Whale & Wildlife Report | June 1-7, 2025
PC: Olivia Miller
Highlights
Whale Shark
Short-Finned Pilot Whales
Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins
Pantropical Spotted Dolphins
Bottlenose Dolphins
Reef Manta Rays
Mahi Mahi
‘Iwa
Whale & Wildlife Report | June 1-7, 2025
We had some stormy weather this week on the Kona Coast, but despite the liquid sunshine, the ocean provided us with amazing encounters on our year-round dolphin/whale watching trips! Our crew has their favorites when it comes to marine species, and boy oh boy were we ecstatic when our trip spotted perhaps the coolest creature of them all… a massive whale shark!
PC: Olivia Miller
Our team was cruising south and had just enjoyed watching mahi mahi and a pod of short-finned pilot whales when we found a whale shark! Naturalist Olivia estimated it to be the second biggest she’s seen here. So cool! We snapped a couple ID shots and this individual gave us lots of surface time and great views. The whale shark was particularly curious about some bubbles and it was so much fun watching its behavior. Whale sharks are fascinating and always a thrilling sight!
PC: Olivia Miller
We often see Hawaiian Spinner dolphins right outside Honokohau Harbor and there were some larger pods this week! Further offshore we found a large pod of Pantropical spotted dolphins, one of the species we typically see in deeper waters. They were super playful and we estimated some 200 dolphins were spread out in the area. Everyone was delighted to see them jumping and riding the bow of Artemis! The fish pens are also a great spot to see Bottlenose, and we did see a few elusive bottlenose dolphins hunting.
PC: Olivia Miller
All the rain this week added an extra chill to Kona’s waters, but it was well worth it to spend time with the resident reef manta rays. Our night manta snorkel visited the northern site where we were happy to find great ocean conditions. The night began with some fly-bys down deep and then turned into lots of up-close barrel rolling action! Everyone was amazed as they swooped right beneath our light boards. They truly get up close and personal. Every night manta experience is unique and they continue to amaze whether it’s your first time seeing them or hundredth!
PC: Olivia Miller
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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.
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