Dolphin And Sea Caves, 2.5 Hours

2.5 hours from Kailua Kona

Overview

This two and a half hour trip out of Kailua-Kona packs a fast Zodiac ride, reef snorkeling, and coastline sightseeing into one short outing on the water. You board at the Kaleiopapa Street check-in point near the boat ramp and head out on the Zodiac toward the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay, where the coral reef is the main snorkel stop.

After the reef, the boat works its way along the coastline past sea caves, lava tubes, and coves. If wind and swells allow, the crew takes you inside a sea cave for a snorkel, though this section is the first thing cut when conditions turn. Dolphins and whales live in these waters, but the operator is clear that wildlife is never promised.

Back on board, fresh pineapple and water are served. Masks and snorkels are included, and flotation devices are on hand for anyone who wants them. The ride itself is part of the appeal: the Zodiac moves fast, and reviewers call the trip exciting and fun from start to finish.

What's Included

Itinerary

1. Check in at the dockArrive at 78-7100 Kaleiopapa Street in Kailua-Kona at least ten minutes before tour time. Meet at the solo restroom building across from the boat ramp or at the lamppost by the ramp; there is no employee waiting at the dock, as the crew collects guests after returning from the previous trip.
2. Speed boat to the reefBoard the Zodiac RIB navy seal speed boat for a quick run to the snorkel site.
3. Snorkel Kealakekua BaySnorkel the coral reef at the Captain Cook Monument and Kealakekua Bay. Mask, snorkel, and flotation devices are included; one reviewer reported around an hour in the water.
4. Sea cave snorkel (optional)Weather permitting, the crew takes you into a sea cave for a snorkel. Wind and swells may cancel this part of the tour.
5. Coastline cruise and dolphin watchThe boat passes sea caves, lava tubes, coves, and other coastal features while the guide explains their significance. Wild dolphins and whales may be encountered, though sightings are not guaranteed.
6. Return with pineappleFresh pineapple and water are served on board during the trip.

What To Expect From The Tour

A few practical points will help you decide whether this tour fits and how to prepare for it.

• What to bring. The listing recommends a hat, swimwear, a towel, a camera, snacks, sunscreen, and water. Pineapple and water are provided on board, but the snacks are up to you.
• No fins needed. Masks and snorkels are included in the ticket price, and the operator states fins are not needed because there are no currents in the bay. One reviewer also remarked that the provided mask and snorkel were new and of good quality.
• Fast ride. The boat is a high powered Zodiac, and reviewers describe it as an exciting, quick run to the snorkel site. Several travellers singled out the speedboat ride as a fun part of the trip.
• Water temperature. One family found the water too cold for their three and five year olds, while adults in the same group adjusted quickly. If you are bringing small children, consider how they handle cooler ocean water.
• Informative guides. Several reviewers praised the crew's storytelling and the explanations of local history, the animals, and the lava formations. The tour is described as educational as well as fun.
• Parking and timing. Free side street parking is available near the meeting point, with limited spaces in the beach lot by the Outrigger hotel. Do not park in the trailer stalls; the listing warns cars there may be towed or ticketed, and missed boats receive no refund or reschedule.

Common issues. Wildlife sightings, including dolphins and whales, are never guaranteed, so book for the snorkeling and the ride rather than for a sure encounter. The sea cave snorkel is weather dependent and can be dropped when wind and swells pick up. There is no hotel pickup, and the listing is strict about arriving early since there are no refunds or reschedules for missed departures. One reviewer noted the water felt cold for very young children. Touching plants is not allowed during the tour.

Choosing A Tour