Kauai's South Side Whale and Dolphin Zodiac Boat Adventure
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience the awe of Kauai’s whale watching season as you journey just off the island’s coast to witness the migration of Hawaii’s humpback whales. Each winter from December through May, these gentle giants make their way to Kauai’s warm waters, putting on an unforgettable show of breaching, tail slapping, and singing that delights visitors of all ages. There’s nothing like the thrill of spotting a spout on the horizon, hearing a massive splash, or catching the haunting notes of a whale’s song echoing through the ocean. Share this rare encounter with family and friends and return home with stories to last a lifetime, no snorkeling required, just pure adventure and the magic of the wild Pacific.
Available options
Whale & Dolphin Watch
What's included
Guided whale and dolphin watching tour
Bottled water
Coast Guard certified captain and crew
Snacks
Dry Bag for personal belongings
Life jackets and all required safety gear
What's not included
Rain/Splash Jackets (Available for purchase)
Hotel pick-up and drop off
Gratuities
Towels
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.4
65 reviews
5★
45
4★
10
3★
5
2★
2
1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.6
82 reviews
5★
63
4★
11
3★
3
2★
2
1★
3
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
All passengers must be 5 years of age or older
This is an ADVENTURE and not a leisure cruise.
Meeting point
Please refer to the detailed confirmation email that WE will send you once you provide all of the necessary details to finalize your reservation.
**WE CANNOT PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION, PLEASE MAKE ARRANGEMENTS PRIOR TO GETTING TO ISLAND**
Important notes
Important Instructions for Guests Booking Through VIATOR:
Thank you for booking with VIATOR, a third-party service (Not the actual tour provider). Here’s what you need to do next:
Step 1: Await Our Text Message
* From: Kauai Z Tours (Your tour provider based in Kauai)
* Purpose: To finalize and confirm your reservation.
Step 2: Respond to Our Text with the Following Information:
1. Direct Email Address
2. Names & Ages of each participant in the activity.
Note: Your reservation is NOT finalized or confirmed until you complete this step and receive a direct confirmation email from us. The VIATOR confirmation email only confirms your payment and agreement with VIATOR, not with Kauai Z Tours.
If You Didn’t Provide a Valid Cellphone Number:
Action Required:
Send a text message to 808.742.7422 from your cellphone with the following information:
1. Direct Email Address
2. Names & Ages of each participant in the activity.
Important Reminders:
Ensure the cellphone number provided can be reached while you are on the island (a Google number or mobile number is recommended).
Home phone numbers are not useful for urgent communications while you are on vacation.
Final Steps:
After receiving your text reply or new text, we will finalize your reservation.
You will receive a detailed confirmation email with:
* Driving directions
* Important tour details
* Liability waivers (to be completed by all guests as soon as possible).
Please don’t wait until the last minute to complete the liability waivers.
Thank you for your cooperation, and we look forward to providing you with an amazing tour experience!
Kauai Z Tours
About Kauai
Kauai, known as the Garden Isle, is the oldest and fourth largest of the main Hawaiian Islands. It is renowned for its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island is less developed than its neighbors, providing a more secluded and tranquil experience.
Top Attractions
Waimea Canyon
Known as the 'Grand Canyon of the Pacific,' Waimea Canyon offers breathtaking views and hiking trails through its vibrantly colored cliffs and lush valleys.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to enter, parking fees may apply
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and secluded beaches. It can be explored by hiking, boat tours, or helicopter tours.
Nature
Full day
Free for hiking, boat tours and helicopter tours range from $150 to $300 per person
Wailua River State Park
This state park offers access to the Wailua River, with activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and visiting the Fern Grotto and Opaekaa Falls.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, activities have separate fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, usually tuna, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish, gluten-free if soy sauce is replaced
Loco Moco
A Hawaiian comfort food made with white rice, topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains beef, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Ziplining
Beachcombing
Spa treatments
Sunset watching
Hula performances
Cultural tours
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather with fewer tourists, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is warm but not too hot, and the island is lush and green.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Tagalog
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Time Zone (HST, GMT-10:00)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kauai is generally safe, but travelers should be cautious of natural hazards and take precautions to ensure a safe visit.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strong ocean currents and rip tides
- • Carry enough water and sunscreen when hiking
- • Secure valuables in rental cars
Getting there
By air
- Lihue Airport • 3 km (2 miles) from Lihue
By bus
Lihue, Kapaa, Princeville
Getting around
Public transport
The Kauai Bus system connects major towns and attractions but has infrequent schedules. Plan your trips accordingly.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Lihue
Kapaa
Princeville
Day trips
Niihau
18 miles (29 km) from Kauai • Full day
Known as the 'Forbidden Island,' Niihau is a privately owned island with a rich Hawaiian cultural heritage. Visitors can take guided tours to experience the island's traditional way of life.
Hanapepe
12 miles (19 km) from Lihue • Half day
A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore art galleries, historic sites, and enjoy local dining.
Festivals
Kauai Moolelo Festival • June
Kauai Coffee Festival • May
Pro tips
- Rent a car to explore the island at your own pace
- Visit the Waimea Canyon and Na Pali Coast for stunning landscapes and hiking trails
- Try local dishes like poke and loco moco for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Respect the island's natural beauty and cultural heritage by following the 'Leave No Trace' principle
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
