Top Big Island of Hawaii Whale Watching

Explore the waters off the coast of Hawaii during a small-group snorkeling excursion from Kailua-Kona. Board an inflatable boat and enjoy easy transportation to Captain Cook's Monument at Kealakekua Bay for approximately an hour of snorkeling time. Plus, view the sea caves and lava tubes along the scenic Kona coast and catch sight of dolphins and humpback whales, depending on the season.

Explore the waters off the Big Island on this exciting combo tour. Get your adrenaline pumping as you cruise out and along the coastline on a speedboat. Look for caves, cliffs, whales, dolphins and other marine life along the way. Afterwards, jump into the clear waters and explore the underwater world as you snorkel around. Snacks, drinks and snorkel equipment are all included.

Night snorkeling with manta rays is one of the Big Island’s most popular experiences, and it’s even better with this ultra-small-group tour. Limited to just 6 snorkelers, you’ll set out from Honokohau Harbor heading for “Manta Heaven.” The boat’s light board attracts the gentle creatures (via lighting up plankton) and makes the water glow, guaranteeing you an unforgettable underwater experience.

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.

Increase your chances of spotting the Kona coast’s most spectacular marine wildlife with this dolphin- and whale-watching excursion led by Big Island experts. 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.

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.

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.

There are few places in all of Hawaii more historic than Kealakekua Bay, as it's the spot where Captain Cook was killed in a skirmish with native Hawaiians, and the Hawaiian monarch, King Kamehameha III was born just a few miles away. The history aside, it's also one of the best places to snorkel on the Big Island of Hawaii, and you'll have the chance to experience the beauty on this snorkeling tour from Kona. Search for dolphins on the way to the bay while admiring the volcanic coast, and after scouring the red for coral and fish, climb aboard for a lunch that's served by the friendly crew.

View dolphins in their natural environment with guides who respect these intelligent creatures’ boundaries during this cruise. The utmost respect and care are given to the dolphins to assure that this tour doesn’t disrupt their rest, nursing, and breeding behaviors. Depending on where the dolphins are seen, there may also be time for a quick snorkel at one of the many beautiful reef areas along the Kona coastline.

Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll take a short cruise out to the manta site, where you’ll watch the beautiful Hawaiian 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 to enjoy on board. Your tour will conclude at its original departure point. If you don't see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night--no charge.

Make the most of your time in port on this Kona shore excursion timed to your cruise's arrival and departure. Get picked up from the port and head out on a sailing adventure to the Captain Cook Monument and Kealkeaua Bay where you can snorkel, swim, and explore caves and lava tubes. Expect to see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, colorful fish, and ancient reefs. Lunch, snacks, and use of snorkeling gear are all included.

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.

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!

This "safari" style trip lets you avoid the crowds that are typical of many boat tours. In a small group, head out along the Kona coastline in search of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and whales. When the crew have found the right spot, you can put on your snorkeling gear, jump off board and explore the underwater world.

Sail along the Kona coast aboard a spacious catamaran during this half-day tour to Kealakekua Bay and take advantage of multiple amenities like the shaded cabin and sunny splash nets. Start with a continental breakfast, then build your own sandwich after a snorkeling session (equipment and instruction included).

Enjoy the opportunity to swim with manta rays on a private snorkel trip off the Kona Coast. Board your private charter at night and head out to an area where these gentle giants are known to swim. Don your provided snorkel gear, equipped with dive lights, and jump into the water for a closer look at these rays while still maintaining a safe distance.

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 (during migratory season) humpback whales.

The dramatic sea cliffs and black and white sand beaches of the Kona Coast make a magnificent backdrop for a boat cruise. On this tour, set sail on board a 53-foot catamaran and look out for dolphins, sea turtles, and migrating whales. Dive in to swim and snorkel, then tuck into lunch onboard and admire the views as you glide along the coast.

Embark on an evening adventure and swim near Hawaii’s manta rays. Start the tour with a sunset sail on a comfortable trimaran to ‘Manta Ray Village’. After a safety briefing, put on your snorkel gear and spend an hour in the water using a state-of-the-art, lit up flotation device to stay on the water’s surface and observe the manta rays bellow as they feed on plankton.

Go in search of humpback whales as they pass through the waters off Hawaii on their annual migration. Cruise out in a comfortable and stable catamaran along the Kohala Coast. Enjoy expert commentary from an onboard naturalist, and the change to listen to whale songs with the underwater hydrophones. Snacks and beverages, including alcohol, are all included. Humpback whale sightings are guaranteed, or you can cruise again.

During migration season, Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. While you can sometimes spot whales from land, you'll have a much better chance on the water. This guided tour takes you out onto the ocean in search of whales in a comfortable catamaran and teaches you all about their unique behavior.

Step aboard a 54 foot catamaran for a dolphin and turtle cruise from A-Bay that includes snorkeling gear and assistance from on board snorkel guides. Since the catamaran has ample deck space and shaded areas to relax, it’s a comfortable, uncrowded way to cruise the coast, and you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales during the whale watching months of December through April.

Set out from Kailua-Kona for a half-day snorkeling activity to Kealakekua Bay/Captain Cook, one of the top snorkeling destinations on the Big Island. Look for dolphins and other marine life in the wild, and then use the provided snorkeling gear upon arrival in Kealakekua Bay. This tour is suitable for all levels of experience and includes a picnic lunch.