Whale watching on Hawaii’s Big Island delivers prime humpback viewing from December through April, with February offering peak activity. The Kona and Kohala coasts provide the best vantage points for these magnificent creatures. Small-group zodiac tours are my top pick – they’re nimble, fast, and get you thrillingly close to the action. For comfort-minded travelers, I recommend the larger catamarans, which offer stability, onboard naturalists, and guaranteed sightings. Most operators run 2.5-to-3-hour excursions, averaging $130-150 per person. The best tours combine marine expertise with Hawaiian cultural insights – look for those offering hydrophone experiences to hear whale songs. Check out our carefully selected whale watching adventures below.
Key Points
- Humpback whales migrate to the Big Island from December to April, with February being the peak month for whale watching tours.
- Whale watching tours in the Big Island offer various experiences, such as catamaran cruises, zodiac raft adventures, and sunset cruises, accommodating different group sizes and preferences.
- Certain tours provide unique features, like early morning schedules, underwater microphones, and snorkeling equipment, enhancing the overall whale watching experience.
- Whale watching tours in the Big Island generally receive high satisfaction ratings, with knowledgeable crew members and accessible options for travelers.
- Prices for whale watching tours in the Big Island range from approximately €149.71 to $129.73, with flexible cancellation policies and advanced booking recommended, especially during peak season.
Whale Watching On The Big Island
Whale watching on the Big Island offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to observe the grandeur of migrating humpback whales.
The narrated tour operates on a 24-person catamaran, allowing for intimate viewing and interaction. Travelers can hear whale songs through hydrophones provided on board and often report seeing multiple whales, including mothers and calves, with some guests experiencing close encounters.
The tour guarantees whale sightings, and if no whales are seen, the next trip is free. Tour participants can also learn about whales and Hawaiian folklore from the knowledgeable crew.
February is noted as an excellent month for whale watching, with frequent sightings of mother-baby pairs and pods of dolphins.
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Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure
For those seeking a thrilling and up-close encounter with Hawaii’s marine life, the Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure on the Big Island offers an unparalleled experience.
Aboard a 16-passenger zodiac boat, adventurers can expect a high-speed ride with panoramic views of the Pacific, complete with sightings of humpback whales, spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, and manta rays.
The tour also showcases the island’s coastal sea caves and volcanic lava tubes.
With a 98% recommendation rate and a 4.9/5 rating, this excursion is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Big Island, especially during the winter humpback whale migration season.
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Wake Up With the Whales Cruise
An early morning cruise along the Kohala Coast provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the magnificent humpback whale migration in Hawaii.
Aboard the “Wake Up With the Whales Cruise,” guests can expect a 97% chance of spotting these majestic creatures, with a guarantee of a free return trip if no whales are seen.
Equipped with light refreshments, beverages, and educational commentary from an onboard naturalist, this 4.8-star rated tour offers a comfortable and informative experience.
With a maximum capacity of 49 travelers, the cruise’s morning schedule and convenient meeting point at Anaehoomalu Beach make it an accessible and hassle-free whale watching adventure.
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Kona Whale Watch From Honokohau on Sailing Boat
Located at the Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, the Kona Whale Watch from Hawaii Nautical offers a unique sailing experience to witness the magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat.
Featuring a maximum capacity of 49 travelers, this highly-rated tour provides an intimate and comfortable setting aboard a catamaran. With a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, the tour boasts knowledgeable and personable crew who enhance the overall experience.
While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, especially early in the season, many visitors report seeing false killer whales, mothers, and calves.
The tour includes complimentary beverages and operates with a flexible cancellation policy, making it an appealing option for whale enthusiasts visiting the Big Island.
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Pau Hana Sunset Cruise With the Whales
Offering a delightful blend of whale watching and sunset cruising, the Pau Hana Sunset Cruise With the Whales invites travelers to the Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Aboard a spacious sailing or power catamaran, guests can enjoy unlimited drinks, snacks, and live commentary from a naturalist on whale behavior. They’ll even have the chance to listen to whale songs through an underwater hydrophone.
Recommended by 93% of travelers, this 5-star experience accommodates up to 65 people and provides wheelchair and stroller accessibility.
While whale sightings can’t be guaranteed, most guests rave about the friendly crew, beautiful scenery, and memorable sunset views.
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Whale Watching Excursion
The Kohola Whale Watching Excursion provides travelers a chance to get up close and personal with the majestic marine mammals off the Kona Coast of the Big Island.
With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, the intimate atmosphere allows for personalized attention from the knowledgeable crew.
The 5-star rated tour includes snorkeling equipment, snacks, and beverages, as well as an underwater microphone to hear the whales’ singing.
Though not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the moderate fitness level required is well worth the opportunity to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
At €149.71 per person, this excursion offers an unforgettable Big Island experience.
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5 Hours Whale Watching On A 41 Super-Raft
For up to 2.5 hours, travelers aboard a 41-foot super-raft can enjoy the majestic world of whales off the Big Island’s Kona Coast.
Priced from $129.73 per person, this whale watching tour has a maximum capacity of 24 guests, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.
Onboard, knowledgeable naturalists provide educational insights, and travelers can enjoy complimentary snacks, bottled water, and soft drinks.
While guests must provide their own transportation to the departure point, the tour includes reef-safe sunscreen.
However, the experience may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions or young children due to safety concerns and accessibility limitations.
Humpback Whale Watch in Kona
Travelers seeking to enjoy the majestic world of humpback whales can embark on a Humpback Whale Watch in Kona. This seasonal tour, available from December to April, takes guests on a small-group cruise to witness the whales in their natural habitat.
Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, the tour offers the chance to see not only humpback whales but also other species like pilot, beaked, and melon-headed whales. Guests can listen to the whales’ captivating songs using a hydrophone and enjoy snacks, juice, and bottled water during the experience.
While the tour is recommended for ages 5 and up, it’s not suitable for those with certain medical conditions or accessibility needs.
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Late-Morning Whale Watch From Kawaihae
A late-morning Kawaihae whale watch offers travelers a premier opportunity to spot the majestic humpback whales that visit Hawaii’s Big Island during the peak winter season.
This 4.7-star rated tour boasts a 92% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence. Guests can enjoy guaranteed whale sightings, or they’ll sail again for free.
The mid-morning cruise timing provides excellent lighting for capturing photos. Onboard, travelers can indulge in complimentary snacks and beverages while learning from the knowledgeable crew.
The tour accommodates wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals, making it accessible for all.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior and a lowest price guarantee, this Kawaihae whale watch is a must for any Big Island visitor.
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Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona
This 3-4 hour Guaranteed Dolphin and Whale Watch Tour in Kona provides travelers with an unforgettable opportunity to witness the majestic marine life of Hawaii’s Big Island.
With a maximum capacity of 46 guests, the tour boasts a 95% recommendation rate and an impressive 4.8 average rating. Passengers can expect to see a variety of whale and dolphin species, including pilot whales and humpback whales, during the excursion.
The knowledgeable crew, comfortable boat, and complimentary cold drinks contribute to an overall enjoyable experience.
While sightings can vary, especially during off-peak seasons, the majority of travelers praise the tour, making it a popular choice for those seeking a guaranteed wildlife adventure in Kona.
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Whale Watching in Kona
Whale watching in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii provides an opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales that migrate to the island’s warm waters each year.
The highly-rated Big Island Whale Watching Tour offers a chance to spot these magnificent creatures, as well as spinner dolphins, while learning from the knowledgeable crew.
With a 95% recommendation rate and positive customer feedback, the tour provides a thrilling and educational experience.
Though weather and ocean conditions can sometimes lead to last-minute cancellations, the tour generally offers close encounters with whales, including mothers and calves, making it a must-do activity for visitors to Kona.
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Whale Watch Excursion From the Big Island
The whale watch excursion from the Big Island of Hawaii offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majesty of humpback whales during their annual migration.
Lasting throughout the whale season, this tour allows visitors to get up close with the whales, learn about their behavior from certified naturalists, and even hear their vocalizations through a hydrophone.
With a badge of excellence and a 4.3 rating from 225 reviews, the excursion features amenities like snacks, refreshments, and accessibility for wheelchair users and those with service animals.
While some guests noted issues with distance and guide volume, the company emphasizes responsible practices and offers rain checks for no-sighting trips.
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Kawaihae Whale Watch – Guaranteed
Kawaihae Whale Watch offers a guaranteed opportunity to witness the captivating marine life of the Big Island’s Kohala Coast.
This scenic tour departs from the Kawaihae harbor, taking guests on a fast powerboat to spot whales breaching, spouting, and splashing.
With flexible midday or late afternoon departures, the tour provides a chance to see mothers and calves up close from December through April.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable crew and the overall enjoyable experience, though some note weather conditions can be a challenge.
Guests are advised to come prepared with sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket.
With a maximum of 6 travelers, this small-group tour ensures an intimate wildlife encounter.
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Guaranteed Whale Watch in Kona
For those seeking a guaranteed whale watching experience on the Big Island, the Kona Whale Watch tour is a must-consider option.
This 3-hour excursion departs from Honokohau Small Boat Harbor, offering the chance to spot humpback whales, pilot whales, and false killer whales aboard a 48-foot Delta boat.
With a maximum of 30 passengers, the tour provides an intimate and scenic experience, complete with bottled water and snacks.
While the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, a collapsible wheelchair can be accommodated with a personal assistant.
Notably, the tour guarantees whale sightings; if no whales are spotted, guests receive a voucher for a complimentary future tour.
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Whale Watching on Big Island
Situated along the western shores of the Big Island, the Whale Watching on Big Island experience offers visitors a chance to witness the majestic humpback whales that migrate to Hawaiian waters each winter.
With a maximum capacity of 26 travelers, the tour provides professional guides, snacks, and beverages, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Reviewers rave about the knowledgeable crew and great whale and dolphin sightings.
However, some have reported issues with booking and cancellations due to safety concerns. The activity isn’t recommended for those with back problems, and infants must sit on laps.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Day for Whale Watching?
The best time for whale watching is typically in the morning or late afternoon. Whales are most active during these periods, making it more likely to spot them from the shore or on a guided tour.
How Close Can the Boats Get to the Whales?
Whale-watching boats typically get within 100 yards of the whales, though they’re not allowed to approach any closer to avoid disturbing the animals. This distance ensures an excellent view while respecting the whales’ space and well-being.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Whale Watching Tours?
Most whale watching tours in Hawaii don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator before booking to ensure the tour is suitable for all members of your group.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Yes, most whale watching tours allow passengers to bring their own food and drinks on board. This can be a convenient and cost-effective option for the trip. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies.
What Should I Bring With Me for the Whale Watching Excursion?
Bring a camera, binoculars, and sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Pack a small snack and water, as food and drinks are usually allowed on whale watching tours. Dress in layers for changing weather conditions.
Recap
The Big Island offers numerous whale watching experiences, from zodiac raft adventures to sunset cruises. Visitors can spot these majestic creatures up close and learn about their behavior and migration patterns. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a unique Hawaiian adventure, the Big Island’s whale watching tours provide an unforgettable experience. With several options and guaranteed sightings, there’s something for all to enjoy the whales during their annual migration.