Hawaii is known for its lush, tropical landscape and beautiful beaches, but did you know that the big island is also home to amazing sea life? From dolphins and whales to manta rays and sharks, plenty of creatures are waiting to be discovered in the waters around Hawaii. So pack your swimsuit and sunscreen and get ready for an underwater adventure! This article will look at some of the most common sea life you are likely to see when you visit the big island.
Hawaii’s Relationship With Sea Life
The Hawaiian people have a deep respect for the ocean and its creatures. Hawaii is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world. More than 25% of all marine species can be found in Hawaii’s waters. This abundance of sea life is a significant draw for tourists who come to Hawaii to snorkel, dive and see the colorful fish and coral reefs up close. However, Hawaii’s relationship with sea life goes beyond just tourism.
Traditional Hawaiian culture includes many stories and legends about the sea, and many families have fishing or surfing traditions that go back generations. Today, Hawaii’s people continue to play an important role in protecting the state’s marine environment. Through organizations like Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii, they are working to clean up beaches, restore coral reefs, and educate others about the importance of preserving Hawaii’s unique ecosystem.
Sea Life You Will See On The Big Island
If seeing the many creatures of the sea is on your list of things to do while in Hawaii, then you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of opportunities for marine wildlife encounters on the big island. Here are just a few of the sea life you might see during your visit:
Dolphins
No trip to Hawaii is complete without seeing dolphins! The best place to see them is on the Big Island, where you can find them swimming offshore. There are two main types of dolphins that you might see in Hawaii: spinner dolphins and Bottlenose dolphins. Spinner dolphins are small and slim, with long, beak-like noses. They get their name from their acrobatic spinning leaps out of the water.
Bottlenose dolphins are larger, with rounded noses and gray or brown bodies. They are very social creatures, often living in groups of 10-100 individuals. Both types of dolphins are curious and may approach boats or humans if they’re not feeling threatened. So keep your eyes peeled when you’re out on the water – you never know when you might spot a wild dolphin!
Whales
Seeing whales on the big island of Hawaii is an unforgettable experience. There are a few things you should know before you go, though. First, the best time to see whales is during their annual migration, which takes from December to April. During this time, humpback whales can be seen off the island’s coast. Secondly, you’re more likely to see whales in a few specific places.
These include Captain Cook Monument, Kealakekua Bay, and Mahukona Beach Park. Finally, it’s important to remember that whale-watching should be done respectfully. This means avoiding loud noises and keeping a safe distance from the animals. By following these guidelines, you’re sure to have a safe and memorable whale-watching experience on the big island of Hawaii.
Sea Turtles
Seeing sea turtles in their natural habitat is a truly magical experience. The Hawaiian island of Big Island is one of the best places in the world to see these amazing creatures. Four main types of sea turtles can be found in the waters around Big Island: green sea turtles, loggerhead sea turtles, hawksbill sea turtles, and leatherback sea turtles. While all four species are protected under federal law, the green sea turtle is particularly special to the people of Hawaii.
Also known as ‘honu,’ green sea turtles have been revered by Native Hawaiians for centuries. You can often see honu basking on the sand or swimming near the shoreline. If you’re lucky enough to spot one of these beautiful creatures, give it plenty of space and respect its natural habitat.
Monk Seals
One of the best things about Hawaii is seeing so many different types of wildlife. You can find everything from sea turtles to dolphins to whales on the big island. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a monk seal. These rare animals are often seen basking on the beach or swimming in the water.
If you’re lucky enough to see one of these seals, give them plenty of space and respect their wishes to be left alone. Although they look lazy, they are very good at hunting fish. Their Hawaiian name, “Ilioholoikauaua,” means “dog that runs in rough water.”
Manta Rays
Manta rays are one of the most majestic creatures in the ocean. These gentle giants can grow up to 23 feet long and weigh over 3,000 pounds. Despite their size, manta rays are graceful swimmers gliding effortlessly through the water. And odds are you will see a few if you visit the big island. Every night, hundreds of manta rays congregate in the waters off the island to feed on plankton.
This natural spectacle can be viewed from a special floating platform known as a manta ray night dive. To get the most out of your experience, book a tour with a reputable operator who will give you expert instructions on safely interacting with these fascinating creatures.
Reef Triggerfish
The Big Island of Hawaii is home to many different types of fish, including the reef triggerfish. These brightly colored fish are a common sight in the shallower waters around the island. They get their name from their large, trigger-like scales, which they use to protect themselves from predators. Reef triggerfish are also known for their vibrant colors, ranging from yellow and blue to orange and green.
In addition to being beautiful to look at, these fish are also important for the health of the coral reefs. They play a vital role in keeping the reefs clean by eating algae and other small organisms that can harm the coral. As a result, seeing reef triggerfish on the Big Island of Hawaii is not only a visual treat but also indicates that the reef is healthy and thriving.
Keep An Eye Out For The Sea Life You Can See On The Big Island!
There are many different types of sea life that you can see on the Big Island of Hawaii. From turtles and monk seals to manta rays and reef triggerfish, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So get out there and explore the amazing underwater world of the Big Island! Just be sure to respect the animals and their natural habitat. After all, you are visiting their home, which deserves to be treated with care.
