Join us for an unforgettable whale-watching adventure from Anaeho‘omalu Bay. Cruise aboard Holona (morning) or the Spirit of Aloha (afternoon) for up-close encounters with humpback whales, guaranteed!
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Duration:
1.5 Hours
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Boat Options: Holona & Spirit of Aloha
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Departure : Anaehoomalu Bay, Waikoloa Beach Resort
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Adult Starting at: $107
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Child Starting at: $53.50
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Close to Location: Nearby Waikoloa Resorts
What You Will Experience
What to Expect
Experience the excitement of whale season on the Big Island with our 1.5-hour Waikoloa Deluxe Whale Watch, offered December through March. Depart from Anaeho‘omalu Bay aboard Holona (morning powerboat) or the Spirit of Aloha (afternoon catamaran) for a comfortable, scenic cruise along the Kohala Coast.
Watch as humpback whales breach, tail-slap, and play in Hawai‘i’s warm winter waters. Our knowledgeable crew shares insights into whale behavior and migration while you relax with tropical cocktails, beer, wine, soda, juice.
With guaranteed sightings or a free re-ride (re-ride only, no refunds), this unforgettable adventure offers the perfect mix of wildlife, ocean views, and aloha.
Highlights
- Guaranteed Whale Sightings: Witness humpback whales up close as they breach, tail-slap, and play in Hawai‘i’s warm winter waters — or come again for free (re-ride only, no refunds).
- Scenic Coastal Cruise: Enjoy panoramic views of the Kohala Coast, Mauna Kea, and Hualālai while cruising in comfort.
- Morning & Afternoon Options: Choose between the Holona powerboat in the morning or the Spirit of Aloha catamaran in the afternoon — both offering a unique experience.
- Relax & Refresh: Beverages provided; afternoon trips feature a full premium bar with tropical cocktails, beer, and wine.
- Knowledgeable Local Crew: Learn fascinating facts about humpback whale behavior and migration from our friendly experts.
What's Included
- 1.5-hour whale watch cruise along Waikoloa’s Kohala Coast
- Guaranteed humpback whale sightings (Dec–Mar) or a free reride
- Professional captain and friendly local crew
- Educational narration about whale behavior and migration
- Tropical cocktails, beer, wine, soda, juice, and water
- Comfortable seating, shaded areas, and clean restrooms on board
- Complimentary shuttle service from Hilton Waikoloa Village (advance reservation required)
About The Boat
In the morning, join us on the 34 passenger 40′ bow-loading thrill craft, fully shaded, spacious bench seating, fast and fun. This is a fast and nimble open powerboat, with plenty of sea-spray likely on trips outside the bay. Clothing that you don’t mind getting wet is recommended for whale-watch and snorkel trips on the Holona powerboat.
In the afternoon, join us on Spirit of Aloha, a Gold Coast 54’ 49 passenger Sailing Catamaran. This large vessel is safe for all ages with conveniences that include an on-board freshwater shower, restrooms, plenty of shade, and ample seating.
- Adult (13+): $107
- Child (4-12): $53.50
- Infant (0-3): FREE
Complimentary shuttle transportation is available from Hilton Waikoloa Village with advance reservation. Free parking is also available near Lava Lava Beach Club.
Meeting & Pickup Location
Meeting location
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Anaehoomalu Bay at the Waikoloa Beach Resort
Set your GPS to:
69-1081 Kuualii Place
Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738
Arrival Time: Please arrive 30 minutes prior to departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.
Location: Anaeho‘omalu Bay (A-Bay), Waikoloa
Check-In Process: Meet your captain and crew at the Hawai‘i Nautical check-in sign located in the middle of the beach at Anaeho‘omalu Bay. Beach loading is used for boarding.
Parking: Free parking can be found in the lot near Lava Lava Beach Club.
Directions: For easiest navigation, follow the Google Maps pin for “Hawaii Nautical (Anaehoomalu Bay – Waikoloa)”
Pickup location
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Complimentary shuttle transportation is available from Hilton Waikoloa Village with advance reservation. Free parking is also available near Lava Lava Beach Club.
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Humpback whales visit Hawai‘i each year from December through March to breed, give birth, and care for their young in the islands’ warm, protected waters.
Yes! Whale sightings are guaranteed during the season — if no whales are seen, you’re invited to come again for free.
Morning trips operate on the Holona powerboat, while afternoon trips are aboard the Spirit of Aloha catamaran. Both offer spacious seating and great views.
Yes. Light snacks and refreshments are provided. Afternoon departures include tropical cocktails, beer, and wine, while morning trips offer soft drinks, juice, and water.
Absolutely! The Waikoloa Deluxe Whale Watch is suitable for guests of all ages. Life jackets are available for everyone.
Yes. Free parking is available near Lava Lava Beach Club.
Complimentary shuttle service is available from Hilton Waikoloa Village with advance reservation.
Definitely! Both are great for spotting whales and capturing your favorite moments on the water.*
Both the Holona and Spirit of Aloha are stable vessels designed for a smooth ride. Most guests experience little to no seasickness.
- Light jacket or sweater for cool morning or afternoon breezes
- Reef-safe sunscreen (no sprays, please apply before boarding)
- Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
- Reusable water bottle (to help reduce plastic waste — water provided on board)
- Optional: Camera or binoculars for up-close whale viewing… and don’t forget to tag us @hawaiinautical!
If your tour is cancelled due to the captain’s discretion and/or weather, then you will receive a full refund or option to re-book your tour on another date based on availability. Guests cancelling their tour reservations 48 hours or more prior to departure are eligible to receive a full refund or can elect to re-book the tour on another date based on availability. Trip Protection is now available. For a small fee Trip Protection can be added to any booking allowing cancellation up to just 1 hour prior to departure! Trip Protection can be purchased at check-out. Guests who are not purchasing Trip Protection and cancelling their tour reservations less than 48 hours prior to departure are not eligible for a refund and will forfeit 100% of their payment.
Private Charters
Discover an unforgettable private ocean adventure along the stunning Kona Coast. This exclusive charter blends five-star comfort with the natural beauty of Hawai‘i’s waters. Explore pristine snorkel sites like Pawai Bay’s lava arches and Makalawena’s secluded beaches—home to vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and graceful sea turtles. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins year-round and breaching humpback whales in winter.
With personalized service, premium amenities, and a commitment to ocean stewardship, Hawaii Nautical delivers a luxury yacht experience that’s both indulgent and eco-conscious. Perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking an intimate and unforgettable day on the Big Island’s crystal-blue waters.



