Whale Watching on Big Island

Whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is a must-do activity for visitors. With tours departing from Honokohau Harbor, travelers can witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through the island’s waters. For just $95 per person, guests enjoy an intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into the local ecosystem. Complemented by complimentary snacks and beverages, the tours provide an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Hawaii’s stunning marine life. While dolphin sightings are common, the highlight, of course, is the awe-inspiring appearance of the humpback whales themselves.

About Your Stay

• The Big Island of Hawaii is an ideal location for observing humpback whales during their annual migration, with tours starting at $95 per person.
• Whale watching tours offer opportunities to see whales and dolphins in their natural habitat, led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about the local marine life.
• Tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as refreshments like snacks and beverages, providing a seamless and comfortable experience for up to 26 travelers.
• While the tours are not wheelchair accessible, they do accommodate service animals, though infants must sit on laps during the tour.
• Customers report generally positive experiences, with memorable encounters with marine life, though some have faced issues with tour cancellations and refund processes.

Overview of the Activity

Whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii offers a captivating opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration.

The activity is located on the Big Island, providing easy access to the whales’ natural habitat. With an average rating of 4.0 out of 5.0 from 9 reviews, the whale watching tour is a highly-rated experience.

Priced from $95.00 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 26 travelers and includes a professional guide, snacks, and beverages.

Pickup and drop-off at the Honokohau Harbor are provided, making the experience convenient and hassle-free.

However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, and infants must sit on laps.

Inclusions and Highlights

The whale watching tour on the Big Island includes a professional guide who shares their extensive knowledge about the local marine life.

Snacks and beverages like bottled water, Sprite, and juices are provided to keep you refreshed throughout the excursion.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, ensuring a seamless experience. Gratuities are also covered, so you can sit back and enjoy the journey.

The maximum group size is 26 travelers, allowing for an intimate and personalized outing.

Whether you’re hoping to spot majestic whales or playful dolphins, this tour is designed to deliver an unforgettable adventure on the beautiful waters surrounding the Big Island.

Meeting Point and Pickup

At the Honokohau Harbor public restrooms in the south harbor, travelers will find the meeting point for the whale watching tour.

The address is MX9H+827, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA. To reach the meeting point, travelers should drive a quarter-mile straight into the harbor, where the public bathroom with a red top will be on the right.

At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off back at the same meeting point. Travelers should plan to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour departs promptly.

Additional Considerations

Travelers should keep in mind a few additional considerations when booking this whale watching tour.

The activity isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. While near public transportation, infants must sit on laps.

Most travelers can participate, but it isn’t recommended for those with back problems.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is offered.

Customers have reported mixed experiences, with some issues regarding cancellations due to safety concerns and refund problems.

It’s recommended to book directly with the tour operator to ensure a smooth experience.

• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Infants must sit on laps
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems

Customer Experiences

Customers have generally provided positive feedback on the crew’s knowledge and the fun atmosphere of the whale watching tour. Many travelers reported memorable sightings of dolphins and whales during their excursions.

However, there have been a few complaints about tour cancellations due to safety concerns, such as high surf conditions. Plus, some customers mentioned issues with getting refunds, and recommended booking directly with the tour operator to avoid potential problems.

Booking and Cancellation

One can book the whale watching tour on the Big Island either directly through the tour operator or via third-party platforms. The confirmation is received at the time of booking, and a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option is available.

Travelers should be aware of the tour’s cancellation policy, which offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. However, some customers have reported issues with refunds, and it’s recommended to book directly with the tour operator to avoid potential problems.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants must sit on laps.

• Direct booking with the tour operator
• Third-party booking platforms available
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• Potential refund issues reported by some customers

Notable Sightings

On the whale watching tours, travelers are often treated to the remarkable sight of dolphins and whales.

Customers have reported notable sightings of these majestic creatures, with the tours providing excellent opportunities to observe them in their natural habitat.

The professional guides skillfully guide the boats to the best viewing spots, ensuring travelers can witness the whales breaching the surface or the dolphins playfully swimming alongside the vessel.

These up-close encounters with the marine life are often the highlight of the tour, leaving a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to witness them.

The combination of expert guidance and the sheer awe of seeing these magnificent animals in person makes the whale watching experience truly unforgettable.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Duration of the Whale Watching Tour?

The duration of the whale watching tour is not explicitly stated in the overview. However, it’s typical for such tours to last approximately 2-3 hours, allowing ample time to observe the whales and enjoy the included amenities.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participating?

The whale watching tour doesn’t have any age restrictions. Infants can join the tour, but they’ll have to sit on their parents’ laps. Most travelers can participate, though the activity isn’t recommended for those with back problems.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the whale watching tour. The tour includes snacks and beverages such as bottled water, Sprite, and juices. This is provided as part of the overall experience.

Is Photography Permitted During the Tour?

Yes, photography is permitted during the whale watching tour. Travelers are encouraged to bring their cameras and capture the majestic sights of the whales and dolphins in their natural habitat along the Big Island’s coastline.

What Is the Policy on Seasickness Medication?

The tour company recommends travelers bring their own seasickness medication, as none is provided. Those prone to motion sickness may want to consider taking preventative measures before the excursion to ensure they fully enjoy the whale watching experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

Whale watching on the Big Island offers a captivating encounter with nature’s giants. Travelers can expect knowledgeable guides, comfortable amenities, and the opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. With a small group size and convenient departures, this activity provides an unforgettable and intimate experience that showcases the island’s vibrant marine ecosystem. It’s a must-do for anyone visiting the Big Island.