Dolphin watching on Hawaii’s Big Island delivers reliable sightseeing without the tourist traps. The most practical options include mid-sized catamarans (offering stability and shade) and small-group kayak excursions (providing intimate encounters). My favorite outfitter is Dolphin SMART, which maintains respectful distances from pods while educating guests about these remarkable mammals.
Morning tours (typically 7:30-11:30 AM) offer the best viewing conditions and commonly include spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and seasonal whale watching. For families, I recommend the catamaran tours with their added amenities, while nature enthusiasts should opt for the quieter kayak experiences.
Let’s explore the top dolphin watching tours that consistently earn our highest ratings.
Key Points
- The Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch tour offers a high chance of spotting dolphins and marine mammals during a 2-hour catamaran ride from Kailua-Kona.
- The Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument tour provides an opportunity to see dolphins and snorkel along the Kona coastline, led by knowledgeable guides.
- The Kayak Snorkel Capt. Cook Monument adventure combines kayaking and snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay, known for its rocky coves, coral reefs, and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.
- The Double Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & BBQ tour features two beautiful reefs, where you can spot tropical fish, spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays, along with a fresh BBQ lunch.
- The Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel tour offers a personalized small-group experience with snorkeling, dolphin sightings, and a picnic-style or Japanese Bento lunch.
Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran From Kailua-Kona
One of the most popular dolphin watching tours on the Big Island of Hawaii is the Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran from Kailua-Kona.
This 2-hour experience offers an excellent chance of spotting dolphins and other marine mammals. Guests can enjoy about 2 hours of snorkeling, access to a waterslide and high jump platform, and freshly prepared meals.
The tour is fully wheelchair accessible and provides sanitized snorkel gear. With 756 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, it’s a top-rated activity.
Priced from $182.70 per person, the tour allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Deluxe Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Aboard a Luxury Catamaran From Kailua-Kona Review
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Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument Big Island Kailua-Kona Hawaii
The Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument tour in Kailua-Kona, Big Island, Hawaii offers a captivating combination of dolphin watching and snorkeling at beautiful reef areas along the Kona coastline.
Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides who respect the ecosystem, the tour provides an opportunity to view dolphins in their natural environment. The experience includes snacks, drinks, and all necessary snorkeling gear.
While dolphin sightings can’t be guaranteed as they’re wild animals, the tour has a 95% recommendation rate from travelers and a Badge of Excellence.
Accessibility is limited, and certain health conditions may restrict participation. Overall, it’s an engaging and educational adventure for those seeking to connect with Hawaii’s marine life.
Read our full review: Dolphin Watch & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument Big Island Kailua-Kona Hawaii Review
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Kayak Snorkel Capt. Cook Monu. See Dolphins in Kealakekua Bay, Big Island (5 Hr)
Explore the captivating waters of Kealakekua Bay on this 5-hour kayak and snorkel adventure. Paddle around the bay, known for its rocky coves, vibrant coral reefs, and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.
Visit the Captain Cook Monument and enjoy magnificent views from the water. The tour includes a certified lifeguard guide, lunch options, and all necessary equipment.
With a maximum group size of 12 travelers and an overall rating of 4.0 from 135 reviews, this tour offers a memorable experience to explore the highlights of Kealakekua Bay.
While positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the rich marine life, some report disorganization and communication issues.
Read our full review: Kayak Snorkel Capt. Cook Monu. See Dolphins in Kealakekua Bay, Big Island (5 Hr) Review
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Double Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & BBQ
This boat tour from Kailua-Kona offers an unforgettable encounter with Hawaii’s natural wonders.
Aboard a 43-foot zodiac, you’ll sail across two beautiful reefs, spotting tropical fish, spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and manta rays. The crew provides snorkel gear, flotation devices, and towels, ensuring a comfortable experience.
Enjoy a fresh BBQ lunch, snacks, and refreshments as you take in the fabulous coastal views. The knowledgeable captain and crew will guide you throughout the tour.
With a maximum group size of 30, this intimate experience allows you to fully learn about Hawaii’s stunning marine life. Priced at $139 per person, this tour provides excellent value for the incredible sights and activities included.
Read our full review: Double Reef Snorkel, Dolphin & BBQ Review
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Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel
Venture out on a luxurious 4-hour sail and snorkel experience to witness the breathtaking marine life of the Big Island’s Kona coast.
This small-group tour accommodates a maximum of 6 guests, ensuring a personalized and exclusive adventure. Snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, spot dolphins and sea turtles, and even catch a glimpse of whales.
The tour includes all necessary equipment, a delicious picnic-style or Japanese Bento lunch, and unlimited refreshments. Participants can also enjoy the high-end yacht’s private changing rooms, fresh-water showers, and in-cabin restrooms.
The experience supports the Dolphin SMART Program, promoting responsible dolphin viewing and conservation.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about Hawaii’s captivating marine wonders.
Read our full review: Luxury Hawaiian Sea Turtle, Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel Review
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Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona
Visitors to the Big Island of Hawaii can embark on a thrilling Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona, which promises close encounters with a variety of marine creatures.
Priced at ₹10,327.64 per person, the tour boasts a 5.0-star rating based on 246 reviews, with 95% of travelers recommending it. The experience includes spotting pilot whales, humpback whales, dolphins, and sharks, while the knowledgeable crew provides insights about the species.
Guests should arrive 30 minutes early and note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and unsuitable for children under 10.
Despite occasional variability in whale sightings, the tour remains highly recommended for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a memorable ocean experience.
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Kona Shore Excursion: Wild Dolphin Reefs Snorkel and Sea Caves
For those seeking a captivating underwater adventure on the Big Island, the Kona Shore Excursion: Wild Dolphin Reefs Snorkel and Sea Caves tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Rated 4.5 stars from 47 reviews, this excursion takes travelers to snorkel in the picturesque Kealakekua Bay and view the Captain Cook Monument.
Along the way, sightings of spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and vibrant marine life are common highlights.
Included in the $149 per person fee are snorkel gear, lunch, and professional guides.
While not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, this tour provides an immersive encounter with Hawaii’s natural wonders, delivering an unforgettable experience for cruise ship visitors to the Big Island.
Read our full review: Kona Shore Excursion: Wild Dolphin Reefs Snorkel and Sea Caves Review
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Kona: 3 Hour Dolphin Watch, Reef Snorkel, & BBQ Lunch
An unforgettable encounter with Hawaii’s marine wonders awaits travelers on the 3-hour Kona: Dolphin Watch, Reef Snorkel, & BBQ Lunch tour.
Set out from Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, with a maximum of 30 guests, to spot dolphins and snorkel the reef. Enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch grilled on the boat, and rent wetsuits if desired.
The well-reviewed tour earns a 5.0 rating from 27 travelers, 100% of whom recommend it. Guests praise the knowledgeable crew, including standout members like Trevor, Kama, Mitch, and Lena, for their exceptional service.
While some note rough waters affecting fish visibility, the overall dolphin encounters make for an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: Kona: 3 Hour Dolphin Watch, Reef Snorkel, & BBQ Lunch Review
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Recap
The Big Island of Hawaii offers a variety of dolphin watching tours that provide an opportunity to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Whether you prefer a catamaran cruise, kayak adventure, or snorkel excursion, there are options to suit different interests and budgets. With a range of amenities like snorkeling, BBQ lunches, and more, these tours promise an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to witness the beauty of Hawaii’s dolphin populations.