dolphin excursion kona

BOOK MULTIPLE TOURS AND SAVE!

KONA DOLPHIN TOURS

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 4.5 hours
• Users Ages: 6+

Set Sail on Kona Dolphin Tours & Adventures!

Join hawaii’s best dolphins adventures with dolphin discoveries.

If you are looking for an adventure, fit for the entire family, that combines the wondrous world of Hawaii’s native dolphins with close encounters with the Big Island’s reef life– then this is the tour for you! Unlike other dolphin watch tours in Kona, Dolphin Discoveries offers an experience that blends all of the top rated oceanic activities of the islands. You will be able to safely view spinner dolphins aboard the boat, and then travel to Captain Cook Monument to get into the ocean and explore the underwater world that makes Hawaii so special.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS: What Makes our Kona Dolphin Tours Special?

What to expect on your dolphin discovery in kona.

This Wild Dolphin Watch and Snorkel combo is Kona’s original Dolphin Tour. Our naturalists guides take you along the Kona Coast to view wild dolphins. They will teach you about their life cycle, habitats, and behaviors.

Aboard Dolphin Discoveries Kona Dolphin Tour, you can expect to watch pods of dolphins play and jump out of the water, while aboard our boat, and learn more about this incredible special and smart species. The best thing is that if you are itching to get into the warm tropical waters, we cap off the day snorkeling one of Kona’s most beautiful snorkeling destinations.

Responsible Dolphin-Watching Practices and Why You Cannot Swim with Dolphins in Kona

At Dolphin Discoveries , we take pride that our Kona Dolphin Watch Tour adheres to practices and laws that are aimed to keep both the native marine life of Hawaii and our guests aboard our intimate tour boat– safe.

The reason that no tours, unless operating illegally, in Hawaii allow people to snorkel directly with the wild dolphin populations of the island is because it puts these populations at risk. Federal law prevents swimming with the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin since October 2021.

Even though we’ve had to revise our Dolphin Discoveries tour, at its core, it still offers the same educational experience for our guests. You are assured an extremely intimate experience with some of the world’s smartest creatures – from above deck, which is safest for both our guests and the spinner dolphins that inhabit the Kona coast waters.

Join Us for an Unforgettable Dolphin Adventure in Kona!

Our hawai’i dolphin watch and snorkel tour is an adventure the whole family will enjoy.

Our Kona Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Tour at Dolphin Discoveries, are known for being such a great experience for the whole family! After we’ve spent time viewing these beautiful dolphins we’ll cruise the coast line looking for other marine life. You’ll see sea caves, sea arches and learn some Hawaiian History. We’ll end our day snorkeling at one of the best snorkeling reefs in the world, Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook Monument. This reef is home to over 100 different species of fish and invertebrates, many which are endemic to Hawai’i.

Our Kona dolphin tour is perfect for families with kids ages 6 and up, and with the blend of time spent aboard the boat with time spent in the water– there is something for everyone.

Safety and Comfort On All Kona Dolphin Tours 

As mentioned, the top priority on all of our Kona Dolphin Watch Tours is the safety of our guests and the dolphins themselves. Our goal is to create as safe as it is a memorable experience! You will find yourself completely at ease as we cruise out on the water, your captain expertly locating wild dolphin pods, then sitting aboard the boat, from a safe distance, as these magnificent local creatures play and jump out of the water for your viewing pleasure!

When it comes to the snorkeling portion of our tour you can rest easy knowing that the Dolphin Discoveries captain and crew are experts in keeping our guests safe in and out of the water. We will provide well maintained gear, aids, and will be there alongside you. Our experts know the unique Kona waters better than anyone and will be able to facilitate amazing encounters and experiences around the reef.

Kona Dolphin Tours: Booking Information

Reserve your spot on a dolphin discovery adventure tour .

Booking a spot aboard our Dolphin Discovery has never been easier! Just refer to our booking calendar on this page to see what dates are available and secure your spot aboard one of our intimate tour boats!

These tours typically last 5 hours (includes prep time prior to departure) and are suitable for everyone ages 6 and up. This is an incredible opportunity to embark on a journey enriched with the vast knowledge and experience of your guide. To secure your seat on this captivating adventure, click here !

🐬 Dolphin Discovery Tours: Customer Reviews 🐬

Bradley VanderWielen’s Experience:

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Took the family (myself, wife, 2 elementary age boys) on the dolphin swim – which is actually more like a dolphin float and watch. It was spectacular. Captains Zach and Raj were spectacular at finding dolphins and showing us the sights of the island from the sea. I love taking smaller tours like this because you get to know the crew a bit better and they can usually recommend local attractions (which they did and were 100% right).” – Bradley VanderWielen

BOOK YOUR KONA DOLPHIN ADVENTURE NOW!

The dolphin watch tour is one of our most popular excursions! If you want to make sure that there are spots available, it is paramount you reserve your spot today !

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

• Chevron down Can I Swim With Dolphins in Hawaii?

Unfortunately, no. The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) added an addendum to the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) that prevents any persons to come within 50 yards of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins.

• Chevron down Where can I find the Dolphin Watch Tour on Big Island?

When you book, you’ll receive a booking confirmation email. Within this email, is a button that says “Get Directions”, which will take you to Google Maps. You will first arrive at our retail store located in the Keauhou Shopping Center. 78-6831 Alii Drive, Kailua-Kona, Hawai`i 96740, Space F-146, the sign on the door says 174. (Located in the courtyard behind Tropics Tap House and KTA Grocery Store). Park near either of these establishments and walk the remainder of the way into the courtyard.

Once you arrive at our retail location, your crew will check you in and outfit you with the gear needed for tour.

From there, you will drive down to Keauhou Bay, 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, where you will meet your crew.  They will assist you aboard our vessel and off you go for a fantastic snorkel adventure.

• Chevron down When can I set sail on the Hawaii Dolphin Watch Tour?

You should not arrive any earlier that 10 minutes before your check-in time. Your check-in time is located on your booking confirmation email.

• Chevron down Is there a waiver to swim with dolphins?

While you will not be getting in the water with the dolphins, all of our tours still require a waiver. You should sign your waiver as soon as you receive your booking confirmation email. There is a link on the email for our online waiver. Each adult needs to sign their own waiver. Only one adult needs to sign for each minor.

• Chevron down What if I’m late to my Dolphin Discoveries Tour?

Our charters depart on time. If you are running late, you should call 808-322-8000 as soon as possible.

• Chevron down Is there parking in Keauhou Bay, Hawaii?

In your booking confirmation email you’ll receive parking instructions.

• Chevron down For additional questions, please see our FAQ page

RELATED ADVENTURES

• most popular!
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Kona

Gently slip into the ocean, relax and let our knowledgeable crew guide you to the areas to view the magnificent Kona Manta Rays. If you only have time for one snorkel trip while visiting Hawai’i this is the one to choose.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours

Kona Whale Watching Tour

This is an exclusive 2 hour trip to find the seasonal Humpback Whales (Dec.-March) and/or the year round Pilot Whales, Beaked-Whales, Melon-headed whales, and other species that can be found along the Kona coastline.

We are open! Book your adventure now!

MY KONA ADVENTURES

Manta ray night snorkeling & day time snorkeling adventures.

• Our Most Popular Tour!

MANTA RAY NIGHT SNORKEL

Witness the famous Kona sunsets from the ocean during this popular excursion! After the sun goes down, jump in the water and swim with magnificent manta rays!

Let My Kona Adventures take you on a once-in-a-lifetime Hawaiian adventure where we create memories for you that last a lifetime. Whether viewing migrating whales who have returned to their calves or even braving the darkness to be mesmerized by the acrobatic manta rays, all of our Big Island boat and snorkel tours promise the unparalleled beauty and unique Hawaiian experience that only My Kona Adventures can provide.

OVER 1,000 FIVE-STAR REVIEWS ON TRIPADVISOR

In the half hour we were in the water, we saw about 6 manta rays, that swim right up to the light and can rub against you to feed. Being so close to these majestic creatures was so incredible and unique. The guides were informative, professional and prompt. Mahalo!

This was definitely one of the highlights of our stay on the Big Island of Hawaii. The staff was friendly, knowledgeable and there to help in any way. The rays were amazing!!! We were able to get up close and personal with them and we were able to watch them for the entire duration of our time in the water.

So glad I went on this adventure. The manta rays are such extraordinary creatures we were SO close to us. Joia, our guide in the water, was so full of knowledge about these beautiful creatures. I definitely recommend this tour to complete your Hawaiian Holiday adventure, and especially going through My Kona Adventure. AWESOME, AWESOME, AWESOME!!

A once in a lifetime tour with Justin and the manta rays. My Kona Adventures took care of all the details and all we had to do was enjoy the beautiful animals under a starry sky. Bring a GoPro or a waterproof camera with a strap. You will want to remember this night.

This was an amazing experience. The staff was super friendly and fun and greeted us promptly (we were early). I felt safe since a team member is in the water with you the entire time. The mantas are amazing creatures full of grace and sweetness for something so large.

We ended up seeing about ten different mantas, and Justin pointed out which ones were which to us, and kept us safe and happy the whole trip. The mantas were absolutely amazing to see, and I would absolutely recommend this company and I look forward to hopefully doing it again soon!

Call our local Hawaii specialists for any questions about our island tours and activities

Read the Frequently Asked Questions or send us an inquiry

• Support Center
• Groups & Private Charters

WELCOME GUEST

Register and enjoy smoother booking, as well as being able to save your wish list and recently viewed activities.

Already a member? Please sign in

• Big Island Snorkeling Tours (24)
• Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling (14)
• Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel (10)
• Kona Snorkeling Tours (24)
• Waikoloa & Kohala Snorkeling Tours (6)
• Hilo Snorkeling Tours (2)
• Snorkeling Tours for Beginners (10)
• Dolphin Tours (6)

Kona Deluxe Snorkel Tour & Dolphin Watching Tour with Lunch - Body Glove Cruises

Great time!

Beautiful cruise, rvaldovinos, available daily, pick-up not available, what to expect.

Check-in at Body Glove Cruises - Kona Retail Store

Some of the best snorkeling on Big Island can be found at Red Hill, a private marine preserve where you'll spend the morning hours snorkeling, swimming and playing on Body Glove's slide and water equipment.

Staff will fire up the on-deck grill and set up for a tasty lunch at sea. Feel free to check out the two decks of the Kanoa II, or grab a drink from the bar.

Return to Harbor

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

• Body Glove Cruises Retail Store

Parking information

• Free parking is available at the Body Glove office one block away from the pier. Handicap parking is available at Kailua-Kona Pier, but space is limited, so please arrive early.

• Body Glove Cruises

Important activity information

Restrictions.

• This activity is wheelchair accessible.
• Children of all ages can participate in this activity.
• Wheel Chair Accessibility: Customized boarding ramp, with portable extensions, can accommodate all wheelchairs including manual, electric and scooters. The lower deck of the Body Glove is fully accessible from bow to stern including tables and restrooms. Limited handicapped parking passes for Kailua Pier available, please let us know if you need special parking during booking.  You will need your handicapped parking placard for a pier pass.

Other requirements

• Participants are required to sign a liability waiver at the time of check-in.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 105.

Required items to bring & attire

• Snorkel mask is provided, but you are welcome to bring your own snorkel gear. Full Face Snorkel Masks are not permitted on this cruise due to safety reasons.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• Complimentary parking available.
• Wetsuits are available for rent on board the vessel.
• Bathrooms, showers and full service cash bar is available on board.
• Dolphin sightings are not guaranteed.

Travelers interested in this activity also viewed

Traveler's photos.

Overall rating

We had such a great time! The crew was so nice. We had a great snorkel day, saw lots of fish. The water activities were a great bonus. The slide and platform were fun too! We went as a couple but great for families/child ... ren also. Had pastries and yogurt for breakfast, burgers for lunch, and cash bar open the entire time. I do wish for the price at least 1 drink could be included, but it was still a great time. We even saw some dolphins following our boat shortly before docking at the end

The staff is wonderful and provide top notch service. Unfortunately, the day we went out we saw no dolphins.

Living your best life

We had an amaZing time! We saw whales. The crew was incredible. No dolphins tho which was a bummer but that’s ok!

Activity Provider Body Glove Cruises

Activity provider, payment / cancellation policy.

• Credit card payment

• • Groups of 9 or less: Any cancellations made after 15:00, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. • Groups of 10–19: Any cancellations made after 15:00, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. • Groups of 20 or more: Any cancellations made after 15:00, 8 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.
• • Groups of 9 or less: Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 3 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc. • Groups of 10–19: Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 4 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc. • Groups of 20 or more: Any changes made after 15:00 local time, 8 business days prior to the activity will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount. This includes, but not limited to, change of the activity date/ time, package, the number of participants, etc.

Payment Methods

Cancellation Policy

Change policy, are there restrooms available on the boat.

Yes, we have three large bathrooms and 2 outdoor fresh water showers on our boat.

Will I see dolphins?

There is always a very good chance of seeing dolphins all year around from our boat as they enjoy riding in the boat's wake. On rare occasions they will come to visit at the snorkel location.

When should I arrive?

Boarding is 30 minutes prior to departure time at the Kailua Pier. The Kailua Pier is located in the heart of downtown Kailua Kona, ocean front of the King Kamehameha Courtyard Marriott Kona Beach Hotel. Due to heavy traffic and road construction, please allow extra drive time for traffic delays. The following are the current suggested drive times: Kailua-Kona - 30 Minutes Keauhou - 45 Minutes Waikoloa Resorts - 1.5 Hours Hilo & Volcano - 3 Hours

Please visit VELTRA Support page to send an inquiry about this activity.

Top-Rated Activities for Big Island

Legends of Hawaii Luau Dinner Show with Open Bar at Hilton Waikoloa Village

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

Mauna Kea Summit Adventures Sunset & Stargazing Guided Tour with Transportation

Waipio Shuttle - An Exceptional Guided Sightseeing Tour of Waipio Valley

Hawaii Manta Ray Sunset & Night Time Snorkel Experience from Kona - Iruka

Hawaii Zipline Tours - Big Island Waterfall & Rainforest Zip Adventure

Mauna Kea Summit Sunset & Stargazing Tour with Meal, Transportation & Guide

Deluxe Big Island ATV Tour & Waterfall Swim at Umauma Falls

Island Breeze Big Island Kona Luau at King Kamehameha Hotel with Open Bar

Kona Sunset Dinner Cruise to Kealakekua Bay with Live Entertainment | Body Glove

Oceanfront Royal Kona Luau with Open Bar - Voyagers of the Pacific Show

Hawaii ATV Ride Tour at Kohala Coast - Sea to Mountain Off-Road Adventure

Spirit of Aloha Waikoloa Sunset Cruise with FREE Cocktails - Hawaii Nautical

Kailua-Kona Sunset Cocktail with Free Drinks - Honi Olani Catamaran

Kilauea Volcano Helicopter Tour - Blue Hawaiian Circle of Fire Flight from Hilo

Twilight Volcano Tour with Stargazing, Black Sand Beach & Coffee Farm

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

Hawaii Glass Bottom Boat Scenic Cruise from Waikoloa | Kids 0-5 Ride for Free

Luxury Private Boat Charters from Kona - Daytime & Sunset Cruises aboard No Wiki

Big Island ATV Tour & Ranch Off-Road Adventure from Hamakua - All About The View

Editor's picks for big island, 2024 summer in hawaii fun things to do on big island.

Check Out our Newly Added Tours & Activities on Big Island

Bucket List - Top 20 Things You MUST Do on Big Island!

Best Hawaii Stargazing Tours

Get up close with the Mantas! Hawaii Top Manta Encounters

Top 7 Big Island of Hawaii Air & Helicopter Tours

Big Island's Top Outdoor Adventures for Thrill Seekers

Best snorkel tours big island.

Hidden Gems & Hawaii Top Unique Experiences

Romantic Things to Do on Big Island

Best Family-Friendly Activities on the Big Island

Best Hawaii Local Coffee Farm & Wineries Tours

Big island snorkeling tours other tours and activities, kohala coast private catamaran charter & snorkel tour - big island shaka, sea quest kealakekua bay snorkel tour & rafting sea cave expedition, spirit of aloha kohala coast snorkel tour with lunch & drinks - hawaii nautical, kona luxury snorkel sail - no wiki sailing catamaran private & shared charters, hilo black sand beach guided snorkel tour at sea turtle lagoon, kealakekua bay raft adventure - wildlife & reef snorkel tour from keauhou bay, kona morning snorkel tours & sea cave speed boat adventure from keauhou bay, ocean sports kohala coast snorkel cruise with lunch and open bar, kona morning makalawena snorkeling cruise to puu alii bay - ocean encounters, 日本語ガイド＆オムレツ昼食付き, eur 152.00~.

You can only add up to 10 items in the list.

Please reduce items in the list.

• STEP 3 Book another activity, and use the coupon for a discount!
• Valid for one (1) booking per account during the designated promotional period.
• Cannot be used on the same activity on the same date and time as the first activity, or applied to activities that have already been booked.

• Hawaii Activities
• VELTRA Corporation
• Investor Relations
• News Release
• Supplier Sign-in
• Add Your Activity
• Travel Agent
• Affiliate Program
• Social Media Influencer
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Military & Kamaaina
• Groups & Private Charters

Dolphin Journeys - Day Tours

• See all photos

Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Dolphin Journeys - Day Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Alii Ocean Tours - Kailua-Kona, HI

Private Charters, Snorkel Tours, Dolphin Tours, Whale Watching

Ali'i Ocean Tours

The premier ocean experience.

Big Island, Hawaii

Picture yourself here....

Ali’i Ocean tours offers the highest level of service aboard our 38 ft cruiser Hoku ‘Elima

While certified to carry 35 passengers we prefer to run our ocean tours with 22 passengers to maximize space and heighten the experience for everyone aboard. We make sure all of our passengers have plenty of room to relax as well as receive service you won’t find on any other Big Island snorkel tour. Whether it’s an unforgettable experience with Kailua Kona’s local Hawaiian spinner dolphins, snorkeling world famous Kealakekua Bay or customizing your own private charter, you’ll forever remember your trip as a highlight of your Hawaiian vacation!

With a range of options, we offer tours customized for even the highest of expectations

Kealakekua Bay Reef Snorkel

Dolphin Encounters

Private charters, whale watching.

Daytime Manta Encounter

Big Five Ocean Safari

Book your tour today.

  Book Online!

808-345-2787

Don’t take our word for it, "we have gone on many snorkel and dive boat trips over the years, and our morning with ali'i ocean tours was far and away our best tour.".

Kim W. - Elk Grove, CA on Yelp

"the best tour we've ever done. hands down", bob & dunneah - houston, tx, "we had a blast and will definitely be booking another trip with them next time we are on the island.", christin a. - spring, tx on tripadvisor, "such a great crew made our time in kona very special and we got to see so much ...thanks for the 5 star adventure", mary d. - mckinleyville, ca on facebook, frequently asked questions, what is provided.

• Snorkel Gear
• Rx Masks Available
• Flotation Devices
• Light Breakfast (AM trips)
• Lunch (AM trips)
• Snacks (afternoon trips)
• A true 5 star experience

What should I bring?

• Camera (waterproof or non)
• Your Sense of Adventure!

What is your cancellation policy?

We offer a full refund on cancellations more than 24 hours prior to departure.

I have specific dietary need. Can you accommodate?

Yes, we can! Just make sure to let us know when you book your tour so we can make arrangements. We can provide Paleo, Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Kosher, and Vegan meal options.

Alii Ocean Tours

Welcome Aboard Hoku 'Elima

Our 38 foot Thresher, equipped with state of the art Volvo Penta engines, is the perfect combination of speed and comfort.

Call us for kama'aina rates & specials!

SUNLIGHT ON WATER

Big island private charters, sunset manta ray snorkel, deep ocean safari, unique reef snorkel, & whale watch tours kona, hawaii, experience the magic of our snorkeling tours and whale watches in kailua kona.

• Most Popular
• Clock 4:45pm - Check in @ 4:15pm , 8:45pm - Check in @ 8:15pm
• User All Ages
• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Sunset Manta Ray Snorkel in Kona

Experience Hawaii magic, join us for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure on this Kona manta ray snorkel!

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Sunset Cruise + Manta Ray Watch

Join us as we cruise the Kona coastline, in the shadow of volcanoes, beneath a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset!

• Clock 7:30 a.m. - Check in @ 7:00am

Coastal Wildlife Adventure + Reef Snorkel

Not your average Kona snorkeling tour! Cruise our stunning Kona coastline with us, searching for unique marine animals and humpback whales in season, before heading to one of our many private Kona snorkeling reefs, only accessible by boat, hand picked by our Captain!

• Clock 7:30 a.m. , 9:00 a.m. , 11:15 a.m. , 5:30 p.m.
• Hour Glass 2-4 Hours

Custom Private Charter | Kona

Want to avoid crowds and have a private boat rental? Private boat tour Kona! Join us for a fully customizable private boat tour Kona. Cruise with us, we’ve got you covered for groups of any size or special occasion and look forward to planning a unique private Kona snorkeling tour.

• Clock 11:30 a.m.
• Hour Glass 3.5 Hours

Kealakekua Bay/ Captain Cook Snorkel and private reef/cave snorkel

Kealakekua Bay snorkel tour will take you south along the Kona coastline to Kealakekua Bay, home of the Captain Cook monument. This is an ancient, sacred historical site with the best snorkeling in Hawaii. Book your Kona snorkel tour!

Whale Watching

The Hawaiian Island chain constitutes one of the world’s most important habitats for the North Pacific Humpback whales, and our whale watch tours in Kona provide you with the best opportunity to see these majestic mammals.

LOOKING FOR THE BEST SNORKELING IN KONA?

WHY CHOOSE SUNLIGHT ON WATER FOR YOUR SNORKELING ADVENTURES

• We are honored to be one of the oldest and most experienced snorkel tour companies in Hawaii.
• Our USCG certified 40ft boat, “Uhane Nui O Naia” ( Great Spirit of the Dolphin) includes shade, a warm fresh water shower, and a marine head (bathroom). It is one of the most comfortable, smooth, and stable vessels in the harbor.
• We have a large swim platform with sturdy ladders for easy access getting in and out of the water.
• We provide your gear; including fins, snorkel and mask, wetsuits, and personal flotation.
• You’ll stay nourished and hydrated with our provided beverages, island fresh fruit, and assortment of dry snacks.
• Our Captains and Crew are Lifeguard+CPR certified and safety is our number one priority in and out of the water.
• We are certified to take 35 passengers however, we choose to cap our tours at 24 to ensure comfort and provide an outstanding experience for all of our guests.
• Our adventures will be sure to leave long lasting memories and smiles for you and your family or group as we explore the magical waters of Hawaii.

JOIN US AND EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC!

**Mahalo to Don & Linda Hurzeler and CJ Kale for providing many of our exceptional photos!!**

CERTIFICATION

2022 TRAVELERS' CHOICE AWARD RECIPIENT ★★★★★

What an amazing experience! We had a nice boat ride to our location. We donned our wetsuits and snorkel mask, got our pool noodle for our feet and off we went. A solid 40 min in the water and multiple giants appeared! Some doing quadruple barrel rolls. Beautiful and majestic. A definite bucket list item.

Took a ride with captain Taylor and mate Kaeo. Saw dolphins leaving the harbor, a good omen for a great trip. On the way to manta ray snorkle ran across some whales, stopped to watch them make a couple of surfacings. Manta ray snorkel was great, Kaeo said we saw at least 7 different mantas. Crew was knowledgeable and friendly, boat and equipment were clean. Would definitely recommend.

This tour was fabulous! Very comfortable boat (spacious, padded seats, shaded); friendly and knowledgeable crew; unlimited snacks, soda, juice & water. Found several spots for incredible viewing of whales breaching, spouting, tail-flapping and just passing by. The crew took photos to share so we could enjoy the sights without having to try to capture them ourselves. If this one’s available, skip the Zodiac boat (packed, uncomfortable and uncovered); we highly recommend Sunlight on Water. Captain Taylor & Connor will give you an adventure of a lifetime. Aloha!

This was one of the most wonderful travel experiences. I am not a strong swimmer and I get seasick. Nonetheless, I thought I would give it a try. The people were wonderful - Eric, Heather and Shaun were the best guides I have ever had. They were able to get us to where the dolphins were swimming and they were very helpful and patient with us. When my sister got in the water and became afraid, Eric got in right away and led her back to the boat. She tried a second time with the same result. Eric offered to lead her around in the water. I would take this again in a heartbeat and I highly recommend it to anyone traveling to the big island. And, by the way, I did not get seasick.

Hubby & I went on the snorkeling at night with the manta Rays on 5/27/21 from 5:30-8:30. Capt. Mark, crewmen Eric & Walter were informative, experienced and safety was of upmost importance. Respect to the Mantas is the priority. They supplied all gear, the masks fit well and the wetsuits were appreciated! We were one of the first boats there and one of the last to leave. Well worth the trip.

We went on both a dolphin swim cruise and night manta ray cruise with this crew and we could not have asked for better experiences. We took our kiddos on the dolphin swim, they had the best time and the SOTW helped make memories for them. We used the manta swim as a date night and it was lovely. The safety was top notch, the experience was unforgettable, the price and customer service were just right. The crew for both cruises were so friendly and personable. We will definitely look to cruising with them every time we visit Kona. Aloha!

Highlight of our trip. The crew was great and understanding. NO.. you are not swimming around in the dark. You enter at dusk & you float with a float. And they watch out for you. A kid was crying- she hated it because it was so intense.- they come right up to you & you see their eyes. She left-but came back and later she loved it. We got there last but left first-- but it was perfect amount of time. It is long enough.

When I booked this tour, I thought we'd see a few dolphins. What I experienced was something else entirely. We saw probably hundreds of dolphins on our trip. The crew was incredible - it was really a team effort! They were so good at directing us and showing us where to look for the dolphins and making sure we were in place to see them without disrupting them / being disrespectful. I have been living on the big island for 9 months and this was the best thing I've done to date. Will definitely go again!

Kona Ocean Adventures

Cruises, scuba diving & snorkeling in kona, hi, private charters.

No experience or snorkel gear is required… and we’ve got lunch, too!

Creating Your Own Custom and Private Kona Ocean Adventure . Perfect for Family reunions, spiritual journeys, honeymoons, dive club trips or special vacations.  Book online and we will help you plan your perfect experience!

Adventure Like Never Before

Here at Kona Ocean Adventures , our daily cruises , snorkeling , and scuba diving tours are great for guests seeking to explore the beautiful marine life of Hawaii up-close. Perfect for family gatherings, reunions, and bachelorette parties, our certified team fosters a safe and informative learning environment for guests of all levels, whether you’re a novice or more advanced diver.

On our smooth-sailing, 4-hour charters, get a chance to enjoy the beautiful weather and sights of Hawaii. Even enjoy permitted access to the historic Kealakekua Bay , where guests can visit and explore the Captain Cook Monument . Aside from providing cultural and historical insights, our team also curates delicious farm-to-table refreshments – such as: fresh local fruit, Captain Danny’s homemade salsa, seasonally-fresh guacamole, fresh organic veggies and hummus, and a variety of Hawaiian chips sandwiches to choose from; gluten free, vegan, and low-carb options are available as well.

Manta Ray Snorkel Tour in Kailua-Kona, HI

Manta Ray Snorkel

From $179 | Most Popular!

Up for an adventure!? Night-diving with Manta Rays  in Kona  is consistently ranked as a must-do. We’ll take you to a spot where the gentle giants gather in the evening to feed, and you can either snorkel with the Mantas or Scuba Dive. This is a very safe encounter.

Join us for a unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

Kona Ocean Adventures provides full-service boat tours , and we only take small groups, making your experience truly special. Our modern boats are clean and spacious with plenty of shade. Our guides and crew are master divers with years of experience in these waters. They’re also a big reason why Trip Advisor ranks KOA so highly. They love what they do!

An Adventure Suitable For All Ages

Here at Kona Ocean Adventures, we pride ourselves of excellence. Our captains are licensed and coast guard certified, and carry great knowledge of dolphin watching on the Kona coast. With over 30 years of combined experience , our snorkel guides , dive masters & instructors boast as some of the best in the industry. Our charters are permitted for access into the historic Kealakekua Bay where the Captain Cook Monument is located. On our 4-hour charters, enjoy fresh-cut local fruit, variety of Hawaiian chips, Captain Danny’s homemade salsa, a variety of sandwiches, seasonally-fresh guacamole, fresh organic veggies and hummus. Our boats have plenty of shade, bathroom facilities, and a hot handheld shower.

Scuba Adventures

Book your next adventure today.

With over 30 years of experience and knowledge, Laure , Danny , and their crew of coast guard licensed captains provide amazing Hawaiian adventures for guests of all ages. Our snorkel guides and dive masters are some of the best in the industry; winning us the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence every year from 2012 to 2021! Our boats have plenty of shade, bathroom facilities, and a hot handheld shower. Book with us today for an amazing adventure you won’t forget!

If you have have 6 or more, make sure to check out our group rates for our morning tours!

Dolphin Excursions

Dolphin swim & snorkeling tours in oahu.

16 GUESTS MAXIMUM on our boat. Come out with us and enjoy personal service and comfort with our highly experienced and certified crew. Want to swim with dolphins? Dolphin Excursions Hawaii offers opportunities to view dolphins underwater in the wild, and snorkel with sea turtles and tropical fish!

Those that were affected by the tragedy in Lahaina and all of Maui, our thoughts are with you.

Stay maui strong, you will come back even stronger, dive into our sightseeing and snorkeling excursions in waianae, hi.

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 3 hours
• Clock 7 a.m. or 10:30 a.m.

Oahu Dolphin Excursion

View wild dolphins and snorkel with sea turtles and fish.  Dolphin sightings are guaranteed on this tour with a return trip voucher. Want to swim with dolphins? While we do not guarantee seeing dolphins underwater, this excursion has the best chance to do so!… Legally and safely.

• Hour Glass 2.5 hours
• Clock 2 p.m.

Oahu Afternoon Turtle Safari

OPEN!  The big guys have left so the Whale Watching Tour has been replaced with renewed focus on our shelled friends.  The Turtle Safari will remain open until the whales return, around mid December.  Snorkel with sea turtles and fish at multiple sites.  Our focus will be on the turtles so sightings are guaranteed!

• Clock 2:30 p.m.

Oahu Whale Watching Tours

CLOSED for the season. Will be open to book mid December, when the big guys return. This tour focuses on finding humpback whales that migrate to the Hawaiian Islands during the winter months, January to March.  This tour also includes snorkeling with sea turtles and fish.

Join Us for the Best Dolphin Tour on Oahu

Dolphin Excursions specializes in safely leading small groups on dolphin and whale watching excursions in Oahu. We take you on an ocean safari aboard our state-of-the-art 34-foot rigid inflatable boat with our lifeguard certified crew.

The west coast of Oahu is well known for having the calmest and clearest waters around the island. It’s perfect for snorkeling with turtles and home to both spinner dolphins and those mighty winter visitors — humpback whales.

Unlike most dolphin cruises or other Hawaii tours, our snorkel excursions are operated by seasoned naturalists and marine biologists. We search for multiple species of wild dolphins and practice responsible wildlife viewing. Experiencing wild dolphins in Oahu is an event that is certain to make your day, if not your entire vacation!

Over 1,900 Visitors Love Sightseeing with Us!

This crew and operation is top notch!!! We saw breaching whales, dolphin pods, sea turtles, and reef fish when snorkeling. You can see different sea life at different times of the year - whale season from November to March is fantastic!!! The crew made sure people were safe and got to see as much as possible. They were knowledgeable and informative and made the trip FUN with their cute little jokes!!!

The guides gave us plenty of instruction and assistance on and off the boat. That had a lot to tell us about Hawaii and the local Flora/fauna. They were super helpful with all the equipment and made sure to tell us where to watch and when. On our trip we got to see a humpback whale, sea turtles, loads of fish, and a very impressive amount of dolphins. Would absolutely attend again.

We were a group of 8 and everyone had a great time! We had teenage grandchildren with us who had never been to Hawaii and they were so impressed. I am not a water person and did not plan to get in the water. I felt so comfortable that I decided to give it a try. So I got in the ocean for the first time in about 20 years! I am so glad I did as Veronica made sure I was OK and comfortable and kept an eye on me. Thank you Veronica! I would definitely go out with them again. We also all enjoyed our lunch much at Spinners!

The staff at Dolphin Excursions Snorkel Adventure is TOP-NOTCH. Super friendly and helpful - you really feel their concern to make sure you have the best experience possible. They will do everything possible to make sure you get to snorkel right by dolphins. It was such an incredible experience. If you only do one excursion in Oahu DO THIS ONE! Also, I HIGHLY recommend buying the photo package. The photo quality is incredible and I left with over 30+ photos of me and my friends snorkeling.

Enjoy 10% off when you use promo code JUNE10. Book now!

• Use Code: JUNE10 for 10% off!

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Choose from Night Manta Snorkel & Sunset Cruise or Night Manta Snorkel Tours

Quick Details

• Users Ages: All Ages
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 Hours
• Ticket Activity Type: Snorkel
• Food Food & Drinks: • Includes, snacks, water & hot chocolate • BYO alcohol allowed (no glass containers)
• Scuba Mask What's Included: • Snorkel gear (prescription goggles available) • Floating manta-viewing mat • Bathroom on board • Wetsuits available for small additional fee
• Bus Hotel Transportation Option: Round-trip transportation available from select hotels for additional fee.
• Map Marker Location: • Iruka Hawaii Dolphin and Manta Tours • 74-380 Kealakehe Parkway, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740 • Located in Honohokau Harbor at Slip A17, 5 minutes north of Kailua-Kona.
• Car Parking: Free

Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tour Overview

Our local guide and crew will lead to enjoy breathtaking views of the most stunning sunsets as we cruise towards the best manta ray snorkeling site, commonly referred to as “Manta Ray Heaven.” Along the way, we will keep an eye out for dolphins and other wildlife that frequent the area, and whales in season from December to March. On a clear night, you can experience the magic of Hawaiian moonlight in our nighttime tour as we snorkel with manta rays under the stars!

Book your adventure with us now and let us take you on a journey you’ll never forget! If you don’t see Manta Rays on this excursion, book again for another night free of charge! Don’t miss out on experiencing one of the “Top 10 Things to do in your lifetime”, as recommended by The Travel Channel.

NIGHT & SUNSET MANTA RAY SNORKELING TOUR SCHEDULE

• Chevron down Night Manta Snorkel with Sunset Cruise (1st departure) Departure time varies based on sunset. Transportation option available.

Round-trip transportation available from select hotels for additional fee.

• 30 Minutes Before Departure: Check-in at Honokohau Marina
• Depart Marina
• Arrive at Manta Location
• 2 Hours after Departure: Return to Honokohau Harbor
• Iruka provided return transportation (optional)
• Chevron down Night Manta Ray Snorkel Departure time varies based on sunset
• Self-drive or Uber, etc (No Iruka provided transportation available)

CANCELLATION POLICY WITH FULL REFUND

• Call us 48 hours before tour departure. Do not contact for cancellation via email please. No-shows will be charged the full price. In case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, customers will also receive a full refund.
• For Private Charter: 5 PM 7 days before the tour

MORE INFORMATION ON OUR KONA MANTA RAY SNORKEL TOURS

• Private Charter: regular price $4,000 down to $3,500 / 1 to 20 people Limited time Offer! *All of our prices include tax.
• Military rate: please visit your local ITT office! Ask for “Iruka Hawaii LLC”
• Kamaaina rate available, please ask.(808)636-8440

MANTA RAY SNORKEL IN KONA NOTE

• Manta rays are wild animals, so the sighting is not guaranteed. In case of no manta rays, we will put you on a next available tour as a rain check for free of charge.

1) Follow Hwy 19 Queen Kaahumanu Hwy to Honokohau Marina Turn off. You will see a sign that says “HONOKOHAU MARINA.”

2) Turn down Keakakehe Pkwy and take your first right turn -about 0.4 miles

3) Drive along with the path all the way down to the harbor till you pass two yellow poles(*see photo below). There will be your check in point! Our crew will welcome you. Have fun!

Related Activities

• Map Marker Kona, HI
• Ticket Snorkel , Dolphin Watching
• Hour Glass 3+ Hours
• Users All Ages

Kona Snorkel & Dolphin Watching Tour

Join our best value Kona snorkel & dolphin watching tour! We’ll go dolphin watching and reef snorkeling in Kona’s pristine waters to filled with exotic fish, turtles, and possibly manta rays and see whales during whale season (December-March)! Includes lunch on board.

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Kona Whale Watch and Pelagic Sea Life

Let the KIBOU take you on an aquatic adventure along the western shores of the Big Island of Hawaii. Watch the beautiful wild whales! Tour duration is 2 hours or more!