Guide to Whale Watching on the Big Island, Hawaii

Whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii (okay, anywhere in Hawaii) is a bucket-list-worthy activity that I hope everyone can experience at least once in their lifetime. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make the most of your Big Island whale-watching adventure.

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Best Time to Go Whale Watching on the Big Island

The whale watching season on the Big Island runs from December to April. This is when humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth. The peak of the season is typically in February and March, offering the highest chance of sightings.

Most people find the most luck spotting the whales in the early morning hours due to the calm(er) ocean water. However, whales are active all day long!

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Where to Whale Watch on the Big Island

The best spot for whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is along the Kohala Coast, especially from the shores of Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site and Hapuna Beach State Park. Other great locations include:

• Kapaʻa Beach Park (North Kohala) – Less crowded, great for spotting humpback whales in the winter.
• Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A-Bay) – A scenic beach with calm waters, ideal for shoreline spotting.
• Kealakekua Bay – While primarily known for snorkeling, boat tours here offer fantastic whale-watching opportunities.
• Honokōhau Harbor (Kailua-Kona) – Many whale-watching tours depart from this area.

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Choosing a Big Island Whale-Watching Tour

Finding the right whale-watching tour can make all the difference! Here’s what to look for:

• Awesome guides – A great guide will share fun facts about whales, their behaviors, and how to protect them.
• Wildlife-friendly practices – Choose a tour that follows the rules and keeps a respectful distance from the whales.
• Smaller groups – A more intimate experience means better views and a chance to ask all your questions!

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Best Whale-watching Tours on the Big Island

Ready to spot some gentle giants? Check out some of the highest rated whale-watching tours on the Big Island below!

1. Kailua-Kona: Whale Watching Cruise on the Big Island

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Departs: Honokohau Harbor
• Includes: Snacks, drinks, and use of a hydrophone
• Price: $115 pp
• # onboard: 27

If you’re looking for an unforgettable whale-watching experience on the Big Island, this Kailua-Kona cruise is a must! Running from December through April, this 2.5-hour tour departs from Honokōhau Harbor and takes you out on a 27-person vessel, keeping the experience more personal and less crowded.

The friendly and knowledgeable crew provides fascinating insights about the humpback whales, their migration patterns, and conservation efforts. Plus, they use a hydrophone, so you can actually listen to the whales sing!

The boat has comfortable seating, plenty of shade, and a smooth ride, making it a relaxing way to enjoy the ocean views. With guaranteed sightings or a free trip to try again, it’s a well-organized and fun way to see these gentle giants up close!

Check current pricing and availability here!

2. Hilo: Humpback Whale Watching Cruise

• Duration: 90 minutes
• Departs: Wailoa Harbor, Hilo
• Includes: Snacks, drinks, and expert commentary
• Price: $169 pp
• # Onboard: 6

For a unique whale-watching experience on the Big Island’s east side, this 1.5 hour cruise from Hilo is a fantastic choice! Departing from Wailoa Harbor, this tour offers an up-close look at majestic humpback whales as they migrate through Hawaiian waters from December to April.

It’s the only whale-watching tour on the East side of the island!

Only 6 people are allowed onboard, so you’ll get an up-close and personal experience! There are snacks, drinks, and rain ponchos available if needed!

If you’re in Hilo and looking for a fun, well-organized whale-watching trip, this tour is a great pick!

Check current pricing and availability here!

3. Kona: Super Raft Whale Watching Tour

• Duration: 2.5 hours
• Departs: Honokōhau Harbor, Kailua-Kona
• Includes: Expert commentary, high-speed raft experience
• Price: $135 pp
• # Onboard: 18

For an exciting and up-close whale-watching adventure, this Kona Super Raft tour is an awesome choice! Departing from Honokōhau Harbor, this 2.5-hour tour takes you out on a high-speed, low-profile raft, giving you an incredible front-row seat to humpback whales as they breach and play in Hawaiian waters.

With only 18 passengers, the experience feels personal, and the small raft allows you to get closer to the action than larger boats. The knowledgeable captain and crew provide great insights into whale behavior, making the trip both thrilling and educational. The ride can be fast and bumpy at times, so it’s perfect for adventure seekers who don’t mind a little splash!

If you’re looking for a unique, adrenaline-filled way to see these gentle giants in Kona, this super raft tour is a fantastic pick!

Check current pricing and availability here!

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What to Bring on a Big Island Whale-watching Tour

Whale watching in Hawaii is an unforgettable experience, but a little prep can make it even better! Here’s what you’ll want to bring along:

• Sunglasses & Hat – The sun reflecting off the water can be intense.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Protect your skin and the ocean!
• Light Jacket – It can get breezy, especially on a fast-moving boat.
• Binoculars – Get an even closer look at these gentle giants.
• Camera or Phone – You won’t want to miss capturing the moment.
• Motion Sickness Prevention – If you’re prone to seasickness like I am, take something beforehand just in case. It’ll make the trip much more enjoyable.
• Reusable Water Bottle & Snacks – Most of the tours do include drinks and snacks, but I always like to bring my own just in case:)

With these essentials, you’ll be set for an amazing time spotting humpback whales on the Big Island!

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Responsible Whale Watching & Conservation

These majestic creatures offer an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts, but with this privilege comes the responsibility to protect them and their natural habitat. Before taking a whale-watching tour on the Big Island (or anywhere) I strongly encourage you to do your research to ensure responsible whale-watching.

Here are some tips!

Best Practices for Responsible Whale Watching

1. Respect the 100-yard Rule: When observing whales from a boat, it’s crucial to keep a safe distance of at least 100 yards (300 feet). This helps reduce the risk of disturbing the whales while allowing for close-up views without interrupting their natural behaviors. If you’re on a boat and the whales approach closer, it’s essential to stay calm and avoid sudden movements.
2. Choose Certified Eco-Tour Operators: Selecting a tour company that follows ethical guidelines ensures a more respectful experience for the whales and a better understanding of the species. Certified eco-tour operators are trained to follow the best practices for whale watching and avoid disrupting the whales’ natural activities. Many of these companies also contribute to marine conservation efforts and support local organizations working to protect marine life.
3. Avoid Disrupting Whales’ Natural Behavior: Whales, like all wildlife, should not be harassed or forced into close encounters. If a whale appears to be swimming away or actively avoiding a boat, it’s crucial to respect its space and not chase or follow it. Additionally, it’s important not to engage in loud activities that could disturb the peaceful environment of the whales.
4. Educate Yourself and Others: A key part of responsible whale watching is learning about the species you’re observing. The humpback whales that migrate to Hawaii are protected under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, and understanding their behaviors, needs, and the current threats they face can enhance your appreciation of the animals. Some tour operators even offer educational talks during the trip, highlighting whale migration patterns and conservation efforts.

Conservation Efforts on the Big Island

The Big Island is home to several organizations working tirelessly to protect whale populations and their habitats:

1. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary: This sanctuary protects the waters around the islands where humpback whales are most commonly seen. It covers 1,400 square miles and provides a safe environment for whales to breed, give birth, and nurse their calves. The sanctuary is a critical part of Hawaii’s conservation efforts, and local regulations are enforced to reduce the risks to marine life.
2. Hawaii Wildlife Fund: This nonprofit organization is focused on the conservation of Hawaii’s marine ecosystems, including whales. They lead various community-based efforts to reduce human impacts on the environment, including beach cleanups, educational programs, and advocacy for policies that protect marine mammals and their habitats.
3. Pacific Whale Foundation: The Pacific Whale Foundation operates on both Maui and the Big Island and is dedicated to protecting whales through education, research, and conservation. Their eco-tours are designed to raise awareness of the importance of preserving marine life, and they are involved in efforts to protect whale populations, including research on their migratory patterns and health.

Why Responsible Whale Watching Matters

The protection of whales and their environment goes beyond simple observation—it directly supports the long-term sustainability of marine ecosystems. Whale watching done right not only ensures the safety of these incredible creatures but also helps fund conservation initiatives. As tourists and residents alike embrace sustainable practices, they contribute to the ongoing efforts to ensure that future generations can experience the awe of seeing humpback whales in their natural habitat.

By practicing responsible whale watching, we protect not only the whales themselves but also the delicate balance of the marine ecosystem that sustains a variety of species, from coral reefs to sea turtles.

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Whale-Watching on the Big Island Recap

Whale watching on the Big Island is a magical and humbling experience. By choosing the right time, place, and tour, and by being a responsible observer, you can have an unforgettable encounter with these giants of the ocean, all while contributing to their preservation.

Remember, every whale watching experience is unique. Embrace the unpredictability and treasure the moments you spend in the presence of these magnificent creatures.

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More Big Island Guides

The Big Island is one of my most favorite places I have ever visited. Here are some more helpful guides to make planning your trip to this island a bit easier!

1. 3 Days on the Big Island
2. One Day in Volcano National Park
3. Where to Stay near Volcano National Park
4. Free and Cheap Things to do on the Big Island
5. Snorkeling on the Big Island of Hawaii
6. Snorkeling with Manta Rays
7. Best Big Island Beaches