Top Big Island of Hawaii Wildlife Watching

Snorkel with manta rays at night on this tour from Kona. After a boat ride on a small 23-foot Zodiac-style boat carrying up to 11 passengers, jump into the water to observe the gentle giants. Wetsuits are optional and available to rent at check-in. Learn about manta ray biology and behavior through guided commentary during this safe and awe-inspiring experience.

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.

Swim with manta rays on this group tour from Kailua-Kona, or if you don’t feel comfortable in the water, you can view them from a floating mat. All passengers will have the experience of feeling the presence of these wild manta rays. After your swim/ snorkel, you’ll have hot cocoa and snacks provided to warm you up.

Birdwatching and native plant-finding on a private Hawaiian nature preserve? Talk about once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Picked up by your naturalist guide, you’ll hit the backroads of the Hakalau National Forest Reserve, where you’ll spend the whole day sighting Akepa, Apapane, Omao, happy-faced spiders, carnivorous caterpillars, and dozens more endemic species. Break for lunch between scouting adventures, and return to civilization with a handful of lifers under your belt!

After dark is an excellent time to see manta rays in the waters around the Island of Hawaii. This tour is designed for snorkelers; Ride Alongs stay on the boat and may or may not see manta rays. Enjoy watching the manta rays feeding at night and snorkeling close to them during this approximately 1.5-hour experience.

Head out to Kealakekua Bay for a snorkeling and cruising adventure from Kona, ideal for travelers who want to get up close to some of the Big Island’s most interesting marine species. Keep an eye out for dolphins as you head along the coast to the bay, then hop into the waters to swim and snorkel among coral and fish before climbing back on board for an included lunch.

Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Take a short cruise out to the snorkeling site before dipping into the water to watch the manta rays up close. All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks. If you don't see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night, free of charge.

Have the opportunity to admire wild manta rays in their natural habitat on this evening cruise. Go on a 3-minute boat ride after dark, when the manta rays come out to feed on plankton, and use a custom-made light board with 300,000 lm that attracts the rays. Float through the warm waters to watch as the rays swim and feed, and learn more about the majestic creatures from your guide.

If you want to spot manta rays in Hawaii, don't settle for operators who take you to overcrowded sites. On this snorkeling tour, the veteran crew adjusts locations daily based on actual manta sightings—north or south—maximizing your chances of close encounters. Wetsuit and gear included, with in-water guides providing safety and education throughout.

Save time and money when you combine two must-do experiences to enhance your vacation in Hawaii. First, board a spacious catamaran for a sunset cruise along the Kona coast. Then slip into the ocean for a snorkel adventure with manta rays. Guides provide instruction and ensure your comfort—you're also guaranteed a manta ray sighting, or your next booking is free.

Discover two of the best snorkel spots in Kona on this early morning tour departing from Keauhou Bay. Explore the coral gardens alongside many different fish species, and on your return to the shore, your guide will provide a history of the Captain Cook Monument and Place of Refuge. Book ahead to guarantee your spot.

Escape the crowded tourist boats and join our intimate expedition aboard an authentic Navy SEAL Zodiac. You’ll glide into Kealakekua Bay to snorkel the vibrant coral reefs near Captain Cook Monument, then explore hidden sea caves and ancient lava tubes—where larger boats can't go. All snorkel gear is provided, making this an effortless escape into Hawaii's underwater world.

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.

Set out from Anaeho‘omalu Bay for a 2-hour snorkeling adventure along Waikoloa’s beautiful Kohala Coast. Cruise aboard the Spirit of Aloha, a spacious catamaran designed for comfort and easy ocean access. Explore vibrant reefs teeming with tropical fish and the chance to encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat. Our friendly crew provides guidance and snorkel gear, making this tour perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. After your swim, unwind on deck with light snacks, refreshing tropical drinks, and sweeping coastal views — the perfect mix of ocean fun, local hospitality, and island relaxation.

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.

Beat the crowds and enjoy a more personal whale watching experience aboard our comfortable, small-group vessel, designed for up to 10 passengers. With fewer guests onboard, you’ll enjoy unobstructed views, personalized attention, and a relaxed atmosphere throughout the tour. Our boat is conveniently located at an in-water slip, allowing for fast, efficient check-in and quick departure—maximizing your time on the ocean during the Pacific humpback whale migration season. Once on the water, our experienced crew will guide you to prime viewing areas along the Kona Coast. When conditions allow, we stop to observe the whales and deploy an underwater hydrophone, giving you the rare opportunity to listen to the haunting and beautiful songs of the humpback whales. This immersive experience offers a deeper connection to these magnificent animals and makes each trip truly unforgettable.

Our tour stands out because our adventurous crew takes you wherever there’s something amazing to see, giving you the best chance to encounter dolphins, sea turtles, rays, seals, and humpback whales in season. You’ll enjoy not only snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay but also incredible wildlife watching along the way. As the only boat in the harbor with an onboard grill, you can savor a freshly prepared BBQ lunch while taking in the stunning scenery and true ocean safari vibes. This is a Big Island adventure designed to create unforgettable memories. PLEASE NOTE This activity will be 3 hours long starting June 1st.

Explore the Kona coast with experienced captains and guides. At least an hour of snorkel time at the best snorkel site chosen daily, based on water conditions, season, and marine life. Enjoy juice and snacks. Be sure to keep attentive and look out for whales, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more. Our Captains and crew are always eager to make sure you have a great time on the water and get you great shots of the beautiful coastline and majestic wildlife. Our boat has plenty shade, seating room, lots of dry storage, and a step ladder to get back into the boat. Boat capacity is 19 persons. Do not forget to call for availability before purchasing.

Get up close with humpback whales near the Big Island of Hawaii on this guided, whale watching 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.

For one of the best sunset views on the Big Island, head out on the water with this super raft tour. Make your way to Kailua-Kona Pier to board the boat, then soak up the scenery as you cruise along the coast. Enjoy a choice of dinner including Kalua pork, spicy ahi poke, or vegan curry, and listen to informative narration as you watch a beautiful sunset over the Big Island.

Explore the Kona coast with experienced captains and guides. At least an hour of snorkel time at the best snorkel site chosen daily, based on water conditions, season, and marine life. Enjoy juice and snacks. Be sure to keep attentive and look out for whales, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more. Our Captains and crew are always eager to make sure you have a great time on the water and get you great shots of the beautiful coastline and majestic wildlife. Our boat has plenty shade, seating room, lots of dry storage, and a step ladder to get back into the boat. Boat capacity is 19 persons. Do not forget to call for availability before purchasing.