Reef to Rays - Experience Hawaii Underwater!
Skip the crowds at Kealakekua Bay and discover our stunning local sites!
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Visit one of Kona’s most beautiful and exclusive local snorkeling spots, only accessible by boat. Only a handful of visitors get to snorkel here each day, and you could be one of them! Our snorkeling trip takes place in Pawai Bay (pronounced Pa-vai) – ocean permitting. This beautiful lava rock coastline is set aside for the use of native Hawaiian children, inaccessible to non-natives from shore.
Important Details
We are fortunate to be able to moor in the bay and share the beautiful shallow reef wildlife and educational briefings with guests about the wildlife we encounter. This secluded location is a true local gem and is known as one of the most beautiful local snorkel spots in Kona.
Just after boarding, we depart Kona’s harbor, keeping a watchful eye out for *Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Jump in the water to snorkel Kona’s most beautiful local snorkel spot at Pawai, where massive schools of fish, lava rock arches, and gorgeous reefs await discovery.
You’ll spend less time on the boat and more time in the water. Plus, you’ll likely have the whole area to yourself. Kealakekua Bay can get crowded so why not explore some of Kona’s local reefs.
*Please note that the spinner dolphins and whales are protected under the Marine Mammal Act and we can only observe from the designated distance. If dolphins try to engage we have to take evasive measures to disengage from them.
Please be aware that snorkeling can be physically demanding and may pose serious health risks for certain individuals. This activity is not recommended for those with heart conditions, high blood pressure, severe asthma, obesity, limited mobility, recent long-haul travel, or elderly individuals.
KNOW YOUR LIMITS – Everyone should review this before booking, as your current health and fitness condition affects your safety in the water.
It’s a good idea to let us know if anyone in your party carries an EPI pen, uses an inhaler, or is diabetic. Please bring all required medication with you, as indicated. Failure to do so may require you to reschedule with a penalty or forfeit your spot.
Please read the Snorkel Safety Study and Conclusion to educate yourself on snorkeling risks.
If you are over 65 years of age, we ask guests 65+ a few additional questions to help us keep everyone safe on the water.
Snorkeling is a physically demanding activity, and our adventure boat is not suitable for everyone. We take the safety of our guests seriously. Please answer the following questions honestly.
If you answered yes to any of the questions above, please email us at info@konasnorkeltrips.com before completing your booking.
Snorkel tips & basic instruction
Storage space is limited on the vessel.
Refundable Ticket:
Cancellation: Full refund if canceled up to 48 hours before the trip.
Rebooking: Free rebooking up to 48 hours before the trip.
All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing at least 48 hours before the trip’s start. Reservations made within 48 hours are not eligible for a refund.
Non-Refundable Ticket:
Cancellation: No refunds.
Rebooking: Rebooking allowed up to 48 hours before the trip.
12-Hr Flexible Cancellation Upgrade for Refundable Tickets
If you purchased the upgrade, your cancellation window has been extended up to 12 hours before the start of the tour. Cancel your trip for a 50% refund anytime up to 12 – hours before your trip starts. The request should be made by email.
No Shows and Late Arrivals will not be refunded.
We commit to our employees and other guests and adhere to our cancellation policy regardless of circumstances. We suggest traveler’s insurance for any issues such as illness, weather delays, and other circumstances that prohibit travel or participation on your part for any of your travel plans.
What if we cancel?
We reserve the right to cancel for any reason, including, but not limited to weather, ocean conditions, passenger count, mechanical issues, safety for you, our guests, and our crew. We’ll do our best to reschedule your trip based on availability or you’ll be issued a refund in full.
We are not responsible if we can not contact you for important information regarding the charter. We do not call international numbers.
We specialize in creating unforgettable adventures on the water. Join us for a journey departing from Honokohau Harbor aboard our comfortable pontoon boat as we cruise south around Kaiwi Point. This rugged coastline is only accessible by boat, allowing us to explore the pristine waters of Pawai Bay, a unique marine reserve teeming with life. In just 15 minutes, we’ll arrive at this magical spot, where colorful reef fish, eels, sea stars, and even turtles, manta rays, and spotted eagle rays await.
The reef at Pawai Bay begins at a striking vertical lava wall, plunging to a coral-covered bottom 15 feet below before gently sloping to around 40 feet. The diverse coral formations provide a perfect hiding place for a variety of marine creatures. With calm waters practically year-round, you’ll be able to spot vibrant fish, shy octopuses, and the occasional eel poking its head out from the reef. Our knowledgeable guides will take you to the best spots, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
Kona boasts the highest rate of endemic fish in the world, meaning many of the species here are found nowhere else. As you explore, keep an eye out for the stunning Wiliwili nuku nuku oi oi butterflyfish and the impressive Kokala pufferfish. Our guides are eager to share not only the marine wonders but also the rich history and culture of the island.
This quick, convenient Kona snorkel tour offers a fast turnaround, so you’ll be back in time to spend the day at the beach relaxing or to hit happy hour. We provide all the necessary snorkeling gear and even a quick tutorial for those needing a refresher. With a friendly captain and crew on board, we’re dedicated to making your trip as enjoyable as possible. Our small group sizes ensure a personalized experience, and for those wanting even more exclusivity, we offer private tours.
At Kona Snorkel Trips, we strive to make your vacation unforgettable. Our tours are crafted to maximize water time, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Hawaiian reefs. Pawai Bay offers breathtaking underwater scenery with its lava arches and pinnacles, just a short swim from the boat. If you’re interested in extending your adventure, check out our other tours at Kealakekua Bay or join us for a manta ray snorkel tour. You can even combine multiple tours for special package pricing.
There’s so much to explore in Kona. After your snorkel adventure, visit the turtle beach in Kaloko National Park to the north, where you can see honu (sea turtles) resting on the shore. Book your trip today with the Big Island’s top-rated snorkel company. With our dedication to detail and focus on customer experience, we ensure your comfort is our highest priority. Spend your precious vacation time with us, and discover why Kona Snorkel Trips is the best choice for your Hawaiian adventure. Join us on an afternoon Kona snorkel tour—you won’t be disappointed!
