Dolphin sightings Hilo to Kona (Kealakekua, Naalehu: rent, island, distance)

[milo99]

We are heading to Kona tomorrow from Hilo. Are there any spots along the way to maybe catch a view of some dolphins in the early morning? We have a 1 year old and a 4 year old so the dolphin excursions aren't really appropriate for their age group. Have to be at least 5 for Dolphin Quest. My son has been hounding me to see dolphins. We are in Hilo until Sept 30 so anywhere else on the Big Island may be possible for us too.

[Dreaming of Hawaii]

You may be lucky at Kealakekua Bay; I don't know if you can see those dolphins from the shore. It's really hard to see much from the shore. The times I've seen them they've been too far out. I suggest instead that you stop at the Punalu'u Black Sand Beach, just past Naalehu, and check out the turtles. They come up on the sand to sun themselves during the day. Just remember to stay a respectful distance away, i.e., 15 feet or more.

[Jungjohann]

I don't know if you've ever paddled before, but you could rent a two man kayak, one of the really stable ones, put on a good flotation device, especially for the keiki's, and just head straight out. Make sure the swell isn't up, can make coming back in a little scary. I've paddled with dolphins numerous times here on South Maui, actually had a pod of them follow me all the way down to Wailea one morning!!!! It's great fun..Odds of seeing them from shore are pretty slim..Have a good time!

aloha