Whale Watching on the Kona Coast: A Hawaii Adventure
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; no intense physical activity needed as the boat is stable and comfortable.
Overview
Join Hawaiian Adventures for an exclusive whale watching tour along the Kona Coast. Discover the magic of humpback whales up close while enjoying expert guidance and breathtaking ocean views.
Whale Watching on the Kona Coast
3-4 Hours • Ages 10+ • Daily Departures
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About This Adventure
Year-Round Dolphin and Whale Watch Tours
Duration
3-4 Hours
About
Kona is the ultimate whale and wildlife destination. Kona’s calm waters, deep coastlines, and variety of marine life make the region a world-class eco-tour location. The best tours leave out of Honokohau Harbor, which has access to both near-shore and pelagic zones. Exploring the near-shore zone, you have the opportunity to see humpbacks, spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, flying fish, and surface-feeding mantas. With a US Coast Guard offshore certification, Hawaiian Adventures Kona can also reach the pelagic zone- something very few tours do. The pelagic zone expands the search to pilot whales, beaked whales, sperm whales, spotted dolphins, whale sharks, and more! Hawaiian Adventures’ 3-4 hour tours allow for a greater search range, more time with whales, and more wildlife encounters on every tour!
How To Prepare
Sunscreen
Being sunburnt on your vacation is no fun! While our vessel Artemis has lots of shaded areas, you never know when you’ll be in the sun! The best time to apply sunscreen is either before getting to the marina or before boarding the vessel. Spray-on sunscreen is not allowed onboard.
Shoes Optional!
Artemis was built for comfort! Our vessel features SeaDek, a state-of-the-art closed-cell foam, that is most comfortable when you’re barefoot. Upon boarding our crew will have a bin for shoes, so plan your footwear choice accordingly (sandals recommended).
Motion Sickness
For our whale watching tours, we often head into open water. If you’re prone to motion sickness, please take motion sickness medication the morning of your tour before arriving to the marina.
Snacks
All Hawaiian Adventures Kona tours have complimentary cold beverages available onboard. We recommend leaving the snacks at home and showing up for the tour with a full belly! Due to the speed of the vessel, it’s extremely hard to eat while we’re underway. Please do not bring snacks onboard.
Important Note:
Tours require a minimum of 10 passengers for departure.
Adventure Tips
Bring Binoculars for Better Viewing
Binoculars will enhance your ability to see whales at a distance, increasing your chances of spotting detailed behaviors.
Apply Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect both yourself and the marine environment by using environmentally friendly sunscreen before boarding.
Stay Hydrated Onboard
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during your time on the ocean, especially under the tropical sun.
Follow Crew Instructions for Safety
Always listen carefully to the crew’s guidance to ensure a safe and smooth whale watching experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Humpback whales
- Spinner dolphins
History
The Kona Coast has long been revered by native Hawaiians, with whales featuring prominently in local legend and cultural practices.
Conservation
Tours follow strict guidelines to minimize disturbance to whales and support ongoing marine conservation efforts in the area.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kailua-Kona
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protects your skin while safeguarding Hawaii’s delicate marine ecosystems.
summer specific
Hat with Wide Brim
Provides shade and sun protection during your time on deck.
spring specific
Light Jacket or Windbreaker
Keeps you warm during cooler mornings and brisk ocean breeze.
winter specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the wildlife viewing experience.