If you’re visiting the Big Island and looking for a memorable ocean experience, Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours offers one of Hawaii’s best snorkeling tours. This locally owned and operated company has been taking guests along the stunning Kona Coast for decades. Whether you want to swim with manta rays, explore coral reefs, or go for a scenic sunset sail, Sea Paradise offers a range of ocean adventures perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.
A family snorkeling (Shutterstock)
The Story Behind Sea Paradise
Founded in 1985, Sea Paradise started with a simple goal — to share the beauty of Hawai‘i’s marine life in a respectful and eco-friendly way. The company began with a single sailboat, offering snorkeling tours at the world-famous Kealakekua Bay. Over the years, the business grew, but the mission stayed the same: connect people to the ocean in a way that’s fun, educational, and sustainable.
Today, Sea Paradise operates the Hoku Nui, a spacious 50-foot sailing catamaran outfitted with plenty of shade, freshwater showers, and clean restrooms. It’s also a U.S. Coast Guard-certified vessel, ensuring safety is always a top priority, making it one of Kona Hawaii’s best snorkeling experiences.
Big Island Snorkel Tours
When it comes to exploring the underwater wonders of the Big Island, Sea Paradise offers some of the best snorkel tours in Kona. Sea Paradise’s commitment to eco-friendly tourism and marine conservation ensures that your snorkeling adventure is not only enjoyable but also respectful of the delicate marine ecosystem. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, there’s an adventure waiting for you. From the vibrant reefs of Kealakekua Bay to the mesmerizing nighttime manta rays of Manta Village, Sea Paradise promises to deliver one of Kona’s best adventures.
Kealakekua Bay (Shutterstock)
Snorkel Tours in Kona with Sea Paradise
Sea Paradise Sailing and Snorkeling Tours offers a variety of adventures that showcase the Big Island’s underwater magic. Here are the experiences to choose from:
1. Kealakekua Bay Snorkel Tour
This morning or afternoon cruise takes you to Kealakekua Bay, a marine life conservation district teeming with tropical fish, vibrant coral, and spinner dolphins. It’s also the historic site where Captain James Cook first set foot on the Big Island. After anchoring in the bay, guests can snorkel in clear waters while crew members provide guidance and support.
You’ll enjoy a light breakfast or lunch onboard, depending on the tour time. Red Hill, with its unique underwater lava formations and vibrant marine life, is nearby and adds to the distinct underwater exploration opportunities.
One traveler shared on Instagram said, “Best snorkeling of our lives. We saw dolphins on the way and felt totally safe the entire time. Highly recommend @sea_paradise_hawaii!”
2. Manta Ray Night Snorkel
This once-in-a-lifetime experience lets you swim with gentle manta rays in their natural habitat. After sunset, Sea Paradise sails to Manta Village near Keauhou Bay. Guests bob on the surface with the help of flotation devices, holding onto a light board that attracts plankton — and, in turn, the mantas.
It’s a mesmerizing bucket list experience you’ll never forget. The company also offers a “ride along” option for those who prefer to watch from the boat.
A review on Facebook reads, “Seeing the manta rays glide inches from us was surreal. Sea Paradise made it safe, educational, and magical.”
3. Private Group / Charter Tours
Travelers can also plan their own unique adventure aboard the Hoku Nui for a private event or special occasion. Imagine chartering the boat for a marriage proposal, birthday party, wedding, or memorial.
“We toasted the sunset with a glass of wine and watched the sky explode with color. Pure paradise with @SeaParadiseHI.”
How to Book a Sea Paradise Tour
Reserve a spot directly on their website. Tours often sell out well in advance, especially during peak seasons like summer and winter holidays, so booking early is recommended. You can also call (808) 322-2500 or stop by their office at the Keauhou Shopping Center in Kailua-Kona. Prices vary by experience and age, with discounts often available for children, kama‘āina (local residents), and groups.
Tips to Have the Best Experience:
- Arrive Early: Guests should check in at least 30 minutes before departure at Keauhou Bay, located near the Outrigger Kona Resort. Look for the Sea Paradise crew at the pier.
- What to Bring: Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and a light cover-up. Sea Paradise will provide any necessary snorkeling gear or flotation devices, but you can bring your own if you prefer.
- Motion Sensitivity: If you get seasick, consider taking medication ahead of time. The ocean is usually calmer in the morning but can be choppy in the afternoon and evening.
- Photography: Waterproof cameras or GoPros are great for capturing underwater moments. Check with the crew if they’ll take photos you can purchase later.
Manta Ray swimming under tourists
The Epic Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Of all the underwater experiences Hawai‘i has to offer, few rival the sheer magic of snorkeling with manta rays. It’s so extraordinary that The Travel Channel ranks it among the Top 10 Things to Do in Your Lifetime — and for good reason. Imagine slipping into the ocean under the cover of night, the sky above dotted with stars, while graceful, 12-foot-wide manta rays glide inches from you, performing an underwater ballet.
It’s not just a thrill; it’s a spiritual encounter with one of nature’s most majestic creatures. The Big Island’s Kona coast is one of the best places in the world to witness this phenomenon, thanks to plankton-rich waters that attract these gentle giants. If it sounds surreal, that’s because it is.
Even better? It’s completely safe, and no SCUBA experience is necessary. Tour guides provide all the gear and a thorough briefing, so even first-timers can feel comfortable. You’ll float effortlessly on the surface as the manta rays swoop and swirl below — no diving needed, just a sense of wonder.
Why Choose Sea Paradise for a Manta Ray Snorkel Tour
Sea Paradise is committed to eco-friendly tourism and conservation. The crew is trained in marine biology, and the company follows guidelines established by NOAA to ensure safe encounters with wildlife. They also partner with local organizations to monitor coral health and reduce waste. If you’re looking for a tour that respects the environment while offering unforgettable experiences, this is it.
What People Are Saying
Travelers love Sea Paradise for its friendly staff, clean boat, and personal attention. On TripAdvisor and Google Reviews, guests frequently mention how knowledgeable the crew is and how smoothly the tours are run. Sea Paradise is also featured in countless travel guides and has earned accolades for excellence in sustainable tourism. Plus, it’s located in the heart of Kailua-Kona, making it easy to pair your adventure with a visit to other nearby attractions like Pu‘uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park or the Hulihe‘e Palace.
Contact Sea Paradise
Phone: (808) 322-2500
Website: https://www.seaparadise.com
Location: Check-in at Keauhou Bay (detailed directions on their site)
Social Media: Follow them on Instagram and Facebook @sea_paradise_hawaii for the latest tour photos, guest shout-outs, and weather updates.
