The Combo

Exploring the Big Island’s Underwater World: The Combo Dive Experience

The Combo Dive on Hawaii’s Big Island offers a balanced mix of adventure and accessibility, making it an appealing choice for both certified divers and those new to scuba. Priced at $299 per person, this roughly three-hour tour includes guided shore dives for the seasoned and a discover scuba experience for beginners. With the option of pickup and a small group size, it promises an intimate, personalized exploration of the Kona coast’s stunning marine environment.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it caters to mixed groups—whether you’re a certified diver eager to explore or a newbie feeling a bit nervous about your first underwater adventure. The tour’s flexibility, allowing uncertified participants to snorkel alongside their diving friends or family members, makes it a fantastic way to share the experience without waiting on the beach or missing out.

One small consideration is that scuba gear isn’t included in the base price for certified divers—rentals are available at an extra cost. Also, the tour’s physical demands aren’t high, but moderate fitness is recommended, especially as participants walk to the water’s edge and handle equipment. This tour suits curious travelers, families, or groups with varying diving experience, all wanting to enjoy Hawaii’s vibrant reef life in a short, well-organized outing.

Key Points
– Flexible experience with options for certified and uncertified divers
– Focus on marine life including reef fish, turtles, octopuses, and possibly reef sharks
– Small group size (max six travelers) for a personalized experience
– Includes snacks and transport in an air-conditioned vehicle
– Guided by bilingual guides, enhancing the learning and safety
– Rental equipment available for certified divers at additional costs

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary and Experience

The meeting point at Kopiko Plaza in Kailua-Kona serves as the starting hub—conveniently near public transportation and a central spot in town. The tour begins at 1:30 pm, perfect for a leisurely afternoon that allows for the best lighting and calmer waters. From there, the small group, led by an experienced guide, heads to the shoreline, where the adventure unfolds.

Shore Entry and Dive Site

Once at the water’s edge, you’ll gear up and walk into the ocean—no boat required here, which immediately makes the experience more relaxed and accessible. Shore entries are often preferred by seasoned divers for their straightforwardness, and the Kona coast offers a gentle slope with clear visibility. Expect to see a variety of reef fish, vibrant corals, and potentially encounter creatures like octopuses, eels, and green turtles. According to reviews, “the water was so clear I could see for dozens of feet,” making the underwater scene even more captivating.

For Certified Divers

You’ll be free to explore the site at your own pace, with some guides mentioning that their seasoned clients loved the chance to take their time and soak in the scenery. The reef is teeming with life, and the varied terrain offers just enough features to hold your interest without overwhelming newer divers. Since equipment rental costs start at $18 for masks, fins, and booties, it’s worth factoring this into your budget if you don’t bring your own gear.

For Discover Scuba Participants

Uncertified guests will get to try out scuba under the close supervision of a professional instructor. They’ll guide you through the basics, ensuring you feel safe and comfortable as you breathe underwater for the first time. This part of the tour is designed to be approachable, making it perfect for first-timers or those wary of open water diving. Reviewers often mention feeling reassured by the calm, patient instructors, such as “our guide, Lisa, was fantastic—she explained everything clearly and made us feel at ease.”

Snorkeling and Marine Encounters

For those not diving, snorkeling is a great alternative. The shallow waters and calm conditions mean you can observe the same vibrant marine life from above. Expect to see a variety of reef fish and coral formations, with occasional sightings of octopuses or passing reef sharks if conditions are right. One reviewer noted, “The guide even turned over a rock to show us a tiny octopus—it was incredible.”

Equipment and Additional Costs

While the tour includes use of scuba equipment for discover divers, certified divers need to rent their gear separately, costing around $27 for a BCD and regulator or $18 for masks, fins, and booties. The wetsuit is an additional $5 if needed, which can be a comfort booster in cooler water.

What’s Included

• Snacks to keep energy up post-dive
• Air-conditioned vehicle for transport
• Bilingual guides, including English and Japanese speakers
• Use of scuba gear for those trying scuba for the first time

Optional Extras

If you’re planning more dives, additional tanks are available for $70 each, giving you more time exploring the reef’s delights.

What Travelers Should Know

The tour operates in the early afternoon, starting at 1:30 pm, aligning well with the typically calm, warm conditions of that time of day. The small group size (up to six) means you’ll get personalized attention and shorter wait times, which enhances safety and comfort.

Since it’s a shore-based activity, there’s no boat involved, making it ideal for those prone to seasickness or who prefer straightforward logistics. The moderate physical activity involved—walking to the water, handling gear—means it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels.

While reviews are still accumulating, feedback highlights the stunning underwater scenery and the professionalism of guides. The tour is praised for its relaxed pace, allowing even less experienced snorkelers and divers to enjoy the sights comfortably.

Final Thoughts

This Combo Dive provides excellent value for those wanting a flexible, small-group ocean adventure on the Big Island. It’s particularly suited to families, couples, or small groups with mixed experience levels who want to enjoy the reef without the hassle of boat rides or long trips. The blend of guided snorkeling and optional diving ensures everyone gets to enjoy Hawaii’s underwater world in their own way.

The moderate cost, combined with the inclusion of snacks, transport, and bilingual guides, makes it a convenient and immersive option. You’ll walk away with memorable views of reef fish, turtles, and colorful corals—and hopefully, plenty of stories about that octopus someone saw hiding under a rock!

For certified divers eager to explore at their own pace or uncertified guests curious about trying scuba in a safe environment, this tour hits a sweet spot—short, manageable, and packed with stunning sights.

FAQs

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from the designated meeting point at Kopiko Plaza in Kailua-Kona.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 3 hours from start to finish, including gear-up, water time, and return.

Are scuba gear rentals included in the price?
No. Certified divers need to rent their gear at additional costs, starting from $18 for basic equipment, while discover divers can use the provided gear included in the tour.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 1:30 pm, making it perfect for an afternoon adventure.

Is the tour suitable for children or beginners?
Yes, especially for those trying scuba for the first time with an instructor, and snorkeling is accessible for most ages.

What’s the group size?
Maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Do I need to be physically fit?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended due to walking to the water and handling gear.

Can I do multiple dives?
Yes, additional dives are available for $70 per tank, but you’ll need to plan accordingly.

What marine life might I see?
Expect reef fish, turtles, corals, octopuses, eels, and possibly reef sharks or dolphins.

Is snorkeling included?
Yes, snorkeling is an option for those not diving, and many reviews mention how vibrant and lively the reef is from above.

In summary, the Combo Dive on the Big Island offers a well-rounded, accessible, and memorable chance to explore Hawaii’s underwater wonders. It balances guided instruction with free exploration, fitting for casual snorkelers, first-timers, and experienced divers alike. Whether you’re keen to see turtles or just soak up the vibrant reef life, this tour makes a great choice for a short but impactful marine adventure in Kona.