A snorkeling tour is a wonderful way to experience Hawaii’s remarkable marine ecosystems. But it’s important to prepare yourself physically for your first snorkel trip before you hop in the water.
Remember to respect the pristine ocean and marine life by following the Hawaiian practice of Malama Kai, or “taking care of the ocean.” Don’t feed fish, touch coral, or step on sea urchins.
Start Early
A snorkeling tour is an excellent way to see the vibrant marine life of Hawaii’s coast. Whether you want to come face to face with sea turtles, dolphins, or manta rays, the waters around Kona are brimming with marine life. However, if you are new to snorkeling, it is important that you prepare for your trip as much as possible.
Here are some tips for your first snorkeling adventure in Kona:
Practicing in a swimming pool before you go on an actual ocean tour will help you feel comfortable in the water and get used to wearing a mask. Most places offer swimming lessons, or even snorkeling tutorial videos, so make sure to take advantage of these resources. If you are unable to find a swimming pool near you, visit one of the many local beaches that offer snorkeling rentals.
Make sure your snorkel gear is in good working order before heading out on the water. Test your gear at home in a pool or bathtub and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that everything is ready for your trip. Also, make sure to wear a swimsuit that is appropriate for snorkeling and bring a towel. Lastly, don’t forget to pack reef safe sunscreen.
Choose a time of day that is best for your schedule and preferred ocean conditions. Some animals are only spotted at certain times of the year, so do some research to determine the best time for your trip. For example, migratory whales can be seen during the winter months in the waters off Kona’s coast, while manta rays are more frequently spotted at night.
The weather is also a factor to consider when choosing a snorkel spot. If the winds are high or there is a chance of lightening, it may be best to postpone your trip until another time.
A great way to prepare for your tour is to join a guided snorkeling cruise aboard an accredited boat. The tour will provide you with snacks, drinks, and snorkel equipment so that all you have to do is enjoy your day in the ocean!
Wear the Right Gear
Choosing the right gear can mean the difference between gliding through the water like a pro and struggling to breathe with a fogged-up mask. A good snorkeling mask should fit your face comfortably and be securely attached. The best way to test this is to place the mask on your face without the strap and inhale. If you can’t feel any suction on your nose, it doesn’t fit. Likewise, you should also try on various types of fins to determine which ones feel most comfortable. There are open-heel and full foot fins, both of which can be worn with a mask.
Other essential gear includes a waterproof camera for taking pictures of the vibrant marine life. However, remember that you should never touch or harm the coral reef to preserve it for future generations. You may also want to invest in a wetsuit or rash guard for sun protection and extra buoyancy. Finally, it is a good idea to bring a towel and change of clothes for when you get out of the water.
Kona Snorkeling Tours offers a spectacular opportunity to experience the unique beauty of Hawaii’s underwater marine life. However, the open sea can be a dangerous environment, so it’s always recommended to participate in an accredited tour with a knowledgeable guide who knows the local waters and the marine wildlife that calls them home. This will ensure that your first ocean snorkeling adventure is a safe and memorable experience.
Kona’s marine ecosystem is rich and diverse, making it an ideal location for first-time snorkelers to explore. The island boasts numerous remarkable snorkeling destinations such as Kahalu’u Beach Park and Magic Sands Beach, both of which have calm water conditions perfect for beginner snorkelers. In addition, the pristine Kealakekua Bay is home to dolphins and sea turtles.
To learn more about the marine habitats in the surrounding areas, check out our blog post about the best places for snorkeling in Hawaii. However, if you are not confident in your swimming abilities or have any health concerns, it’s a good idea to consult with a doctor prior to your trip. Additionally, if you are pregnant or have a medical condition that requires special accommodations, you should also talk to your doctor.
Be Hydrated
As with all activities, snorkeling can be a bit physically challenging. You might need to get used to a new mask, and swimming in the salty ocean water can drain you quickly. The best way to prepare yourself physically for a snorkeling tour is by hydrating the night before and on your day in the water. The hot tropical temperatures will also dehydrate you so it’s important to keep a water bottle handy at all times.
If you are planning on joining a Kona reef snorkeling tour, it can be a little intimidating jumping into the wavy ocean waters and holding on to a raft with all your gear, especially if you’re not a strong swimmer. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to do some practice snorkeling in the local beach before you go on a boat tour and learn how to properly use the snorkeling equipment.
This will help you feel more confident and prepared for your tour. Another helpful tip is to read up on marine life you hope to encounter while snorkeling. It can be a great way to make the experience even more rewarding and enjoyable. For example, learning more about the marine life at Kealakekua Bay will give you a better understanding of why this is such an amazing snorkel destination in Kona.
You may also wish to learn more about the ancient Hawaiian village at Lapakahi, which is where many of the dolphin discovery tours take place. This will make your tour more meaningful and memorable.
Snorkeling is a fun and educational activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. The key is to start early, wear the right gear and be hydrated. Once you’ve done all of these things, you’ll be ready to enjoy the most magical snorkeling experience in Hawaii!
The most important part of prepping for a Kona reef snorkel is having fun and respecting the ocean ecosystem. This means staying a safe distance from Manta Rays, and using caution around all marine life. It’s also important to only take photos with a waterproof camera and to never feed the fish. Lastly, remember to use sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone, which bleaches coral reefs and kills baby coral.
Respect the Environment
While it may be tempting to touch coral or marine life, it’s important to remember that you’re a guest in an ecosystem that is delicate and complex. Attempting to interact with the marine life or coral can have lasting effects, disrupting their natural behavior and causing damage. It’s also important not to step on or touch the reefs, as this can break or bruise them. Even unintentional activities like kneeling on the reef to take a rest can have damaging effects.
Snorkeling is a rewarding and fun activity, but it’s not an athletic endeavor. While it’s tempting to swim fast, it’s important to explore the underwater world at a pace that feels comfortable and allows you to enjoy your experience without overexerting yourself. Additionally, swimming too fast can cause you to miss out on the beautiful marine life that lives beneath the surface.
As you swim, it’s essential to keep an eye out for the many colorful creatures that live in Hawaii’s pristine waters. While it’s tempting to try and capture all of the stunning ocean life on camera, be sure to respect the environment by avoiding touching or chasing marine animals. Many species of marine life are endangered, and disturbing them can have significant consequences.
Snorkelers should also be mindful of their environmental footprint, by using gear made from sustainable materials or renting from eco-friendly providers. Additionally, it’s a good idea to bring a refillable water bottle and reusable bag for your trash on snorkeling trips. Plastic waste is one of the biggest ocean pollutants, so reducing the amount of trash you produce while snorkeling is a great way to help improve the health of the ocean ecosystem.
Snorkeling is a fun and educational activity that gives us a glimpse into the magical world that lives beneath the ocean’s surface. By following the tips above, you can prepare for your first Kona snorkeling trip and have a safe and enjoyable experience. Just be sure to test your snorkeling gear before you head out, to make sure it creates a watertight seal and provides a comfortable fit. We also recommend bringing a rash guard or wetsuit to protect yourself from sun exposure and potential scrapes or stings from marine life.
