The Hawaiian Islands are world-famous for their biodiversity. When you’re on vacation here, don’t miss the chance to go whale watching and discover some of Hawaii’s native marine creatures. Learn more about the most well-known species in the guide below.

A Guide to Hawaii’s Native Marine Life

1. Humpback Whales

Some 10,000 humpback whales converge in Hawaii’s waters during the late fall and winter months to feed, mate, and give birth. A professional whale watching trip allows you to safely and respectfully view mothers and their calves.

Male humpbacks are quite vocal, and their songs, comprised of a sequence of repeated sounds, can change each year or with their location. If you choose to go snorkeling or diving, you may hear the song yourself while underwater.

Humpbacks have rough, humped heads often encrusted with barnacles. They will leap into the air and perform various tail and fin slaps and dives. The Hawaiian name is Koholā.

2. Spinner Dolphins

These marine mammals hunt in groups in the early morning before dawn, then engage in play and social activity. This is an ideal time to take a boat tour to see them. Their Hawaiian name is nai'a, and they are found in large numbers on the west coast of Oahu.

In Hawaii, spinner dolphins have always been respected. They will often approach boats and jump and spin in the bow wake. Some say that the ancient Hawaiians considered the dolphin communities an ocean tribe with rights similar to their own.

3. Green Sea Turtle

Hawaii’s graceful green sea turtles are a favorite sight of snorkelers. Named honu by the Native Hawaiians, these turtles can reach four feet in length and weigh 300 pounds. They can stay underwater for up to five hours, where they hunt using their excellent eyesight.

Although these turtles are native to Hawaii, they leave to lay eggs hundreds of miles away. Honu were sometimes eaten and their shells used for tools by ancient Hawaiians, while others revered them as family guardians.

Sea turtles are protected by law and can be seen year-round.

For whale watching and dolphin trips on Oahu, choose EŌ Wai'anae Tours. This family-owned company offers catamaran tours that include snorkeling, paddleboarding, and the opportunity to see reefs, dolphins, turtles, whales, and dizzying numbers of tropical fish. Each tour offers cultural insights and plenty of aloha. Call (808) 699-5910 to book your trip, or visit the website to see videos and trip details.