Big Island of Hawaii guide
Best Whale Watching in Big Island of Hawaii
Here's our pick of the best Whale Watching in Big Island of Hawaii, ranked by traveler rating. No sponsored spots, just what's actually worth booking.
Honest prices and ratings, never a sponsored spot
Checked against live availability and pricing, last updated September 28, 2026.
How we build thisThis guide includes real bookable activities from our booking partners. Travinora may earn a commission if you book through a link here, at no extra cost to you.
Our top pick for a whale watching trip in Big Island of Hawaii is Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling. Travelers rate it 5.0★, and it's the highest-rated option right now. Watching your budget? Big Island: Manta Ray Night Snorkeling Adventure in Kailua-Kona is a lovely, well-rated option from just $75. Want it just for your group? Kona Hawaii Deep Sea Fishing Escapade on the Bite Me 6 is a private tour, so you can go at your own pace.
Our picks
Best overall
Best value
Best family
Best premiumWhat to check before you book
- Shared or private
- Private tours cost more but move at your own pace.
- Duration
- Check the real time commitment against the rest of your day.
- Group size
- Smaller groups generally mean more personal attention.
- What's included
- Confirm entry fees, transport, and food are covered where relevant.
- Cancellation policy
- Free cancellation gives you flexibility if plans change.
Compare every option
| Tour | Rating | Duration | Format | Price from |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook SnorkelingBest overall | ★ 5.0 | 3.5 hr | Private | $1,541 |
| ★ 5.0 | 4 hr | Private | $969 | |
Kohola Whale Watching ExcursionBest family | ★ 5.0 | 3 hr | Shared | $160 |
| ★ 5.0 | 3 hr | Private | $990 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 3 hr | Private | $1,950 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 4 hr | Private | $1,500 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 3.5 hr | Shared | $99 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 4.5 hr | Private | $799 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 5 hr | Private | $2,200 | |
| ★ 5.0 | 1 hr | Private | $1,800 |
What you'll pay
Mid-range
$110
average · 7 options
Premium
$1,067
average · 17 options
Practical advice
- Some of these offer free cancellation, which is worth checking before you commit to one that doesn't.
- Plan for anywhere from 1 hr to 5 hr, depending which one you pick, and factor that into the rest of your day.
See every real, bookable experience in Big Island of Hawaii in one place.
Browse Big Island of Hawaii experiencesFrequently asked questions
What's the best whale watching trip in Big Island of Hawaii?
Private Kealakekua Bay Captain Cook Snorkeling is our top pick. Travelers love it, rating it 5.0★.
How much does a whale watching trip cost in Big Island of Hawaii?
Prices here range from $75 to $3,092 per person, depending on the operator and what's included. You'll see the exact total when you book.
Are there more Whale Watching in Big Island of Hawaii than just these?
Yep, we found 28 in Big Island of Hawaii in total. We're showing you our top 24, ranked by traveler rating.