Swimming
4–5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 98% of travelers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$178
per adult
Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours
Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours
Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours
5
Scuba & SnorkellingBoat ToursSightseeing ToursPrivate ToursNature & Wildlife Tours
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Full view
About
Sea Paradise departs Keauhou Bay for each tour. Join us on Morning or Afternoon Sailing & Snorkeling Tours to the Marine Sanctuary in Kealakekua Bay (Home to the World Famous Captain Cook Monument). As your snorkel adventure begins, be sure to bring an underwater camera to capture all the vibrantly colorful schools of sea life amid the landscaped ledges of ancient lava flows. Also offered by Sea Paradise is a Guaranteed Manta Ray night snorkel. Capture the graceful beauty of these majestic manta rays as you snorkel up close with them. The Travel Channel say "snorkeling with manta rays is one of the top ten things to do in your lifetime."
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Meets animal welfare guidelines
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours
Private and Luxury
3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 97% of travelers
97% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$137
per adult
Swimming
3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 99% of travelers
99% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$137
per adult
Swimming
1–2 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 93% of travelers
93% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$142
per adult
Full-day Tours
4–5 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Recommended by 97% of travelers
97% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
from
$180
per adult
Travelers talk about
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
2,253 reviews
Excellent
1,986
Very good
150
Average
47
Poor
35
Terrible
36
ccirish
11 contributions
Feb 2020
My husband and I took the morning snorkeling tour. I chose this over other outfits because it was a smaller group and the boat had a bathroom. We stopped at 2 snorkel spots. I was hoping we were going to go to other places but we stayed in the same area just 2 different parts of it. (in front of Captain Cook monument and then off to the right next to the cliffs) I assume it was related to the weather. It started out sunny and then turned overcast and very windy. We only snorkeled once because we were to cold once the wind kicked up. Many others still went out to snorkel again. The staff were friendly and very accommodating. They can't help the weather but were very good about directing our group on where not to swim and many other safety aspects. The water was white caps all the way back in but it made it fun. We all got soaked and the sun had come back out at that point. We saw 3 dolphins and a young whale kept coming out to show off. We had a very good time. It was very enjoyable. I definitely recommend.
Written February 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave us a review. We are so happy to hear you and your husband enjoyed your time out with us. We hope you'll come adventure with us again!
Mahalo and hope to Sea you soon,
Sea Paradise
Written February 18, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Camper265102
Los Angeles, CA3 contributions
May 2021 • Couples
This was even better than I have thought it would be. Within minutes there were mantarays feeding right next to you, doing barrel rolls right in front of you. It’s crazy! We loved it so much, and would definitely do it again! Crew was extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and provided a great experience all around. We also got to see the most beautiful rainbow!
Written May 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
Mahalo for taking the time to review us. It truly is magical being in the presence of the manta's. We're so happy you got to experience this and hope we have the pleasure of serving you in the near future :)
Written July 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marion62_10
Cambridge, Canada76 contributions
Jan 2023
We took the evening manta ray experience and it was amazing. They put out floating platforms with lighting to attract the plankton the manta rays feed on. The clients hung onto handles along the platforms, with snorkel masks on. The manta rays were 6-8' in wingspan and came right up to within 6" of your face, swimming along under the lighting. Several times two would rise up from below together and do barrel rolls away from each other right in front of you. When there wasn't one immediately there, roils of mackeral type fish would instantly appear.
Written January 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha Marion,
Mahalo Nui Loa for leaving us an excellent review. We from Sea Paradise are really glad to hear that you had an amazing excursion with us. Indeed, manta rays are the gentle giants and highly recommended to experience while you are in the island. We are also honored for you choosing us to be a part of this once in a lifetime experience. We hope to see you on your next sea adventure! Safe Travels!
A Hui Hou!
Written January 26, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rattlebrain
Seattle, WA94 contributions
Mar 2022
We did the morning sailing and snorkeling tour, which went to 2 different locations in Kealakekua Bay. The water was very clear and there were a ton of fish - we even saw an eel for the first time! The second location was a shallow reef next to a steep dropoff - very dramatic. While leaving the bay we were entertained by a family of spinner dolphins frolicking our bow wave for at least 20 minutes, leaping and spinning, some right under the big net you could sit in at the front of the boat. The boat is new and sparkling clean, including the nicest bathrooms I've ever experienced on a boat. The staff was exceptional, friendly and informative. We really enjoyed the information they shared about local history and wildlife. A highlight for me was the Hawaiian chant performed by one of the crew members upon entering the bay. I highly recommend this tour!
Written March 11, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha April,
Thank you for taking your time to leave us a great review. Indeed Kealakekua Bay is diverse with different marine species a must visit place in the island. We from Sea Paradise is glad to hear that you had an exceptional service from our crew. Our guests is our top priority and we always make sure that everyone is been looked after and accommodated on our best. We appreciate that you've liked our new vessel. We are excited to see you again onboard. Safe travels!
Mahalo Nui Loa!
Written March 11, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Nicola H
25 contributions
Sep 2022 • Solo
I did the morning sail and snorkel tour. The boat was lovely and not crowded, and the crew and captain were friendly and efficient. It was enjoyable to see some of the coast from the sea and to hear some history, legend and anecdotes.
However the snorkeling at Captain Cook was disappointing. Similar to what I'd seen at Kahalu'u Beach in Kailua and much less good than at Two Step. Both of these are shore snorkeling sites easily reached independently. The other snorkel site "Ridges" wasn't any better, though much improved when I spotted an octopus and managed to follow it for several minutes. 🐙
The crew in the water (one on an SUP the other in the water, I had no contact with the one in the water as they were not identifiable!) were happy to answer questions I had, but there was minimal briefing given on what you were likely to see whilst in the water or on particular locations to look for within the sites. Other than don't go beyond X and Y or too far close to the shore....
So - if you're a confident independent snorkeller, I'd suggest investigating all the shore snorkeling sites you can find rather than spending money on a boat snorkeling trip. If you're not confident, this is a good tour but still costly
However the snorkeling at Captain Cook was disappointing. Similar to what I'd seen at Kahalu'u Beach in Kailua and much less good than at Two Step. Both of these are shore snorkeling sites easily reached independently. The other snorkel site "Ridges" wasn't any better, though much improved when I spotted an octopus and managed to follow it for several minutes. 🐙
The crew in the water (one on an SUP the other in the water, I had no contact with the one in the water as they were not identifiable!) were happy to answer questions I had, but there was minimal briefing given on what you were likely to see whilst in the water or on particular locations to look for within the sites. Other than don't go beyond X and Y or too far close to the shore....
So - if you're a confident independent snorkeller, I'd suggest investigating all the shore snorkeling sites you can find rather than spending money on a boat snorkeling trip. If you're not confident, this is a good tour but still costly
Written October 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
Mahalo Nui Loa for joining us and taking the time to leave such a detailed review. We are sorry to hear of your disappointment in Kealakekua Bay, this isn't the typical feedback we hear upon snorkeling in the beautiful marine sanctuary. We are thrilled to hear you spotted an octopus, it's not every day we encounter them! Everyday is a new day full of different wild marine species. We hope you had a wonderful rest of your stay on the Big Island, Safe Travels!
Written October 13, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JeanneandDavid P
Portland, OR162 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
This was a mixed bag for us . We appreciated their working with us as we were not sure my husband could do the snorkel due to health issues. He enjoyed the boat ride and was not able to the the snorkel. I was not expecting so many people on the boat - it was packed. and I was not expecting to be literally cheek to jowl with others on the floats during the 45 minutes we were in the water. In the water I was located across from one of staff. I appreciated how she handled the problems that came up with some of the guests (equipment - getting sick, etc) as well as her information on the manta rays. I would have preferred no silly jokes, and more quiet. It was a bit rough and it was HARD in the ocean surge to hold onto the float with straight arms while keeping my legs up so as not to kick the mantas...that was a surprise. I loved seeing the three mantas that swam past again and again. They were magnificent and came very close, I was surprised that the boat ride was only about 5 minutes! Only about 25 yards - we just motored out of the dock and around the corner to be in front of the hotel that had big spotlights on the water. If I had it to do again I might consider doing that later night snorkel if it would have had less people.
Written April 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
We appreciate you taking the time to leave us such a detailed review on your experience and recommendations. We do recommend loosely gripping the light raft and trying to go with the flow of the ocean rather than gripping tightly causing potential strains on the arms. We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your time with the mantas, they are truly amazing. We hope you had a wonderful rest of your stay on the island. A Hui Hou and safe travels!
Written April 29, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
rubyrjm
Saskatoon, Canada22 contributions
Jan 2022 • Family
My extended family went on the morning snorkel trip to Kealakakua Bay and we all really enjoyed the experience. My two kids (11 & 13), my niblings (17 & 24), my sister and brother in law (mid-40s) and my parents (early 70s) all felt comfortable and accommodated on the boat. There were shaded, comfortable benches for my parents, the bathrooms were large and very clean, and the staff were friendly and helpful. My mom wanted to snorkel but was feeling apprehensive and the staff helped fit her out and guide her to where she would be most comfortable. She enjoyed being able to walk down stairs right into the water and then the same back out. 100% recommended, we will return.
Written January 2, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo Nui Loa for leaving such a thoughtful review. We are thrilled to hear you enjoyed your tour aboard HokuNui to Kealakekua Bay. We are so happy that your mother was able to get into the water and enjoy herself as well as the rest of your group.
Mahalo again for your kind words
and A Hui Hou
Written January 4, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jess
Juneau, AK1 contribution
Nov 2023 • Couples
We went on the late tour for the manta night snorkel. I run whale watching tours in Alaska so I’m well aware of how there’s no guarantees when it comes to wildlife… I was expecting maybe a glimpse of a manta, but what I got was life changing. We had SEVEN mantas visit us, dancing and rolling as they were feeding on the plankton by the lights. They were able to identify a few of the mantas, and we even had a male in the group (which they said was quite rare).
As a boat captain myself, I have to applaud the crew for an outstanding job. Safety and guest experience was top notch. They were not only educational and professional, but they were funny too!
I will be raving about this tour to everyone that will listen. Thank you for an unforgettable experience.
As a boat captain myself, I have to applaud the crew for an outstanding job. Safety and guest experience was top notch. They were not only educational and professional, but they were funny too!
I will be raving about this tour to everyone that will listen. Thank you for an unforgettable experience.
Written November 4, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha,
Mahalo Nui Loa for choosing us for your manta adventures. We are so happy to be a part of your memories! It sounds like you had an incredible night with your viewing of Manta's. We hope to have the pleasure of seeing you on your next visit to the Big Island!
Written November 4, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Amy K
13 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
We enjoyed an outstanding day with Capt. Mike and his crew! The entire team was topnotch - knowledgeable, friendly, attentive and fun. We took the morning sail and had an absolutely perfect day. The visibility was great at both snorkel locations. We enjoyed the pastries and amazing fruit as we set sail for the day. When we finished snorkeling, the crew served sandwiches and salad for lunch. The craft cocktails available for purchase were delicious and reasonably priced. The catamaran is beautiful and in pristine condition. Even the bathrooms on board were clean and spacious. The snorkel gear was clean and in great condition. We have been on numerous snorkel trips like this in many different places, and this trip is at the top of the list for quality of experience. Thank you, Mike and team, for a wonderful day!
Written November 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mahalo Amy for your review of our Deluxe snorkeling tour. We are so pleased you and your family enjoyed our crew, the boat, the food and drinks and most of all the snorkeling with the beautiful weather. See you again! Aloha
Written November 12, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Road727466
24 contributions
Nov 2023 • Friends
Wow this was a great experience. I love to snorkle, but my old joints have a hard time getting on and off a boat. Not this beautiful new catamaran. It has nice steps down to the water. We saw numerous fish. The captain and crew were very diligent about our safety and comfort. The snorkle equipment was sooo much better than from other operators. (Anti siphon snorkle). Highly recommend!
Written November 8, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aloha!
We are beyond pleased to hear that our beautiful catamaran , the Hoku Nui offered an accommodation that made your experience grand. We appreciate your amazing feedback on our snorkel tour, we hope to have you join us for your next adventure.
Mahalo!
Written November 9, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Plan on doing the manta ray tour, is the first or second trip which one is better? be honest
Written June 14, 2024
Is the parking relatively safe? We are hoping to book a tour on a day when we will be en route to another hotel, so our luggage will be in our car. Or is there a baggage check available in your offices? Thanks!
Written April 28, 2021
I am concerned about the number of operators in the water at the same time near the Sheraton. Is there a max number allowed? What are the safety regulations about space between operators? Or do you go to a different location?
Written February 29, 2020
If you are referring to the manta viewings at night, there are a number of boats out there at the same time but they seem to have it all carefully coordinated and each has their own territory. If you are referring to the day trips, they go different places and there is not a lot of overlap.
Written February 29, 2020
Before I book the snorkel trip - I was wondering what would happen if it rains? We've never been to Hawaii and are unfamiliar with the weather conditions and what is normal.
Thanks,
Amanda
Written August 30, 2019
Aloha Amanda, we typically go out rain or shine, we will not go out if lightning/thunder is present or if there are any safety concerns. We will give you the option to reschedule or we will issue a full refund on your behalf. I hope this helps answer your question. Mahalo!
Written September 3, 2019
Is there a difference in snorkeling experience between the morning and afternoon snorkeling? Is there a discount if a guest books a snorkeling and manta ray trip?
Written January 5, 2019
Hi Kenny! Yes, our Deluxe Morning Snorkel Tour includes two meals, two snorkel locations, as well as 4-1/2 hours on the water. The Afternoon snorkel includes soft drinks and snacks, with one snorkel location and about 3 hours on the water. Please visit our website for a more detailed description of all our tours, thanks!!!
Written January 23, 2019
What are the differences between the sunset manta ray and moonlight manta ray tours? Suitable for 11 and 14 year olds? Thanks.
Written March 14, 2017
Aloha, thank you for your interest in Sea Paradise. Our sunset and moonlight manta ray tours are both very similar. On the sunset tour, we have you sail out and watch the sunset before getting in the water with the mantas, while the moonlight tour departs after the sunset trip returns and you are taken directly to the manta village snorkeling sight. You are in the water with the manta rays for about 45 minutes to 1 hour on both trips, and light snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, wetsuits, and snorkel gear are all included. All of our tours are kid friendley and enjoyable for all ages. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Mahalo
Written March 14, 2017
Hi, I would like to take a first-time snorkeling trip, including my 10 year old daughter. Would this be a good fit? How likely is it that we would become seasick? How far is it from the Hapuna Prince, where we will be staying? Thanks!
Written March 5, 2017
Aloha, thank you for your interest in booking with Sea Paradise. Our snorkeling tours are first time friendly. We offer instruction and we have a few tricks up our sleeve to make sure everyone is relaxed and comfortable. The waters are usually calm and flat in Kona, however, if you are prone to seasickness we always suggest taking or using something you know works for you. Hapuna Prince is about 1hour north of our location. If you have any other questions we would happy to answer them for you!
~Aloha
Written March 6, 2017
What is the depth of the water during the morning snorkeling? Are you on a reef or in deep water or what?
Written June 3, 2016
You start off in deeper water; maybe 150 feet. This is where the boat holds. It is a short swim to shallow reefs; 10 - 40 feet of depth. The water is very clear and usually calm. Make sure you do not get too close to the reef as there are occasional small swells that could rub you against the coral; damaging both you and the reef.
We always go with Paradise as they are a much smaller vessel; only hold a fraction of the other guests the "cattle" boats hold. It is very personal feeling, the crew is fun and informative and you feel like you were out with friends rather than a big tour operation. If you go snorkelling with Paradise, be sure to take advantage of their 50% off a second trip with them and go on the Manta Ray night dive; it is spectacular...... Hope this helps you.
Written June 3, 2016
Good Evening
Is this tour near the Sheraton? I did a night snorkel about 7 years ago and have decided to return.
Thank you.
Maggie
Written October 25, 2015
Holly K
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Yes our tour departs out of the Keauhou Bay, which is where the Sheraton is located. Our Check in location is at the Sea Paradise office in the Keauhou Shopping Center. (Look for the 3 tall flag poles) about a mile north of the bay. Check in time for the Manta Excursion varies with sunset. Please contact our office at your convenience with any other questions you may have.
Hope to see you soon.
Aloha!
Written October 26, 2015
Is there a way to get a group discount for 10 adults? We are visiting next month and would like to do your morning snorkel. Thanks, Tara
Written January 26, 2015
Holly K
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Aloha Tara,
A group rate discount of 25% qualifies for 6 or more people. Call our desk to book your trip with the added savings at 808-322-2500. Thanks for the inquiry and we will see you on the water.
Written January 27, 2015
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