#1 – Take a Dolphin Cruise from Waikiki

Location: Waikiki

For a truly unforgettable Oahu experience, you can’t beat cruising to see Hawaiian spinner dolphins off the coast of Waikiki Beach. This dolphin viewing and snorkeling tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, and all of your snorkeling gear. Choose from morning and afternoon departures, where you’ll enjoy getting to learn about Hawaii’s friendly dolphins, snorkel one of Hawaii’s best coral reefs, and even slide down your boat’s waterslide! There is no better way to get to know Oahu than to get out on (and in) the water.

Free hotel pick up | Snorkeling equipment included

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#2 – See Honolulu from above on a Helicopter Tour

Location: Honolulu Airport

If you’ve always wanted to take to the skies in a helicopter there’s no better place to do it than Hawaii. Imagine the incredible contrast of the blue ocean and vibrant mountain views from above. Mauna Loa Helicopter Tours offers this incredible 1 hour Private VIP Helicopter Tour for 2-3 passengers, where you’ll see some of Oahu’s most iconic sights including Diamond Head, the North Shore, Jurassic Valley, and fly over Pearl Harbor on your way back. This one is definitely bucket list worthy, and you can even choose to fly with the doors off!

Pearl Harbor from Above | Private Tour

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#3 – Go Shark Cage Diving

Location: Haleiwa Boat Harbor

Journey to the waters of the North Shore of Oahu with Hawaii Shark Encounters on this Shark Cage diving experience. After a scenic boat ride, you’ll enter the water in a floating cage to observe Galapagos and Sandbar sharks up close. No dive experience is needed, as you’ll use snorkeling gear in the cage. As part of your tour you’ll also learn fascinating insights into shark biology and behavior from your guide. Bring your sense of adventure and a love for learning about these incredible undersea creatures.

No Experience Needed | 2 Hour Tour

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#4 – Enjoy a Traditional Hawaiian Luau

Location: Honolulu

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#5 – Learn to Surf on the North Shore

Location: Haleiwa, Oahu North Shore

Hawaii is known for surfing and there’s no better place to catch your first wave than on Oahu’s North Shore. Sea & Board Sports Group Surf Lessons are perfect for beginners and intermediate surfers alike.  Start off with a safety and surf etiquette briefing, then take advantage of their expert instruction on the best way to get up on your board quickly and smoothly. They also provide high quality boards and rash guards to ensure you have a great experience on the water.

No experience needed | All gear provided 

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#6 – Discover History at Pearl Harbor

Location: Honolulu

No visit to Oahu is complete without seeing Pearl Harbor and reflecting on its historical significance. Skip the lines and the logistics with this Pearl Harbor guided tour, which includes entry to the USS Arizona Memorial, a 25-minute documentary screening, the boat ride to the memorial site, and roundtrip transportation from your hotel. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour will help you better appreciate the events of WWII, and commemorate the Sailors and Marines who lost their lives on that fateful day.

Hotel Pick-up | USS Arizona Tickets Included

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#7 – Circle the Island Tour & Snorkel with Sea Turtles

Location: Hotel Pick-up

Oahu has a lot to offer beyond the beach and the best way to get to know the real Oahu is to get out there and see it for yourself. This North Shore Circle Island Adventure is a small group tour that will take you to see the best of Oahu, from the stunning views of Diamond Head Lookout and Makapuu Point, to the food trucks and farms of the North Shore. You’ll also visit the Dole Pineapple Plantation, and make a snorkeling stop at Turtle Beach. Perfect for all ages, this family-friendly tour is an ideal way to spend a day in paradise!

Snorkel with Sea Turtles | Family Friendly

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#8 – Taste the Best of Oahu on a Food Tour

Location: Hotel Pick-up Included

If you’re looking for a little bit of everything and love food, this Island and You – Oahu Food Tour is the perfect choice! You’ll enjoy a full-day adventure combining cultural experiences, stunning scenery, and delicious local cuisine, that showcases the best of Oahu. Your tour will take you to visit iconic sites like Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay, and you’ll enjoy some of the best food in Oahu including Leonard’s famous Malasadas, fresh Kahuku shrimp, and macadamia nuts and coffee straight from the farm. With knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation, this tour is a great way to discover a true taste of Oahu. Best of all, your food is included in the cost of the tour.

All Food Included | Hotel Pick-up 

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#9 – Take to the Skies Parasailing & See Diamond Head from Above

Location: Kewalo Basin Harbor, Honolulu

For those looking to soar above paradise, X-Treme Parasail offers exhilarating parasailing adventures off the coast of Waikiki Beach. Their professional staff ensure a safe and enjoyable experience where you can choose from Standard (700 feet of line), Deluxe (850 feet of line), and X-Treme (1000 feet of line) flight options. No matter what option you choose, you’ll enjoy stunning views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head during your flight.

Family-Friendly | Safe and Fun 

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#10 – End Your Day with a Sunset Cruise

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BONUS – Go Whale Watching in Oahu during the Winter Season

Location: Waianae Harbor, Oahu West Coast

Finally, if you’re visiting Oahu between December and the end of March, don’t miss the chance to see incredible humpback whales during your trip. These majestic creatures winter in the warm Hawaiian waters to feed and give birth to their young. This Oahu whale-watching excursion departs from Waianae, which is the best place to see humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close. This is a small group tour aboard their state of the art 34-foot rigid inflatable boat. You’ll be accompanied by a lifeguard-certified crew and marine biology experts who will share fascinating insights about these gentle giants.

Small Group Experience  | Winter Season Only

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About Hijinks

Hijinks makes it easy to discover and book life experiences & local activities to enjoy with the people who matter most. Whether it’s a surf lesson, snorkeling tour, or luau, we provide comprehensive listings and expert advice to help you book with confidence. For more information, check us out here!

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#1. Snorkel with Manta Rays

Location: Keauhou Bay, Kailua-Kona

One of the most unique activities you can do in the Kona area is go snorkeling with Manta Rays. These incredible (and harmless) creatures come out to feed at night and you can see them up close on this Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Tour. Choose from early evening or moonlit sessions for an unforgettable adventure. With top-quality gear, expert guidance, and complimentary refreshments, this tour is perfect for everyone, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned snorkeler.

All Gear Provided | No Experience Needed

#2. Enjoy a Kona Dinner Cruise

Location: Kailua Pier Departure

There’s no better way to spend an evening on the Kona Coast than on a Historical Kona Dinner Cruise from Kona to Kealakekua Bay. Sail to the iconic Captain Cook Monument while a local historian shares fascinating tales of over 50 historic sites along the way. You’ll enjoy a delicious Hawaiian dinner with live entertainment and sip a complimentary cocktail as you watch the sunset paint the sky.

Dinner Included | Live Music

#3. Journey to the Volcano

Location: Departs from Kona to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

The Big Island of Hawaii is known for its volcanic activity and is the best Hawaiian island for a volcano tour. This full-day Volcano Unveiled Experience from Kona offers an in-depth adventure through the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes. Led by a National Park Certified guide, you’ll visit awe-inspiring sites including a lava tube, steam vents, and craters. Your tour also includes a deli-style lunch, dinner, and all the essential gear including walking sticks, flashlights, and park permits.

Lava Tube Experience | Meals Included

#4. Learn to Surf in Kona

Location: Kahalu’u Bay

One of those iconic Hawaii bucket list activities is catching a wave surfing. If you‘re new to the sport, check out this 2-hour group surf lesson just south of Kailua-Kona. Beginners are welcome and your certified instructor will have you riding the waves in no time. Your lesson includes a soft-top surfboard, rash guards, and booties – just bring a swim suit and towel.

All Gear Provided | Beginners Welcome

#5. See the Big Island on a Helicopter Tour

Location: Departs from Kona Airport

Ever wondered what it’s like to soar above paradise? Discover Hawaii’s stunning landscapes from the sky on this Full Hawaii Island Adventure Helicopter Tour. You’ll fly over the Kilauea Volcano, see lush rainforests and sacred valleys, and spot some of the 2,000 waterfalls on the Big Island.

Panoramic views | Volcano Experience

#6. Take a Catamaran and Snorkeling Cruise

Location: Kailua-Kona, Big Island

One of the best ways to see the Big Island is from the water, and one of the best options is this Sailing and Snorkeling Tour to Kealakekua Bay. You’ll sail on a luxury 50-foot catamaran to the Kealakekua Bay Marine Sanctuary, one of Hawaii’s top snorkeling spots, and see marine life in crystal-clear water. And don’t forget to keep your eyes open for playful dolphins year-round, and whales in the wintertime!

Gear & Snacks Included | Expert Guides

#7. Go Big Island Whale Watching

Location: Kona Coast, Big Island

If you’re visiting the Big Island of Hawaii between November and April, a whale watching tour is a must-do! There are several whale-watching tour options just off the Kona coast, all guided by naturalists who share their insight into the lives of these majestic creatures. Options include this traditional whale watching cruise with comfortable amenities, and for a more thrilling ride, the super raft whale watching adventure. Both options include expert narration and guaranteed whale sightings.

Whale Sightings Guaranteed | Naturalist Guide

#8. View Marine Life on a Glass-Bottomed Boat Tour

Location: Kailua Bay, Big Island

If you’re looking for a way to explore Hawaii’s marine life but don’t want to get wet, this Glass-Bottom Reef Tour at Kailua Bay is a great option. The tour departs from Kailua Pier, and offers several trips per day. Your guide will provide engaging commentary about the local ecosystem, as you search for dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life on this 1 hour tour.

Family-friendly | Great Value

#9. Go Parasailing and See Kona from Above

Location: Kailua-Kona, Big Island

Ever dreamed of gliding high above the Pacific Ocean? A parasailing flight at UFO Parasail in Kailua-Kona will turn that dream into a reality. You can choose to fly solo, tandem, or in a trio and select from an 800 foot flight with 6 minutes of soaring, or a 1200 foot flight with 9 minutes of soaring. If not everyone in your group wants to fly, observers are also welcome to join the trip.

Custom flight heights | Bucket List

#10. Discover the Stars from Mauna Kea

Location: Mauna Kea, Big Island

There’s no better way to end a perfect Hawaiian day than discovering the night sky. This Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience offers a night of celestial discovery, guided by an expert astrophotographer. You’ll learn about constellations, galaxies, and nebulae through their high-powered telescopes, all while being protected from light polution on Mauna Kea. Cozy parkas will keep you warm and complimentary photos will help you capture this unforgettable moment. Best of all, they offer a stargazing guarantee: see the stars or get a full refund.

Complimentary Photos | Parkas Provided

About Hijinks

Hijinks makes it easy to discover and book life experiences & local activities to enjoy with the people who matter most. Whether it’s a surf lesson, snorkeling tour, or luau, we provide comprehensive listings and expert advice to help you book with confidence. For more information, check us out here!

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#1 – Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy

Lahaina

To get into the local spirit and catch some friendly waves you can take a lesson at Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy. This family-owned surf academy is one of the oldest in Maui, and they’ll teach you a bit about Hawaiian history as well as how to stand up on the board. They operate out of the beaches around downtown Lahaina, so they’re easy to get to and there are plenty of amenities nearby in case you want to go out for lunch after your surf lesson. Sandy beaches and calm waters make these lessons suitable for kids as well as beginners.

Beach: Lahaina Beaches

#2 – Maui Sports Unlimited

Kihei

If you’ve been surfing before and are looking to tune up before hitting the Hawaiian waves Maui Sports Unlimited is the place for you. These guys offer a variety of surfing lessons for a variety of levels out of the protected south Maui bay near Kihei. Here you can take a beginner class, an intermediate class, an advanced class or even a three-day surfing lesson. They keep their class sizes small here so you can be sure to get the challenge you’re looking for.

Beach: Kihei Beaches

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#1 – Surf HNL Kapolei

Kapolei, Oahu

How do you feel about having the entire beach for yourself? With Surf HNL in Kapolei you can have the most private surf lesson Oahu has to offer. Their lessons take place on Nimitz Beach, popular with locals but otherwise not very busy. And while there are a lot of rocky areas, the instructors will direct you to the sandy parts so you can easily get into the water. This lesson lasts from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your preference, and can be private or group—but the instructor to student ratio is low no matter what.

Beach: Nimitz Beach

Choose this for: beginner lessons on a quiet beach in the Kapolei area

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#2 – Surf HNL Ala Moana

Waikiki, Oahu

The most popular place to go surfing on Oahu is Ala Moana Beach Park. Centrally located between two other gorgeous beaches, Sunset and Makaha, this beach attracts surfers from all over the world. Even so, this place rarely gets crowded like the Waikiki beaches do. Reserve a lesson with Surf HNL and experience the joy of surfing in these calm waters. These instructors will start your lesson with some training on the beach and then move into the water. They use longboards to make your first experience easier and offer hotel pick up for extra convenience.

Beach: Ala Moana Beach Park

Choose this for: convenient surf lessons near Waikiki with hotel pick up option

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Did you know that Hawaii has recently banned the use of sunscreens that aren’t considered reef safe?  Check out our review of the best reef safe sunscreens to make sure you’re protecting yourself, and the environment.

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Oahu

Oahu is the most popular destination for professional surfers in Hawaii, with the big-wave season on the North Shore starting in November and finishing in February. In the summer all the action moves to the South Shore where the waves can be big but are rarely too challenging. For beginners, Waikiki is popular year round, as the beaches have plenty of amenities and the waters are calm, but you can find great beginner surf lessons all over the island.

#1 – Surf HNL Ala Moana

Ala Moana

Popular among locals and tourists alike, Ala Moana has everything you need. This white-sand beach has calm waters and lots of green park space, making it perfect for family outings. It also gets less crowded than nearby Waikiki, making it a great spot for surf lessons. Their lessons last from 1 to 2 hours, depending on your preference, and can be private or group—but the instructor to student ratio is low no matter what.

Choose this Hawaii surfing school for: Family surfing in Honolulu
Beach: Ala Moana Beach Park

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Maui

Crystal clear turquoise water and coral reefs make Maui one of the most popular holiday destinations of the Hawaiian archipelago. Though Oahu is more popular among professional surfers, Maui still has lots of great surfing spots to discover and is a perfect place for beginners to catch their first wave.

#1 – Maui Sports Unlimited

Kihei

With regular surf breaks and long sandy beaches, Maui’s south shore is popular among surfers year round. Based in Kihei, Maui Sports Unlimited offers classes for every level, from beginner to advanced. Beginner lessons are held on Kalama Beach Park, also known as the Cove, and considered the best beginner beach on the island. Multi-day lessons are available if you are really looking to take your surfing to the next level.

Choose this Hawaii surfing school for: Intermediate-advanced surfing
Beach: Kalama Beach Park

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Big Island

The youngest of all the Hawaiian islands, the Big Island isn’t really known for its surfing. Visitors usually come for volcano hikes, stargazing, and rainforest expeditions since the beaches here can be rugged and treacherous due to lava rocks. But wherever you are in Hawaii, surfing is always an option. Kona on the west side is best for beginners while Hilo on the east side is reserved for experienced surfers only.

#1 – Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea

Kona

Kahalu’u Bay Surf & Sea’s group surfing lesson has a low student-to-instructor ratio and can accommodate surfers of all levels, including beginners. The lesson starts off at the surf shop with safety tips and surfing basics before moving into the warm, clear blue waters of Kahalu’u Bay. They also have private and semi-private options. All the gear you’ll need—soft-top longboards, rash guards, and booties—will be provided, so you’ll just need to bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen, and be ready to surf!

Choose this Hawaiian surfing school for: Highest rated reviews, surf with family and friends
Beach: Kahalu’u Bay Beach

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Kauai

With pristine white sand beaches and an abundance of tropical vegetation, Kauai is the perfect island for a quiet and relaxing vacation. While many come to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach, this “garden island” is perfect for water sports as well.

#1 – Hawaiian Style Surfing

Koloa

Falling between Poipu Beach and Lawai Beach, Kiahuna is a great beach for beginner surf lessons. The water is a beautiful ocean blue and is relatively calm near the shore because of the outlying reefs. Hawaiian Style Surfing offers the Kauai’s Ultimate Group Surf Lesson, where you can meet other beginner surfers while trying out this incredible sport for the first time. Whether you book your group lesson with friends and family or with strangers, you’ll have a great time learning to surf in the company of others!

Choose this Hawaiian surfing school for: Beginner group lessons
Beach: Kiahuna Beach

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Did you know that Hawaii has recently banned the use of sunscreens that aren’t considered reef safe?  Check out our review of the best reef safe sunscreens to make sure you’re protecting yourself, and the environment.

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From luxury cruises with complimentary cocktails to rugged open-ocean excursions on Zodiac, check out these awesome options for dolphin and whale watching Oahu has to offer! But note, if you’re hoping to see humpback whales, make sure you book during the migration season to avoid disappointment!

#1 – Whale watch on Oahu’s leeward coast

Dolphin Excursions, Waianae, West Oahu

These small-group whale watching tours are available December to March, during Hawaii’s whale watching season. Departing from Waianae at 2pm, they’ll take you out on their 34-foot rigid inflatable boat so you can get up close and personal with the whales. Watch these gentle giants breach and slap the water as they blow off some steam in Oahu’s leeward waters. The west coast seem too far for you? These guys also offer roundtrip transportation from Waikiki and Ko Olina hotels.

Choose this for: small-group whale watching

#2 – Snorkel Oahu’s leeward coast with dolphin and whale sightings

Ocean Joy Cruises, Kapolei

Cruise up the west coast of Oahu with dolphin sightings and whale watching in season on the Kai Oli’Oli with this family-run tour company. Their morning cruise will take you on a fully narrated tour of the entire west coast of Oahu. During the winter months, you’ll see whales in their natural habitat and glimpse dolphins playing in the boat’s wake. Space is limited to just 12 passengers on this boat making it super intimate, and the tour includes a buffet as well as alcoholic beverages. Not too shabby!

Choose this for: small-group whale watching in season

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It’s important to be respectful of all marine life. If you want to learn more about NOAA Fisheries guidelines for safely and respectfully viewing marine life, check out this page on their website.

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#1 – Molokini snorkel with whale sightings in season

Maalaea, Central Maui

Combine whale watching with this luxury Molokini snorkeling cruise. Off the Maui coast, the Molokini crater is one of the best places to snorkel—and during whale watching season it’s a convenient place to spot humpback whales as they swim toward the Auau Channel. At the crater, you’ll see colorful fish, sea stars, and sea turtles—and once you’re done snorkeling you can soak up the sun on the deck of the luxurious Paragon II sailboat. This is a good option during whale season’s shoulder months when sightings are more rare—you’ll enjoy snorkeling so much that if you do happen to see a whale as well, it’s a nice bonus.

Departs from: Maalaea, Central Maui

Choose this for: Molokini snorkeling and whale watching

#2 – Lahaina Champagne Sunset Sail

Lahaina

Who doesn’t want to watch whales with a flute of bubbly in hand? Sail Maui’s Champagne Sunset Sail takes you on a two-hour cruise along Maui’s west coast as the sun slips beneath the horizon. This is a high-traffic area for humpback whales in season, so you’re very likely to have a handful of sightings during the journey. Champagne, cocktails, and light snacks are served throughout, making this a classy way to spend an evening with your sweetheart.

Departs from Lahaina

Choose this for: romantic whale watching

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But each tour is a little bit different–some tours will take you to the nearby must-see sights, like Rainbow Falls and Punalu’u black-sand beach, while others will take you into Volcanoes National Park. Pick the experience that best suits you with this top 5 Hawaii volcano tours list!

#1 – KapohoKine’s All-Day Volcano Explorer

This tour is the most popular option for its comfortable combination of Big Island must-see sights. Operated by KapohoKine Adventures, you’ll hit all the park highlights, visiting the volcanic crater and steam vents as well as the Jaggar Museum, while also making all those important pit stops along the way. You’ll stop off at the Big Island’s best swimming beach, Kaimu Bay, the Punalu’u black-sand beach, and Kalapana, a fishing town almost completely destroyed by lava. This is a small-group tour with minimal hiking and walking, making it a perfect choice for those who want to comfortably fit the Big Island’s best sight-seeing into one day. Departures from Kona, Hilo, and Kohala

Choose this for: most popular tour

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#2 – Mauna Loa’s Full Island Helicopter Tour

See the lava flows from the Kilauea Volcano, snow-covered peaks of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa, and the rainforests of the North Shore on Mauna Loa’s Full Island Adventure helicopter tour. On this tour, get up close and personal with the volcano: explore the East Rift Zone of Kilauea, including Kilauea Crater, Pu’u O’o Vent, and the lava flows that are currently entering the Pacific Ocean. After you’re done, hit up the island’s other must-sees on this two-hour helicopter ride.

Choose this for: bucket list

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Today there are so many different snorkeling tours on the island, it can be hard to know where to start–but with this many options there’s sure to be a tour that’s perfect for you. Choose from small-group experiences, private cruises, and luxury sails with chef-made lunches served on board. But don’t forget what you came there for! Swim with a school of brightly colored yellow tangs, run into a sea turtle or two, or spy a playful spinner dolphin swimming by. Check out this list of the top snorkeling tours on the Big Island!

#1 – Deluxe Big Island snorkeling experience

There’s a reason Sea Quest has been operating this tour for over 26 years! This original snorkeling cruise takes you to both Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay for a great price. Expect to see schools of yellow tang swimming around the bays as well as a spinner dolphin or two following in your wake as you cruise up the coast. This tour includes snacks too!

Snorkeling destinations: Kealakekua Bay, Honaunau Bay, and more | Departs from: Keauhou Bay south of Kailua-Kona

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#2 – Kealakekua Express snorkel

If you only want to snorkel at Kealakekua Bay and no where else, this is the tour for you. Kealakekua Bay is arguably the best place to snorkel on the whole island, making this a great choice if you’re looking to cut some corners and save some time. Sea Paradise will take you right to the bay and back with plenty of time left for exploring in between. All the gear is provided and a snack too on this most affordable of Big Island snorkeling options.

Snorkeling destination: Kealakekua Bay | Departs from: Keahou south of Kailua-Kona

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#3 – Nighttime manta ray snorkeling

But of course, you can’t leave the Big Island without going manta ray night snorkeling! Manta ray snorkeling is a major attraction on the Big Island–you can’t do it anywhere else in Hawaii! Head out to a popular manta ray feeding spot with Sea Quest on their evening snorkel cruise. They’ll set you up with a floatation device that doubles as an underwater light, illuminating these graceful creatures as they glide beneath you.

Snorkeling destination: South Kona | Departs from: Keauhou Bay, south of Kailua-Kona

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#4 – Snorkeling at Red Hill with Body Glove Hawaii

Kailua-Kona

Dive into the pristine waters of Red Hill and explore its abundant sea life. That’s right, Kealakekua Bay isn’t the only place you can see fish on the Big Island. This morning snorkeling cruise takes you to Pu’u Ohau, also known as Red Hill, best known for its coral gardens and rare sea animals. Close to Kealakekua Bay, Red Hill is only accessible by boat making it a bit more secluded than its super-popular neighbour. This large-format tour includes food and beverages as well as cushioned seats and plenty of shade.

Snorkeling destination: Pu’u Ohau | Departs from: Kailua Pier, Kailua-Kona

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#5 – Private snorkeling experience with Kona Ocean Adventures

It’s your vacation–so why should you have to choose? Check out the private charters offered by Kona Ocean Adventures, perfect for families and groups travelling together. Set the agenda to suit your needs–hit up Kealakekua Bay, go out in search of dolphins, or do a fun mix of the two. You decide! And best of all, you can count on the high quality of the experience, which Kona Ocean Adventures brings to all its tours.

Snorkeling destination: you decide! | Departs from: Honokohau Marina north of Kailua-Kona

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#1 – Classic whale watching from Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona

Body Glove offers an educational and fun whale watching tour lead by a marine naturalist. This tour takes place on the Kanoa II, a 65-foot long catamaran, which provides a comfortable and smooth ride. The tour lasts two and a half hours, which gives you plenty of time to see humpback whales. This is a rather large tour, as the catamaran can host up to a hundred people, so make sure you scope out the best seats on deck. This tour is perfect for kids 5 and up!

Departs from: Kailua Pier, Kailua-Kona

Choose this for: classic whale watching tour

#2 – Small-group dolphin encounter from Kailua-Kona

Kailua-Kona

Here’s your chance to swim with Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural habitat. Sea Quest offers small-group tours out of Kailua-Kona that will take you to the best places to see dolphins. This tour also includes a chance to snorkel at Kealakekua Bay, the Big Island’s top snorkeling spot and home to plenty of fish and colorful coral reefs. Parents note, a lot of swimming takes place in the open ocean, so this tour is not suitable for children.

Departs from: Keauhou Bay, just south of Kailua-Kona

Choose this for: small-group dolphin encounters

#3 – Rugged dolphin encounter from Waimea

Waimea, South Kohala

Staying in Kohala? Check out Adventure X Boats in Waimea. A little less crowded than the tours operating out of the Kona area, this morning dolphin swim combines a dolphin encounter with the best snorkeling the Kohala Coast has to offer. Children aged three and up are welcome on this cruise—though note, there are no snacks on this one and this boat is a bit more rugged than the luxury cruisers.

Departs from: Puako Point, Waimea

Choose this for: Waimea dolphin adventures

#4 – Rugged whale watching from Waimea

Waimea, South Kohala

If you’re not looking for the full bar and deli lunch option, Adventure X is for you. They offer straight-up whale watching out of Waimea in South Kohala in their zodiac. they’ll take you out to several whale watching spots so you can see these gentle creatures up close. Hang on tight! These rides can be bumpy!

Departs from: Puako Point, Waimea

Choose this for: rugged whale watching

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It’s important to be respectful of all marine life. If you want to learn more about NOAA Fisheries guidelines for safely and respectfully viewing marine life, check out this page on their website.

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