Maui Dolphin Watching
Experience the joy and wonder of seeing dolphins in their natural habitat with a Maui dolphin watching tour! Set out on a scenic ocean adventure where you'll have the chance to spot playful spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, and even occasional pilot whales. Tours often cruise along the calm waters near Lanai and the West Maui coastline, where dolphins are known to swim and leap gracefully through the waves. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into these amazing creatures, their behaviors, and the marine environment, making your outing both fun and educational.
Maui dolphin watching tours are perfect for families, couples, and nature lovers of all ages. Many tours combine dolphin watching with snorkeling stops at vibrant coral reefs, offering a full day of adventure and exploration. Comfortable boats, friendly crews, and breathtaking ocean views make these tours one of the most memorable experiences on the island. Witnessing dolphins in the wild is a magical highlight of any Maui vacation, offering a deeper connection to Hawaii's incredible marine life.
Explore Maui Dolphin Watching
Eco-Raft Tour: Eye-Level Whale or Dolphin Watching from Lahaina
Eye-level whale watching (or summer time dolphin watching) onboard our low-to-water small group zodiac rafts. Native Hawaiian owned and voted TripAdvisors Traveler's Choice, Hawaii Ocean Rafting has been Maui’s original ocean rafting experience for more than 30...
Ultimate 4 Hour Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter
Our small group snorkeling tours are locally owned and operated, making you feel like a part of our Maui ohana! Since 1982 we have offered snorkeling trips on our quick and safe rafting vessels to the island of Lanai where we find secret coves, sea cliffs, tropical...
Half Day Snorkel to Lanai from Kaanapali Beach + Dolphin Search
Travel & Hospitality Award Winner, BBB A+ Rated and Certificate of Excellence TripAdvisor Award 9 years in a row. Our Custom-built for comfort, 46' vessel is the only one that goes to the Island of Lanai from Ka'anapali Beach. Our 41yr experienced Captain shares his...
2 Hour Maui Dolphin Watch Sightsee Raft Tour (Semi-Private)
Small group whale watching onboard our small group, smooth ride raft vessel. Native Hawaiian owned and voted TripAdvisors Traveler's Choice, Hawaii Ocean Rafting has been Maui’s original ocean experience for more than 30 years. Our small group tours make for a fun,...
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I go dolphin watching on Maui?
Popular dolphin watching areas include the waters off Lanai and the Au'au Channel between Maui and Lanai.
What types of dolphins can be seen around Maui?
Common species include spinner dolphins, bottlenose dolphins and spotted dolphins, especially during morning tours.
When is the best time of day to see dolphins?
Morning tours typically offer the best chance to see dolphins, as they are most active in the early hours near the surface.
Are dolphin sightings guaranteed?
While sightings are common, they are not guaranteed since dolphins are wild animals. Some operators offer return trips if no sightings occur.
Can I swim with dolphins during the tour?
Most Maui tours focus on respectful observation from the boat. Swimming with wild dolphins is not permitted to protect the animals and their habitat.