Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona

78 Reviews 4.64 out of 5 stars Based on 78 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor |
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Big Island of Hawaii, USA
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from $99 per person

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Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona Image 1
Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona Image 2
Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona Image 3
Moana Lou
Kai Mana and Nai'a Nui

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.
2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

Hawaiʻi’s Kona Coast offers exceptional opportunities to experience marine life, dramatic coastal landscapes, and rich Hawaiian history. Join us on a relaxed coastal cruise with opportunities to observe dolphins, sea turtles, and, during the winter season, migrating humpback whales. This 2.5 hour tour also provides close-up views of sea caves, lava tubes, and breathtaking volcanic scenery, along with access to areas reachable only by boat.

Important: The listed start time is the check-in time, not the departure time. Please do not arrive early. This tour has two designated meeting points. Carefully review all tour details prior to booking, as this experience may not be suitable for all guests.

This is a non-snorkeling tour. Generally suitable for ages 5 to 70. Tour time is 2.5 hrs.

What's Included

  • Naturalist guides
  • Gratuities
  • Please bring your own reef safe sunscreen, jacket, camera
  • Private transportation
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Meeting Location

Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

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Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free

Kailua-Kona

READ THIS. START TIME IS IS NOT THE DEPARTURE TIME. START TIME IS THE CHECK IN TIME. DO NOT ARRIVE EARLY. THERE ARE TWO MEETING POINTS FOR THIS TOUR. PLEASE READ ALL TOUR DETAILS BEFORE BOOKING AS THIS TOUR IS NOT SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE.Our 2.5hr Dolphin & Whale Watch explores the world of dolphins & whales, wildlife & Kona’s dramatic coastline. Our captains will narrate your journey & point out spectacular sights while providing information on the area’s wildlife, history & geology while you slowly cruise looking for a variety of wildlife. So come aboard one of our rigid hull inflatable vessels and cruise with us on this relaxed island cruise.This is a non-snorkeling tour. Generally suitable for ages 5-70.
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2 hours 30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Restroom facilities not available on boat
  • For ages 5 to 70

Frequently Asked Questions

(9)

Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?

A: As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat. Read more Dec 2022

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-89864P6

Traveler Photos

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Reviews

4.64
78 reviews

Average 4.64 out of 5 stars based on 78 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
63
4 stars
6
3 stars
6
2 stars
2
1 star
1

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On average, this is booked 18 (0) days in advance.
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Frequently Asked Questions (9)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Hawaii customers.

Filter by:

Q: Do we get to swim with or touch the dolphins?
A:

As an active member of the Dolphin SMART program, we do not have physical contact with the dolphins on Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.

Dec 2022
Q: Will I get seasick on Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona?
A:

If you have any doubts about becoming seasick on the water, we recommend taking a Dramamine® Motion Sickness Relief tablet the night before your trip. Some people recommend taking it the night before your cruise and then again that morning so you will not feel so drowsy.

Feb 2023
Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
  • This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • Naturalist guides.
The following is NOT included:
  • Gratuities.
  • Please bring your own reef safe sunscreen, jacket, camera.
  • Private transportation.
  • Restroom on board.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the weather cancellation policy?
A:

This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this activity?
A:

The minimum age to participate is 5. This activity requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible activity?
A:

Accessibility information for the Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona is as follows:

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Humpback Whale and Dolphin Watch in Kona will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Hawaii. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024

What's Included

Activity name

  • Naturalist guides
  • Gratuities
  • Please bring your own reef safe sunscreen, jacket, camera
  • Private transportation
  • Restroom on board

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Restroom facilities not available on boat
  • For ages 5 to 70
  • Tour is on a Raft style boat. Be sure that this style boat is suitable for you.
  • Not for those with mobility issues
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travelers

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You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.

  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
  • This activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
  • This activity requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

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