Discover a diverse marine ecosystem beneath Kona’s crystal-clear waters. From yellow tangs to elusive octopus, these underwater wonders are mesmerizing to observe.
For a truly memorable experience, embark on a manta ray snorkel after sunset. Floating on the surface, your guide will illuminate the water with underwater lights that attract plankton and majestic manta rays.
Humpback whales
Every year humpback whales journey to Hawaii for the winter. Their acrobatic behavior and haunting whale songs are a spectacular sight to see. Their unique serrations on the trailing edges and underside of their tail flukes allow scientists to identify individual whales. This helps researchers to better understand humpback whales and their complex migration behaviors.
From their tropical breeding grounds to cold productive feeding waters, humpback whales travel one of the longest distances of any mammal on earth. They feed on tiny shrimp-like crustaceans called krill, straining huge volumes of water through their baleen plates that act as sieves. They also use their flukes to create bubble structures that help to trap krill and other small fish for feeding.
Their incredible migrations are a spectacle to behold and can be enjoyed from shore or aboard a whale watching tour. The whale season in Kona runs from November to March, and dolphins are seen around the islands year-round.
Whether you’re on the hunt for the elusive reef manta ray or hoping to catch a glimpse of the state fish, the Hawaiian spinner dolphin, you’ll find these creatures in Kona’s clear, calm ocean waters. These graceful sea giants glide through the water with their wings spanning up to 18 feet, creating a mesmerizing underwater ballet that will leave a lasting impression.
Snorkelers can expect to encounter a wide variety of corals, fish, and marine life while exploring the Kona coast. From the bandit angelfish and the Moorish idol to the regal humuhumunukunukuapuaa, Hawaii’s marine life is diverse.
It is important to remember to apply reef-safe sunscreen to protect yourself and the delicate marine ecosystem. It is also crucial to stay hydrated, especially in the warm Hawaiian sun. This will ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure in the ocean of Kona. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your Hawaiian ocean experience and help to preserve the natural beauty of the Big Island’s marine life for generations to come.
Sea turtles
While you can certainly see marine life on your own, the best way to explore the underwater wonders of Kona’s beaches is to join a snorkeling tour. Your trusted local tour guide will be able to share with you the stories behind the creatures you encounter in the water, and the different natural phenomena that populate Hawaii’s coastline and tropical waters.
From dolphins to manta rays, the vibrant reefs of Kona are home to many species of marine life. And when you book a snorkeling tour with a beloved local company, you’ll be joining a team of stewards who care about sharing their passion for this special part of the world.
Your captain will know the best spots to go snorkeling on the Big Island, and can help you discover the unique marine life of each location. For instance, he may take you to Kahaluu Beach Park, known for its high turtle sightings. This spot is also a great place to see a variety of other marine life, including yellow tangs, yellow-tailed coris, sergeant majors, black triggerfish, and moorish idols.
Depending on the season, you’ll have a good chance of seeing manta rays. These gentle filter-feeding fish, whose wings span up to 18 feet, glide through the water in mesmerizing ballets of light and movement. They feed on tiny zooplankton, consuming them with their cephalic lobes on each side of their head.
Sea turtles are one of the most fascinating animals in the ocean, and their ability to migrate for long distances is remarkable. But a range of factors have threatened their survival, from pollution to climate change. The rise in sea levels, for example, has messed up their internal map of the area they are used to giving birth and going back to, and it is taking away beaches they would normally nest on.
As you enjoy your Big Island snorkeling adventures, remember to protect the delicate marine ecosystem by using reef-safe sunscreen and staying hydrated. Also, be sure to respect the wildlife you encounter in its natural habitat and give them 30 feet of space so they can swim and breathe freely.
Eels
The Kona coastline is teeming with marine life, from the pristine coral reefs that draw snorkelers to the sea turtles resting on the reefs and dolphins riding the bow wake. You’ll also find lava rock arches, coves and other unique ocean topography that adds to the adventure of exploring Hawaii’s renowned water adventures.
Whether you are snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay or diving with manta rays at Two Step, a Kona ocean experience is a highlight of any trip to Hawaii. Our outdoor adventures are led by experienced captains, who are experts in Hawaiian culture & history as well as the local marine ecosystem. They have the skills to help you spot dolphins, whales & other marine life as you explore sea caves, lava tubes & other hidden treasures along the Big Island’s coast.
Our team of marine naturalists are passionate about the island’s beautiful waters, and their knowledge will make your tour an unforgettable experience. They are more than just guides – they’re storytellers, bringing the wonder of Hawaii’s underwater world to life, and they embody the spirit of Aloha in every aspect of their work.
Kona’s eels are a fascinating marine species that are undergoing a comeback, thanks to efforts by scientists and local community members. These efforts include the creation of a reforestation program, the construction of artificial spawning grounds and the rehabilitation of fish passages at dams.
One of the best places to see eels in Kona is at King Kamehameha Beach. This snorkeling site features a sandy entrance and a gradual slope from the bottom, which makes it easy for first-time snorkelers to explore the marine life of Kona’s west coast.
The fish population at this location is particularly diverse and includes yellow tangs, saddleback wrasse, manini and spotted tobies. You’ll also see more specialized fish, including Christmas wrasse and sharpnose mullet, that aren’t found in the same numbers at other snorkeling spots in Hawaii.
If you’re lucky, you might even be able to spot a snowflake moray eel (Echidna nebulosa). This unusual creature spends two to three years drifting in the Atlantic before it ends up in European rivers to adapt to freshwater and grow into adulthood. The eels are the second longest-distance migratory fish that have ever been recorded, with a journey of more than 3,000 miles.
Snorkeling
The crystal-clear waters of the Hawaiian Islands are a water lover’s dream, providing a kaleidoscope of marine life that is unique to these tropical shores. From the acrobatic spinner dolphins to the majestic kona manta rays, the ocean’s captivating inhabitants are sure to make your Kona adventure one to remember.
If you are eager to see a wide variety of local marine life, a snorkeling tour is a must-do activity. With an array of tours available, you’re sure to find a tour that suits your preferences. For a memorable experience, opt for a guided tour that will provide you with an up-close and personal encounter with Hawaii’s most colorful residents.
Whether you prefer to explore the underwater world on a guided tour or on your own, it’s important to stay safe and respect the delicate ecosystem that surrounds you. Be sure to protect your skin with reef-safe sunscreen and wear a rash guard if needed. You should also bring plenty of water to ensure that you don’t dehydrate, especially under the hot Hawaiian sun.
You may even have the chance to spot a pod of acrobatic spinner dolphins during your snorkeling trip. These playful dolphins can be seen jumping out of the water and swirling in the air, making them an unforgettable sight to behold. Additionally, you could enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience by taking part in a Manta Ray Snorkel tour, a mesmerizing marine wildlife encounter that is best experienced between November and April when these gentle giants are most prevalent.
There are many other amazing experiences that you can have in Hawaii’s pristine waters. From kayaking to paddleboarding and deep-sea fishing, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of aquatic adventures that will help you make the most of your Hawaiian vacation.