Whale & Wildlife Report | October 11-17, 2026

Pilot whale spy hop | PC: Olivia Miller

Highlights

  • Short-finned pilot whales

  • Hawaiian spinner dolphins

  • Oceanic white tip shark

  • Green sea turtles

Whale & Wildlife Report | October 11-17, 2026

Sunshine and whales! This week, the ocean helped keep us cool as we searched along the Kona Coast. We found multiple pods of short-finned pilot whales, with one group including a cluster of little ones! There’s something extra special about seeing the newest generation of these resident whales.

Short-finned pilot whale | PC: Olivia Miller

Further offshore, we came across another pod of pilot whales on the move. A quick stop at the FAD brought some exciting bird sightings, too, including noddies! These seabirds are always a treat for the bird enthusiasts onboard. Our crew is constantly scanning the horizon, keeping one eye on the ocean and another on the skies because you never know what amazing pelagic wildlife might make an appearance.

Pod of pilot whales | PC: Olivia Miller

One of the coolest parts of our tours is viewing the Big Island from the water! From volcanoes and old lava flows to historical landmarks and beautiful beaches, there’s so much to take in along the shoreline. Our team loves sharing these sights and stories with guests, helping everyone discover a little more about the incredible island we call home.

Birds offshore | PC: Olivia Miller

Closer to the harbor, the wildlife sightings kept coming! Pods of Hawaiian spinner dolphins were swimming outside the harbor mouth, while three different green sea turtles surfaced nearby. The Honokohau area is a favorite spot for these turtles to feed, rest, and cruise through the water. This week was truly packed with wildlife!

Pilot whale | PC: Olivia Miller

Upcoming Tours

10/19 - 8:30 AM Pelagic Dolphin/Whale Watch Tour

10/22 - 8:30 AM Pelagic Dolphin/Whale Watch Tour

10/28 - 8:30 AM Pelagic Dolphin/Whale Watch Tour

10/30 - 8:30 AM Pelagic Dolphin/Whale Watch Tour


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.

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Whale & Wildlife Report | October 4-10, 2026