Where is the Best Snorkeling in Hawaii?
Captain Zodiac tour snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay
The best snorkeling spot in Hawaii is hands down Kealakekua Bay, located on the Big Island! Take a trip down the Kona Coast to this marine sanctuary located at the foot of the Captain Cook Memorial. We’ve ranked this spot the best snorkeling for a few reasons: year round calm water in a protected bay, the diversity and amount of tropical fish, and the amazing clarity of the water!
Location and Accessibility
Kealakekua Bay is located on the western coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, near the town of Captain Cook. The bay is a marine sanctuary and is known for its crystal clear waters, vibrant marine life, and historical significance.
The bay is accessible by boat, kayak, or guided tour. Captain Zodiac snorkel tours are the best way to explore this underwater world! Captain Zodiac, Hawaii’s Big Island original zodiac rafting tour company, offers a fun adventure-filled ride down to Kealakekua Bay departing from Honokohau Harbor in Kona.
Marine Life
Tropical reef fish in Kealakekua Bay
Experience a diverse array of marine life. The bay is teeming with colorful fish, intricate coral reefs, and even occasional green sea turtles and manta rays! This 1-mile long bay is also a common resting area for pods of Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins. This protected species can be spotted from the boat.
Historical Significance
Captain Zodiac in front of the Captain Cook Memorial
Kealakekua Bay holds a significant place in history, as it is closely linked to the famed British explorer, Captain James Cook. In 1779, Captain Cook arrived at Kealakekua Bay during his third voyage to the Pacific, marking the first recorded European contact with the Hawaiian Islands.
Conservation Efforts
Kealakekua Bay is designated as a Marine Life Conservation District, offering legal protection to the marine life and habitats within its boundaries. This designation helps to safeguard the bay’s biodiversity and ensure the preservation of its natural resources.
To protect the coral reefs and marine life from harmful chemicals, visitors are encouraged to use reef-friendly sunscreen that is free from oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemicals have been linked to coral bleaching and can harm marine ecosystems.
Tour operators and snorkeling guides at Kealakekua Bay promote responsible snorkeling practices, such as avoiding standing on or touching the coral reefs, refraining from feeding marine animals, and minimizing disturbances to the underwater environment.
By following these guidelines, visitors can minimize their impact on the fragile ecosystem.
In conclusion, for those seeking the best snorkeling in Hawaii, be sure to visit Kealakekua Bay with Captain Zodiac. It is a must-visit destination for snorkeling enthusiasts and nature lovers alike, offering a unique and unforgettable experience in the pristine waters of Hawaii’s Big Island.