Morning Magic Kayak And Snorkel Adventure In Kealakekua Bay

This was probably a favorite tour. Cody help us out with flippers and sunscreen. Logan was our guide. He is such a kind and knowledgeable young man. He really helped us out a lot. I definitely recommend others to do this excursion.

Fantastic experience. Our guide Nick was knowledgeable, helpful, kind, and wanted to make sure we had the best experience we could have. The snorkeling is like diving into another world, exotic biome and marine life, very grateful for the experience (the included lunch was also a nice touch)

We had a great time kayaking over to Captain Cook with Kona Boys. Evan was a fabulous guide! He was helpful, attentive, and super friendly. Kayaking across the bay was a lot of fun and the snorkeling was top notch. It was nice to be able to step onto land while there. Great experience!

We had a wonderful time! Our guide Evan was informative, funny, and kept all of us interested in the history of Captain Cook! He had stories of all sorts and was enjoyable to hear about. We had a small group of six, which felt less like a tour and more like we had our own personal guide. Lunch was great as well!

This was truly an amazing experience. Evan and Logan were incredible guides, provided detailed history and knowledge. The kayak over was absolutely beautiful and the snorkeling was really great (even though the visibility wasn't that perfect from the previous storm). Highly recommend! The only thing I would note is that they asked about dietary restrictions of which I have a gluten intolerance, I was given a garden salad for lunch and unfortunately the fork was accidentally forgotten. I would suggest in the future sourcing a lettuce wrap (if gluten free bread / wraps are unavailable) similar to the sandwiches so its a more on par experience considered it was included in the price.

An incredible experience! The guides were so friendly and knowledgeable. We loved kayaking and snorkeling - we saw so many fish and a couple of octopuses! Would definitely recommend the morning tour before it gets too hot or busy. A great price considering how long you get to snorkel, the delicious lunch, and the souvenir steel water bottles. They even let us keep our snorkel gear for the rest of the day and return it to their shop the next morning. The perfect start to our Hawaii trip!

Our family of three did the Morning Magic Kayak and Snorkel Adventure with Kona Boys in Kealakekua Bay in mid-August 2026. First, I want to say that the tour was highly enjoyable and interesting for the most part. I'd like to give a shout-out to our tour guides Evan and Phil, who were helpful, knowledgeable and a pleasure to work with. Second, I'd like to offer a few points of constructive criticism that I hope Kona Boys and folks reading this might consider: 1.) The tour was too expensive for what it delivered. It was over $800 for the three of us for what ended up being a 2 1/2 hour tour that felt somewhat rushed. Evan explained that part of our fees went to the state to help protect and preserve Kealakekua Bay. I hope that's true and that it's a significant portion of the price. Maybe Kona Boys could specify how much goes toward conservation fees or other state fees. For instance, there are only 2-3 companies, including Kona Boys licensed to land at Kealakekua Bay. Licensing might be a big part of the cost. Be up front about those costs. I also hope that Evan and the other tour guides are paid well since they really made the trip enjoyable. I'd hate to think Kona Boys was just charging as much as they can get away with. 2. The trip felt somewhat rushed. Part of this is Kona Boys fault and something they could fix. We had to arrive at the shop by xxx a.m. We were a few minutes early but Kona Boys had already started the pre-tour briefing without us. Next we were fitted with masks, snorkels and fins at the shop. Then we all had to drive ourselves to Kealakekua Bay, and despite directions, we got lost on the way. I understand this happens fairly often. The detour didn't last long, maybe 15 minutes, and it ended up being fine. Everyone was still using the bathroom and getting situated at the dock when we arrived. After a briefing from Evan and Phil, we didn't get in the water until close to 9 a.m. We had to paddle across the bay, snorkel, eat lunch, enjoy Evan's talk, and return by 11:30 so the tour guides could lead the afternoon tour. So what we expected would be a half-day tour ended up being only 2 1/2 hours long. The paddle back felt very rushed, with the tour guides out ahead and everyone trying to keep up. A couple of us had trouble maintaining such a fast pace as the sea got a little choppy. The tour guides didn't linger to help us. They were way out in front. I think Kona Boys could help this situation in several ways. I understand not all of these may be feasible. 1. Have everyone meet at the dock on Kealakekua Bay, not the shop in town. Have the tour guides bring a variety of masks, snorkels and fins to the dock along with the kayaks, paddles and life vests. Ask people about their shoe size in advance. Do all the briefing at the dock rather than one briefing at the shop and one at the dock. I think this would cut about an hour from the pre-tour activities. It would extend the tour, making it feel less rushed, and, importantly, let the Kona Boys snorkelers have even more time in the water before the big boats show up and crowd the bay. The arrival of these big tours, and the limited time before they arrived, were another reason we felt rushed. Once the big boats arrived, it got very crowded. 2. If #1 isn't feasible, have everyone meet at the shop 30-60 minutes earlier to allow more time for the pre-tour chores and more time before the big boats arrive. 3. Don't schedule an afternoon tour that starts immediately after the morning tour. The guides clearly had to keep people moving along to get back for the day's second tour. Starting the morning earlier, pushing back the afternoon tour by 30-60 minutes or just not having an afternoon tour would be better. This smacked of trying to make as much money as possible each day. 4. Explain the price breakdown in advance. The tour guides should be paid well, and Kona Boys should make a decent profit. But $800 for three people was too much without extra costs such as state fees. Around $500 would have been more reasonable. If state fees add $300, explain that. Otherwise it just seems like profiteering. 5. Have one of the two guides bring up the rear while paddling across the bay and back. That way, no one gets left behind and no one gets into danger. I would definitely recommend this tour to folks who can afford it, but I do hope Kona Boys and would-be travelers will consider these points. Thanks for reading.

My experience on this tour with my fiancé was wonderful. Evan and Kona boys are some of the kindest people I’ve met. They took the time to give us some history on the area and food recommendations. Evan did a great job showing us the best spots to snorkel and we got to learn a lot about the land we were visiting. The early morning was beautiful and there was almost no one else there since we were able to get out on the water right on time.

trip was amazing! Guide Evan was the best! Couldn’t be happier with the experience!

Worth every penny. Easy kayaking out to the monument. Guides were knowledgeable. Biggest fish I’ve seen snorkeling in Hawaii

This was a great snorkeling tour. Our guide Evan was amazing - very pleasant, helpful and knowledgeable. The bay is beautiful, we saw dolphins and lots of fish. The owner, Frank, was super friendly and even offered us to use the snorkeling equipment until the end of the day. Highly recommend Kona Boys!

We had an amazing experience with Kona Boys and our guides, Evan and Carver! The kayaking trip across the bay was beautiful (be ready to work!) and we had a great snorkeling experience. Evan was knowledgeable and mixed in facts about the island, culture and history which was all fun to learn about. We went with a mix of kids and adults and all were able to enjoy the experience. Thank you for a wonderful time!

It was an amazing experience witgKina Boys. If you like to snorkel and kayak and learn about the history of the area this is the trip for you. I highly recommend and would definitely book it again on a future visit.

Our morning magic kayak and snorkeling tour was just as wonderful and magical as it was the first time. My family and I have been on this tour many times and each time we return with new friends we always book this tour and it is always the highlight of the trip. Evan, our guide and Frank, the manager always make this a smooth and memorable experience. Each time I feel that I learn something new about the history of the bay and Captain Cook, not to mention that the snorkeling here is the best, with the clearest waters and variety of fish. The lunch from the Coffee Shack is also delicious. We can’t thank you enough for a wonderful time!! Also, I want to thank you for rescheduling our tour to ensure that we had the perfect day. We will be returning soon!!

7/6/26 Great time! Our guide Evan, was so fun and knowledgeable. He shared so much history about the island, the bay, and wildlife. Customer service from booking to check in etc was impeccable. Highly recommend!! Added bonus we were in a very small group. Mahalo, Evan and Kona Boys!

Guide was very knowledgeable.

Big love to Evan and the Kona Boys! They are the only way to experience Kealakekua Bay. A beautiful easy kayak trip across the bay in the morning is breathtaking. The kayaks are such a thoughtful way to visit this beautiful and protected space. Our tour guide Evan was absolutely amazing! He shared so much information about history, culture, and the environment it really made such a difference how we viewed our trip. Even our teenagers were engaged and talked about all they learned. Lunch from the coffee shack topped off the experience. Check in at their storefront was friendly and easy and parking at the bay was clear. Would definitely recommend and we would do again and again!

Big love to Evan and the Kona Boys! They are the only way to experience Kealakekua Bay. A beautiful easy kayak trip across the bay in the morning is breathtaking. The kayaks are such a thoughtful way to visit this beautiful and protected space. Our tour guide Evan was absolutely amazing! He shared so much information about history, culture, and the environment it really made such a difference how we viewed our trip. Even our teenagers were engaged and talked about all they learned. Lunch from the coffee shack topped off the experience. Check in at their storefront was friendly and easy and parking at the bay was clear. Would definitely recommend and we would do again and again!

This was the best tour I did while on the big island. They are also an eco tour and gave us reusable water bottles.

Kealakekua Bay kayak and snorkel trip. Free (safe and plenty of spots) parking at public park, 200 yard walk from where you meet. Easy kayak launch at Napo’opo’o- wharf/pier; first timers, experienced and some 70 year old ladies. Kayak Kealakekua bay to Capt. Cook Monument. Great info on the leisurely paddle over. Easy landing. Brief intro, then in the water. Coral, reef fish, creatures, and drop-off are awesome! After snorkeling, meet at Capt. Cook monument. Great fresh-prepared lunch from a local shop. Super interesting info on the history while you’re having lunch!! Epic kayak launch that is timed with the incoming wave sets. Paddling back saw some Spinner Dolphins and relaxed/ hung out while they passed by. Easy landing back at Napo’opo’o. Great time!! Evan and Paul were phenomenal guides!! Friendly, knowledgeable and super helpful. Highly recommend and would definitely go again! 5 Stars!

We did the morning kayak and snorkel tour with Kona Boys and had such a great time. Grant and Chase were awesome guides—super friendly, easygoing, and made everything really simple from start to finish. The paddle across the bay was easy, and the snorkeling was beautiful once we got out there. They kept things fun and relaxed, and were always happy to answer questions along the way. Really appreciated how attentive Grant was too—he was watching out for everyone in the water, not just our group, which made the whole experience feel really safe. Overall, super fun and would definitely recommend if you’re in Kona and want a laid-back but well-run snorkel trip.

Our kayaking and snorkeling tour exceeded all of our lofty expectations. It truly was a magical experience. Our guide, Paul, was friendly, competent, extremely knowledgeable about both the history of the bay and the fish in the bay and an around perfect guide. We had the pleasure of seeing many spinner dolphins and many tropical fish including a few eels. We had worried that the ocean would be cold that early in the morning but discovered the water temperature was very pleasant. We’ve gone on a lot of excursions and this is one of the best ones ever. Book it!

One of THE BEST excursions we have ever done!! And we have done A LOT! Evan and Paul were absolutely AMAZING and the best guides ever! Make sure you book this tour! You won’t regret a minute of it! Will definitely be a highlight of your trip!!

Totally worth the investment. We had multiple sightings of dolphins in and out of the water. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and pleasant. We had a yummy lunch. Saw soooo many fish, this was a great adventure. Would totally do it again.

We were lucky enough to have a private tour with Evan on a beautiful morning! Evan our tour guide is so chill and responsible. He is very knowledge about the Hawaiian culture and history and could answer literally all the questions I had! We arrived pretty early to the captain cook monument so we could beat the other tourists who were arriving via boats and snorkel peacefully there! We saw so many species of fish there and hands down it was the best snorkeling spot during our entire trip! The kayaking was a little exhausting especially on the way back because of the heat and physical drain from snorkeling so I would say it’s not for everyone… thankfully I had my partner doing most of the kayaking so we could survive 🥲 the sandwich 🥪 lunch was delicious by the way!

Fantastic experience with Kona Boys for the Morning Kealakekua Bay Kayak & Snorkel Tour. When we arrived at the shop at 7 am for orientation, Frank was friendly and prompt with greeting us at the shop and giving the orientation talk, and Paul outfitted us with gear and made sure we knew how to get to the launch site. The shop dog and cat were also very friendly. Our guide for the morning was Grant, who was fantastic. He was engaging and extremely knowledgeable about the history, culture, language, geology, flora, fauna, and many other topics. He was also communicative, attentive, and helpful to other people. Overall, I liked that our early start meant that we arrived before the other large commercial boats did, so we got to enjoy paddling and snorkeling the bay with fewer people. I highly recommend Kona Boys as an eco-friendly option with top tier service.

Evan and Chase were awesome. They covered all the basics of logistics and safety for both kayaking and snorkeling. Evan was an amazing storyteller who made the tale of Captain Cook come alive. We saw tropical fish of all sorts, sacred cliff sites and flying spinner dolphins and finished up with a delicious picnic lunch. Highly recommend.

We just wrapped up an incredible morning with Kona Boys and cannot say enough great things about this team. From the moment we arrived, Frank set the tone with outstanding hospitality and made sure we had everything we needed for our week here and setting up for the tour. The equipment was genuinely top-notch — clearly high-end, well-maintained, and perfectly fitted — a cut above anything else we’ve seen on the island. Our tour guide Evan was absolutely phenomenal. His knowledge, enthusiasm, and genuine love for nature (environmental science major!) made the entire experience feel special. He was attentive, informative, and made every member of our group feel comfortable and confident in the kayak and on the water. The whole Kona Boys crew echoed the same spirit — professional, warm, and truly passionate about what they do. This is the real deal. We will 100% be back the next time we’re in Kona — Kona Boys has earned a customer for life. If you’re on the Big Island and debating where to snorkel, look no further. Highest possible recommendation. A huge cheers to the team from minnesota!

The Morning Magic Kayak & Snorkel tour was an amazing experience- paddling across Keleakekua Bay and taking in the gorgeous scenery while learning about the history and cultural of the place was a great way to learn more about Hawaiian culture. The snorkeling was the best I’ve ever experienced and the time we had to snorkel flew by. Evan and Paul were wonderful tour guides- very knowledgeable and helpful. The food provided for lunch was delicious too! I would definitely book this excursion again!

The kayaking/snorkeling trip to Kealakekua very enjoyable. Our guide Steve was very knowledgeable, entertaining, and helpful. I would highly recommend the experience.

We really enjoyed our adventure with the Kona Boys. After checking in at their store location, we drove ourselves down to the launch site to get our kayaks. The trip over to the James Cook monument was lovely in the early morning—the water was calm and we were almost alone. At the monument, we got instructions and spent the morning snorkeling the bay. It was a bit tricky getting into the water, but we all managed it. By mid-morning, several motor boats had arrived and the water got crowded. One of our group (ahem, me…) had an asthma attack and had to get out, since we were not allowed to stand on the reef. But the guides were helpful and friendly and chatted the whole time. They were full of interesting history and tidbits about the area and the story of James Cook, as well as scientific facts about the coral and fish. They provided us with water bottles (to keep) and delicious sandwiches and cookies for lunch before guiding us back to the launch site. This trip is definitely worth the cost ($229 per person). By the way, they are so friendly and flexible in arranging the reservations!

I was leery of booking a 7 am ANYTHING after arriving on Hawai'i the afternoon before (I'm not a morning person)... but it was great to get up early, see the sunrise, and drive a little ways down the coast. I felt like we'd accomplished something before the tour even began! Check-in was chill, including a very friendly cat. Evan and Paul were ready and waiting at the put-in. Our group was moving a little slowly, but they didn't make us feel rushed. Excellent safety briefing and step-by-step instructions through the morning. Evan shared interesting history of the area as we paddled across the bay, conveying a sense of respect for indigenous the people and place. THE MOST AMAZING SNORKELING I'VE EVER DONE. As my husband said, it was like swimming in an aquarium. This spot was otherwise accessible only by a 3.7 mile round-trip hike (or by small tour boat), so reaching it by kayak was special. A few in our group planned to keep their snorkel gear for the afternoon - no extra charge! - and drop it off at the end of the day after exploring other snorkel spots. Nice touches: The aluminum water bottle was more substantial than I thought it would be, and was a nice souvenir. Lunch was excellent - sandwiches for every preference ("Meat eater" "Vegetarian" "Pregnant eater" "Picky eater!"), chips, macadamia chocolate chip cookies from a local bakery, and flavored bubble water or juice. Evan told us the story of Captain Cook while we ate. He's a terrific storyteller. Goats and marmots made appearances in the woods behind him while he spoke, as if on cue. Finally, and importantly, our group had a diversity of ages, body types, and mobility challenges. Both Evan and Paul were very kind and competent helping everyone get in and out of the boats as well as in and out of the water safely. They made everyone feel comfortable and confident. It was a great experience.

This is such a wonderful experience! It was our 4th trip and we will for sure go again. Whenever we go to the big island with people who haven't gone before we take this trip. Evan is an amazing guide, very knowledgeable and he takes great care of the guests. The paddle isn't hard and the snorkeling is just amazing.

Great vibes the whole time. Evan gave us a great tour and we learned so much about Hawaiian culture and history. Huge variety of fish including manta rays, eels and spinner dolphins He helped us load and unload into kayaks. Paddling was easy. Best cookie ever when we were done snorkeling!

Evan was an excellent tour guide! He knows a lot about the local environment, restoration efforts and the wildlife/fish. The early tour gave us the opportunity to beat the crowds and snorkel around with only a handful of other people. Not to mention, Kona Boys are one of very few businesses with a permit to beach kayaks in the snorkeling area. The people that arrived to snorkel on boats about an hour behind us weren't allowed to access the shore; so, you really get what feels like an elite experience in comparison. The snorkeling was amazing! tons of fish, crystal clear water, LIVING coral reef... The lunch was fantastic as well - they picked up from a local coffee shop that makes their own bread and uses natural, quality ingredients.

Spent a truly Magical Morning Kayaking and snorkeling with guide Evan. Kona Boys was easy to work with, super friendly and knowledgeable about area and it's history. Awesome experience. We will be back!!

Did the Morning Magic with Grant and Michael. First off, one of the best things - I believe it was Frank from management who notified us that we had to move our tour due to surge and weather - they wanted us to get the best experience possible, and it was absolutely the right call. They know what they're talking about. The day we went was perfect - saw spinner dolphins on the way, Grant and Michael educating us about everything while keeping us safe and having fun. The kayak trip was excellent, great views, beautiful water and scenery. We pulled into captain cooks cove - they are only 1 of 2 companies able to officially land there, and it was worth it. Had a private place to rest our gear, eat our lunch and take pictures. The snorkeling was great - that day with crystal clear visibility, and there weren't many people when we hit the water. Had most of the reef to ourselves. They gave great advice on where to go and when to do it before it got crowded. They were passionate about getting a good experience, learning Hawaiian culture and taking care of the natural beauty. Great that they talked story about Captain Cook while eating lunch, they were funny, courteous, helpful and made sure to take care of everyone in the group. Was well worth the time/money. Really means a lot when they try to find the best conditions for the best experience. Was the highlight of our trip to the Big Island. Highly recommend.

This was one of the best experiences of our trip to Kona! Grant, our kayak guide, was extremely knowledgeable and kept us safe and comfortable the whole time. Highly recommended!

Wonderful experience with great guides. The snorkeling is top notch. Great historical review from the guides and local information. We traveled only with adults but could be feasible for some children.

Will definately recommend this tour to anyone. Our guide kept all of us well informed about the history and well informed with a wealth of knowledge.

Worth it, 100% get up early and do this tour. We had a fantastic guide, Grant. 10/10 would just hang out with him again but besides getting along with our guide this tour felt really special and we were beyond so informed about the area and the history and the wildlife. Very respectful and respectable guide. We lucked into being a very small group so we made good time getting across and got so much time to snorkel, could've stayed in there all day looking at coral and fishes and out on the kayak chatting about anything and everything. It was a dream, thank you Grant and Kona Boys.

Me and my family did the "Morning magic kayak and snorkelling in Kealakekua bay" in January 2026 - and magic it was! Our guide was Evan and we were absolutely charmed by his wonderful presence and masterful storytelling! He took such good care of the group and made the whole experience meaningful and positive. We spotted spinner dolphins on the way and saw a humpback whale in the distance and the snorkelling was excellent. You can also feel there is something absolutely special about Kealakekua bay and experiencing it with someone who brings its story to life the way Evan did is a privilege. Thank you Kona Boys!

Our family had an amazing paddle and snorkel with Evan and JP at Kona Boys. They took great care with a clumsy mom and helping out our 2 boys (ages 9 and 10) to make sure everyone was safe and having a great time. The early morning paddle and snorkel was worth the wake up call and my kids are still talking about how cool it was!

Excellent adventure. From the kayak across the bay to the amazing snorkeling, not to forget the yummy lunch and super informative tour guides, we had a great time with Kona Boys. I also really respected our guide Michael who took a few minutes to gather trash others had left while we were at the Captain Cook monument. We've snorkeled all over and this was one of our best experiences. Sooo many fish! And the kayaking was fun and just a little challenging, nothing our family with a 10 and 13 year old couldn't handle. Highly recommend!

Fantastic small-group tour! We absolutely loved Grant—his deep knowledge of Hawaiian history and his genuine respect for local culture made the experience unforgettable. Perfect for both kids and adults. Highly, recommended!

Great trip! Guides were awesome. Whole family enjoyed - teen grandsons, parents and grandparents. Learned a lot as well as fun activity.

I enjoyed the views of corals and seeing dolphins up close as they came toward us during our outing. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and informative regarding Hawaiian culture, their history and sea life around the islands.

We had an amazing morning with Kona Boys. Everyone we met from Frank at the shop to our guides Evan and JP were friendly and passionate about giving you the best experience possible. The kayaking across the bay was fun and we learned some of the history of the native Hawaiians who lived there as well as the story of captain cook. The best part was the snorkeling which was phenomenal - best spot on the big island for healthy coral and great visibility. I definitely recommend this group and also this experience, much better and more personal than the big boat alternatives!

We took the morning trip and despite the early hour departure for our older teens/young adults to get to the meeting spot at 7 am, we all agreed it was beyond worth it! Grant and Steve were fantastic guides-great energy, and very knowledgeable about the land, water, and history and culture of the area. It was a beautiful kayak trip and the snorkeling was amazing. Highly recommend!