Travel bucket list idea:
Big Island, Hawaii, United States of America (USA)
The Big Island of Hawaii offers one of the most soul-stirring marine experiences in the Pacific – swimming with wild spinner dolphins in the crystal waters off Kona’s western coast.
These agile, acrobatic creatures are known for their playful nature, often seen leaping and spinning in mid-air before gliding effortlessly through the sea.
Tours depart from Kona or Kealakekua Bay, venturing into sheltered coves where dolphins rest and socialise. If they choose to engage, you may find yourself drifting beside them, watching their sleek bodies move in unison, listening to their sonar clicks in the water.
The encounter is entirely on the dolphins’ terms – ethical, respectful, and authentic. Along the way, you might also spot green sea turtles, manta rays, or colourful reef fish.
Remember – if you don’t fancy getting in the water, you can stay on the boat or book a ‘watch-only’ tour. It’s still a wonderful day out.
Kona, Hawaii, United States of America (USA)
Bucket List Experience
Just of Hawaii’s coast at Kona, is a manta ray ‘feeding station’, rich in plankton, that’s home to resident population of over 240 individuals. Snorkel (5+ years) and/or dive (15+ years) tours run daily, year-round from Kona – but uniquely at night. Tour operators shine lights that attract plankton, and manta rays, to the surface.
Adult price: £92
Min age 5
Good for age: 8+
Duration: 3 hours
Kauai, Hawaii, United States of America (USA)
Bucket List Experience
This heart-stopping trail along the Na Pali Coast of Kauai Island is the US’s wildest hike, an eye-watering scene of rugged valleys, white-sand beaches and waterfalls. For most, it’s 4-miles (one way) to the 300ft-high Hanakapiai Falls. Experienced hikers (with permit) can go 7 miles further to pristine Kalalau Beach to camp overnight.
Good for age: 13+
Duration: 3-6 hours
Tours typically depart from Kailua-Kona or Keauhou Bay, easily reached by car from most resorts on the island’s west coast. Tours last 2.5 to 4 hours and are suited to confident swimmers.
The tours are suitable for ages 8 and up, though age limits vary by provider. Children must be strong swimmers and accompanied by an adult. Flotation aids are typically provided for added safety. Most outfitters provide snorkel gear, wetsuits and flotation devices. Bring swimwear, a towel, reef-safe sunscreen, and water.
Trips include boat travel to offshore reefs or calm coves, where dolphin encounters may occur. Some tours also include snorkelling at reef sites or stops at sea caves. All of the activities are conducted under strict wildlife interaction guidelines, ensuring minimal impact on both the dolphins and the environment.
The best time to swim with dolphins on the Big Island is during Hawaii’s dry season, from May to October, when seas are calm and visibility is clearest. While dolphins are present year-round, weather and sea clarity make the dry season the most rewarding time for encounters.
Spinner dolphins are most active and visible in the early morning, just after sunrise, as they return to sheltered bays to rest after night feeding. Tours typically leave between 6am and 8am for the best sightings and tranquil sea conditions. Avoid midday hours when dolphins retreat into deeper waters.
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