Watching whales leap out of the ocean is one of my favorite things to do on the Big Island of Hawaii. Each winter and spring, these massive creatures travel thousands of miles to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth.
I want to help you find the best places to see whales breaching from the shore or from a boat on the Big Island. There are several great spots where you can catch these amazing animals in action and make memories you’ll never forget.
Hawaiian Adventures Kona
I really enjoyed my experience with Hawaiian Adventures Kona. Their tours focus on seeing whales and dolphins all year, which is rare on the Big Island.
The crew has years of experience and knows everything about the ocean and the local wildlife. The tour I joined left from Honokohau Harbor, so getting on the boat was easy.
Their boats, especially the Artemis, are built for seeing wildlife. They have shaded spots, comfortable seating, and great views.
I liked that the groups stayed small, so everyone could see the whales clearly. We saw different types of whales, not just humpbacks during the winter but also pilot whales and dolphins.
The guides used a hydrophone so we could listen to the whales underwater. They made sure we spotted as many animals as possible and answered all my questions.
One of my favorite moments was seeing dolphins swim right next to the boat. The whole trip felt safe thanks to the well-trained crew and sturdy boats.
I left with amazing memories and lots of photos of whales breaching and playing in the waves.
Rating: 4.9 (331 reviews)
Location: 247 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 339-3604
Website: Visit Website
Fair Wind Cruises
When I joined a Fair Wind Cruises tour, the friendly crew and the comfort of the boat impressed me. The staff explained what to expect and helped everyone feel at ease, especially those new to snorkeling.
There were plenty of shaded spots, restrooms, and freshwater showers onboard, which made the trip more comfortable. We set out along the Kona Coast, cruising past scenic cliffs and open water famous for marine life.
I spent a lot of time on deck scanning the horizon, hoping to spot whales breaching in the distance. If you visit during whale season, everyone keeps watch, and spotting even a single tail slap creates real excitement.
The crew shared tips about where to see whales and gave great insight into local wildlife. I liked that the company focuses on eco-friendly practices, and the plant-based meals on board were delicious.
If you want a mix of whale watching, snorkeling, and learning about Hawaii’s marine life, this tour fits the bill.
Rating: 4.9 (1780 reviews)
Location: 78-7130 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 322-2788
Website: Visit Website
Captain Zodiac
When I joined Captain Zodiac’s tour on the Kona Coast, I could tell right away that they care about keeping Hawaii beautiful. The crew reminded everyone to use reef-safe sunscreen and reusable water bottles, which I appreciated.
It felt good to be on a tour that protects the island’s reefs and wildlife. The highlight for me was seeing humpback whales up close.
Our small raft got us near the action without disturbing the animals. We also spotted dolphins and a few sea turtles along the way.
The guides shared cool facts about the local marine life, making the trip even more memorable. Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay was one of the best experiences I’ve had in Hawaii.
The water was clear, and colorful fish swam all around. The crew made sure everyone had gear and felt safe.
I liked the small group size—only about 16 people on our raft. This made it easy to ask questions and get to know other guests.
The crew had a fun “pirate” sense of humor and knew a lot about Hawaiian history and geology.
Rating: 4.9 (579 reviews)
Location: 74-425 Kealakehe Pkwy #16, Kaiminani, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-3199
Website: Visit Website
Adventure X Boat Tours
When I joined Adventure X Boat Tours, I felt excited from the start. The crew welcomed me on board with genuine aloha spirit.
They explained everything clearly and made sure everyone felt safe and comfortable before heading out. Our tour focused on whale watching, but I saw much more.
Spinner dolphins popped up along our route, and turtles floated by in the calm water. The highlight was watching huge humpback whales breach in the distance.
The captain and crew shared interesting facts about the animals and the ocean around us. We had options to do more than just whale watching.
Some people booked a manta ray night snorkel or a morning dolphin trip. I liked that there were discounts if you wanted to try more than one adventure.
The atmosphere on the boat was friendly and relaxed, and the views of the coast were beautiful. I noticed the crew respected the ocean and wildlife.
They kept a safe distance from the animals and reminded us how important it is to protect this place.
Rating: 4.9 (231 reviews)
Location: South Boat Ramp, Kawaihae Rd, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 937-7245
Website: Visit Website
Sunlight On Water
When I joined a whale watching tour with Sunlight On Water, I felt like I was in the perfect spot to watch whales up close. The crew welcomed me right away and explained what to look for, which made it easy to spot humpbacks breaching and swimming nearby.
The boat was roomy, clean, and well-shaded. I liked the padded seats and easy access to cold drinks and snacks.
Even out on the water, I felt safe knowing the crew had lifeguard and CPR certification. What stood out to me most was the excitement of seeing whales break the surface.
The crew shared facts about whales as we watched them splash, spout, and show their tails. They even took photos of our group and the whales, so I could enjoy the views without worrying about pictures.
Every part of the trip felt relaxed and unhurried. I had plenty of time to enjoy watching the whales and the beautiful ocean around Kona.
Rating: 4.8 (305 reviews)
Location: Honokohau Harbor, Kaiminani, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 896-2480
Website: Visit Website
Hawaii Nautical – Kona
I went on a whale-watching tour with Hawaii Nautical in Kona and had a great time. The crew was friendly and helpful, and I felt safe the entire trip.
From the boat, I saw whales breaching and swimming nearby. It was really exciting to see up close.
The tour also included a chance to spot dolphins and sea turtles. There were options for sunset cruises and snorkeling tours, but I focused on watching the whales.
The guides shared facts about marine life and followed rules to protect the animals. The views of the Kona coastline were stunning from the water.
It was peaceful and relaxing to be out on the boat with the ocean breeze. The staff made sure everyone was comfortable and answered all my questions.
Booking was simple, and I could call ahead for details. The boat was clean and there were drinks and snacks available on board.
Rating: 4.8 (232 reviews)
Location: 352-429 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 234-7245
Website: Visit Website
My Kona Adventures
I went out with My Kona Adventures to see whales, and it was such a fun trip. The boat left in the afternoon, and the guides were friendly and answered all my questions.
The crew made sure everyone felt comfortable and ready for the tour. Seeing whales so close was amazing.
I watched them swim and sometimes breach right near the boat. The guides pointed out different whales and shared facts about them as we watched.
Even after the sun went down, the adventure continued. Some people on the tour tried a nighttime manta ray snorkel after our whale watching trip.
Rating: 4.8 (971 reviews)
Location: Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 895-8951
Website: Visit Website)
Liquid Hawai‘i Charters
I had a great experience with Liquid Hawai‘i Charters. This family-owned company takes out small groups, so the tour feels very personal.
Only about a dozen people joined us on the boat. This made it easy to chat with the crew and get tips on where to watch whales.
The friendly crew knows a lot about local wildlife. They explain what to look for and share stories about Humpback whales in the area.
Tours start in Puako, which is quiet and has great whale watching spots near Waikoloa. I liked how relaxed the whole trip felt.
We had plenty of chances to see whales breaching. The guides explained what was happening out on the water.
I also learned about other tour options, like snorkeling and manta ray viewing. Booking was easy, and the location is close to most major resorts on the Kohala coast.
Rating: 5 (237 reviews)
Location: Puako Beach Dr, Kamuela, HI 96743
Contact: (808) 854-5757
Website: Visit Website
Sea Quest Hawai‘i
I joined a snorkel tour with Sea Quest Hawai‘i and saw the Kona Coast in a new way. The guides took us to hidden sea caves and along lava tubes, pointing out sea life.
They shared facts about the area’s history and marine animals. One of the best parts was spotting dolphins and whales from the boat.
Seeing whales breaching in their natural habitat amazed me. The small group made it easy to get a good view and ask questions.
The crew made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe. They answered all my questions and cared about the ocean.
Booking was simple, with choices for both day and night tours. I also learned about keeping the ocean healthy and why protecting these waters matters.
Rating: 4.9 (1200 reviews)
Location: 78-7138 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 329-7238
Website: Visit Website
Iruka Hawai‘i Dolphin and Manta Tours
I recently went on a whale watching trip with Iruka Hawai‘i Dolphin and Manta Tours in Kona. The check-in was smooth by the harbor, and the crew stayed upbeat and helpful from start to finish.
The tour took us along the beautiful coastline. We spent plenty of time scanning the water for whales.
I saw humpback whales breaching and slapping their tails up close. Watching these moments was amazing.
Besides whales, I spotted dolphins and sea turtles swimming nearby. The guides shared interesting facts about local sea life and made sure everyone felt comfortable, even those new to boats.
You can add snorkeling or dolphin watching to the trip if your group wants more adventure. On my visit, we got snacks and lunch, which made the outing relaxed and easy.
Rating: 4.9 (817 reviews)
Location: 74-380 Kealakehe Pkwy, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Contact: (808) 636-8440
Website: Visit Website
When And Why Humpback Whales Breach
You can often see humpback whales launching themselves out of the water near the Big Island. Their breaching connects to special migration patterns and behaviors.
Seasonal Migration Patterns
Every year, humpback whales travel thousands of miles from Alaska’s cold waters to Hawaii’s warm, shallow seas. This journey happens mostly between December and April, making these months the peak whale watching season.
The Big Island’s waters give mothers a safe place to give birth and raise calves. The whales are most active in these months because calm, clear water helps them and their young.
Sightings are more frequent in January and February, when the whale population is highest. Whales gather off the west and north coasts, so these spots are best for seeing breaching activity.
Look for calm mornings, when the ocean is smooth and visibility is best.
Breaching Behaviors Explained
When a humpback whale breaches, it throws much of its body out of the water before crashing back down. This is one of the most exciting sights on the Big Island.
Scientists think breaching can help whales dislodge parasites or communicate. It might also show strength or courtship during mating.
Breaching is common during the whales’ time in Hawaii, especially when they interact with other whales. Sometimes calves copy their mothers, learning by practice.
The sound and splash may scare off predators or signal others in the group. Watching a whale breach is always thrilling because you never know when it will happen.
Tips For Responsible Whale Watching
When I watch whales on the Big Island, I want to keep both whales and people safe. I follow rules and consider the environment so everyone can enjoy this amazing activity.
Safety And Etiquette For Observers
I always stay at least 100 yards away from the whales to avoid disturbing them. Authorities do not allow boats and people to get any closer, because approaching too near can stress or endanger the whales.
I use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a closer look. I stay quiet and move slowly to avoid surprising or scaring the whales.
I never leave food scraps or trash in the ocean. I always clean up after myself to protect the water and marine life.
When I join a tour, I choose a company that is licensed and follows official whale watching regulations. For more details, I read advice about whale watching etiquette in Hawaii and the safe distance guidelines.
