Between January and May, about 5000 - 6000 humpback whales journey from the colder Alaskan ocean to the warm waters of Hawaii to give birth. Then they stay a few months to nurse their young. It’s really the ultimate maternity leave.
For the best whale sighting, book a whale watching catamaran sail to get fairly close (100 yards) to these gentle giants in a peaceful, quiet manner. With the sun in the sky, the gentle breeze and calm waves, it is sure to be an amazing life experience.
To see the whales without having to leave the shore, get a pair of binoculars and look out from the shores of Kaanapali and McGregor Point and Lighthouse in west Maui.
Must Do:
Budget
Gear up with binoculars to watch humpback whales' tails slap, blow spray into the air and “pilot” from the shores of Kauai's Napali Coast and Maalaea Bay on Maui.
Mid-Range
Book a whale watching boat excursion from Waikiki beach in Oahu for a heartwarming view of whale families. Bonus: you might also get to snorkel with turtles and dolphins.
Luxury
For the ultimate whale watching experience, sail a catamaran to Kaanapali beach in Maui and a family of humpback whales might swim near you.
Insider Tips
For a more intimate whale watching experience without crowds and the loud noise of an engine, choose a smaller, quiet vehicle like a catamaran.
If you love whales, protect them. Book a tour operator with ethical policies that acknowledges the laws of respectful distance for whale watching.
Stand-up paddleboard to the whales in Kihei, Maui. Perks: the journey is serene and you will get a good workout along the way.
Must Go:
Maui
Maui
Humpback whales love Maui’s shallow waters, which makes Maui the Hawaiian whale watching capital. Whale watching enthusiasts flock to the shores of Kaanapali between January and April yearly for a closer look at these majestic creatures.
Hawaii Island
Hawaii Island
Visit the “hill of the whale” at Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site on Hawaii Island for whale sightings that will melt your heart.
Oahu
Oahu
Oahu’s southeastern tip near Diamond head and Hanauma Bay is great for whale watching. That means you can hike, snorkel and watch whales all in one location. It doesn’t get better than that.
Kauai
Kauai
Whales are drawn to the sandy shores of Poipu beach in Kauai. With the help of binoculars, you can see humpbacks not too far from the shore.
