Latest reviews of Snorkeling Cruises & Tours

Kona Sunset & Moonlight Wild Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Wahine Charters

Super cool

2025/02/15 Families with Young Children Kara

My family had a wonderful experience! we saw plnety of rays even my wife and son from the boat.

Spirit of Aloha Kohala Coast Snorkel Tour with Lunch & Drinks - Hawaii Nautical

Fantastic day on the Spirit of Aloha!

2025/02/13 Families with Young Children Mark from Oregon

Everything was perfect! The boat is virtually brand new and is spotless! The crew was amazingly friendly and competent. We were traveling with 3 generations of our family, ranging from 3 to 72 and everyone raved about ... more

Close
Dolphin Quest Hawaii - Dolphin Swim & Encounter at Hilton Waikoloa Village

Excellent experience

2025/02/08 Families Gary and Jonna P

Guides were great
Dolphins are clearly very well taken care of and lived
100% awesome

Deluxe Captain Cook Snorkeling Tour at Kealakekua Bay - Fair Wind Cruises

Amazing

2025/02/03 Families with Young Children Christina

Loooooved it! We didnt wanna get off the boat n the crew was awesome with my kids!!!!

Captain Cook Express 2.5-Hour Ocean Raft Adventure - Snorkel at Kealakekua Bay

Hold on!

2025/01/31 Friends Joey and crew

No time to relax on this excursion. We flew to Captain Cook on a zodiac boat with little room to sit or move about. The snorkeling was OK and the guides were helpful. Everything felt rushed from the get go. This trip... more

Close
Ocean Encounters Manta Ray Snorkel Tour - Sunset & Moonlight Cruise from Kona

Eventful

2025/01/19 Families Kara

3 manta rays out, so scary but so beautiful! a memory our kids will get to have forever!

Snorkeling Cruises & Tours | Book Big Island Tours, Activities & Things to Do with HawaiiActivities.com
Enjoy the best snorkeling in Hawaii with fun cruises and sails on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, Lanai, and the Big Island, and explore some of Hawaii's best snorkeling spots with local experts and guides to point out the coral reefs, tropical fish, and turtles. With options for both beginner and experienced swimmers, we offer the best tours and most competitive prices, as well as a wide variety of options from boat cruises to shore adventures. Book now and see where is the best place to snorkel in Hawaii!
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