Whale & Wildlife Report | Sepember 14-20, 2025
PC: Olivia Miller
Highlights
Short-Finned Pilot Whales
Oceanic White Tip Sharks
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
Whale & Wildlife Report | Sepember 14-20, 2025
We’re so happy to be back on island after a few weeks away guiding whale watching trips in Tonga! Out on the water we received a warm welcome from curious pilot whales, oceanic white tip sharks, and our energetic Hawaiian spinner dolphins.
PC: Olivia Miller
We were in for an absolute treat this week with our pilot whales. These highly intelligent whales have neurological structures that are very similar to our own, which means that they possess complex and abstract thought processes including critical thinking and curiosity. Every once in a while, that curiosity will be pointed towards us! On one of our trips this week we had a very engaging female pilot whale. She vocalized, blew bubbles, rolled, spun, and spy hopped off our port side, leaving guests in absolute awe. All her splashing caught the attention of a few oceanic white tip sharks, which swam over to the boat to investigate what all the commotion was about. Guests were able to get phenomenal looks at both of these species in this incredibly unique encounter.
PC: Andrew Aggergaard
After this curious episode, we cruised onward to check out a FAD and see if the structure had attracted any large predators, and sure enough we found a second group of pilot whales nearby. This pod displayed much more typical resting behavior which they often exhibit while on their recovery intervals between deep dives. These two separate encounters provided a good example of how dynamic pilot whale behavior can be.
PC: Olivia Miller
Often during the day our Hawaiian spinner dolphins utilize shallow, sandy bays to rest and socialize before a night of more active hunting off shore. We were lucky enough to observe a large pod of Hawaiian spinner dolphins just south of downtown Kona. This group was fairly energetic and intent on showing off their spinning technique. A few others hitched a ride with us and bow rode as we made our way slowly north. Our spinners have so much charisma and we always adore getting to spend time with them!
PC: Olivia Miller
Upcoming Tours
Monday (9/22)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Wednesday (9/24)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Saturday (9/27)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Tuesday (9/30)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Thursday (10/2)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Friday (10/3)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Monday (10/6)- 8:30 AM Dolphin/Whale Watch
Interested in experiencing our tours?
Hawaiian Adventure’s tours provide the best opportunity to explore Kona’s coast and the wildlife beneath the waves. Our top-notch vessels, experienced crew, and oceanic expertise will make your Big Island adventure unforgettable.
If you’ve been on other tours, you’ll appreciate the Hawaiian Adventures difference.
