By Shiromi Nassreen
There are a number of opportunities for visitors to Kona on the Big Island to swim with dolphins. These include dolphin-interaction programs, swimming with wild dolphins at Kealakekua Bay and numerous boat tours. Remember that wild dolphins are protected by law and that you should always wait for the dolphins to approach you first.
Dolphin Quest
Dolphin Quest in Waikoloa features the only dolphin-interaction program on the island. The program is so popular that it is usually recommended that visitors make reservations at least 60 days in advance.
Dolphin Quest Hawaii
425 Waikoloa beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii, 96738
(808-886-2875)
Kealakekua Bay
If you want to swim with wild dolphins, a pod of spinner dolphins frequents Kealakekua Bay. Morning is the best time to see the dolphins.
Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay State Historical Park, 82-6099 Puuhonoa Beach Road, Kealakekua, Hawaii, 96750
Sunlight on Water
Another way to swim with dolphins is through a charter-boat program. Sunlight on Water begins with a Hawaiian ceremony to greet the day before embarking on a search for dolphins. The company claims to have a 98 percent success rate in finding dolphins.
Sunlight on Water
PO. Box 4729, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, 96745
(808-896-2480)
Dolphin Discoveries
Dolphin Discoveries is another popular boat company that offers dolphin snorkeling. The four-hour tour includes free snorkel gear and lunch.
Dolphin Discoveries
Keauhou Bay, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
(808-322-8000)
Dolphin Essence
Dolphin Essence has morning boat tours that traverse the Kona coast in search of dolphin pods. The company claims a 99 percent success rate for finding dolphins. Visitors should bring their own snorkel gear, as none is provided.
Dolphin Essence
P.O. Box 1789 Kealakekua, Hawaii 96750
(808-328-7353)
About the Author:
Shiromi Nassreen is a British writer. She holds a B.A. in theatre studies from Rose Bruford College of Speech & Drama and has been writing professionally for three years. She writes primarily travel and outdoor articles on Hawaii. Her articles have appeared in Dysfunkshion Magazine as well as Illusion Television and Matador Travel.
