Da Whale Boat

For guests who dream of spending time out on the open ocean surrounded by the beauty of the Big Island coastline, Da Whale Boat offers intimate and memorable marine adventures just north of Mauna Lani. From seasonal whale watching to manta ray snorkels and custom ocean excursions, this locally owned experience combines adventure, education, and genuine aloha in a smaller group setting.

It’s a wonderful option for Hale Mele guests who want a meaningful ocean experience while staying close to home along the Kohala Coast.

About the Experience

Da Whale Boat departs from Kawaihae Harbor, approximately 9 to 10 miles north of Hale Mele, making it one of the more convenient ocean excursions for guests staying in the Mauna Lani area. The shorter drive allows for an easy outing without needing to spend much of the day in the car.

Founded by Captain Kelsey, Da Whale Boat was created to offer guests an affordable and more personal whale watching experience with attentive service and smaller group sizes. The crew brings years of ocean experience and focuses on helping guests feel connected to Hawaiʻi’s marine environment through interactive education, local knowledge, and respectful wildlife viewing.

During whale season, typically December through March, guests may have the chance to witness humpback whales breaching, tail slapping, and swimming along the Kohala Coast while listening to live whale song out on the water. Outside of whale season, Da Whale Boat also offers a variety of private charter adventures including manta ray snorkels, dolphin viewing, snorkeling trips, fishing excursions, beach picnics, and custom ocean outings designed around guest interests.

The atmosphere feels welcoming, relaxed, and personal — less rushed and more connected to the experience of being out on Hawaiʻi’s beautiful blue water.

Why Guests May Love It

• Convenient departure location close to Hale Mele
• Smaller group experiences with a more personal atmosphere
• Opportunities to see whales, dolphins, manta rays, and other marine life
• Flexible ocean adventures that work well for couples, families, and groups
• Beautiful Kohala Coast scenery with fresh ocean air and wide-open views

Helpful Tips

• Whale watching season generally runs from December through March
• Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak whale season and holidays
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, towels, water, and a light jacket for breezier ocean conditions
• Ocean conditions and wildlife sightings can vary daily and are never guaranteed
• Guests are responsible for confirming schedules, pricing, weather conditions, and bookings directly with the provider

Hale Mele Note

One of the special parts of staying at Hale Mele is how easily guests can experience both peaceful resort living and unforgettable ocean adventures in the same day. A morning out with Da Whale Boat can become one of those lasting Big Island memories — returning home afterward to warm sunsets, gentle island breezes, and a quiet evening together at Hale Mele.