Everything you need to know about whale watching in Maui

Few experiences in Hawaii can match the thrill of watching a 40-ton humpback whale launch itself out of the ocean in a magnificent, breathtaking breach.

Every winter, these gentle giants make their way to Maui’s warm waters, turning our island into one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations.

Here’s how to partake in the action!

First, get know your whales

These magnificent creatures you’ll see are North Pacific Humpback whales, who swim over 3,000 miles from Alaska to Hawaii each winter. They come to our warm waters to breed and give birth, making Maui’s waters essentially a whale nursery.

Watch for these common behaviors:

• Breaching: When a whale launches itself out of the water
• Tail slapping: Repeatedly hitting the water’s surface with their massive flukes
• Pec slapping: Slapping their long pectoral fins on the water
• Spouting: Explosive exhales that can shoot water 20 feet high

When to go whale watching

The official whale season runs from December 15 to April 15, but here’s a more insightful month-by-month breakdown:

November-December: the early bird whales start appearing, with sightings becoming more frequent by mid-December. This is a good time to catch the first whales of the season.

January-February: welcome to peak season! The waters around Maui become “whale soup” with frequent surface activity. If you’re in Maui during these months, you’re pretty much guaranteed to see whales.

March-April: Still excellent viewing, especially for mother-and-calf pairs. Activity gradually decreases through April as our ocean friends begin their long journey back to Alaska.

The best spot on Maui to see whales

Maui offers numerous prime whale-watching spots, both from shore and sea:

Kihei: for some great views, take a stroll down the Wailea Beach Path at sunset, Kamaole Beach II, climb the small hill (Pu’u Ola’i) at Makena Beach, or make the short drive to McGregor Point Lookout. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and your camera.

Maalaea Bay: a fantastic location for both shore watching and boat tours. The calm waters make it a favorite spot for mother whales and their calves.

The Pali Lookout: this scenic roadside stop along the western coast offers sweeping ocean views. On a good day, you might spot dozens of whales.

Kaanapali Beach: often called “whale soup” due to the sheer number of sightings. You might even spot whales right from your hotel balcony!

Best ways to watch

From shore: Grab some binoculars and find a comfy spot at any of Maui’s western-facing beaches. Polarized sunglasses help cut through the ocean glare.

By boat: Several reputable companies offer whale watching tours, including:

• The Satisfaction yacht charter from Ma’alaea Harbor
• Pacific Whale Foundation from Ma’alaea
• Trilogy Excursions from Ma’alaea and Ka’anapali
• Ultimate Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina
• Captain Steve’s Rafting

Tip: Early morning tours typically offer calmer seas and better visibility, while sunset tours provide spectacular photo opportunities.

What to bring on a whale watching tour

There’s something magical about watching a whale breach against the backdrop of Maui’s mountains, or hearing the haunting songs of male humpbacks through the boat’s hydrophone. It’s an experience that reminds us why Maui truly is no ka oi (the best).

If you’re heading out on a boat tour, dont’ forget the following:

• Light jacket (it can get windy)
• Sunscreen (reef-safe, of course)
• Camera
• Seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness
• Water and snacks
• No bananas (it’s bad luck on a boat)

Last thing: be a responsible whale watcher

Remember that we’re guests in their ocean home. Federal law requires maintaining a 100-yard distance from whales, whether you’re on a boat or in a kayak.

Be mindful of eco-certified tour companies that respect these guidelines and help protect our marine environment.

 

Image credits: Abigail Lynn, Colton Jones, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau