Dolphin Quest Hawaii
Dolphin Quest Hawaii was the very first Dolphin Quest location and serves as a wonderful sanctuary for the resident dolphins living there.
Dolphin lagoon facts:
- Dolphin Quest Hawaii was established in 1988
- Habitat is a saltwater, sandy beached tidal lagoon filled with filtered sea water
- The water in this lagoon is crystal clear because fresh sea water is pumped from a tidal well dug into the highly porous lava rock
- The well generates an unlimited supply of sea water, naturally filtered through the lava rock, and pumps it into the Dolphin Quest lagoon at a rate of 10,000 gallons per minute, or 15 million gallons per day
- The entire water volume of the lagoon is replaced on an average of every two hours
- Water visibility in the lagoon is often more than an incredible 100 feet
- This lagoon is one of the largest and most natural dolphin habitats in the world
Hilton Main Lagoon facts:
- We have trained our dolphins to swim underneath the bridge from the Dolphin Quest lagoon and into the expansive Hilton Main Lagoon
- This ocean-fed saltwater lagoon is four acres in size and is a protected oasis perfect for snorkeling and swimming
- The lagoon is filled with various multispecies including fish, green sea turtles, and even the occasional monk seal
- This expanded part of our facility provides exciting opportunities for our dolphins and guests to connect in a large open space
Dolphin Quest Village facts:
- Dolphin Quest Village was built in 2008 and is comprised of five main buildings
- The Check-In Desk welcomes all guests and is where they can get more information or check-in for their dolphin encounter
- The Grand Lanai provides a breathtaking view of the entire dolphin lagoon and allows guests to watch dolphins swimming and playing with each other and with guests
- The Encounter Club is an interactive area of DQ Village where kids and adults can play games, interact with cool animals, touch animal models, and enjoy other fun activities
- The Learning Center is where a variety of classes on marine animals are conducted for kids of all ages
- The Photo and Gift Shop is where guests can view and purchase their encounter photos, and shop for a wide variety of Dolphin Quest and marine-themed souvenirs
- There are also lockers, bathrooms, and showers for guests to use if needed
Accreditations and Certifications:
- Accredited by Alliance of Marine Mammal Parks and Aquariums
- Awarded the American Humane Conservation certification. Click here to see the official certificate.
- Animal Trainer Development program accredited by the International Marine Animal Trainers’ Association
- Earned the TripAdvisor© Certificate of Excellence in 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017
- Dolphin Quest Village was officially certified using the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System as an effort to maintain our dedication to environmental conservation
