What's the deal with the dolphins?

One of the fantastic things about living here is being able to see native wildlife in its native habitat. During humpback season we can see whales from the house as they relax right off shore. When we swim or snorkel, we see a variety of beautiful reef fish (sometimes the water is so clear you can see the yellow tangs from shore), and often see green sea turtles.  At dusk we are often greeted by the native owl, pu'eo, and in the afternoon we often see the native hawk, io, soaring high above our neighborhood.  It always feels lucky to see these beautiful animals.

The animal that probably receives the most attention is the spinner dolphin.  There is a local pod that moves up and down the South Kona shore, often resting in Honaunau and Kealakekua Bays. The dolphins move out into deep waters to fish at night, and utilize the shallow Bays for rest and as nurseries.  Kealakekua Bay is a nature preserve but also a major tourist attraction, so balancing use of the Bay for recreation whilst maintaining its pristine condition is a serious source of concern and tension on the island.

The effect of growing interaction between the dolphins in the Bay and humans has been and is being studied.  From what we have read here locally and what we have learned from a guest of ours who is a marine biologist and has spent time living at the Bay and studying dolphin behavior, excessive, close contact with humans is proving to be detrimental to the dolphins' well-being.  Their numbers are starting to decline.

If you are swimming or kayaking in the Bay and the dolphins happen to approach you, which they often do because they are inquisitive animals, consider yourself lucky.  It is undeniably magical and wonderful to see such a beautiful creature in its home.  It is best, however, not to pursue them.  Let them come to you.  Keep in mind that the Bay is the dolphins' bedroom and nursery, and that when you are in it, you are a guest in their home.

Spinner dolphins, like Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, and humpback whales are protected by the Endangered Species Act; it is illegal to touch or approach them. You must stay 50 feet away from a sea turtle, 50 yards away from a dolphin, and 150 yards away from a humpback whale.  Not all whale-watching tours or wildlife-encounter tours are respectful of these rules.  Please be mindful of this as you research tours, and don't be afraid to ask questions. It's in the best interest of everyone that Hawaii's precious creatures be treated with respect.