Whale & Wildlife Report | June 21-27, 2026
Highlights
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
Short-Finned Pilot Whales
Hawaiian Monk Seal
Jumping Tuna!
Whale & Wildlife Report | June 21-27, 2026
We had a special visit this week from some inter-island pilot whales! Spending so much time on the water, we’re able to recognize many of the pilot whales that are resident to the Big Island. This specific group however, had unrecognizable dorsal fins. It’s always a treat to see more transient pilots in the area. This group alternated between slow travel and logging, allowing us to get some really amazing looks.
Later in the week we also found a second group– the largest congregated pod we’ve seen in a long time. These whales seemed relatively fixed and loyal to one spot, slowly traveling north for a bit before altering course back to the south. During this interaction, we got to see some curious spyhopping as well as logging behavior while they rested and socialized. It was such a special encounter!
When searching near the coastlines, we’re always on the lookout for Hawaiian spinner dolphins. This species is nocturnal and enjoys resting and socializing in shallow, protected bays before charging offshore at night to hunt. This week, we got lucky with spinner dolphins right outside the harbor! This pod acted as the perfect greeting committee for the Kona Coast as we made our way slowly out of the marina. This group was also there to welcome us back home at the end of our trip!
Additionally, we spotted Hawaiian spinner dolphins to the south. These pods were incredibly active, and we got to see jumps and spins, bow riding, and surfing behavior. We also saw typical daytime resting patterns, and we got to watch several peaceful surface intervals as the dolphins cruised close to shore.
We’re on the lookout for anything and everything on our tours, and one day this week we were lucky enough to see a predation event– some Aku, or skipjack tuna, hunting baitfish! These fish jumped high out of the water while chasing these smaller fish, with a couple of launches estimated to be around 8-10 feet above the surface. So impressive to witness! It’s always fun to see the food web in action out here!
Interested in joining us on a summer whale watch? Our next available tours are June 29th and July 3rd & 4th!
Interested in experiencing our tours?
Hawaiian Adventure’s tours provide the best opportunity to explore the Kona Coast and the wildlife beneath the waves.
If you’ve been on other tours, you’ll appreciate the Hawaiian Adventures difference.
