4 Big Island Whale Watching Tours to Build a Morning Around

1.Whale Watching On The Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 573 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $98Our pick

Join Captain Bryce and the Hang Loose Boat Tours crew for a 2.5-hour whale watch from Kona’s Honokohau Harbor. You’ll scan for humpbacks, hear their songs through onboard hydrophones, and may also spot spinner dolphins. Snacks, bottled water, and a restroom are included.

“We had a good time. We did see some whales. The tour guides were helpful and informative about whales and about Kona. Would definitely recommend going to them if you are in the area.”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Big Island: Pelagic Whale Watch Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 557 reviews · 3 to 4 hours (approx.) · from $129

From Honokohau Harbor, Captain Andrew, Olivia, and the crew search Kona’s nearshore and pelagic waters for humpbacks, pilot whales, dolphins, sharks, and more. The 46-foot catamaran offers open viewing, padded seating, drinks, and a 3 to 4 hour search with marine-life commentary.

“We had a blast! I highly recommend booking a tour. The team were very informative and very kind. I will definitely book with this company when I come back to the island.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Zodiac Raft Whale Watching Adventure

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 456 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $113

Join Captain Zodiac from Kailua-Kona for a three-hour whale watch in a 16-passenger Zodiac. Captains such as Shelby, Marco, Ashley, and Rick share local history, geology, and marine facts while you search for humpbacks, dolphins, turtles, manta rays, and more. A hydrophone lets you hear whales below the boat.

“We went out first with Colin and Sam, who were both very knowledgeable and passionate about whales. It was a wonderful experience, even though we didn’t see any whales (and it wasn’t for lack of trying— Colin said that this was VERY rare for January). He wanted us to have a good experience so he booked us again the morning after, and we went with Shelby and Davonte. They were a pleasure and we saw 5 whales including the first humpback baby of the season that Shelby had seen! If you’re looking for a tour that is passionate about conservation and loves to share that passion, this is the one.”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Whale Watch Excursion from the Big Island

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 263 reviews · 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $151

Board Body Glove’s 65-foot catamaran at Kailua Pier for a 2.5-hour search for migrating humpback whales. An onboard naturalist explains whale behavior, while a hydrophone lets you hear their songs. Snacks, soft drinks, coffee, and tea are included, with a cash bar available.

“Excellent tour, well organised, made even better by the fact that whales swam directly underneath and alongside the boat. Absolutely brilliant !”

Check availability →Read our full review