THE TOP SNORKEL TOURS NEAR ME: KONA’S HIDDEN GEMS REVEALED
Kona, Hawaii is home to some of the most pristine coral reefs, filled with a variety of tropical marine life; because of this there is no question as to why it is one of the most popular places in the world to visit for a snorkel adventure. Year after year, millions travel to the Hawaiian Islands to visit the tropical paradise and explore the hidden sea caves, stunning reefs, and lava tubes just off shore. With so much choice, we wanted to narrow it down to what the best snorkel tours you can book while staying in Kona to have the greatest day of adventure.
Discovering the Pristine Wonders of Kealakekua Bay also known as Captain Cook Monument
Almost as famous for its pristine coral reefs as it is for the rich cultural and historic impact that Captain Cook Monument symbolizes, this is by far at the top of our list for best snorkel spots along Kona Coast. Why? Not only are there many accredited snorkel tours who choose to put Captain Cook Monument at the top of their list of offered experiences, but Kealakekua Bay, where this reef is located, is also home to pods of native Hawaiian spinner dolphins in the deeper waters at its center.
When you choose to book a snorkel tour of Captain Cook Monument you are reserving your spot aboard the trip of a lifetime out on the tropical waters of Hawaii!
Venture to the Sacred Place of Refuge on a Local Tour Boat of Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Another large pillar in the best snorkel spots in Kona, the Place of Refuge is almost exclusively accessible to those who book with a local snorkel tour sanctioned to venture to the reef in this native Hawaiian sacred area. Home to an almost untouched reef, the natural beauty is set next to a reverent landmark in Hawaiian history.
What is great about booking your tour with a local company is not only the accessibility to the best reefs with the best equipment, but you are able to learn more about the history, natural importance, and the variety of species that you will see. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is no exception!
Insider Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Snorkel Tours in Kona
If you are looking to make the most out of your trip aboard one of Kona’s top tour boats to some of the best reefs in the world– our biggest tip is to make sure that you listen to your captain and guides and act responsibly. This could range from making sure that your sunscreen is not only “reef safe” on the label, but does not contain some of the coral-killing ingredients that we have listed here.
Another big tip is to leave the natural world undisturbed. This can be wholly contained in the sentiment “do not touch”. Most snorkeling accidents that occur which involve wildlife are because the animal felt scared. The easiest way to avoid this is making sure that you heed to the role of “observer”. If you follow these super simple guidelines then you are ensuring a day of fun out on the water!