BIG ISLAND
Ranked by traveller popularity
The 7 most popular whale watching on the Big Island. What they actually deliver, who runs them, and what they cost.
Whale watching from Kona aboard a small catamaran, with narration and hydrophones. Snacks included, plus a free-trip sighting guarantee.
“The experience was good, we saw most of the whales from afar. I the crew did an outstanding job searching for and getting us as close to the whales as possible. The crew were very engaging and helpful with trying to make everyone had the best time.”
Sail off Kona on a 3–4 hour pelagic whale watch with a naturalist crew, drinks onboard, and a big shot at whales and dolphins.
“Such a great experience with Hawaiian Adventures. They work so hard to deliver an exceptional experience. On our trip out we saw spinner dolphins, bottle nose dolphins, whales, and even manta rays. While the whales were what drew me to the tour, the massive group of spinner dolphins was the star of the day. Simply…”
Kona zodiac whale watch with a small 16-passenger crew, naturalist spotting along the coast, snacks, drinks, and whale song via hydrophone.
“Super fun to zoom over the waves with a naturalist on board. We spotted multiple whales that gave us a wonderful show. Absolutely my favorite way to go whale watching!”
Kailua-Kona whale watching cruise from Honokohau Harbor. Hear humpback songs on a hydrophone, spot mothers and calves, with snacks.
Hear whale songs with a hydrophone on a Kona whale watch from Kailua Pier, with a naturalist, snacks, and a whale-sighting guarantee.
“It was amazing!!! The captain knew exactly where to go and was great about making sure all the passengers got their pictures. The crew’s knowledge about whales was impressive and we all left knowing so much about the whales ourselves from them.”
Ride the 30-person Kibou along Kona, with snacks and expert crew spotting tips for humpbacks, dolphins, and whale songs.
“Had a very enjoyable trip on the 2pm tour. The guides were very friendly and made it a fun experience. They explained information and interesting facts throughout the tour. We were fortunate enough to see several whales. Would definitely recommend.”
Small-group Waikoloa whale watch along the Kona-Kohala coast, with humpbacks and calves, sea turtles, and tall-peak views if skies cooperate.
“Well organized, clean vessel. Crew tried their best to bring us to areas of whale activity. Lots of tails, started with a breach and ended with another breach. Fantastic morning 👍”
