Top Hawaii Dolphin Watching in 2026

Discover the beauty of Oahu's coastal scenery—and spot its marine life, including pods of dolphins—on this half-day swimming and snorkeling boat tour. Following pickup from your hotel, head to your catamaran and hop aboard. After you set sail, embark on a swimming or snorkeling session to see fish, octopuses, and other marine life in its natural habitat.

Cruise the Big Island coastline aboard a fast Zodiac RIB boat on this adventure that takes you to hidden sea caves, lava tubes, and scenic spots that you wouldn't be able to access on your own. Snorkel pristine coral reefs at Kealakekua Bay, a protected marine sanctuary and site of the historic Captain Cook Monument, and keep an eye out for dolphins, whales, and other marine life.

Experience Hawaii's underwater world on this 3-hour adventure tour. Cruise on a Zodiac RIB speedboat with just 14 fellow explorers before snorkeling at two vibrant coral reef locations including Captain Cook Monument and sea caves (weather permitting). Discover lava tubes and coves 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.

Cruise along west Oahu’s pristine shoreline to see the spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), and other marine creatures that frequent the Waianae Coast. Your 32-foot USCG vessel is led by a lifeguard-certified crew of marine biologists and naturalists, maximizing your chances of spotting Hawaii’s underwater wildlife. Plus, with snorkeling gear included, you can choose to swim alongside tropical fish and sea turtles, too.

Experience Oahu's Ocean highlights aboard a double-decker boat during this tour that features a variety of activities on the water. Enjoy dolphin watching from multiple angles before going for an underwater adventure at a prime snorkeling spot. Your boat features a 21-foot (6.4-meter) water slide, a floating mat, stand-up paddle boards, and all the snorkeling gear you'll need. Swim alongside wild sea creatures and indulge in a delightful lunch as you soak up the sun.

Glide under the stars as giant manta rays dance beneath you, their 15-foot wingspans illuminated like underwater angels. This sunset-to-starlight tour includes a short cruise from Honokohau Harbor, warm wetsuits, high-powered lights, snacks, and onboard washrooms. With nearly guaranteed manta sightings, you'll experience Hawaii’s Pacific ballet hassle-free.

Leave your preconceptions about sharks at the door and get up close to these sleek creatures on this unique ocean experience. Head out from Haleiwa, on the North Shore of O’ahu, and spend around half an hour swimming with the sharks living in the area. Don’t worry, though: even if you aren’t swimming in a cage, you’re still in safe hands, with a guide on board and a safety diver swimming with each group.

Enjoy one of Hawaii's most magical experiences on this small-group snorkeling tour in Turtle Canyon. Board a powerful catamaran in Waikiki and head for the protected waters where turtles gather. Cruise the coastline watching for spinner dolphins and humpback whales in season, and learn fascinating facts about Hawaii’s marine wildlife. Jump off board to swim around sea turtles and tropical fish—and if you don't see turtles, you can take a second tour at no additional cost.

Explore Lanai’s hidden coves, reefs, and sea cliffs with a small group instead of joining a crowded snorkeling cruise. Two snorkel stops offer opportunities to spot dolphins, turtles, octopus, manta rays, and other marine life, while winter departures may include whale watching. Every tour also supports local marine research and whale rescue efforts.

Maui has some fantastic marine life, but large boats can scare creatures off. This small-group tour gets you closer to wildlife such as turtles and dolphins, without the crowds of traditional boat tours, but still has the benefit of an onboard marine naturalist guide to provide commentary and answer questions.

Increase your chances of seeing humpbacks as they travel through Maui’s warm waters on a whale-watching excursion that gets you closer to the majestic beasts than possible on shore. Hop aboard a sturdy raft in Kihei with an expert naturalist as your guide, and jet to the southern coastline, which hosts one of the highest whale populations in Hawaii. Your guide provides commentary about these fascinating creatures along the way.

Experience the magic of whale watching off the coast of Maui with this incredible tour from Ma'alaea Harbor. Spend two-hours cruising the waters with a team of certified marine naturalists and listen in as they unlock the secretes of humpback whales. You'll have the chance to hear whale songs through underwater hydrophones and learn about interactions between these giant marine mammals. Travelers are guaranteed to see whales on this is a once-in-a-lifetime tour or the next trip is free.

Get the opportunity to spot dolphins and, depending on the season, humpback whales on your next Maui trip. Choose from three small-group eco raft tours from Maui to Lanai, including a snorkel tour, dolphin excursion, or 2-in-1 combo. Enjoy snorkeling instruction, marine naturalist narration, and complimentary fresh fruit, snacks, and beverages, with departures from Front Street in Lahaina and easy access from nearby resort areas.

Kauai’s rugged Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park is completely impassable by car and treacherous on foot. This guided boat tour solves that problem by taking you straight to remote sea caves, hidden waterfalls, and towering sea cliffs by Zodiac raft. Skip the navigation guesswork and let your crew guide you to sheltered reefs for snorkeling and maximize your chances of encountering wild dolphins and seasonal whales along the way.

Head out on an epic adventure along one of the world's most magnificent coastlines. From your comfortable vantage point on a 37-foot (11 meter) Naiad Super Raft, enjoy spectacular views of the 17-mile-long Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Explore sea caves and private beaches—accessible only by raft—and snap photos of majestic cathedrals (the cliffs that tower over Kalalau Valley). As you journey along the water, keep an eye out for the marine life that inhabits the area, including dolphins and whales. Each trip (weather permitting) includes time to take a dip and snorkel amongst tropical fish and sea turtles.

In the clear waters of West Oahu, enjoy dolphin watching and snorkeling experience and get to see the wildlife and tropical island fishes. You might also see Hawaiian sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals and mantas. You will board a spacious 42 passenger catamaran boat to cruise the West Coast of Oahu searching for wild dolphins. This double-hulled catamaran features a comfortable and stable ride as you relax and take in the breathtaking views of the ocean and the mountains. Dolphin watching & snorkel tour is very easy even for beginners, perfect choice for families with small children. *This tour is dolphin watching. After watching the dolphins from the boat, you can enjoy snorkeling. If you want to swim with dolphins, click on the "by Indigo Ocean Hawaii" link at the top to book our other tour, 【Swim with Dolphins in the West Coast line of Oahu】 *Whale watching is available only during the winter season, from December 15 through March.

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.

View dolphins in their natural habitat and swim within safe viewing distance to turtles and green sea turtles on this popular Oahu snorkel cruise from Honolulu. Sail into waters home to spinner dolphins, and then glide alongside colorful fish. Hawaian Hula, Snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddle boards are available onboard to help you get the most of this outing. Hotel transport included.

Sail on a catamaran down Oahu's western coast during this cruise from Ko Olina. Glide through unspoiled waters in search of dolphins and whales, then snorkel in a hidden local spot rich with marine life. Enjoy a Hawaiian buffet with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, plus convenient hotel pickup. Choose from three daily departure times.

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.

Take the chance to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Oahu and experience snorkeling alongside wildlife during this luxurious catamaran tour. Keep an eye out for turtles as you explore Waikiki's Turtle Canyon. Then, take a break to relax before going paddleboarding, kayaking, and sea scooter riding. Guided by a passionate and knowledgeable team, embark on a fun adventure in nature with convenient hotel pickup available within Waikiki included.

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.

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.