Top Big Island of Hawaii Whale Watching
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41 results | All Big Island of Hawaii Tours
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Wake Up With the Whales Cruise
55
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From
$107.00
From
$107.00
See, hear and photograph the Humpback Whales from our stable catamaran decks. Early morning ocean conditions are generally the calmest of the day! Includes, soft drinks and crunchy granola bar snacks. Guaranteed – see a Humpback or ride again for free!
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* A traveler said: "We saw lots of spinner dolphins and later a mother humpback whale and her calf. The crew was friendly and informative. Covid-wise we felt very safe although it's outdoors and we were on a moving boat so the likelihood of getting Covid is pretty much 0. We highly recommend this excursion if you're there during humpback whale season."
Whale Watching On The Big Island
126
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From
$85.90
From
$85.90
Hawaii’s Big Island is home to migrating pods of humpback whales, which often breach as they build up energy for their northward migration. This narrated tour brings you to some of the best viewing grounds via 24-person catamaran. You’re able to hear the whales singing through the provided hydrophones. The tour provider guarantees whale sightings or the next trip is free.
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* A traveler said: "The boat workers were awesome. So helpful. Awesome experience. It's so nice to see the whales right in front of you."
Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island
71
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From
$105.95
From
$105.95
Get up close with humpback whales near the Big Island of Hawaii on this guided, whale watching excursion. During Hawaii's whale season, the ocean is full of activity from humpback whales migrating from the Pacific Northwest to breed and nurse their young. Hear the whales with a hydrophone and learn about their behavior patterns from the certified naturalist guide. Snacks and light refreshments are provided.
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* A traveler said: "At some point we thought we could not see the Wales but some one spot it and the Captain Bob waited for 25 minutes for whale to come back up. We thought he going to give up and we would not see the Wales.."
Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure
108
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From
$113.50
From
$113.50
Winter is the most exciting time to be out on the water in Hawaii, as it’s the time of year when thousands of migrating humpback whales visit the islands. On this exciting Big Island whale watching tour, experience the thrill of traveling aboard a high-speed raft, and then seeing a whale swimming just in front of the boat. Though the boat will obey the federal laws and not approach within 100 feet (30 meters), it isn’t uncommon for the whale to decide to swim up under the boat!
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* A traveler said: "I loved seeing the dolphins. The mother and baby whale. JC (boat captain) was excellent and made the trip fun and informative"
Mid-Morning Whale Watch
8
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From
$107.00
From
$107.00
This whale watch departs directly from Kawaihae Harbor within the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Waters so you won’t have to travel far to see the majestic Humpback Whales. Tours include expert interpretation from on board marine naturalists, great photo ops, and an underwater hydrophone to hear the whales as they sing. This trip includes crunchy snacks, tropical juices and soft drinks. The morning light makes for great photos! Guaranteed – see a Humpback or take the trip again for free!
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* A traveler said: "Excellent experience. We saw multiple whales, learned a great deal about them, and enjoyed hearing them as well."
From
$130.00
Limited to minimum of 6 & maximum of 14 people, this guided snorkeling adventure by speedboat provides a more intimate experience of Hawaii’s marine life and coral reefs than is possible on a larger group tour. The schedule is customizable, but swimming near wild dolphins. All snorkeling gear, snacks, and drinks are provided.
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* A traveler said: "This was amazing! Totally worth every penny! We had a great time swimming with the dolphins! Would highly recommend!"
Glass-bottom Boat Reef Tour
95
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From
$57.44
From
$57.44
Experience the rainbow-colored fish and bright corals beneath the waves without ever getting wet during this glass-bottom boat trip from Kona. Climb aboard your 36-foot (10-meter) vessel (specially designed for floating above reefs) with an expert naturalist as you explore the incredible marine landscape of Hawaii. As you cruise, observe Hawaii’s underwater coastline and admire fascinating creatures like dolphins, turtles and maybe even a seasonal whale or two.
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* A traveler said: "Seeing the unicorn fish and learning how fishes can changed back into a female if needed and also the dolphins and seeing Rainbow!"
Keauhou Manta Ray Night Snorkel in Kailua-Kona
371
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$79.00
From
$79.00
Small groups and a short boat ride set our experience apart.
Call tour provider directly to confirm availability, seats are limited. 8.0.8 3.1.3 1.1.1.6
You may be asked to move time or date if you have not confirmed availability.
Prior swim and snorkeling experience required. Contact tour provider for exceptions.
Snorkeling with our beautiful Kona manta rays is an experience you don't want to miss. You will never forget having these gentle giants swim so graceful before your eyes. Our expert captains and in-water guides are pulling out all the stops to make sure you get the best viewing possible.
This family run business takes pride in sharing the importance of taking care or our land, ocean, animals, and each other.
In order to book this tour; You must be able to independently climb a vertical ladder attached to the boat to exit the water. Not recommended for those who have recently undergone surgery or who may have mobility restrictions.
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* A traveler said: "It was awesome to see that many mantas during our adventure. They kept us entertained the entire time."
Night Manta Ray Adventure
1217
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$70.00
From
$70.00
Have a unique Big Island experience snorkeling with manta rays on this tour. Led by a local guide, you’ll take a short cruise out to the manta site, where you’ll watch the beautiful Hawaiian sunset before dipping into the water to watch the manta rays up close. All necessary equipment will be provided for your excursion, as well as light refreshments and snacks to enjoy on board. Your tour will conclude at its original departure point. If you don't see manta rays on this excursion, book again for another night--no charge.
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* A traveler said: "Very professional crew. Would recommend. Might be a bit much for a 5 year old if they have never snorkeled in the dark in the ocean:)"
Swim with Dolphins on Big Island Kailua-Kona Hawaii
217
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From
$160.49
From
$160.49
View dolphins in their natural environment with guides who respect these intelligent creatures’ boundaries. After feeding in deeper waters at night, spinner dolphins come close to the Kona shore where they often interact with boats, playing in their wake.
The utmost respect and care are given to our aquatic friends to assure that we do not disrupt their rest, nursing and breeding behaviors.
Depending on where and when we locate the dolphins there may also be time for a quick snorkel at one of the many beautiful reef areas along the Kona coast line, quite possibly Kealakekua Bay.
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* A traveler said: "I genuinely loved this experience! We saw dolphins but my favorite part was actually the snorkel at Captain Cook. Shelly and Jen (our captain and crew) were so awesome and knowledgeable."
Afternoon Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument
60
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From
$82.73
From
$82.73
Set sail down the Kona coastline aboard a trimaran, arriving in the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve for an afternoon of snorkeling. Splash into the turquoise waters near the Captain Cook Monument, and search for pods of spinner dolphins that frequent the bay. All equipment is provided along with light snacks and reef-safe sunscreen to make the trip convenient.
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* A traveler said: "We had such an amazing time! The crew was very attentive and entertaining and the snorkeling was amazing. The most bang for our buck on our trip for sure!"
Waikoloa Catamaran Morning Snorkel & Lunch
49
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Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$146.76
From
$146.76
Step aboard a 54 foot catamaran for a dolphin and turtle cruise from A-Bay that includes snorkeling gear and assistance from on board snorkel guides. Since the catamaran has ample deck space and shaded areas to relax, it’s a comfortable, uncrowded way to cruise the coast, and you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales during the whale watching months of December through April.
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* A traveler said: "The crew were warm and friendly They took us to a great spot where we saw a lot of beautiful fish and my son thought he saw an octopus in the rocks down under the sea"
From
$70.01
Enjoy two Hawaiian underwater adventures for the price of one with this 4-hour combination dolphin-swimming encounter and snorkeling trip. Start by exploring the 600+ species of marine life like sea turtles, coral and tropical fish that call the reefs of Kealakekua Bay home. Then meet up with a local pod of wild spinner dolphins for an optional swimming session. A trip choice without the dolphin swimming portion is also available.
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* A traveler said: "The crew was awesome. Eventhough I'm in a wheelchair they made sure I had a good time. They also paid attention to my family's sunburn. They let us hold sea creatures."
From
$139.00
Make the most of your time in port on this Kona shore excursion timed to your cruise's arrival and departure. Get picked up from the port and head out on a sailing adventure to the Captain Cook Monument and Kealkeaua Bay where you can snorkel, swim, and explore caves and lava tubes. Expect to see spinner dolphins, sea turtles, colorful fish, and ancient reefs. Lunch, snacks, and use of snorkeling gear are all included.
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* A traveler said: "The guide had to delay the trip 2 hours due to personal reason and then had to wait and extra hour before we actually left the dock. Other than that the rest of the experience was completely worth it great experience. We got to see 2 different kinds of dolphins and we even saw a reef shark! Awesome all around"
Pelagic Wildlife Excursion
2
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From
$120.00
From
$120.00
Whale season is never over for Captain Zodiac. Join us for a unique experience of a lifetime where we venture into the unknown! Enjoy a morning wildlife watching tour with our experienced Naturalist captains and crew, who share a passion & respect for the ocean and its inhabitants. Kona is one of the few unique coastlines in the world with numerous species of wildlife year-round. We have the opportunity to encounter 17 different resident whale & dolphin species, turtles, sharks, Hawaiian Monk seals, various species of birds and much more. Experience our military grade Zodiac Hurricanes – the same boats used by Navy seals as we explore the diverse habitat provided by Hawaii’s deep underwater geography, an ocean safari for the true adventure seeker!
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Snorkel & Dolphin Watch Adventure Aboard Luxury Catamaran
322
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From
$160.00
From
$160.00
Discover Kona’s underwater paradise on this snorkeling cruise and dolphin watch. Cruise through the protected marine sanctuaries of Red Hill, home to more than 600 species of enchanting ocean wildlife. After a safety briefing and some basic instruction from the lifeguard-trained crew, jump in the water for a snorkel. Also, enjoy dolphin watching and a Hawaiian-style barbecue lunch. Then relax with a cocktail from the premium cash bar and enjoy the timeless beauty of the Kona coastline on the return trip. Bring a towel. Everything else is included.
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* A traveler said: "The team was amazing!! The effort they all took to make sure we were safe and had a great time!! The dolphins were absolutely amazing!!"
Kayak Snorkel Capt. Cook Monu. See Dolphin in Kealakekua Bay Big Island (3.5hr)
294
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From
$110.42
From
$110.42
In terms of history, scenery, and marine life, there isn’t anywhere on the Big Island of Hawaii that compares to Kealakekua Bay. This protected cove on the island’s west shore is where Captain Cook met his end, and today a memorial stands at the bay to honor the famous explorer. On this guided Big Island kayaking tour, hear the history of Captain Cook as well as surrounding temples, and, after paddling past rugged sea cliffs and caves, snorkel and swim in the clear waters of this Marine Life Conservation District.
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* A traveler said: "Such a cool experience! The tour guide was awesome and super friendly. Overall, we had a great time. I would a hundred percent recommend."
Snorkel with Manta Rays Guaranteed
185
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Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$125.70
From
$125.70
Embark on an evening adventure and swim near Hawaii’s manta rays. Start the tour with a sunset sail on a comfortable trimaran to ‘Manta Ray Village’. After a safety briefing, put on your snorkel gear and spend an hour in the water using a state-of-the-art, lit up flotation device to stay on the water’s surface and observe the manta rays bellow as they feed on plankton. Finally climb aboard the boat and warm up with hot chocolate and snacks as you return to shore.
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* A traveler said: "An unbelievable experience! The manta rays are so graceful (and huge) and you see them so close! I am so glad that we did not miss this!"
Snorkel with Wildlife on the Kona Coast
62
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Guides required to regularly wash hands
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From
$170.00
From
$170.00
This "safari" style trip lets you avoid the crowds that are typical of many boat tours. In a small group, head out along the Kona coastline in search of marine life, including dolphins, sea turtles, sharks and whales. When the crew have found the right spot, you can put on your snorkeling gear, jump off board and explore the underwater world.
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* A traveler said: "Great trip! Multiple stops. Very informative and a school of dolphins swam through our group. Plenty to see. Well guided and would repeat for sure."
Deluxe Sail & Snorkel to the Captain Cook Monument
60
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$141.82
From
$141.82
This half-day boat cruise takes you to the two best snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay: The reef beneath Captain Cook's monument and the underwater lava formations of Red Hill. In addition to breakfast and lunch, your guides provide all necessary equipment, basic snorkeling tips, and identification charts to help you spot fish and dolphins in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera—the route showcases sweeping views of the Kona coastline.
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* A traveler said: "We had such a great time! Small group experience, food, fun and knowledgeable crew. Highly recommend"
ADVENTURES IN PARADISE 11:30AM KAYAK & SNORKEL - Captain Cook Monument
33
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From
$99.95
From
$99.95
Enjoy the waters of Kealakekua Bay with this kayak-and-snorkel combo adventure. You'll climb aboard a two-person kayak and make your way out to the still waters of the Ka'awaloa Cove to swim and snorkel. You'll also get the chance to visit the Captain Cook Monument before heading back to shore.
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* A traveler said: "JC and Hallie were fantastic guides with history of the island and taking us to be spots around the cove"
Luxury Dolphin Sail and Kona Snorkel
24
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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From
$422.89
From
$422.89
Take the ultimate snorkeling and sailing trip along the Kona Coast during this 4-hour luxury yacht trip with a small group. Explore the stunning beaches and bays of the Big Island aboard a high-end boat, stopping at top snorkel sites and spotting marine life like dolphins, turtles, and whales. Unlimited refreshments, plus snorkel gear and a tasty picnic- or bento-style lunch are also included.
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* A traveler said: "Best experience of our visit to Hawaii! Captain Brooke and Liz are awesome. Exceeded our high expectations"
Hāmākua Historical Hawai‘i Afternoon Cruise
4
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From
$153.26
From
$153.26
Each winter, scores of majestic humpback whales make their way to Hawaii. This Big Island boat tour cruises the dramatic Hamakua Coast in search of whales. In summer, when whales are less numerous, the tour seeks out scenery like waterfalls and sheer cliffs. The tour includes drinks and snacks, and leaves from Wailoa Harbor.
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Kealakekua Bay Snorkeling Tour - 4 hour Kona Zodiac Adventure
257
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From
$135.11
From
$135.11
Splash into the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay on this Big Island snorkeling adventure! Dart in and out of sea caves and explore the gorgeous Kona coastline in an agile Zodiac raft. Snorkel among colorful tropical fish, and keep an eye out for other marine life like whales, dolphins and sea turtles. Along the way, learn about the island’s geologic history and local legends from your expert guide, and see the spot where Captain Cook first landed in Hawaii.
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* A traveler said: "We had a great time , Captain Chuck An First Mate Elliott were fun an informative. We will continue to use Captain zodiac for all our snorkeling adventures. FYI, this is our fourth trip with Captain Zodiac."
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