Kauai's South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure

144 Reviews 4.56 out of 5 stars Based on 144 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 90% of reviewers
90% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Kauai, USA
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from $158.43 per person

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

Experience the awe of Kauai’s whale watching season as you journey just off the island’s coast to witness the migration of Hawaii’s humpback whales. Each winter from December through May, these gentle giants make their way to Kauai’s warm waters, putting on an unforgettable show of breaching, tail slapping, and singing that delights visitors of all ages. There’s nothing like the thrill of spotting a spout on the horizon, hearing a massive splash, or catching the haunting notes of a whale’s song echoing through the ocean. Share this rare encounter with family and friends and return home with stories to last a lifetime, no snorkeling required, just pure adventure and the magic of the wild Pacific.

What's Included

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Coast Guard certified captain and crew
  • Rain/Splash Jackets (Available for purchase)
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off
  • Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Kukuiʻula Harbor Beach
Koloa, HI 96756, USA

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

What To Expect

Climb aboard one of our twin 25-foot Zodiac “Hurricane” vessels—fast, nimble boats trusted by Navy SEALs and designed for action, not lounging. Our whale and dolphin adventure is especially memorable, offering you a front-row seat as humpbacks surface, breach, and play in Kauai’s pristine winter waters. These tours only run during peak season (December–May), ensuring the best chances to spot whales, dolphins, and other marine wildlife.

Your knowledgeable crew will share fascinating facts about whale behavior and Kauai’s ecosystems, while children will enjoy the excitement and safe thrill of adventure on the waves. With a maximum of 14 passengers per boat, you’re guaranteed a more intimate experience and great photo opportunities. Please note: This tour does not include snorkeling, and is best suited for adventure-loving families and wildlife enthusiasts.

Additional Info

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • This is an ADVENTURE and not a leisure cruise.
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • All passengers must be 5 years of age or older

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 Kauai’s South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure. 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.

Still have questions?

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Activity code: C-155716P3

Traveler Photos

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Reviews

4.56
144 reviews

Average 4.56 out of 5 stars based on 144 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
108
4 stars
21
3 stars
6
2 stars
5
1 star
4

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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 Kauai’s South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure. We watch them in their natural habitat from the boat.

Dec 2022
Q: Will I get seasick on Kauai’s South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure?
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 Kauai’s South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure?
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:
  • Snacks.
  • Bottled water.
  • Coast Guard certified captain and crew.
  • Dry Bag for personal belongings.
  • Life jackets and all required safety gear.
  • Guided whale and dolphin watching tour.
The following is NOT included:
  • Rain/Splash Jackets (Available for purchase).
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off.
  • Gratuities.
  • Towels.
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 Kauai's South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure 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
  • This is an ADVENTURE and not a leisure cruise.
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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 Kauai’s South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure 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

  • Snacks
  • Bottled water
  • Coast Guard certified captain and crew
  • Dry Bag for personal belongings
  • Life jackets and all required safety gear
  • Guided whale and dolphin watching tour
  • Rain/Splash Jackets (Available for purchase)
  • Hotel pick-up and drop off
  • Gratuities
  • Towels

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
  • 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
  • This is an ADVENTURE and not a leisure cruise.
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • All passengers must be 5 years of age or older
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 14 travelers

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Free Cancellation

100% refund
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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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