Top 5 Marine Species You’ll Encounter on the Kohala Coast
The Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawai‘i is a paradise for ocean lovers. With its pristine waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundance of marine life, this stretch of coastline is a must-visit for anyone looking to snorkel, dive, or explore Hawai‘i’s underwater world. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or trying it out for the first time, there are a few marine species that you're likely to encounter while exploring the Kohala Coast.
Here’s a look at the top 5 marine species you might spot during your adventure:
1. Manta Rays
Scientific Name: Manta alfredi
Best Time to See Them: Year-round, especially during nighttime dives.
One of the most majestic and awe-inspiring creatures in the ocean, the manta ray is a frequent visitor to the waters of the Kohala Coast. These gentle giants can have a wingspan of up to 18 feet, and swimming with them at night is a highlight of many visitors’ trips. Unlike stingrays, manta rays have no venomous tail barbs, making them completely safe to swim with. As you glide alongside them during a night dive, you’ll witness their graceful movements as they feed on plankton attracted by underwater lights.
Where to See Them: AHA Ocean Tours offers guided night dives where you can see manta rays up close as they perform their mesmerizing feeding dances under the moonlight.
2. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu)
Scientific Name: Chelonia mydas
Best Time to See Them: Year-round, most commonly in shallow coastal waters.
The Hawaiian green sea turtle, or honu, is one of Hawai‘i’s most beloved marine creatures. These peaceful, ancient reptiles can often be seen lazily swimming near the shore or basking on the beaches. With their gentle demeanor and beautiful, speckled shells, honu are a favorite among snorkelers and divers alike. Remember, these creatures are protected by law, so it’s important to give them space and not touch or disturb them.
Where to See Them: Turtle sightings are common in the shallow waters of the Kohala Coast, particularly near Puako, where they forage among the coral reefs.
3. Humpback Whales
Scientific Name: Megaptera novaeangliae
Best Time to See Them: Winter months, from November to April.
Every winter, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to the warm waters of Hawai‘i to breed and give birth. The Kohala Coast is a prime spot to see these magnificent creatures as they breach, tail-slap, and blow spouts of water into the air. Hearing their haunting, melodic whale songs underwater is an unforgettable experience. While snorkeling or on a boat tour, you might even witness these giants up close as they swim near the surface.
Where to See Them: During whale season, you can spot humpback whales on AHA Ocean Tours’ snorkeling excursions, where sightings often occur while cruising along the coastline.
4. Reef Fish (Including Parrotfish, Butterflyfish, and Triggerfish)
Best Time to See Them: Year-round.
The reefs of the Kohala Coast are teeming with colorful fish species that make snorkeling in these waters an enchanting experience. You’ll see schools of butterflyfish darting through the coral, brightly colored parrotfish nibbling on algae, and the state fish of Hawai‘i, the humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a (triggerfish), with its striking pattern and long name. Hawai‘i’s coral reefs host over 25% of marine species that are found nowhere else on earth, making it one of the best places to encounter a variety of fish.
Where to See Them: The Kohala Coast is known for its healthy coral reefs and diverse fish populations. Popular snorkeling spots like Puako Bay and Waialea Bay offer a perfect chance to swim among schools of fish.
5. Spinner Dolphins
Scientific Name: Stenella longirostris
Best Time to See Them: Early mornings, typically year-round.
Spinner dolphins are known for their playful nature and acrobatic displays, often leaping out of the water and spinning mid-air. These dolphins are frequently seen along the Kohala Coast, and it’s not uncommon for them to ride the bow waves of boats. While it’s thrilling to encounter them, it’s important to respect their space, as they often use the coastal waters to rest during the day.
Where to See Them: AHA Ocean Tours frequently encounters spinner dolphins on their morning snorkeling tours, where you might get a chance to see these graceful creatures from the boat.
Final Thoughts
The Kohala Coast offers a diverse array of marine species that will make any snorkeling or diving adventure unforgettable. From the massive manta rays and majestic humpback whales to the colorful reef fish and playful dolphins, this part of the Big Island is a treasure trove for underwater explorers.
AHA Ocean Tours provides the perfect way to experience these incredible species up close, with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about marine conservation and ensuring you have a safe, memorable encounter with Hawai‘i’s marine life.
Whether you're planning a daytime snorkeling trip or an exciting night dive, don't miss the chance to meet some of these fascinating marine creatures on the Kohala Coast.
