Top Big Island of Hawaii Dolphin & Whale Watching

In terms of history, scenery, and marine life, there isn’t anywhere on the Big Island of Hawaii that compares to Kealakekua Bay. This protected cove on the island’s west shore is where Captain Cook met his end, and today a memorial stands at the bay to honor the famous explorer. On this guided Big Island kayaking tour, hear the history of Captain Cook as well as surrounding temples, and, after paddling past rugged sea cliffs and caves, you'll snorkel and swim in the clear waters of this Marine Life Conservation District.

Splash into the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay on this Big Island snorkeling adventure! Dart in and out of sea caves and explore the gorgeous Kona coastline in an agile Zodiac raft. Snorkel among colorful tropical fish, and keep an eye out for other marine life like whales, dolphins and sea turtles. Along the way, learn about the island’s geologic history and local legends from your expert guide, and see the spot where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.

Winter is the most exciting time to be out on the water in Hawaii, as it’s the time of year when thousands of migrating humpback whales visit the islands. On this exciting Big Island whale watching tour, experience the thrill of traveling aboard a high-speed raft, and then seeing a whale swimming just in front of the boat. Though the boat will obey the federal laws and not approach within 100 feet (30 meters), it isn’t uncommon for the whale to decide to swim up under the boat!

Hawaii’s Big Island is home to migrating pods of humpback whales, which often breach as they build up energy for their northward migration. This narrated tour brings you to some of the best viewing grounds via 24-person catamaran. You’ll be able to hear the whales singing through the provided headphones. The tour provider guarantees whale sightings or the next trip is free.

Swim in the area known for dolphins in the wild and snorkel Kealakekua Bay Reserve with a half-day experience on the Kona Coast. Search for spinner dolphins in Keauhou Bay, and slip into the water to see them in their natural environment. Explore the sea caves along the Kona Coast then experience one of Hawaii’s best snorkeling spots; float above brilliant reefs that shelter a thriving population of fish, turtles and rays. Enjoy the personal experience of a small-group tour with an environmental focus so you (and the dolphins) can spend the day hassle-free.

Take the ultimate snorkeling and sailing trip along the Kona Coast during this 4-hour luxury yacht trip with a small group. Explore the stunning beaches and bays of the Big Island aboard a high-end boat, stopping at top snorkel sites and spotting marine life like dolphins, turtles, and whales. Unlimited refreshments, plus snorkel gear and a tasty picnic- or bento-style lunch are also included.

Spend a magical morning snorkeling and swimming near wild dolphins during this exceptional 4-hour Hawaiian wildlife experience aboard a private charter boat. See spinner dolphins in their natural environment before proceeding along the Kona Coast to Kealakekua Bay, one of the best snorkel spots in all of Hawaii. Swim among the area’s colorful reefs, tropical fish, and depending on the season, whales and turtles. A guide, snorkel gear, private boat, snacks, and light refreshments are included.

Wake up for a morning whale-watching cruise when the ocean is most likely to be calm and conditions ideal for spotting humpback whales. Accompanied by an experienced captain and a naturist guide, set out from Anaeho'omalu Bay to look for humpback whales from the decks of the stable catamaran. Your crew serves up hot Kona coffee, tropical juices and snacks for you to enjoy on board. Whale sightings are guaranteed — if your guide doesn’t spot whales, you get to come back for a complimentary tour.

From the moment you see their silvery backs appear in the cobalt waters, to the moment you're swimming right alongside and hearing their high pitched clicks, there's an enchanting rush of tropical adrenaline that accompanies swimming with dolphins. Here off the Kona coast of the Big Island, Hawaiian Spinner dolphins are year round residents that ply the volcanic shore, and this tour offers local, professional captains who know where to look to find them. In addition to watching and swimming with dolphins, you'll also snorkel with tropical fish in some of Hawaii's clearest water, before returning back to shore in Kona with an experience you'll never forget.

Discover Kona’s underwater paradise on this 4.5-hour snorkeling cruise and dolphin watch. Cruise through the protected marine sanctuaries of Red Hill, home to more than 600 species of enchanting ocean wildlife. After a safety briefing and some basic instruction from the lifeguard-trained crew, jump in the water for a snorkel. Also, enjoy dolphin watching and a Hawaiian-style barbecue lunch. Then relax with a cocktail from the premium cash bar and enjoy the timeless beauty of the Kona coastline on the return trip. Bring a towel. Everything else is included.

Get up close with humpback whales near the Big Island of Hawaii on this guided, two-and-a-half hour, whale-watch boating excursion. During Hawaii's whale season, the ocean is full of activity from humpback whales migrating from the Pacific Northwest to breed and nurse their young. Hear the whales with a hydrophone and learn about their behavior patterns from the certified naturalist guide. Snacks and light refreshments are provided.

On this Big Island submarine and snorkel cruise, combine two of Hawaii’s best adventures into a single trip! Begin with a Kona submarine tour that explores up to 100 feet (30 meters) underwater, before hopping on a boat to cruise above the waves and search for pods of dolphins. You’ll later have the chance to scour the reefs while snorkeling in a protected cove, for a full day of Big Island adventure and fun, just off of the Kona coast.  

Spot humpback whales in their natural habitat on this 2-hour whale-watching tour from Kawaihae Harbor. Hop on a catamaran, and learn all about humpback whales from an onboard naturalist. Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks throughout your cruise, as your group tries to see the big mammals swimming through the nearby waters. As well as getting great photo opportunities, you’ll also be able to hear the whales’ songs by using an underwater hydrophone.

This 2.5-hour sightseeing and snorkeling tour takes you to Kealakekua Bay, located on the Kona Coast. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this marine reserve — accessible only by boat — is famous as the site where Captain James Cook was killed. After your snorkel adventure, cruise along the coastline in search of humpback whales (December–April). Bring your camera for photo ops, including manta rays, sea turtles, dolphins and possibly a Hawaiian monk seal. 

Catamaran snorkel, guaranteed to see dolphins, turtles or whales when in-season or cruise again free!

This 2-hour evening tour allows you to sip cocktails aboard a catamaran while searching for whales during the Hawaiian sunset. Learn about humpback whale biology and behavior from your naturalist guide while you munch on cold and hot appetizers.

In the winter months we will take you on a search for Hawaii's gentle giants, the Humpback Whales, as they make their yearly migration through the islands.  During the summer months we will take you on a tour of our stunning tropical Hamakua Coast complete with waterfalls, sheer sea cliffs, and more!

It’s not every day that you have the opportunity for a encounter with dolphins in the wild! During this unforgettable 4-hour adventure off the Kona Coast, you can snorkel with Hawaiian spinner dolphins as well as other protected marine life such as green sea turtles. Snap on provided snorkel gear and slip into the Pacific Ocean after a boat ride to prime destinations like Keahole Bay, where your guide will point out delicate corals and tropical reef fish.