Can I Go Whale Watching in Hawaii?

The Pacific Ocean experience is unbeatable when you’re in beautiful Hawaii. It’s vast, bright blue, and is home to some of the most majestic marine life around. But what should you do to ensure that you get the best experience when you’re in the Aloha State? One of the best ways is to go whale watching in Hawaii.

Hawaii is a popular spot for whale-watching. Not only do these massive creatures migrate through and around Hawaii each year, they calve and give birth to their calves here, too. And when they do, they provide an amazing opportunity for people to get an up close and personal look at them.

If you’re thinking about embarking on a whale-watching trip in the Hawaiian Islands, here’s some information to help you plan your excursion.

What Kind of Whale Watching Opportunities Can I Find in Hawaii?

The most common type of whale watching trip during the humpback whale breeding season in Hawaii is from a large vessel offering viewing from its observation deck, as well as expert narration by a Hawaiian naturalist during your excursion.

Another type of whale-watching in Hawaii is kayaking. Not only does it allow you a unique perspective, it also offers a peaceful and intimate way of watching these gentle giants up close. You can also swim with or near wild dolphins or swim with, or even near, gentle whales—an experience of a lifetime.

When Is the Best Time To Go Whale Watching in Hawaii?

The best time to go whale watching in Hawaii is between December and April, when the endangered humpback whales are here. This incredible species can only be seen in this region when they migrate from Alaska down to the tropics in order to mate and give birth.

From December through February, the whales are on their trek from Alaska down to Hawaii’s warm waters. During this time of year, calves are commonly seen swimming alongside their mothers as part of their training for adult life.

Later in the season, between March and April, the whales are still present in large numbers, but many have already headed to deeper waters for calm, quality time for mom and calf bonding.

Where Are the Best Spots for Whale Watching in Hawaii?

Most boat-based whale watching charters depart from coastal cities such as Honolulu, Lahaina, Maalaea and Kihei. These are the towns along Maui county’s western and southern coasts, which offer some of the best whale watching conditions due to the relative shalowness of the waters here and the close proximity to areas where the whales congregate.

You can also find good whale-watching spots off Oahu’s eastern and northern coasts, as well as on Kauai and the Big Island (Hawaii).

Are There Any Rules That I Need to Be Aware of When Watching Whales in Hawaii?

Yes. The Native Hawaiian culture holds whales in deep reverence and many activities related to them are included under what is known as “kapu” or taboos. As such, there are certain restrictions on how you can interact with whales while in Hawaii. For example, under U.S. state and federal laws, operating a boat or vessel within 100 yards (300 feet) of a whale is illegal. Furthermore, it is also illegal to touch or disturb marine mammals—including whales—by approaching or pursuing them too closely. It is also illegal to feed or touch any marine life, so be sure to adhere to all posted signs while off shore.

To summarize, if you’re planning on engaging in some whale watching during your trip to Hawaii, make sure your vessel operator has prior experience with these activities, that you comply with any legal regulations in place for protecting marine life, and that you act responsibly so as not to disturb any of these amazing creatures during your time off shore. Though whale watching in Hawaii may be an awe-inspiring experience, it is important that we be mindful of our impact on their society during our visit by always respecting their environment, privacy, and boundaries. For more information about whale watching regulations in Hawaii, please visit the website of the Department of Land and Natural Resources.

Insider’s Guide to Whale Watching in Maui, Hawaii

Maui is a popular Hawaiian island for tourists seeking whale watching opportunities. While most visitors go to the common tourist spots, few know of the hidden gems that locals recommend. Beyond the majestic ocean giants, the allure of Maui is in its local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and rich history. Here’s an insider’s guide to making the most of your whale watching trip to Maui.

Local attractions

Beyond the pristine beaches and crystal-clear water, Maui has many natural attractions that locals prize. One such place is the Iao Valley State Park, which was once a sacred burial site for Hawaiians and is now a national landmark. A hike through the park’s lush greenery takes visitors to the Iao needle, an ominous mountain spire visible from the valley.

For a cultural experience, don’t miss the Maui Swap Meet, held every Saturday, and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. Locals love these spots for their art exhibits, musical performances, and cultural events. Another lesser-known attraction is the Haleakala Crater, which is a dormant volcano that offers panoramic views of the island.

Dining spots

Maui’s vibrant food scene is a fusion of Hawaiian, Japanese, and Chinese cuisines. For classic Hawaiian dishes, try a plate lunch from Da Kitchen or Kalama’s Local Grinds. For a unique culinary experience, go to Mama’s Fish House, known for its fresh fish and lobster caught daily by local fishermen. Another culinary must-try is the saimin – a popular noodle soup with Hawaiian flavors – at Sam Sato’s.

To quench your thirst, order a shave ice – Maui’s version of a snow cone, at Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice. More adventurous eaters must try the poke – a Hawaiian raw fish salad – at local joints such as Eskimo Candy and The Fish Market.

Cultural experiences

The island’s rich culture is proudly on display through its festivals, art, and music scenes. Those who visit Maui between November and February can experience the Maui Whale Festival. The festival offers whale watching tours, concerts, and educational events organized by the Pacific Whale Foundation. For art lovers, visit the Maui Crafts Guild or the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, which showcase local artists’ work.

For a musical treat, head to the Slack Key Guitar Festival, which features traditional Hawaiian music and culture. The festival celebrates the slack key guitar, a guitar style that originated in Hawaii

Local history

Maui’s history predates the arrival of Europeans in Hawaii. The island was once a seat of power for Hawaiian royalty, who built a large complex of royal residences and religious temples. The best-preserved ancient Hawaiian site is the Lahaina Historic District, which once served as the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Here you’ll find the Baldwin House Museum, which was built-in 1834 by a Christian missionary.

Another renowned spot is the Maui Historical Society Museum, which has a vast collection of Hawaiian artifacts, including photographs and archives from the 1800s. Don’t forget to stop at the Whaler’s Village Museum, located on Kaanapali Beach, to learn about Lahaina’s whaling industry that thrived in the 1800s.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

For an unforgettable experience, hike through the Waihe’e Ridge Trail. The trail provides stunning views of the island’s coastline and lush green mountains. Another adventurous activity is jet skiing on the island’s sparkling waters. Additionally, try a sunrise or sunset tour that offers a view of the whales breaching in Maui’s oceans.

Maui has something to offer every kind of traveler. With this insider’s guide, you can discover the true beauty and flavor of Hawaii’s second-largest island and make your whale watching trip unforgettable.