
Whale Watching
Scroll to Continue
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
Valley Isle Excursions takes you on one of the most breathtaking drives on earth down the road to Hana Maui. Spectacular cliffs, bamboo jungles, hawaiian waterfalls, tropical scenery and colorful fragrant flowers are part of our "Heavenly Hana" tour.
Explore Maui Nui’s ocean environment with the experts at Pacific Whale Foundation through PacWhale Eco-Adventures top-rated Whalewatches, as well as award-winning snorkel cruises to Molokini & Turtle Arches, Lanai and Honolua Bay; Dolphin Watch ecotours; Sunset Dinner and Cocktail Cruises.
A luxury boutique Guesthouse in Captain Cook, South Kona on Hawaii Island, at the historic former home of artist and historian Herb Kawainui Kane. Situated on a 16-acre avocado farm with views from Kealakekua Bay to Honaunau.
MauiAccommodations.com is the leading resource for hotels, condos, and rental-by-owner accommodations on Maui. One-of-a-kind places to stay! Vacation rentals, homes, b&bs, condos, hotels, resorts. FREE monthly enewsletter with exclusive Maui deals. Blog with travel tips from a local Maui resident.
Hawaii's only luxury all-suite and villa resort, located on 22 oceanfront acres. Four restaurants, Willow Stream Spa and complimentary fitness center. Golf, tennis facilities and business center also available.
Newly renovated deluxe full service hotel. Just steps to Waikiki Beach. Featuring spectacular city, mountain and ocean views. Fitness room, Business Center, restaurant and cocktail lounge. High speed Internal in public areas and guest rooms.
Top rated, privately managed Lae Nani beachfront condos on Kauai's Coconut Coast. Well maintained 1, 2, and 3 bedroom oceanfront condos in a peaceful beachside resort, walking distance to shopping, dining, attractions and the coastal path.
Our 2 luxurious oceanfront 1bed/1bath non-smoking adults-only condos are immaculate and comparable to a 5-star resort with granite countertops, fully equipped kitchens, Cal king pillow-top mattresses, 1000-count linens, and luxury bath amenities.
Discover an ocean-side paradise bordering a marine preserve that teems with colorful reef fish and protected species such as green sea turtles and spinner dolphins. Explore this untouched island playground, and experience your own private Hawaii.
Experience Hawaii condominium living in a quiet neighborhood setting at this contemporary property featuring one- and two-bedroom suites with the conveniences of a full service hotel. Within walking distance of Waikiki Beach, zoo, aquarium, and Kapiolani Park.

Learn More About The Cultural Significance Of Whales in Hawaii
