Big Island of Hawaii

15 Best Big Island Whale Watching

The whale sailings: humpbacks working the Kona coast through the winter months, visible from shore and unmissable from a boat. Zodiac rafts get low and close; catamarans bring the shade.

1.Whale Watching On The Big Island

Experience Hawaii’s majestic humpback whales on a 2.5-hour catamaran tour from Kailua-Kona, with expert guides, whale songs, and scenic views.

Most Popular★ 5.0

“Saw so many whales! Mom and baby, a whale breaching, a whale on its back slapping the water! It was amazing!! The crew was wonderful and knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor! Great experience!”

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2.Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona

Experience Kona's marine wildlife on this guided dolphin and whale watch tour. Expect expert naturalists, comfortable boats, and year-round sightings for $129.

★ 5.0

“The trip was awesome Two young energetic and knowledgeable crew members Terrific experience Lots of Pilot whales and two species of dolphins Great trip”

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3.Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure

Experience close-up whale encounters from a zippy zodiac, explore Kona’s coastline, and enjoy expert guides on this highly-rated Big Island adventure.

★ 5.0

“Loved this tour. Captain Rick and Alec were so engaging and knowledgeable. I will for sure do this again on my next visit to Big Island.”

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5.Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island

Experience Hawaii’s humpback whales close-up on a 2.5-hour guided tour from Kailua Kona, featuring onboard naturalist insights, snacks, and guaranteed sightings.

★ 4.5

“Had a great weather day & boat ride… unfortunately we didn’t see any wildlife but we’re offered a free rain check next time we return.”

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6.Wake Up With the Whales Cruise from Anaeho’omalu Bay

Experience Hawaii’s whales on a 1.5-hour catamaran cruise off Kohala Coast with expert guides, guaranteed whale sightings, and underwater whale songs.

★ 5.0

“This was a great experience on a nice boat with a fun crew. We saw lots of whales and heard them singing as they have a mic they drop into the water. I do want to mention that the boat is not at a dock…”

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7.Big Island, Hawaii Whale Watching Tour

Experience Hawaii’s humpback whales on a 2-hour Kona cruise with knowledgeable guides, stunning coastal views, and a chance to see whales and dolphins.

★ 5.0

“The crew was fun and knowledgeable about all things whale, we were so lucky we got to see a whale shark on our trip!!”

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9.Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona

Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales and dolphins in Kona on a small-group, eco-friendly tour with expert guides, from December to April.

★ 4.5

“INCREDIBLE! We saw humpbacks about 40 feet away (about 20 mins after seeing them from afar). Then bottle nose dolphins 10 feet away. Absolutely an amazing experience! Though Captain Bryce said humpbacks that close are rare so maybe cannot expect that often. Narration was wonderful,…”

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10.Kona Deluxe Catamaran Whale Watch

Experience Hawaii’s best whale watching on a comfortable catamaran with knowledgeable guides, guaranteed whale sightings, and stunning ocean views.

★ 4.5

“Wonderful trip, but we didn’t see any whales, a bit too late in the season. The company does offer a whale sighting guarantee, but I don’t believe it’s money back (understandable), but you can go in another boat trip to try again. So, my advice…”

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11.Late-Morning Whale Watch from Kawaihae

Experience Hawaii's majestic humpback whales on a comfortable, guided cruise from Kawaihae Harbor. Guaranteed sightings, onboard snacks, and naturalist insights.

★ 4.5

“Captain and crew were excellent. Saw a whale tail that's it but nothing is guaranteed. We were invited to return by Captain free which was excellent since really no whale sighting but we I'd hear them sounding off. Would return but go longer next time”

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14.Guaranteed Whale Watch in Kona

Experience whale watching in Kona with a 2.5-hour guaranteed tour on a spacious boat, spotting humpbacks, dolphins, and more—great value and memorable.

★ 4.5

“Took 2 hours to find some whales but finally saw. So awesome! Saw dolphins as well. Captain and assistant were very nice and informative. Would do again.”

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15.Humpback Whale Watch Tour

Experience Hawaii’s marine life on a 2.5-hour whale watch tour from Kona. Spot humpbacks, dolphins, and other wildlife aboard modern, comfortable boats.

★ 5.0

“This was an amazing trip would definitely do it again. The crew were very informative. We had a amazing time and saw the whales, spinner dolphins, and some other sea life”

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