Big Island Epic Whale Watching Tour & Ocean Rafting Adventure - Iruka Hawaii

If you are looking for the best whale watching in Hawaii, the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii is renowned as one of the premier spots to watch for whales, and you can count on an amazing experience watching them aboard the Kibou, a comfortable and fast ocean raft. Unlike most whale-watching vessels, which can feel crowded and unwieldy, this agile, speedy raft not only allows you to cover more “ground” for a better chance to see more whales, but also sits closer to the ocean’s surface, which puts you at “eye level” with the whales for an enhanced, immersive experience of the majesty of nature, not to mention the excellent photo opportunities!

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Why do travelers choose this tour?

This tour is one of the most affordable tours of its kind on the Big Island, so travelers on any budget can experience this immersive encounter with nature.

The light and speedy size and design of the Kibou offers guests a unique opportunity for whale watchers to experience these fascinating creatures in a more intimate and direct way.

It also conveniently departs in the early afternoon, so you will still have plenty of time to make your morning and evening plans and see the rest of the Big Island.

The lightweight, speedboat-like vessel offers a thrilling ride skimming over the waves for an adventure even aside from the whales and other sea life you’ll encounter!

How does it work?

After checking in 30 minutes before departure, you can grab any seat on the roomy raft since each seat offers spectacular views! As you depart Honokohau Marina, your expert captain and crew will use their knowledge of ocean conditions and migration patterns to steer you towards whatever part of the ocean off the Kona coast will provide the best chance of seeing whales that day. When you’re done, you will cruise back to the Marina for drop-off.

Local expert tips

• Honokohau is close to many Kona hotels and has ample parking. Leave about 10–15 minutes of driving time depending on where you are staying.
• The waters of the Kona coast are famously calm, but this is a bouncy adventure! If you think you might get seasick, take dramamine or other anti-nausea drug about an hour before departure to have the best time.
• You will be quite close to the water, so if you plan on taking pictures, a waterproof case for your camera or phone is a good idea.
• While there is a marine head (bathroom) on board the raft, it is still a good idea to go before you depart, since you won’t want to miss a moment of the show!
• Honokohau Marina is a destination in its own right and as one of the more popular harbors on the island for small fishing boats, it is full of seafood restaurants, so make sure to grab a bite before or after the tour.
• Best time of the year: Humpback whale migration starts in November, peaks in January/February, and peters off around March.
• Recommend attire: Wear something comfortable that you don’t mind getting splashed. While you will not be swimming on this cruise, you are quite close to the water and there is always a chance for spray.
• Recommend items to bring: A case or strap for your camera and/or phone could come in clutch. You are also welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks, as long as the drinks are NOT in glass bottles.

Boat information

The "Kibou'' is a spacious and fast ocean raft. It features comfortable seating and a roomy shaded area. A marine head restroom isalso available on board.

How to get there?

Check-in location: Honokohau Marina is conveniently located just north of popular Kailua-Kona and just south of Kona International Airport (KOA). It is accessible from HI-19, or Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway. The closest public transit is bus #202, which stops about a 20-minute walk from the harbor. Rideshare or taxi services are also a great option for those coming from Kailua-Kona or other towns nearby.

Parking and/or Pick-up Information: Plenty of free parking is available on both sides (north and south) of the Marina.

Driving distance from main resort areas: Honokohau Marina is only about 10 minutes from the heart of Kailua-Kona by car, and about 40 from Waikoloa, depending on traffic conditions. If you are coming from resorts on the other side of the island, such as Hilo (Volcano) or Puna, plan on about 2 hours to drive around Mauna Kea.