Ocean Sports brings warm aloha and award-winning ocean adventures to the Big Island’s Kohala Coast. Based at beautiful Anaeho’omalu Bay, their experienced captains and friendly crew create memorable outings for all ages, from snor...
Ocean Sports brings warm aloha and award-winning ocean adventures to the Big Island’s Kohala Coast. Based at beautiful Anaeho’omalu Bay, their experienced captains and friendly crew create memorable outings for all ages, from snor...
Whale watching is clearly the star of the show here, and the crew consistently delivers. Guests rave about close encounters with humpback mothers and calves, dramatic breaches, and even the rare thrill of hearing whales sing through a hydrophone. Sunset cruises and glass-bottom boat tours also earn high marks, with Captain Kaliko, Ty, Sophia, and Buddy mentioned by name for their warmth and knowledge. The early morning whale watch seems to be a particular sweet spot for activity. Across dozens of trips and return visitors spanning many years, the crew's enthusiasm and genuine care for guests comes through again and again. Snacks and beverages are included on cruises, check-in is smooth, and the team has a reputation for extending time on the water when conditions are exceptional. One guest noted a staff member at the beach cabanas came across as unwelcoming, so experiences on the shore side may vary a bit from the boat crews. For anyone visiting the Big Island and looking for a ocean excursion, this outfit has built a strong track record across multiple tour types and age groups. The whale watches in particular seem to draw people back year after year.
Our Waikoloa Scouts Troop and families went on our annual whale watch on March 8 aboard Sea Smoke with Ocean Sports, and after doing this outing for more than 9 years, I can honestly say this was one of the best trips yet. We had about 30 Scouts and family members join us, and the whales absolutely showed up! We saw pods everywhere, tail slaps, and even a full breach. The highlight was when a humpback surfaced about 10 yards from the boat, giving the kids a once-in-a-lifetime moment. The crew also dropped the hydrophone, allowing everyone to hear the whales singing underwater, which was an incredible learning experience for the Scouts. Moments like that truly connect our youth with the ocean and the amazing wildlife here in Hawaiʻi. Ocean Sports continues to impress us every year. Booking was easy, waivers were handled electronically, check-in was smooth, parking simple, and the hospitality from the crew was outstanding. They were knowledgeable, welcoming, and fantastic with the kids. Mahalo to the entire Sea Smoke crew for sharing the ocean with us and helping create such an unforgettable adventure for our Scouts and families. Your aloha spirit and professionalism make this trip something we look forward to every year. Highly recommend Ocean Sports whale watch tours!
John Landers
March 10, 2026
Our Waikoloa Scouts Troop and families went on our annual whale watch on March 8 aboard Sea Smoke with Ocean Sports, and after doing this outing for more than 9 years, I can honestly say this was one of the best trips yet. We had about 30 Scouts and family members join us, and the whales absolutely showed up! We saw pods everywhere, tail slaps, and even a full breach. The highlight was when a humpback surfaced about 10 yards from the boat, giving the kids a once-in-a-lifetime moment. The crew also dropped the hydrophone, allowing everyone to hear the whales singing underwater, which was an incredible learning experience for the Scouts. Moments like that truly connect our youth with the ocean and the amazing wildlife here in Hawaiʻi. Ocean Sports continues to impress us every year. Booking was easy, waivers were handled electronically, check-in was smooth, parking simple, and the hospitality from the crew was outstanding. They were knowledgeable, welcoming, and fantastic with the kids. Mahalo to the entire Sea Smoke crew for sharing the ocean with us and helping create such an unforgettable adventure for our Scouts and families. Your aloha spirit and professionalism make this trip something we look forward to every year. Highly recommend Ocean Sports whale watch tours!
John Landers
March 10, 2026