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

“We were in port for only the day off a cruise ship. The last tender was at 4pm and we needed private transportation back to the tender port (just over 3 miles away). The tour was at 12:30 and advertised at being 2 1/2 hours.…”

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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

“We had an amazing time. The crew were very knowledgeable and made our time worth every minute. We saw 5 different species of wildlife. We saw 3 different species of dolphins and sperm whales and humpback whales. I would highly recommend this to anyone.”

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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

“Top Notch! Marco & Shelby were fabulous and were able to spot Whales flawlessly!! We were “mugged” by a whale (swam under our boat) Once in a lifetime adventure! Safe and Enjoyable day!!”

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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 time, crew very friendly. Got to see about three whales and they came close to the boat! Definitely worth it!!!”

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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

“Wonderful crew with great whale spotting talent! Had a lot of sightings and learned so much about humpback whales from Kai and Dave! Goid refreshments. Very comfortable boat and trip. Highly recommend their tour! The tour office staff were very helpful when my plans changed…”

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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

“Boat crew was fun and they took us to several spots where we saw whales. They were as excited about the sightings as we were. Great energy, great company. I. Highly recommend them.”

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8.Whale Watching Tour: Whales Guaranteed in Kona Waikoloa

Experience Hawaii's majestic humpback whales on a 1.5-hour Kona whale watch with guaranteed sightings, friendly guides, and spectacular coastal views.

★ 4.5

“The crew was friendly and informative. Hearing the whale sounds was amazing. We saw dolphins, but didn’t get to see whales today. They offered us a voucher for a future excursion or upgrade to a different excursion. I would do this again.”

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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

“Awesome whale watching tour. Saw several humpback whales and a sea turtle. Awesome views of the coast and learned some history about the island.”

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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

“The people running the ship were super courteous and offered us refreshments at no charge. Had a really nice ride out into the ocean and saw some whales! The ship was really nice too. I mostly laid on the net. Super relaxing.”

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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

“Had some good sightings. Was a nice placid morning Friendly cree Could not hear announcements when boat was running Check in process needs to be at boat dock”

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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

“An absolutely incredible experience. Captain Momi and first mate Maddy were amazing. We saw so many whales. Mother with a baby, several adult adults. Some showing their flukes. We were amazed at the size. Everyone was so animated. We had a small group of just…”

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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

“Very modern, clean and comfortable boat. Staff were pleasant and knowledgeable. The boat has two levels.”

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