Whale & Wildlife Report | February 12-18, 2023
Highlights
Humpback whales
Short-finned pilot whales
Hawaiian spinner dolphins
Sea turtles
12 ft scalloped hammerhead shark!
Whale & Wildlife Report | February 12-18, 2023
We experienced a bit of liquid sunshine this week, good thing the whales don’t mind getting wet! Shoutout to everyone who joined us for a whale watch despite the drizzle. We had some awesome sightings including a group of pilot whales socializing with a humpback! This was our second encounter with these two species together this season. The behavior we witnessed was largely social from pec slaps to rolling and splashing at the surface.
We had another exciting encounter offshore near O-Tech, a scalloped hammerhead shark! This shark was one of the largest hammerheads we’ve spotted at an estimated 12 ft long! Kona’s waters are home to a number of species of sharks including hammerheads, oceanic whitetip sharks, tiger sharks, black-tip reef sharks, and more. The Kona Coast is unique in the diversity of wildlife that can be found here. We’re always on the lookout for other exciting marine life during our whale watch trips. As soon as we leave the dock the ocean safari begins!
We’re continuing to see lots of mom-and-calf pairs in Kona’s waters. The humpback migration to Hawaii presents a special opportunity to witness to these amazing marine mammals! Hawaii is a sanctuary for breeding and birthing, both essential processes for the continuation of this species. We feel extremely enthused to see so many calves this season during our whale watch tours!
Hoping to see Hawaiian Spinner dolphins? Our Hawaiian Adventures pro tip is to book our 7 AM whale watch tour! We see active Hawaiian Spinner dolphins most often during the early morning hours. They can be spotted in pods from a few individuals up to over a hundred as they make their way inshore from their evening hunting activities. This species is endemic to Hawaii, meaning this is the only place in the world where they can be found!
Interested in experiencing these tours?
Join us, experts with over 25 years of experience running professional wildlife tours. 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.
If you’ve been on other tours, you’ll appreciate the Hawaiian Adventures difference.
