
Whale Watching
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Whale Watching in Hawaii
Adult males range from 40 to 52 feet and can weigh up to 45 tons. Despite their size, humpback whales are graceful acrobats. Keep your eye on the ocean and you might see one breach, propelling up to 40 percent of its body out of the water and landing on its side with a spectacular splash.
Cultural Significance of Whales in Hawaii
Whales have great cultural significance for Native Hawaiians. They play a large role in Hawaiian legend—including one creation story—and appear in ancient petroglyphs on several islands. The return of the kohola (humpback whale) is considered more of a homecoming than a visit. Humpback whales are born in Hawaiian waters, making them kamaaina (native born). Some Native Hawaiians also believe the whales are aumakua (family guardians), so these gentle giants are treated with great respect.
What's the Best Way to See Whales?
Although humpback whales can be seen from all of the Hawaiian Islands, the shallow Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai and Lanai is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. You may also spot kohola from the southern shores of Oahu, especially at Makapuu Lighthouse and along the seaside overlooks near Leahi (Diamond Head).
Kauai offers a range of whale-viewing opportunities, including Poipu Beach on the South Shore, Kilauea Lighthouse on the North Shore and Kapaa Overlook on the island’s Coconut Coast.
On the island of Hawaii, whales are often seen along the shores of the Kohala Coast, as well as Hilo Bay on the east side of the island. The Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site is another great viewing spot, with its sweeping, elevated views near Kawaihae Harbor. In fact, Puukohola literally means “hill of the whale” in Hawaiian.
Boat tours may be your best option for viewing whales up close. Hawaii has dozens of tour operators, including a few that lead kayak excursions—a thrilling way to experience these majestic mammals.
In respect for the kohola and the safety of sightseers, all watercraft must stay a minimum of 100 yards from the whales, but you'll be surprised how close you feel when a 45-ton behemoth lunges out of the sea. If a boat tour is not for you, the whales’ impressive acrobatic displays are often visible from miles away. If you're on land, keep a pair of binoculars handy because you never know when you'll see a humpback’s spout (which can be 10–20 feet tall).
Whale Watching in Hawaii
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Mauna Kea’s sumptuous Sunday Brunch buffet overlooks stunning Kauna`oa Bay and is highlighted by an array of breakfast and lunch favorites enhanced with Chef's selections of specialties. Make every Sunday a special celebration at Mauna Kea!
We focus on regional and global cuisine while creating impactful flavors. Hawaii is a haven for fresh seafood and local produce.
Paradise Bay Resort offers panoramic views of the Ko'olau Mountains laced with magnificent waterfalls after a rain, with awesome views of the Bay, Islands, Ocean and the Ancient Hawaiian Fishpond. The resort is a short drive to the airport or Waikiki usually less than 30 minutes.
Built in 1901, the Pioneer Inn captures the ambiance of old whaling days, with architecture that evokes the tranquil lifestyle of turn-of-the-century Lahaina. This charming, renovated hotel is located at the water's edge on historic Lahaina Harbor.
A Honeymooner Favorite...Private, Romantic Cottage with Spectacular/Panoramic Ocean-Sunset View. Located on a 4 acres respendent estate on the beautiful, lush North Shore of Maui.
Come early and stroll the Plantation's tropical grounds as you enjoy the late afternoon sun or walk through an amazing craft fair and view beautiful creations that are all "Made on Kauai".
Holua Resort at Mauna Loa Village offers spacious one-, and two-bedroom villas featuring private lanais and stunning views. Enjoy eight sparkling swimming pools, hot tubs, eleven world-class tennis courts, a fitness center, on-site activities and more.
Relax and enjoy a swim in the lovely pool surrounded by palm trees, or take a five-minute walk to Kailua Beach. Close to Kailua's restaurants and shops. Air-conditioned rooms have sliding glass door entries, private baths and kitchenettes.
Down The Hatch located in the Wharf in Lahaina across from the Banyan Tree. Serving Southern Aloha for Breakfast, Lunch, Longest Happy Hour on Maui 2-6p, Dinner & Late Night - OPEN daily 7:30a-2a-Kitchen open ‘til 12a-Voted 2017 & 2018 BEST BAR ON MAUI & 2016 Best Late Night Kitchen! www.dthmaui.com

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