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.