
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
Right on the beach. Food,friends and FUN! Casual family dining. Lunch, dinner, and happy hour. Steak,burgers, salads and fresh local caught seafood.
Nestled in sunny Poipu Beach, Keoki's Paradise is famous for its fresh seafood, local island cuisine and exotic drinks served in a jungle-like setting.
Perched high atop the lush, emerald cliffs that line Kauai's North Shore, this rejuvenating retreat is the perfect place to savor refreshing Pacific breezes while gazing at the sparkling ocean that lingers beyond the island's breathtaking bluffs.
Worldwide delivery. Tropical plants, leis, and flowers shipped FX to U.S. Flowers for every occasion, balloons, stuffed animals, gourmet gift baskets, candies, wine, and champagne. Serving Kauai for 30 years. Wedding specialist: locally & US shipments.
Our experience & attention to detail will take the stress out of organizing your own wedding. We provide professional advice,have local knowledge and will work with your budget to ensure that your wedding is a success!
Located on a bluff in the beautiful North Shore of Kauai, The Cliffs at Princeville offers both ocean and island views. Spacious units, fully-equipped kitchens and two full baths make a comfortable and upscale environment for your special vacation.
ALOHA! And welcome aboard any one, or all three, of our Conductor Narrated Authentic Train Tours of Historic and Beautiful 105 acre Kilohana Plantation. Sit back and relax in our elegant mahogany passenger cars as you tour and see the tropical beauty and bounty of Kilohana.
Makana Charters is the only Na Pali tour company offering personalized or private morning and afternoon tours on the Na Pali coast on your choice of three vessels - a 32 or 12 person catamaran, or an adventurous tour on our shaded raft. Explore the sea caves, get under waterfalls, and snorkel.
Spanning 240 acres, Na 'Aina Kai is a living mosaic of diverse gardens, a hardwood plantation, a moss- and fern-draped canyon, a tranquil meadow and pristine sandy beach. Gracing the gardens and wild areas are more than 200 bronze sculptures.
Contemporary Flavors Catering is the largest and finest full-service licensed catering company on the island of Kauai. We will work with you to custom-design menus and event plans to fit any occasion from weddings to birthdays, luaus, business events, intimate gatherings, and formal affairs.

Learn More About The Cultural Significance Of Whales in Hawaii
