Kawaihae Whale Watch: Experience Humpback Whales in their Natural Habit
4.2
40 Ratings
Waimea
Experience the awe-inspiring sight of humpback whales in their natural habitat on a small-group whale watch in Kawaihae. Sail past stunning cliffs and learn about the deep connection between Native Hawaiian culture and these majestic creatures.
Duration:
2 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- 61-3527 Kawaihae Rd - Hop aboard “Kohala”, a 380 Outrage “ Kohola” a 38-foot Boston Whaler. She delivers a full-spectrum, pinnacle experience, performing beautifully for a maximum of six (6) guests which makes for an uncrowded, intimate experience aboard. Come ready to experience the comfort & luxury of “Kohola” as you view whales playfully splashing in the warm Pacific waters along the Kohala Coast. Guaranteed to see whales (when in-season December-March) or come back free on same or lesser-value trip. See lava walls, rocky points, patches of sandy beaches, and gulches rising to the Kohala ridge. It is a serene and unspoiled scene with very little boat traffic.
Choose between the Morning (8:00am-10:00am), Mid-Morning (10:45am-12:45pm) or Afternoon (1:30-3:30pm) options.
What's Included
- Inclusive of all taxes, fees, and handling charges
- Complimentary soda, juice, and water
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
Additional Information
Each winter, a multitude of humpback whales convene in the temperate, shallow seas of Hawai‘i for mating, birthing, and nurturing their calves. Understand the true magnitude of these magnificent creatures through a private encounter in a small group whale watch, with every spot offering prime viewing. Venture away from the crowded spots and navigate alongside the towering cliffs of Kohala’s leeward coastline, uncovering stunning panoramas of both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa. Witness the majesty of whales and gain an unparalleled viewpoint near the water for an unrepeatable observation experience. The concept of caring for the ocean is ingrained in the Native Hawaiian culture. Humpback whales, or koholā, hold a significant place in historical narratives, folklore, and the relationship with the ocean.
- When watching whales be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Clothing—Depending upon weather conditions, you may want to consider bringing a light jacket as it can get cool on the water.
- Vessel is a fast powerboat, WET SEA SPRAY very likely! Come ready to get wet and have fun!
Location
61-3527 Kawaihae Rd
Kawaihae Road
From Hwy19 bear left to Akoni Pule Hwy270. Head north on Route 270 look toward left for green gate enclosing the port. Take first left into green gate (Gate 1). Take a left at sign for Gate 13. Follow paved road until it ends at a gravel parking. The vessel “Kohola” is at the end dock at slip S-01.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.2
(40 Ratings)
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Hanafi_t
Dec 22, 2023
Great crew - Friendly and considerate crew. We saw two whale spouts. Would recommend to anyone seeking a whale watching trip.
Review provided by Viator
Hollynz8069be
Dec 8, 2023
Bucket list beauty - This was a magical experience! We saw a whale breaching several times and a large pod of bottle nose dolphins joined us. The crew was fun and informative. The boat was very nice. This was a great experience I would totally do again!! Thank you for the memories 😊
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Marianne_d
Mar 14, 2023
A good time - We got lucky. A beautiful day on a lovely new boat with only 3 of us guests on it. We found a mother and her calf and spent most of our time with them. A very friendly and knowledgeable crew of two took good care of us.
Review provided by Viator
K5894sxgregw
Feb 8, 2023
Kawaihae Whale Watching - Really appreciated the accommodations the Captain’s Boston Whaler provided as whale watching platform. Very quiet and with just a total of four passengers we received excellent, personalized, guidance. Highly recommended!!!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Deb_g
Apr 11, 2022
Spinner dolphins! - Even though we didn't see any whales, we saw a pod of spinner dolphins and they sure put on a show for us! Wow!! Julie and Faith were very knowledgeable and they made our excursion very exciting! We had a great time!
Review provided by Viator
Williambn3386em
Apr 1, 2022
Perfect trip - Perfect trip. Have been on other very good whale watch excursions over the years and have to rank this as one of the better trips. The crew was experienced, interactive and provided a great time for our family. We saw whales early and often. Our boat wasn't overcrowded and allowed us to easily move around.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Carol_s
Jan 9, 2024
Fun, huge swells sent us back to the dock. - The crew was great. Also, customer service. On the way out the water got very rough & the trip was cut short. We saw whales in the distance, mostly splashes. Our trip was cut short. I went airborne & landed on the deck from a huge swell. My purse got totally soaked & my phone would not work after the swell hit. That said, it was an adventure & we all enjoyed being on the water. Thanks to the crew. I do recommend this experience on a smooth seas day.
Review provided by Viator
Patricia_s
Dec 4, 2022
A bit disappointing but a nice trip. - It was a beautiful day and captain and crew were attentive and very personable. The only thing was, they started preparing us for the possibility that we weren’t going to see any whales early on… and they were right. we were issued a voucher for another trip since there’s a guarantee, however, I wasn’t planning on returning. I think the description should tell you that the possibility of seeing them in early December is very slim. It was a lovely two hour private boat ride though. We did see dolphins and flying fish.
Review provided by Viator
G6382muwilliamt
Dec 17, 2023
Still waiting on refund after 2 weeks. - Didn’t get to go due to transportation to get to area from cruise ship, taxis and Ubers didn’t want to go that far. Still waiting on refund after 2 weeks.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Lindsey_j
Apr 9, 2022
Miss leading title - I booked this trip because it originally said it was in Hilo and so the day we were in Hilo they wanted us to drive back to kona, which is just not fun when you want to things on a new part of the island. I asked for a refund and they didn't give me one. It was also very stormy the day that they went out with high winds and lightning. I talked to several locals when back in kona to fly home and 4 said they wouldn't have gone out, 2 were captains. To say I was disappointed is an understatement
Review provided by Viator
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