What species of whales and dolphins will we see?

Humpback whales are common during the winter season; dolphins such as spinner and bottlenose are seen year-round, along with occasional pilot whales.

Is snorkeling required?

No, snorkeling is optional and depends on weather and sea conditions during the trip.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?

Winter months (December to April) offer the best chance to see migrating humpback whales off Kona’s coast.

Are children allowed on the boat?

Yes, this tour welcomes children ages 5 and up with proper supervision.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Accessibility is limited on this vessel; please contact the operator directly for specific accommodations.

What should I bring on the tour?

Bring sun protection, water, a camera, and optionally snorkeling gear for the most enjoyable experience.

Experience the Ultimate Whale and Dolphin Watch Adventure in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Set against the vast Pacific expanse off the coast of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, the Whale and Dolphin Watch adventure delivers an unforgettable 2.5-hour journey into marine wilderness. This guided boat trip lets guests glide along Kona’s rugged coastline, one of the premier places in the world to spot majestic humpback whales during their seasonal migration and year-round pods of playful dolphins and elusive pilot whales. Departing from 78-6962 Kamehameha III Rd, this excursion blends thrilling wildlife encounters with immersive education, making it an essential experience for nature lovers and families alike.

The Kona coastline is renowned for its deep waters that attract a diversity of cetaceans, offering exceptional viewing opportunities right from the boat’s deck. Participants can enjoy stunning close-up sightings of breaching humpbacks, hear the haunting songs of whales through an onboard underwater hydrophone, and gain insights from knowledgeable guides about these magnificent creatures’ behaviors and migratory patterns. When conditions allow, snorkel sessions deepen the connection to this vibrant marine environment, as guests swim alongside Hawaiian spinner dolphins and tropical fish in crystal-clear waters.

What sets this Whale and Dolphin Watch apart is its focus on conservation and authentic interaction. Guides emphasize respectful wildlife viewing practices, striving to minimize disturbance while maximizing the educational value of every encounter. This excursion stands as a vital part of Kona’s outdoor recreation offering, drawing visitors into the heartbeat of Hawaii’s ocean life with a sense of wonder and responsibility.

Beyond the extraordinary marine sightings, the journey treats travelers to sweeping views of the Kona coastline’s volcanic cliffs and sunset-lit horizons. This mix of wildlife spectacle and scenic beauty captures the essence of Hawaii’s natural heritage.

Perfect for families (ages 5 and up), this moderate adventure suits those moderately fit with a love of the ocean and nature. No specialized technical skills are required, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers seeking a genuine Hawaiian marine experience.

Whether you’re an avid wildlife watcher, a snorkeler, or simply a traveler eager to connect with the ocean’s wild side, the Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kailua-Kona is a standout adventure that delivers excitement, education, and a profound appreciation for one of the Pacific’s most captivating environments.

About Dolphin Discoveries

Dolphin Discoveries operates out of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, offering guided marine excursions focused on snorkeling, whale and dolphin watching, and private charters. The company runs tours to iconic Big Island sites including Kealakekua Bay, Captain Cook's Monument, and the Place of Refuge (Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau), providing access to clear Kona waters, sea caves, lava tubes, and diverse reef ecosystems.

Trips range from 2.5-hour snorkeling and whale/dolphin watches to four-hour deluxe snorkeling adventures and personalized private charters. The Deluxe Kona Snorkel Adventure visits two snorkel spots, including Captain Cook's Monument and the Place of Refuge, while the Captain Cook Snorkel Adventure focuses on Kealakekua Bay with flexible timing to avoid crowds. The Whale and Dolphin Watch offers seasonal humpback observation plus year-round dolphins and pilot whales, with hydrophone listening available on certain departures.

Crew members share Hawaiian cultural context and local natural history during cruises, teaching guests about volcanic formations, sea caves, lava tubes, and site significance. Private charters allow guests to collaborate with the captain to design a custom 'Holo Holo' excursion tailored to group preferences, whether snorkeling reefs, searching for dolphins, or exploring coastal features.

Dolphin Discoveries emphasizes responsible wildlife viewing within Kona's marine sanctuary areas and operates from Kailua-Kona to access popular snorkeling and marine-watching locations. Travelers seeking family-friendly trips, first-time snorkelers, or private group outings can choose from scheduled public departures or customized private options. Booking information, specific departure details, and trip durations are available through the company's reservation channels. Availability varies seasonally; advance reservations are advised online.