Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventures on the Big Island
Captivating Encounters
One of the biggest benefits of living in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is observing the diverse sea life. With April here, the season for whale watching Hawaii is ending. But there’s still time! Spotting a whale from the coast or off a boat is one of the most magical experiences one can have.
The common whale species seen include the false killer whale, the sperm whale, and the most famous of them all, the humpback whale. Dolphins are also regularly spotted in our waters. You may see the bottlenose, the gray spinner, or a spotted dolphin. When you come to stay at our Volcano Bed and Breakfast, be sure to bring your binoculars for this one-of-a-kind experience on the southern shores of Hawaii!
Best Time for Whale & Dolphin Watching
Every winter, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaskan waters in search of the warmer and shallower waters of Hawaii. Mothers find these waters ideal for giving birth and raising their young. It’s also a breeding ground. The whales arrive as early as October or November and can be seen regularly into May. However, optimum time for whale watching Hawaii occurs between December and April. When booking a whale-watching boat tour, schedule it for the morning. There are fewer boats on the water. Generally, the winds are calmer, and the lighting makes for excellent photographs.
Not all dolphins migrate. Many of them love to call the shores of Hawaii home year-round. Most dolphins like to rest during the day in the protection of the shallow waters and forage for food in deeper waters overnight. Therefore, it’s a guarantee that you’ll see dolphins on your next beach visit. Remember to pack your snorkel gear!
Top Spots for Whale & Dolphin Watching on the Big Island
Along the Kona coast on the west side, you’ll find plenty of dolphins hanging around the sandy-bottom bays. The weather is pretty good year-round in this region, making for excellent snorkeling. Make sure to pack reef-friendly sunscreen to protect yourself from heightened sun exposure. The Kohala coast on the east side is another great area to spot dolphins. The coast borders the town of Hilo and is a brief 45-minute drive from our Big Island bed and breakfast.
Whales are too big to frequent shallow waters, but you don’t always have to ride a boat to see them. The Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is well-known for the best whale watching Hawaii from the shore. Puʻukoholā appropriately translates to “hill of the whale.”
Choose Your Whale Watching Hawaii Experience
While not always a guarantee, spotting a whale on the Big Island is very likely, no matter how you take part in the activity.
If you opt for a boat tour, you’ll greatly increase your chances for whale sightings. We love recommending Hawaii Adventures Kona at the Honokohau Harbor. This tour typically takes 3 to 4 hours. Ride the Artemis for a comfortable cruise out to deeper waters for a chance to see more species beyond humpback whales.
If you’re the more adventurous type, consider a kayak tour for a more hands-on experience. Ocean Safari’s Kayak Adventure is an excellent choice. Taking off from Keauhou Bay, you can watch for dolphins, manta rays, and sea turtles. In the clear water, you can explore sea cliffs and caves with experienced and friendly guides.
And, of course, you can always snorkel. If you have your own gear or elect to rent from a nearby shop for a few days, you can pretty much drop into the water, where it’s safe, and witness the vibrant life underneath the water’s surface. Tours are always a great way to start for those who may be new to the sport. Make your visit epic and book a tour with Kona Snorkel Trips. They’ll take you to Pawai Bay, one of the best reefs that the Big Island has to offer.
Tips for Picking a Tour
No matter how you want to experience your tour, make sure to research the guide company. Every company offers something a little different, and depending on your situation, it may greatly affect your trip. Smaller companies typically run boats that are speedier and rougher over the waters. It may be great for kids, but not so much for those with injuries or who are pregnant.
It’s also wise to know that whale sightings, while frequent, are not always guaranteed. Consider scheduling your whale or dolphin-watching tour for early in the morning and toward the beginning of your trip. This way, if you don’t see a whale or dolphin, you have time to reschedule your excursion while you’re still in Hawaii.
What to Expect During Your Whale Watching Hawaii Adventure
For your whale and dolphin watching experience to be successful, it’s wise to know what to expect and pack accordingly. When out on the open water, there will be no shade aside from the shelter of the boat. Make sure to bring a hat, reef-friendly sunblock, sunglasses, and cold water. Maybe instead of sunblock, consider sun-protective clothing. And, of course, you’re on the ocean! Put on your swimsuit and bring a towel. With many tours, snacks and/or water are included.
Many tours have a marine naturalist on board to answer any questions you may have. A hydrophone is a common tool found on boat tours that pick up the songs of the whales. Most tours will take you from stop to stop to check out different sea critters and coral habitats.
Several species of dolphins and whales are endangered. Legally, tours cannot approach these mammals within a certain distance. This is not only for your safety but also for theirs. If the animals begin approaching, don’t be startled if the boat needs to turn around to create distance.
Conservation Efforts & Wildlife Interaction
Response to the endangered status of dolphins and whales has grown tremendously over the past several decades. The Big Island prides itself on working hard to give sea life the peace it needs to thrive. Conservation efforts include community education, research, and enforced protection of the waters.
Some of the biggest threats to humpback whales specifically include:
- Vessel collisions
- Acoustic disturbance: boats have disturbed the ability to communicate by sound
- Marine debris: entanglement is a great risk
How can you help? First, respect wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep a safe distance from any wildlife you encounter. Always clean up after yourself and stow away trash swiftly. Never feed marine life. Last, be conscious of the products you use when playing in the water (sunscreen, etc.).
Now is the time to book your Big Island whale-watching getaway! With the season-ending soon, you’ll still have great opportunities to witness some of the largest creatures of Earth. When you stay with us at our Volcano bed and breakfast, we’ll give you recommendations of the best boat and snorkeling guides in the area. Experience the majesty of Pacific whales and dolphins up close. Book with us now and we’ll help you make this trip one to remember!