Top Big Island of Hawaii Whale Watching

Humpback Whale Watch Tour

Get the chance to see whales up close on a whale-watching trip off the coast of Hawaii’s Big Island. Keep a look out for 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 aboard a catamaran. You’re able to hear the whales singing through the provided hydrophones.

Whale Watching On The Big Island

Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii

2 hoursFree Cancellation

On this exciting Big Island whale-watching tour, experience the thrill of traveling aboard a high-speed raft—and then seeing a whale swimming and splashing just beyond the boat. Surrounded by panoramic views of the Pacific, your captain will try to woo (safely and according to regulations) these gigantic creatures close enough for you to snap incredible photos—and maybe even get you splashed.

Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure

Big Island: Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona

Increase your chances of spotting the Kona coast’s most spectacular marine wildlife on a guaranteed dolphin and whale-watching excursion. Set off with a skipper and naturalist guides who know exactly where the best observation areas are. Marvel at more than a dozen species of whales and dolphins all year round. Take in views of the coastline and snap photos while you learn about the Kona ecosystem.

Guaranteed Dolphin/Whale Watch

3 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

Experience Hawaii's underwater world on this half-day adventure tour. Cruise on a Zodiac RIB speedboat with just 14 fellow explorers before snorkeling at Captain Cook Monument's coral reef and sea caves (weather permitting) and discovering lava tubes and coves—all while watching for wild dolphins and whales, though wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. All snorkel gear, flotation devices, pineapple, and water are included; gratuities and hotel pick-up are not included.

Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Snorkel Combo in Kealakekua Bay

If you’re tired of crowded beaches and uncertain snorkel spots, join this escape from Kailua-Kona to swim in crystal-clear waters where dolphins play and tropical fish thrive. With your guide leading the way, you’ll discover the hidden treasures of Kealakekua Bay, Hawaii's premier snorkeling sanctuary. Perfect for beginners and expert snorkelers alike, all gear is provided—just bring your sense of underwater wonder.

Captain Cook Reef Snorkeling of Kealakekua Bay

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

During their annual migration, Hawaii plays host to one of the largest populations of North Pacific humpback whales in the world. On this seasonal tour, held only between December and April, set sail along the Kona-Kohala coast and enjoy spectacular views as you cruise around the Big Island. Whale sightings are guaranteed, so if you aren’t lucky enough to spot the majestic creatures, simply come back on another day, free of charge.

Waikoloa Deluxe Whale Watch

Kona's Guaranteed Whale Watch: An Unforgettable Ocean Encounter

Escape the hustle and bustle of land and soak up the sun and ocean breeze while taking in the sights of the Kona coastline on this sailing trip aboard a comfortable 53-foot catamaran. As you glide across the blue water, keep an eye out for marine wildlife such as dolphins and humpback whales during migratory season. Enjoy a full premium bar with tropical cocktails, beer, wine, soda, and juice on board.

Kona Tradewind Catamaran Day Sail

Whale Watching on Big island

This half-day boat cruise takes you to the two best snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay: The reef beneath Captain Cook's monument and the underwater lava formations of Red Hill. In addition to breakfast and lunch, your guides provide all necessary equipment, basic snorkeling tips, and identification charts to help you spot fish and dolphins in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera—the route showcases sweeping views of the Kona coastline.

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Snorkel with Manta Rays Guaranteed

Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour: Guaranteed or come again free

Two Reef Snorkel Trip-See Captain Cook Monument & Sea Caves

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Stop wasting time on short charters that end just when the fish start biting. This private 5-hour experience maximizes your chances in waters where 1,000+ pound marlin are caught year-round—the only place on Earth with that record. Your captain consults with you before departure to match your specific goals, whether that's trophy marlin or simply enjoying Hawaii's marine life and coastline without the crowds.

Kona - 5 Hours Private Fishing Charter in Kailua-Kona

5 hoursFree Cancellation

Kona Catamaran Snorkel Sail with Lunch

Waikoloa Catamaran Snorkel Sail Including Lunch

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument

Kohola Whale Watching Excursion

Hawaii’s Kona Coast is a popular stop for humpback whales on their annual migration, and sightings are common during the winter season. With this tour, set sail on board a small boat and have chance to admire the whales in their natural environment. Learn more about the fascinating creatures from your naturalist guide, listen to whale song using the boat’s hydrophone, and perhaps see different whale species such as Pilot, Beaked, or Melon-Headed whales.

Dolphin and Whale Watch in Kona

Kealakekua Bay is one of Hawaii's best marine sanctuaries, often crowded with visitors. This snorkeling tour lets you avoid the crowds by taking you out onto the bay in a Zodiac raft, which can reach places bigger boats can't go. Enjoy reef-safe sunscreen provided at the office before the trip and snacks including sandwiches. Once in the water, explore the marine life-filled world beneath the bay's crystal-clear water.

Kona Snorkeling: Beat the Crowd to Kealakekua Bay

5 hoursFree Cancellation

1 2 3

Must-Dos in Big Island of Hawaii

1 / 2

What are people saying about Big Island of Hawaii

Kona Snorkel Tour: Captain Cook Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & Sea Caves

Irene_H, Sep 2026

Amazing Experience

Such a beautiful experience. Being out in the water and snorkeling and seeing all the fish and swimming! My kids really enjoyed it and it was easy for them to swim around. Our tour guides were amazing and very knowledgeable and providing us with history!

Big Island: Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona

HS_G, Sep 2026

great

It was a truly wonderful experience; I was lucky enough to see not only manta rays but also sharks. However, it was a shame that the snorkeling mask didn't fit my face well, causing water to constantly leak in. I had to keep one hand on the mask to clear out the water and press it against my face, which left my arm sore for days afterward. No matter how much I tightened the strap or adjusted the seal, it didn't help—likely because the mask was either too big or worn out. I really wished I had brought my own full-face mask. That said, I appreciated that they provided buoyancy noodles and that the staff were friendly, energetic, and gave detailed explanations throughout the tour. However, I would have been even more satisfied if a staff member had come over at least once during the activity to help readjust the position of the buoyancy noodle.

Big Island: Captain Cook Snorkel On A Power Catamaran With Lunch

Jenni_G, Sep 2026

Amazing experience!

We had such a fun time on this snorkel tour! Simon was so funny and made the whole experience even better. The entire crew was super friendly, welcoming, and helpful. We had an amazing day, saw some beautiful ocean life, and couldn’t have asked for a better experience! 🐬🌊🤿 Definitely recommend!

Two Reef Snorkel Trip-See Captain Cook Monument & Sea Caves

Dawn_B, Sep 2026

Best scuba tour Ever!

Dolphin Discoveries is a Top Notch company! From the time you check in, you are greeted warmly and given all the equipment and instructions needed. They even offer some prescription scuba masks! The scuba tour was awesome! We had the best guides! Colby and Dennis are very informative and made the tour amazing! I highly recommend this company.

Dolphin, Sea Cave & Captain Cook Snorkel Combo in Kealakekua Bay

Paula_S, Sep 2026

Amazing snorkeling tour!

I can't say enough about this tour. The had prescription masks for those who wear glasses. Huge plus! Our captain was Mika was SO much fun and very informed about the area. The snorkeling was beautiful! Then we spent time watching the dolphins with a cool, refreshing pineapple snack. The ride back was full of fun stories and sights of sea caves. Book this trip!!! You won't be sorry.

Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour: Guaranteed or come again free

April_L, Sep 2026

Amazing Manta Ray Experience

Amazing manta ray night snorkeling experience! Deavon was our host and communication was great, with advance notice before we headed to the meeting area. We saw 3–4 manta rays swim just inches away from us. It was incredible to see these gentle giants up close! The crew was friendly, funny, and Greg was so knowledgeable, and did a great job educating us and answering our questions, making the experience truly unforgettable. Definitely worth the money! Tip: expect a possible delay in the start time, but they’ll let you know in advance, and definitely bring a waterproof phone case.

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Bruce_M, Sep 2026

The Big Island Must Do Activity

Night Manta Ray snorkeling is a must do activity in Kona. The rays gliding by inches away is surreal as you view their world. We saw dozens of them swimming around during our tour. The crew and boat were top notch. Very attentive, informative and working hard to make the experience unforgettable. If you do only one thing on the Big Island this the one not to miss.

Guaranteed Dolphin/Whale Watch

jill_m, Jun 2026

Whales, dolphins, and tuna, oh my!

This was an amazing boating experience from beginning to end! Andrew and Olivia were both very knowledgeable and made the experience very informative and inviting. As soon as we left the harbor we saw a pod of spinner dolphins! Not too long after we saw at least 20 pilot Whales! A bonus was jumping tuna. Such a wonderful day with amazing guides.

Humpback Whale Watch Tour

Warren_B, Mar 2026

A whale of a good time!

Excellent excursion from beginning to end. The company was on top of weather conditions and continued to keep us informed by text of time change. Shane (owner), Amy (Shane’s daughter) and Pam (our most excellent guide and conversationalist) provided friendly and intelligent information and explanations. The boat was first class with comfortable seating, clean conditions (restroom was immaculate!), plus up-to-date equipment and gracious hospitality. Gorgeous weather, fair amount of waves but nothing too big. We encountered bottlenose dolphins, a hammerhead shark and three humpbacks, two males and one female. We understand that his was somewhat unusual as the migration season ends on March 31 with the pregnant mothers and babies heading back north. We stayed alongside the whales for at least an hour, observing lots of sprays and many whale tails! We highly recommend Hawaiian Adventures Whale Excursions! It’s first-rate!

Whale Watching On The Big Island

Aaron_M, Mar 2026

Captain Sean Penn

Captain Bryce and his mate were amazing. Great vibes from the very beginning even with the trip being a little challenged by equipment availability issues. They got us right out and into some whales right away. Then took us to another group of whales further north up the coast. When that group didn’t really stay near the surface or breach a bunch they took us several miles back to the south and out to the deep water and got us right on top of a group of whales that consistently breached right next to the boat. Honestly, whale watching isn’t really my vibe but you got to please the wife ya know. Captain Bryce made something that otherwise was not very adventurous into more of an adventure. I will 100 percent recommend to all friends, family, and business associates.