Snorkeling Experience

Experience Hawaiʻi’s Underwater Wonderland

A Private Ocean Safari Awaits

Embark on an oceanic adventure as we take you to an underwater paradise to explore diverse reefs and unique geographical features. Encounter an array of colorful tropical fish, perhaps swim alongside a sea turtle (honu) or come eye-to-eye with a variety of extraordinary sea creatures. Led by expert guides, this memorable experience offers not just a unique glimpse into the biodiversity of Hawaiʻi’s coral reefs, but also interesting local knowledge of the Big Island.

There are numerous gorgeous snorkeling spots for us to choose from along the North Western coastline of the Big Island, many in secluded and pristine locations only accessible by boat. As we depart Kawaihae South Harbor we take into account weather and ocean conditions as well as the experience level of the group when deciding where to go. All locations feature bountiful coral reefs bustling with colorful fish.

What’s included:
Complimentary cold drinks, fresh fruit, and light snacks provided. To ensure we are as low-impact on our precious coral-reefs, only REEF-SAFE sunscreen is permitted aboard. It’s always nicer to use your own tried and tested equipment so if you have your own snorkeling gear we recommend bringing it. Don’t worry if you don’t – we are fully equipped with top quality masks, snorkels, and fins of all sizes, which our crew will fit you with to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience in the water.

snorkel with manta rays big island hawaii
snorkel with manta rays big island hawaii

Tour Details

On our 2 hour tour we head straight to our snorkel spot and enjoy up to 45 minutes exploring a beautiful coral reef.

On our 3 hour tour we offer the opportunity to either go cruise along the coast to look for our resident pod of spinner dolphins (naiʻa) before we go to our snorkel spot or you can choose instead to enjoy 2 different snorkeling locations.

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  • Tour Time: 2 or 3 Hours
  • Shared 2 hour snorkeling charter price $249 per person (We require minimum 4 guests to operate a shared snorkeling trip. If our minimum is not met management reserves the right to reschedule the booking or cancel the trip.)

  • Private snorkeling charter price: 2 hours $1,399, 3 hours $1,999
  • Luxury snorkeling charter price: 2 hours $1,699, 3 hours $2,299
  • Maximum capacity 6 guests

Important Information

If you plan on snorkeling you must be able to swim. We provide flotation devices so you do not need to be an expert swimmer, but we do require all who wish to get in the water to have basic swimming capabilities. Children who can not swim may stay aboard with a parent/guardian while the rest of the group are in the water. Please note that anyone who chooses to enter the ocean but shows an inability to swim, or displays any signs of distress/panic will be required to get back on the boat (along with an accompanying parent/guardian for kids under 8). Your snorkel guide has the final say. Decisions are always made with safety in mind.

We recommend wearing sun protection such as sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and long sleeve shirt.

Customer Testimonials

An unforgettable experience on the water!

“Wow! Flat out impressed.
To start, the staff was friendly and attentive. Holoholo Kai Charters was something new for my fiancée and I. We took a trip to the Pacific a few weeks ago and this crew did not disappoint!”

Kevin Summonte, 2024-04-16

“Casey and Tyson were awesome! Holoholo Kai Charters is the move if you’re local or visiting the island. They will give you an incredible experience with friends/family.”

Jack O'Donnell, 2024-04-15

“My dad and I enjoyed a wonderful afternoon excursion with Holoholo Kai Charters. We saw so many whales (I lost count at 20?!). It was a magical experience.”

Sierra Huebert-Sanchez, 2024-04-11

Gallery: Snorkeling Experience

Swim with turtles, glide with manta rays

Snorkel Hawaiʻi’s Crystal-Clear Waters

Escape the crowds & explore in style with Holoholo Kai’s luxury snorkeling experiences.

big island private sunset cruise