Melon-Headed Whales
Two Hawaiian Island resident populations of melon-headed whales are recognized. The Kohala population is the smaller group, comprising 400-500 whales and spending most of their time between the northernmost tip of the Big Island and Keahole Point. The Hawaiian Islands population is estimated at over 8,000 whales and spends most of their time in waters 1,000+ meters deep. Behavior wise, melon-headed whales appear to primarily forage at night, diving deeper to seek out prey. During the day, they spend the majority of their time offshore, and are often seen traveling in large groups. Their common name “melon-headed” is derived from their round-shaped head with no discernable beak.
Whale Stats
Scientific Name: Peponocephala electra
Length: up to 9 feet
Weight: ~600lbs
Diet: small fish, squid
Lifespan: 36+ years
Season: Year-round
More Whales, Dolphins, and Wildlife of the Kona Coast
The Kona coast boasts an incredibly diverse array of marine life. Venture with us out into the blue in search of graceful mantas, massive mola mola, schooling sharks, or one of more than a dozen species of toothed whales that traverse these island waters.
At Hawaiian Adventures Kona, our expert guides offer the Big Island’s ultimate small-group wildlife experience. Our year-round whale watching, night manta snorkels, and private charters are the best opportunity for a true Hawaiian Adventure.
Whale watching in Kona is year-round! Hawaiian Adventures Kona has access to both near-shore and pelagic zones, which gives you the opportunity to see humpback whales during the winter months, spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, flying fish, surface-feeding mantas, pilot whales, beaked whales, sperm whales, spotted dolphins, whale sharks, and more!
Experience the real Kona nightlife and meet the mantas! Our Kona Night Manta tours depart strategically out of Honokohau Harbor, giving us the ability to head where there’s better conditions, fewer people, and more manta rays. This small-group tour is the best way to experience the #1 activity on the Big Island.
Explore the Kona Coast at your own speed. Private tours are the best choice for small or large groups that value exclusivity and a personalized experience. Whether you’re looking for a family adventure, school trip, memorial service, or something entirely different, our team will work with you to create your custom adventure.