We are so lucky that the waters of Hawaiʻi are brimming with incredible sea life! From endangered monk seals lazily snoozing on our beaches to playful dolphins splashing in the surf, it's a beautiful reminder that we have the privilege of sharing these creatures' home. Beneath the surface lies a whole new world that is always a marvel to both visitors and locals alike. We share their space, and it is our kuleana (responsibility) to live in harmony with these animals and protect them. For a deeper dive into learning how to best enjoy these beautiful animals while respecting them and abiding by Hawaiʻi State Laws, take a look at our Marine Conservation Blog.
To guide your journey into this vibrant world, here is how to immerse yourself in our beautiful waters safely and respectfully.
Did you know the Hawaiʻi state fish is called the Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa? An awfully big name for such a tiny fella — try saying it three times fast!
Five Best Ways to See Hawaiʻi's Sea Life
At a glance: you can swim with sharks near Oʻahu, whale watch off Oʻahu or Maui (November–May), take a boat tour to see spinner dolphins near Oʻahu or the Big Island, snorkel at night with manta rays on the Big Island, or stay dry in a submarine tour in Waikīkī, Maui, or Kona.
1. Swim with Sharks
Feeling daring? Why not get up close and personal with some sharks? These apex predators have dominated the ocean for millions of years and are truly a marvel to witness. Options are available for both cage diving and free diving to suit all comfort levels.
Recommended guides: (Oʻahu) Cage — North Shore Shark Adventures or Free Dive — Ocean One Diving
2. Whale Watching Tour
Humpback whales are gentle giants of the ocean that migrate between Alaska and Hawaiʻi, feeding in colder waters before moving to warmer seas to mate, give birth, and nurse their young. The best season to spot these wondrous creatures is between November and May.
A good place to spot them from land is by hiking up Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail (Oʻahu) or checking out McGregor Point Lookout (Maui)!
Recommended guides: (Oʻahu) Hawaii Ocean Charters or (Maui) South Pacific Kayaks Maui
3. Dolphin Excursions
Hop on a boat and cruise out to see spinner dolphins up close — you might even be approached by one! A day spent with these playful creatures is the perfect way to melt away all your worries.
Your best chance of seeing these playful rascals from land are at Aliʻi Drive in Kona (Big Island) and Ko Olina Harbor (Oʻahu).
Recommended guides: (Oʻahu) Dolphin Excursions or Wild Side Hawaii
4. Manta Ray Night Snorkel
Are you up for a night out? How does snorkeling under the stars with manta rays sound? Slip into the water with these magnificent creatures and watch them glide and dance in the blue light cast from the boat — it's truly an unforgettable experience.
Recommended guides: (Big Island) Manta Ray Night Snorkel or Manta Ray Dives of Hawaiʻi
5. Stay Dry Under the Sea
Photo Credit: Atlantis Adventures
Want to experience all that Hawaiʻi's sea life has to offer but not so keen on getting wet? No worries! You can take in all the beauty and wonder from the comfort of a submarine tour, exploring exciting depths and the world beneath the surface.
Recommended guides: (Waikīkī, Maui, and Kona) Atlantis Adventures
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see whales in Hawaiʻi?
Humpback whales are typically spotted in Hawaiian waters between November and May, as they migrate from Alaska to mate, give birth, and nurse their young in warmer seas.
Where can I see dolphins in Hawaiʻi without a boat?
Spinner dolphins are often visible from land at Aliʻi Drive in Kona on the Big Island and at Ko Olina Harbor on Oʻahu.
Is shark diving in Hawaiʻi safe?
Yes. Licensed operators on Oʻahu offer both cage diving and free diving with sharks, with options suited to different comfort levels.
What island is best for manta ray snorkeling?
The Big Island is the primary destination for manta ray night snorkel tours, where operators take visitors out after dark to watch manta rays feed under boat lights.
Can I see Hawaiʻi's sea life without getting in the water?
Yes. Atlantis Adventures runs submarine tours in Waikīkī, Maui, and Kona that let visitors view reef life and marine animals from a dry, air-conditioned submarine.
Carry the Ocean With You
While you sadly can't bring these magnificent creatures home with you, you can carry the memory of your adventures. Explore our Ocean Life Designs and keep a piece of Hawaiʻi's breathtaking ocean close to your heart, wherever you go.
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