
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
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.
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
We are a unique and up and coming local business, in providing the aloha spirit and ono (delicious) fluffy and soft shave ice! Pour your own flavors form the first-on-the-island 10 flavor self-serve station!
Refreshing beverages and a select casual dining menu let you relax and enjoy your time in the sun to the fullest. Lounge or plunge...our staff is on hand to help you make the most of your poolside experience.
Located in the King’s Course Clubhouse at the Waikoloa Resort, Mai Grille is a gathering place for a delightful breakfast, post-round relaxation, Sunday Brunch gatherings, serene happy hour and a glorious dining experience.
With a focus on sustainability and delicious organic options only available in Hawaii, The Buffet at Hyatt is the perfect solution for foodies with hearty appetites.
Eggs 'n Things, a popular eatery for both locals and tourists, offers quality delicacies and dishes that we're proud to serve, and the spirit of Aloha will reflect in our wait staff service, making your experience all the more enjoyable and memorable. Join us at one of our four locations.
This ocean-view restaurant offers breakfast and an extensive steak and seafood dinner menu. With an emphasis on local ingredients, Chef Joseph Yaple showcases prime and wagyu beef from Snake River Farms and local Hawaiian catch, prepared to perfection.
Billfish Poolside Bar & Grille offers casual, al fresco dining every day for lunch, dinner, & happy hour. Its poolside location is the perfect place to enjoy tropical drinks, tasty food, & ocean views. Plus, enjoy daily Happy Hour from 5 pm - 6 pm, including discounted domestic beers & appetizers!
Experience Polynesian culture at the Drums of the Pacific Luau located at the Hyatt Regency Maui. Enjoy song and dance from the islands of Polynesia, including an all-you-can-eat buffet with traditional island fare, authentic imu ceremony, and three-man Samoan fire-knife dance, all oceanside.

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