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Specials
The shallow, warm waters around the Hawaiian islands are an annual stop-over for Pacific humpback whales, making Hawaii one of the world's best whale watching locales. See below for our tips on seeing these amazing creatures in Hawaiian waters.
When to Go
The arrival of the season's first humpback whale—usually between August and October—is a big deal in the islands. Maui hosts a Whale Festival each year with parades and exhibits at the height of the season in February. Hawaii's humpback whale season is in full swing by November, and winds down with the majority of whales departing in April and May. If viewing whales by boat, opt for an early morning or late afternoon tour to avoid the midday heat and to sail when seas are calmest.
Where to Go
Of the Hawaiian Islands, Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are best known for their stellar whale watching. The shallow channel between West Maui, Lanai, and Molokai regularly hosts the largest numbers. Land-based watching—from coastal peaks where ocean panoramas make them easy to spot—is also a possibility.
What You'll See
The 45-ton humpbacks display a number of characteristic movements: spouting, breeching (jumping and belly-flopping), smacking the surface with their pectoral fins, and deep diving displaying their tail flukes. But humpbacks aren’t the only species you’re likely to see on a Hawaii whale watch tour—seabirds such as tropicbirds, boobies and albatross as well as marine mammals like Hawaiian spinner dolphins also make frequent appearances.
How to Go
There are many variations on the whale watching cruise in Hawaii. Choose from catamarans, zodiacs, jet-boats and even kayak and outrigger canoe tours that depart from centralized locations including Lahaina and Kaanapali on Maui, Waikiki on Oahu, and Kailua-Kona on the Big Island. Dedicated charters can last anywhere from two to three hours, but longer adventures combine whale watching with snorkeling or sunset dinner cruising.
What to Bring
Be sure to pack a waterproof camera (an extendable arm can afford incredible underwater shots), sunglasses (polarized are best), a hat, sunscreen, and a light water-resistant jacket. Binoculars and seasickness medication may also be useful.
91 results | All Hawaii Tours
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2-Hour Maui Whale Watching Cruise! (Ma'alaea Harbor)
The west coast of Maui Island is one of the best places for whale watching in Hawaii and this 2-hour cruise ensures you maximize your chances of a sighting. Set sail from Maalaea Harbor aboard a high-speed catamaran, admire magnificent views along the coast, and look out for humpback whales in their natural environment.
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From
$30.99
From
$30.99
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Captain Cook (Kealakekua Bay) Morning Snorkel 830am-12pm
If you are new to or have never snorkeled before this is the ideal choice! Particularly good for families with younger children or swimmers who aren’t certain if they are “sea worthy” enough for one of our longer trips.
This trip is much slower paced and affords guests time to become more familiar and comfortable with the exciting and beautiful sport of snorkeling. Our crew will be happy to help you adjust your mask, fins ad snorkel and help you become comfortable viewing the tropical fish while using a flotation assistance device we call a “Noodle”. You'll even watch for dolphins and whales along the way!
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From
$101.54
From
$101.54

Swim with Dolphins Big Island Kailua-Kona Hawaii
View dolphins in their natural environment with guides who respect these intelligent creatures’ boundaries. After feeding in deeper waters at night, spinner dolphins come close to the Kona shore where they often interact with boats, playing in their wake. Slip into the water and swim alongside these playful mammals, then enjoy a snorkeling excursion in Kealakekua Bay.
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From
$142.57
From
$142.57
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Captain Cook’s (Kealakekua Bay) Afternoon Snorkel
Explore the waters off the coast of Hawaii during a small-group snorkeling excursion from Kailua-Kona. Board an inflatable boat and enjoy easy transportation to Captain Cook's Monument at Kealakekua Bay for a couple hours of snorkeling time. Plus, view the sea caves and lava tubes along the scenic Kona coast and catch sight of dolphins and humpback whales, depending on the season.
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From
$101.54
From
$101.54

Snorkel Kona-Top 2 Snorkel Spots-Captain Cook Monument & Place of Refuge
It’s common to spot green sea turtles and spinner dolphins while snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay. This snorkel tour departs Keauhou Bay in the morning to avoid the crowds. Explore the coral gardens with a guide who points out the Captain Cook Monument and Place of Refuge. A tropical lunch, snacks, and beverages are served.
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From
$128.21
From
$128.21

Whale Watching On The Big Island
Hawaii’s Big Island is home to migrating pods of humpback whales, which often breach as they build up energy for their northward migration. This narrated tour brings you to some of the best viewing grounds via 24-person catamaran. You’re able to hear the whales singing through the provided hydrophones. The tour provider guarantees whale sightings or the next trip is free.
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From
$76.93
From
$76.93
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Afternoon Sail & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay
Set sail down the Kona coastline aboard a trimaran, arriving in the Kealakekua Bay Marine Preserve for an afternoon of snorkeling. Splash into the turquoise waters near the Captain Cook Monument, and search for pods of spinner dolphins that frequent the bay. All equipment is provided along with light snacks and reef-safe sunscreen to make the trip convenient.
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From
$82.73
From
$82.73
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Deluxe Sail & Snorkel Captain Cook Monument at Kealakekua Bay
This half-day boat cruise takes you to the two best snorkeling sites in Kealakekua Bay: The reef beneath Captain Cook's monument and the underwater lava formations of Red Hill. In addition to breakfast and lunch, your guides provide all necessary equipment, basic snorkeling tips, and identification charts to help you spot fish and dolphins in their natural habitat. Don’t forget your camera—the route showcases sweeping views of the Kona coastline.
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From
$141.82
From
$141.82
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Snorkel with Manta Rays Guaranteed
Embark on an evening adventure and swim near Hawaii’s manta rays. Start the tour with a sunset sail on a comfortable trimaran to ‘Manta Ray Village’. After a safety briefing, put on your snorkel gear and spend an hour in the water using a state-of-the-art, lit up flotation device to stay on the water’s surface and observe the manta rays bellow as they feed on plankton. Finally climb aboard the boat and warm up with hot chocolate and snacks as you return to shore.
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From
$125.70
From
$125.70
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

3 hour Makena Kayak Snorkel Tour w/Free Photos
The Sustainable choice! 1% for the Planet, Hawaii Ecotourism Association and B Corp Certified. Our certified Marine Naturalist Guides will personally take you on a guided reef tour and also provide FREE Digital Photography. No more than 8 guests per guide on our small group tours.
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From
$92.71
From
$92.71

Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Wildlife, Snorkeling and Hawaiian Buffet
Sail on a catamaran down Oahu's western coast during this cruise from Ko Olina. Glide through the unspoiled waters on this side of the island in search of dolphins and whales, then dive in for a snorkeling experience in a hidden local spot rich with marine life. Enjoy a Hawaiian buffet, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, before heading back to shore. Choose from three daily departure times. Round-trip transportation from select Oahu hotels is included.
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From
$134.00
From
$134.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Swim with Sharks (cage-free)
Leave your preconceptions about sharks at the door and get up close to these sleek creatures on this unique ocean experience. Head out from Haleiwa, on the North Shore of O’ahu, and spend roughly half an hour swimming with the sharks living in the area. Don’t worry, though: even if you aren’t swimming in a cage, you’re still in safe hands, with a guide on board and a safety diver swimming with each group.
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From
$153.85
Price varies by group size
From
$153.85
Price varies by group size

Private Snorkel Trip from Oahu on a Yacht
There are snorkeling trips, and then there are snorkeling trips on a famous, 46-foot yacht with three bedrooms, three restrooms, a full kitchen, lounging areas, a fully-stocked bar, and a prepared lunch. If you’re up for leaving your luxurious accommodations, follow your guide on a 45-minute tour of a reef and the wildlife that calls it home. After snorkeling, return to the yacht (not boat) and bask in the Hawaiian sun as you sail back to the marina. Snorkeling equipment, lunch, drinks from the bar, and bean bags for lounging included.
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From
$1,875.81
per group
From
$1,875.81
per group

Small-Group Whale Watching Adventure
Our small group experience takes place in a big boat atmosphere! A maximum of 12(!) guests onboard allow for as much social distancing as possible while giving our captain and crew the chance to focus on providing each guest with the very best experience possible. Our boat is really what sets us apart from other companies- we have a fast, fun, and very comfortable boat where everyone has a cushioned seat, large open platform for viewing the whales, and fast, quiet engines to help us spend the most possible time with the whales during your tour. Knowledgeable Captains who have worked amongst the whales for years will share what they know and answer your questions. Its a great photo opportunity and most people who do it come back for more!
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From
$75.60
From
$75.60
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Maui Whale-Watching Tour by Raft from Kihei
Spot humpbacks as they travel through Maui’s warm waters on this 1.5-hour whale-watching excursion. Hop aboard a sturdy raft in Kihei with an expert naturalist as your guide, and jet to the southern coastline, which hosts one of the highest whale populations in Hawaii. Your guide will provide commentary about these fascinating creatures as you see them spout and slap the water. To keep this whale-watching tour intimate, your group is limited to 24 people.
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From
$53.98
From
$53.98
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Lanai Snorkeling and Dolphin Encounter from Lahaina
Sail to one of Hawaii's less-frequented islands on this snorkeling tour form Lahaina to Lanai, or the Pineapple Island. Snorkel beneath 300-foot tall cliffs near Shark Fin and Manele Bay, and look out for sightings of Lanai's resident pod of Spinner dolphins. This tour also includes breakfast and lunch to fuel a full day of fun.
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From
$109.95
From
$109.95
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Gear/equipment sanitized between use

Molokini Snorkeling Tour from Maalaea Harbor
Snorkeling in Molokini Crater is undeniably one of the best parts about visiting Maui. Here in this crescent, submerged volcano off Maui’s southern coastline, over 250 species of fish inhabit a world-class reef. Experience water so exceptionally clear you can see down 75 feet, and swim with schools of tropical fish while cruising the vibrant reef. You can also just sit and suntan on the deck, with sweeping views of Haleakala set just off the back of the boat.
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From
$128.24
From
$128.24

Mid-Morning Whale Watch
Spot humpback whales in their natural habitat on this whale-watching tour from Kawaihae Harbor. Hop on a catamaran, and learn all about humpback whales from an onboard naturalist. Enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks throughout your cruise, as your group tries to see the big mammals swimming through the nearby waters. As well as getting great photo opportunities, you’ll also be able to hear the whales’ songs by using an underwater hydrophone.
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From
$107.00
From
$107.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Wake Up With the Whales Cruise
Wake up for a morning whale-watching cruise when the ocean is most likely to be calm and conditions ideal for spotting humpback whales. Accompanied by an experienced captain and a naturist guide, set out from Anaeho'omalu Bay to look for humpback whales from the decks of the stable catamaran. Your crew serves up hot Kona coffee, tropical juices and snacks for you to enjoy on board. Whale sightings are guaranteed — if your guide doesn’t spot whales, you get to come back for a complimentary tour.
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From
$107.00
From
$107.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

Waianae Coast Snorkel Cruise with Dolphin and Seasonal Whale Watching from Oahu
Snorkel and swim with spinner dolphins off the west shore of Oahu during this full-day excursion. Sail up the Waianae Coast, then hop in the water to commune with green sea turtles, schools of tropical fish and dolphins. From January to March, you may get an up-close look at the migrating humpback whales. All necessary snorkel gear, lunch after the cruise and round-trip hotel transportation from Waikiki hotels are provided.
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From
$150.80
From
$150.80
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff

ADVENTURES IN PARADISE AFTERNOON 11:30AM KAYAK & SNORKEL - Captain Cook Monument
Enjoy the waters of Kealakekua Bay with this kayak-and-snorkel combo adventure. You'll climb aboard a two-person kayak and make your way out to the still waters of the Ka'awaloa Cove to swim and snorkel. You'll also get the chance to visit the Captain Cook Monument before heading back to shore.
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From
$99.95
From
$99.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

Captain Cook Cruises Deluxe 11:45am Private Boat Charter - Snorkel & Dolphin
This is a private charter that caters to your group alone. You'll enjoy this trip with only your friends and family on board. Enjoy this cruise, snorkel and Dolphin trip to Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument without the distractions of other guests. The group can be as small as 2 or as large as 14 of your friends and family.
You'll spend time on this private tour exploring the sea caves and the rugged Kona coast as well as snorkel Hawaii's best underwater preserve! This tour takes you to the calmest waters on the big island with the most spectacular snorkeling and enjoyable emerald green and cobalt blue ocean water. You will appreciate the fast boat ride, avoiding the normally long trip from Keauhou Bay to Kealakekua Bay. We bring the snorkel gear and snacks and bottled water. We'll provide snorkeling instruction and flotation noodles for a relaxed snorkel experience. You bring the sunblock, sunglasses, towel and camera! Join us!
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From
$978.60
per group
From
$978.60
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES 8:45am DELUXE SNORKEL & DOLPHIN TOUR - Kealakekua Bay
Cruise, Snorkel and Dolphin Adventure at Kealakekua Bay and Captain Cook Monument
You'll spend a day exploring the sea caves and rugged Kona coast as well as snorkel Hawaii's best underwater preserve! This tour takes you to the calmest waters on the big island with the most spectacular snorkeling and enjoyable emerald green and cobalt blue ocean water. You will appreciate the fast boat ride, avoiding the normally long trip from Keauhou Bay to Kealakekua Bay. We bring the snorkel gear and snacks/botttled water. We'll provide snorkeling instruction and flotation noodles for a relaxed snorkel experience. You bring the sunblock, sunglasses, towel and camera! Join us!
…More
From
$99.95
From
$99.95
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience

West Maui Whale Watching and Snorkeling Excursion
Get a different perspective on Maui's whales on this kayak and snorkel adventure tour. Aboard a kayak, paddle through the calm Pacific waters, following your guide to the spots you're most likely to find humpback whales. Afterward jump into the ocean and snorkel the clear water amongst variety of colorful tropical fish, green sea turtles, and more. Throughout the day, get insights into the flora and fauna of West Maui from your guide.
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From
$80.24
From
$80.24