Best Whale Watching on Big Island Hawaii
A Humpback Whale with a Captain Zodiac raft in the background
In Hawaii, we are lucky to have whales that live in our off-shore waters year-round, along with some species that occasionally pass through and visit. If you’re looking for the best time to come to Hawaii and see the most whales, the winter is hands-down the best time to visit. Why? Well, that’s when the Humpback Whales come to Hawaii to mate, give birth, and raise their young. Kailua-Kona, also the home base of Captain Zodiac Hawaii’s Big Island Original Zodiac Rafting Tour Company, is the best place in Hawaii to go whale watching. Here’s why!
Abundant Whale Population
Kona, Hawaii is home to a large population of humpback whales during the winter months, as they migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and give birth. The waters off the coast of Kona are known to be a prime location for whale watching due to the high concentration of whales in the area.
A Humpback Whale breaching off the coast of Kona, Hawaii – seen from a Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
Clear Visibility
The clear, calm waters of Kona provide excellent visibility for whale watching. This makes it easier to spot whales breaching, spy hopping, and tail slapping from the shore or on a boat tour. The winter months can occasionally bring rougher waters, but luckily zodiac rafts can navigate through the waves with ease!
Humpback Whale fluke in Kona, Hawaii – seen from a Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
Close Encounters
Kona offers opportunities for up-close encounters with whales, as they often come close to shore to play and socialize. Boat tours in Kona also offer the chance to get within a safe distance of the whales for a more intimate viewing experience.
A large Humpback Whale taking a breath on the surface, seen from a Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
Knowledgeable Guides
Most companies in Kona, and especially Captain Zodiac, boast experienced and knowledgeable guides who can provide valuable insights into the behavior and habits of humpback whales. They can also help visitors spot whales and ensure a memorable whale watching experience.
A Humpback Whale Calf breaching, seen from a Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
Natural Beauty
In addition to the incredible whale watching opportunities, Kona is known for its stunning natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy picturesque views of the unique lava rock coastline, crystal-clear waters, and majestic mountains while watching whales in their natural habitat.
Captain Zodiac
The biggest reason Kona is the best place to whale watching? Captain Zodiac is located there! Captain Zodiac, located in Honokohau Harbor in Kailua-Kona, is Big Island Hawaii’s Original Rafting Company with over 50-years of experience! We specialize in whale-watching tours. Our Zodiac rafts, which fit 16 passengers, are perfect for families, couples, and singles! Our smaller tour size offers a more intimate experience and an amazing view of the whales no matter where you are seated. The rafts can easily zip through the waves, making it easy for our Captains to find where the action is. Sea-sickness is less of a problem on a Zodiac raft, due to how low the boat is to the water and the open-air.
A Humpback Whale fluke, seen from a Captain Zodiac Whale Watching Tour
Overall, Kona, Hawaii is considered one of the best places to whale watch due to its abundant whale population, clear visibility, close encounters, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful surroundings. We hope to see you this winter on one of our tours!