Sperm Whales
One of two cetaceans listed as Endangered in the Hawaiian Islands, this species is slow to grow and reproduce. Sperm whales around the Hawaiian Islands and throughout the Tropical Eastern Pacific make up a genetically distinct population. There do not seem to be “resident” sperm whale groups around the islands, though some individuals have been re-sighted over the years. Sperm whales spend more than half their lives at depths of 500m or more, making them incredibly dependent on sound for hunting, navigation, and social communication. Their clicks can reach 200 decibels underwater! While females form lasting bonds and remain around tropical waters their entire lives, males leave their matrilineal pod and may form “bachelor schools' ' that roam all the way to the poles and migrate back come time to breed.
Whale Stats
Scientific Name: Physeter macrocephalus
Length: 36-52 feet
Weight: 30,000-90,000lbs
Diet: squid, fish, sharks
Lifespan: 60 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.