Top Big Island of Hawaii Whale Watching

Whale Watching On The Big Island

Escape the busy Kona beaches and maximize your chances of spotting humpback whales on a wildlife cruise along the coast. Drawing on years of experience navigating these waters, the local guides know exactly where to look while sharing insights into the island's unique marine ecosystem. It's an ideal way to experience Hawaii from the water, and gain a new perspective on the region's remarkable wildlife.

Humpback Whale Watch Tour

Whale Watching Tour - Big Island, Hawaii

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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

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's Guaranteed Whale Watch: An Unforgettable Ocean Encounter

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

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

Kona Manta Ray Night Snorkel — 85–95% Sighting Rate

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

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.

Kona Morning Snorkel to Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay

4 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Kona Manta Ray Snorkel Tour: Guaranteed or come again free

Whale Watching on Big island

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

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

Kohola Whale Watching Excursion

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

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Enjoy the rare opportunity to see wild manta rays in their natural environment along Hawaii's Kona coast. This small-group cruise includes a brief canoe ride on a historically accurate Hawaiian canoe. Set sail at night when the manta rays are most active and use a lighted floatation device to attract plankton—the rays' food of choice. With a guide to ensure a safe experience, head into the water to float and snorkel as you admire the rays in action.

Manta Ray Snorkeling by Night in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

1 hourFree Cancellation

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

4 hoursFree Cancellation

Big Island Manta Ray Night Snorkel

Waikoloa Catamaran Snorkel Sail Including Lunch

Kona Catamaran Snorkel Sail with Lunch

Kona Afternoon Snorkel to Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay

Big Island in a Day: Volcanoes Waterfalls Sightseeing and History

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Must-Dos in Big Island of Hawaii

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What are people saying about Big Island of Hawaii

Shalin_P, Sep 2026

Highly recommend this full day tour.

I knew this tour would be a full day, but I booked it for our family as I wanted an experienced tour guide. I also didn't want to have to drive around the island on my own. The tour was great! Our guide was Miexia, and he was knowledgeable and funny. He kept everyone engaged, including my kids. Our favorite stops were the volcano crater (of course), the black sand beach, Akaka Falls, and the beautiful Waip'o Valley lookout. I thought the Rainbow Falls stop was nothing special. They also had a stop at a coffee farm that is highly regarded in the coffee community (I bought whole beans there). You don't get a ton of time at each spot, but I appreciated the efficiency, as we had enough time to have dinner once getting back to our resort. The bus is comfortable, and has USB-C slots for charging your phone during the long ride. The lunch was catered by a local BBQ spot, and it was quite tasty (add the sriracha and soy to the chicken for more flavor). You also get bottled water and chips on the bus. Overall, we are happy we booked this tour.

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

SaushaSausha911, Sep 2026

We enjoyed a fantastic experience

The crew was well organized and on time. My directions that came from the person who answered the phone were terrible! We ended up driving around to locate the desired dock and found it. Good thing we allowed extra time for travel! We enjoyed the 3 men who ran the boat, experience. They were kind, funny, and efficient in their tasks. They were always communicating with each other in a cordial manner. The experience was worth every penny paid and we gave a generous tip to boot! We will likely repeat this experience again the next time we return to the Big Island.

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

Anthony_G, Sep 2026

Captain Cook’s adventures for the WIN

Lucas and Eric from Captain Cooks adventures were amazing! Deavon from captain cooks was the best to work with on bookings. Adventure was amazing, fish everywhere and the cave tours were great boat ride was exhilarating and exciting. We got lucky and got to see several dolphin pods as well! Well worth it🤙🏼

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.

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.