Short Answer: There are two main types of dolphins in Hawaii.
🐬 Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins – Famous for their acrobatic spins
🐬 Bottlenose Dolphins – Larger, social, and often seen near shore
But that’s not all—Hawaiian waters are home to some rare dolphin species too! Keep reading to discover how to see them in their natural habitat.
Hawaiian waters are home to two commonly found dolphin species, though some sources classify them into subspecies or regional variations.
1. Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris)
These dolphins are known for their incredible spins and leaps—one of the most breathtaking sights in Hawaiian waters! They typically travel in large pods of 50 to 200 dolphins and are most frequently seen in bays and nearshore areas, particularly along the western coasts of the islands.
2. Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus)
Bottlenose dolphins are larger and highly intelligent marine mammals. Unlike spinner dolphins, they are often spotted closer to shore and can sometimes be seen playing in the wake of boats. Some individuals have even become well-known among locals and tourists for their frequent appearances in popular coastal regions.
While there may be other dolphin species that occasionally visit Hawaiian waters, the Hawaiian spinner dolphin and bottlenose dolphin are the primary residents. It is important to note that the scientific understanding of marine species is continually evolving, and researchers may discover new information about the presence and distribution of dolphins in Hawaii in the future.
Rare Dolphins in Hawaii: What Else Might You See?
Risso’s Dolphin (Grampus griseus): Risso’s dolphins are large and distinctive with a grayish body and prominent scars caused by interactions with other dolphins or from their prey. They are occasionally seen in deeper offshore waters.
Pantropical Spotted Dolphin (Stenella attenuata): These dolphins have a unique spotted pattern on their body and are typically found in warmer tropical waters. They are rarely encountered in Hawaiian waters, but occasional sightings have been reported.
Fraser’s Dolphin (Lagenodelphis hosei): Fraser’s dolphins are small, sleek dolphins with a distinctive color pattern, including dark eye patches and a light-colored stripe along their side. They prefer deep offshore waters and are rarely seen close to shore.
Rough-toothed Dolphin (Steno bredanensis): Rough-toothed dolphins have a slender body and distinctively ridged teeth. They are rarely sighted in Hawaiian waters, typically being found further offshore.
False Killer Whale (Pseudorca crassidens): Although not a true dolphin, false killer whales are closely related. They are larger than most dolphin species and are rarely observed in Hawaiian waters.
Can You Swim with Dolphins in Hawaii?
Swimming with dolphins in Hawaii is not allowed due to federal regulations designed to protect marine life. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) enforces guidelines to minimize disturbances to wild dolphins, ensuring they can rest and behave naturally. Instead, responsible eco-tourism encourages observing dolphins from a safe distance, allowing visitors to enjoy their beauty without disrupting their habitat.
Can You Touch Dolphins in Hawaii?
No, touching dolphins in Hawaii is strongly discouraged and, in most cases, prohibited. Wild dolphins are protected under federal law, and physical contact can cause stress or harm to these intelligent marine mammals. The best way to appreciate them is by watching respectfully from a distance.
But don’t worry! You can still get an amazing experience by watching spinner dolphins responsibly from the Dolphins & You Oahu Dolphin Watching Boat tour. Our dolphin encounter tours offer a safe, eco-friendly way to see dolphins up close—without disturbing them!
