7 Best Whale Watching Tours in Kona Big Island -By an Expert
Have you typed in “whale watch tours near me in kona” looking for the best whale watching tours in Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii? Look no further!
Whale watching in Hawaii is such a fond memory of mine! It was so exhilarating finding and getting up close to these giant sea creatures, making me feel so small! Plus, living on the Big Island, I was always able to keep an eye out for the whales from the shore. So cool!
One of the best things to do in Kona is taking a boat tour so you can get you up close and personal with these majestic humpback whales!
If you don’t want to read the whole article, this is my top choice for a whale tour:
Captain Zodiac’s Whale Watching Tour
I prefer smaller crowds and the Zodiac high-speed boat is adventurous, easily keeping up with the surprisingly fast whales
BEST WHALE WATCHING TOURS IN KONA
1. Body Glove Cruises
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 2.5hrs
>> Check Rates and Availability on Body Glove Whale Watching Tours Here! <<
Why choose this tour? Your Body Glove certified naturalist guide is passionate is about their job and will provide insights into the whales’ behavior patterns, using a hydrophone to amplify the sounds of these majestic creatures.
The boat is often followed by bonus spinner dolphins.
Onboard, you can enjoy snacks and drinks, as well as a full service bar. The boat is wheelchair accessible and there are bathrooms on board.
I was impressed with how kind and attentive the staff was, the food and drinks were surprisingly good (locally sourced), and I liked the option of having a table under cover on the first floor or the more spacious, open-air top deck for 360 degree viewing.
If crowds are not your thing, this tour is probably not for you as this boat can hold over 100 passengers.
But you can have peace of mind with a guarantee of whale sightings, or come again for free!
The Body Glove Whale Watching Tour includes:
- Snacks and light refreshments
- Drinks (alcohol available for purchase)
- 110 passengers max
- All ages allowed
- Onboard naturalist commentary
- Hydrophone to hear the whales
What past whale watchers have said: “We had a great ride. Between all the whales our guide Dennis and the drinks it was the best way to spend our afternoon. We felt so lucky to see the rare beaked whales on our tour too.” – Julianne (read more reviews)
2. Hawaiian Adventures
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 2.5 hrs ⚠️Likely to Sell Out!
>> Check Rates and Availability for Hawaiian Adventures Whale Watching Tour Here! <<
Why choose this tour? If you’re looking for an amazing whale watching tour that offers plenty of educational opportunities to learn about these gentle giants, then Hawaiian Adventures is the perfect choice!
Hawaiian Adventures’ naturalists are often the first people to spot and and photo-identify new calves with mothers in Kona. But not only that, they also migrate north with the whales to the Pacific Northwest to study them in their feeding areas.
With onboard hydrophones to hear the whales, professional naturalists who are there to educate and enhance your experience, and ongoing contributions to research, you can be sure that your experience will be both informative and enjoyable on their state-of-the-art USGC certified vessel.
Most importantly, Hawaiian Adventures is one of the few companies that offer year-round guaranteed dolphin and whale-watching tours as there are 18 species of whales in these waters, not just humpbacks.
The Hawaiian Adventures Whale Watching Tour in Kona includes:
- Drinks
- 46 passengers max
- Ages 10 and up allowed
- Onboard naturalist commentary
- Hydrophone to hear the whales
What past Hawaiian Adventures whale watchers have said: “This was 100% my favorite activity that we did on our trip! We saw so many baby whales with their mamas and escorts! It was so fun to watch the babies flipping out of the water. We also saw dolphins; they swam right against our boat! […] The ride was smooth and the crew was great! Highly recommend.” – Justine (read more reviews)
3. Hawaii Nautical Powerboat
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 1.5 hrs
>> Check Rates and Availability on Hawaii Nautical Powerboat Whale Watching Tours Here! <<
Why choose this tour? Hawaii Nautical conveniently departs off the beach at Anaeho’omalu Bay in Waikoloa. Their powerboat is the newest vessel on the Kona coast and will get you to the whales FAST!
They guarantee that you’ll see whales or you can come back and cruise again free on a same, or lesser, value trip, including on Oahu, which I think is great if you’re island hopping!
The Hawaiian Nautical Powerboat Whale Watching Tour in Kona includes:
- Drinks
- All ages allowed
- 17 passengers max
What past whale watchers have said: “Great experience. Knowledgeable crew. Heard whales singing and even had one pass under the boat. Just the right length of time for 3 yr old too!” – Catherine (read more reviews)
4. Dolphin Discoveries
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 2.5hrs
>> Check Rates and Availability on Dolphin Discoveries Whale Watching Tour Here! <<
Why choose this tour? Dolphin Discoveries offers intimate whale watching tours on their fully outfitted rigid hull inflatable vessels where guests can enjoy the company of these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. Their small-group cruises ensure that everyone has front row seat to take pictures, and their onboard commentary from naturalist guides provides an educational experience that is second to none.
One of the most magical things on my trip was hearing the whales on the hydrophone. Dolphin Discoveries gives you this opportunity to listen to whale songs, an unforgettable “musical” experience.
The Dolphin Discoveries Whale Watching Tour in Kona includes:
- Snacks
- 14 passengers max
- Ages 5 and up allowed
- Onboard naturalist commentary
- Hydrophone to hear the whales
What past snorkelers have said: “Outstanding trip for family […] Perfect outing. We saw whales, while learning about the local history” – Mark (read more reviews)
5. Captain Zodiac
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 3 hrs ⚠️Likely to Sell Out!
>> Check Rates and Availability for Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour Here! <<
Why choose this tour? The Captain Zodiac whale watching tour offers visitors a chance to chase down whales in a fast 24-foot Zodiac raft while also exploring some of the geology of the Big Island, if time allows. The raft can maneuver through lava tubes and sea caves as your captain discusses everything from Hawaiian history to the island’s unique geology, all while keeping eyes peeled for signs of whales.
This high-speed raft tour is perfect for those looking for a speedy and informative adventure. Again, I like a fast tour, so this one fits the bill.
The Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour in Kona includes:
- Drinks
- Snacks
- 16 passengers max
- Ages 4 and up allowed
- Onboard naturalist commentary
- Hydrophone to hear the whales
What past whale watchers have said: “Our captain was great! He had a lot of interesting stories to tell and was able to find us groups of whales that were well away from the other boats. Loved being close to the water in the zodiac.” – Joel (read more reviews)
6. Hang Loose Boat Tours
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 3 hrs
>> Check Rates and Availability on Hang Loose Boat Tours Whale Watching Here! <<
Why choose this tour? Hang Loose whale watching tours take place in their luxury catamaran. It is specifically designed for open oceans conditions, which will allow you to sit back in cushioned, shaded seats (good for people like me who get sun stroke easily) and enjoy the musical whales singing through the hydrophones!
The Hang Loose Tours Whale Watching in Kona includes:
- Drinks
- Snacks
- All ages allowed
- 24 passengers max
- Hydrophone to hear the whales
- Restroom onboard
What past whale watchers have said: “Our time in the whale-watching excursion was wonderful. Simon and his crew were knowledgeable, funny and kind. To add to that, we saw several whales, dolphins and sea turtles. It was the perfect way to start off our vacation on the Big Island.” – Delwin (read more reviews)
7. Hawaii Nautical Catamaran
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars ⏳Tour Length: 1.5 hrs
>> Check Rates and Availability on Hawaii Nautical Catamaran Whale Watching Tours Here! <<
Why choose this tour? If you are staying on the northern end of the Big Island, Hawaii Nautical’s catamaran whale watching tour departs out of Honokohau Harbor.
Their comfortable 53-foot sailing catamaran will take you on a journey to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, and their knowledgeable crew will teach you all about their unique behavior.
The Hawaiian Nautical Catamaran Whale Watching Tour in Kona includes:
- Drinks
- All ages allowed
- 49 passengers max
What past whale watchers have said: “We were lucky to saw a whale giving a little show to us. The crew and captain were nice and welcoming. We really enjoyed the trip!” – Yichen (read more reviews)
What is the Best Month for Whale Watching on the Big Island?
Various whales can be seen in Kona year round like pilot whales, beaked whales, and melon-headed whales, but none put on quite the show and are as consistent as the seasonal humpback whales.
If you’re looking to go whale watching on the Big Island, you’ll want to do so during the winter months. Whale watching season is between December and March. This is when 10,000-15,000 humpback whales migrate south from feeding in Alaska and they can be seen in great numbers breeding around the Hawaiian Islands.
Whale tours will start when the pods have arrived, usually late November to early December. Tours will stop operating around late March. January and February offer the best months for whale watching as this is peak season.
The reason whale watching cruises do not operate between April and November is that the humpbacks have migrated north to Alaska. The year-round whales cannot give guaranteed sightings.
What Should I Bring on a Whale Watching Tour in Kona?
If you’re planning to go whale watching on the Big Island, it’s important to be prepared for your time on the water.
For starters, you’ll want to bring plenty of sun protection such as a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen.
A light jacket or long-sleeved shirt might be wise in case the ocean breezes are cooler than expected.
If you are prone to seasickness (like me), you’ll want to take Dramamine or find another seasickness prevention measure like an anti-nausea wristband.
You’ll of course want to bring a camera/phone, preferably with a waterproof case to protect it from ocean spray while capturing all the amazing marine life and scenery you’ll see on your tour.
Side Note: one of the tours I was on, someone dropped their phone on the boat but it slipped out one of the drain holes and was lost into the ocean. So hold onto yours tight!
And finally, if you have a GoPro or other action camera, consider attaching it to a string and placing it in the water to capture footage of the humpback whales below your boat.
FAQs
Is Kona Good for Whale Watching?
Yes! You can you see whales in Kona and the North Kohala Coast. These are the best places for Big Island whale watching. This is where the majority of humpbacks can be seen from whale tours or even from land.
The Kona coastline has a dramatic shelf drop due to the volcanic building of the the island. Just a few hundred yards offshore and the ocean is thousands of feet deep, allowing space for the humpbacks to swim very near to shore.
Is it Better to Whale Watch in the Morning or Afternoon on the Big Island, Hawaii?
Whales do not wear wristwatches or have a concept of hours in the day. They are active throughout the day and come out to play any time of their choosing.
That being said, it is argued that mornings are the best time to go whale watching. The ocean is calmer and less choppy, allowing tails and spouts to be more easily spotted. The weather also tends to be nicer in the mornings, before any potential afternoon showers.
But there is nothing wrong with afternoon whale watching tours. Underwater photographers will prefer afternoon light as the sun is up higher, illuminating more ocean water.
Can I See Whales From Land?
Yes! Humpbacks are so large that they can easily be seen from land all along the Kona coast.
You can DIY a whale watching by parking yourself at a beach and patiently keeping an eye on the horizon for spouts and breaching.
The best places to see them are beaches with the most expansive horizon like Kua Bay, Spencer Beach Park, or Kapaʻa Beach Park. But I have seen them from Ali’i Drive, so there’s just no telling where they’ll make an appearance!
Which Hawaiian Island is the Best for Whale Watching?
Whale watching tours can be found on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. But if you had to choose an island solely for whale watching, Maui would arguably be the best island.
The highest concentration of humpbacks reside in the warm, shallow waters of the Au’au Channel between Maui, Lana’i, and Molokai.
With that being said, whale sightings are abundant on the other Hawaiian Islands and offer just as much of a fantastic whale watching cruise experience.
How Close Can You Get to a Humpback Whale?
As stated by federal law, it is prohibited to stay within 100 yards of a humpback whale in Hawaiian waters. This regulation applies to all boaters, swimmers, surfers, or anyone using the ocean and must be completely followed at all times.
But while you are not allowed to approach the whales and cruise tours do their best to stay that distance away, the whales have no regulations to get close to you! Often whales will swim under the boats at no fault of the crew’s, so you get to enjoy the majesty of their size anyways.
What Else Will I See on a Whale Watching Tour in Kona?
Aside from humpback whales, you’ll also have the opportunity to see spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, various tropical fishes and of course, unmatched island scenery.
The spinner dolphins are a real treat to see and often put on an acrobatic show for whale watching boats.
Other marine life you might encounter are green sea turtles and schools of tropical fish. There is also the possibility of spotting other types of whale like the pilot whales or beaked whales.
Once in a while, manta rays are another amazing creature that you may spot on your whale watching cruise, though it is rare. The best way to see them is to take a manta ray night snorkel tour out of Kona.
And finally, the views of the Hawaiian coastline and mountains are simply unbeatable and make for great photo opportunities.
Check Out These Other Water-Based Tours Out of Kona!
Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkel Tours
Manta Ray Night Snorkel Tours
Scuba Diving in Kona
Kealakekua Bay Kayak/Paddle Board Experience
Sunset Dinner Cruises
Final Thoughts on Best Whale Watching Tours in Kona
If you are looking for the best whale watching tours in Kona, there are plenty of great options to choose from. Whether you want to try a luxury catamaran tour or go on a small speedboat adventure, you are sure to spot majestic humpback whales and have an amazing experience. I know I did!
🌺 Big Island Travel Planning Guide 🌺
🚨 Should I buy Hawaii travel insurance?
YES — I recommend Travel Insurance Master because you can compare multiple options with one click. With plans starting at $5/day per person, why not give yourself piece of mind? Better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!
🚗 Is it safe to rent a car on the Big Island?
YES — It’s totally safe to drive on the Big Island. And unless you plan to chill by the resort pool the entire time, renting a car is pretty much a necessity on the Big Island! Jeep rentals are popular. I recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental, as they have some of the best prices around.
📞 Will my phone work on the Big Island?
PROBABLY — Most, if not all, cell providers work on the Big Island. However, be prepared for some dead spots in the more remote parts of the island. For example, I always lose service driving through Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
🛏️ What’s the best way to book my Big Island accommodations?
For Big Island hotels, Booking.com is amazing because you can often reserve your room with no money down. If you are looking for an Airbnb condo with a kitchen and more space, don’t forget to check VRBO for potentially better prices and options.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Big Island flights?
I recommend looking at Skyscanner for finding cheap flights. Pro Tip: check if flying into Hilo is cheaper than flying into Kona.
🛂 Do I need a passport to visit Hawaii?
NO — If you are a US citizen, you do not need a passport as Hawaii is part of the United States. If you are from out of the country, the same passport and visa requirements are the same as entering anywhere in the United States from your country.
🧳What should I pack to the Big Island?
Pack for tropical weather but also prepare for colder than expected nights and early mornings, so a light sweatshirt is recommended. Check out this list of 5 Things Not to Forget to Pack.
