
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
Swim alongside dolphins and snorkel through the clear waters of Oahu’s western shores with pods of 30 to 100 spinner dolphins. We’re taking you on an unforgettable journey to the sea, where you’ll learn about Hawaii’s culture, traditions, and ocean environment.
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.
Pride of Maui is Maui’s #1 Molokini Snorkel Tour with over 30 years experience. She is the most spacious vessel on Maui, with unsurpassed stability and amenities. Her expert crew are some of the best in the business.
Island Star is a luxurious 57' private charter sailing yacht that can accommodate up to 18 guests. We specialize in half and full day charters as well as weddings and special events. When you charter the Island Star you can snorkel, scuba dive, whale watch, or "sail" as much as you like.
Family owned and operated since 1966, come fish with the Hanamana and her world-class crew! Book now on our website https://hanamanaboatcharters.com or call (808) 365 - 6886. We offer full day private 8 hour Sportfishing Charters, 3/4 day 6 hour and half day 4 hour fishing guide trips. Book Today!
As Hawaii vacation experts, we offer personalized, customized travel arrangements to Maui, Kauai, Oahu, the Big Island of Hawaii, Molokai and Lanai. Living in the islands gives us the first hand experience and knowledge necessary to become your travel advocates.
Specializing in vacation packages including air, hotel, transportation, and many optional features to Hawaii, Europe, U.S. cities, Las Vegas and much more.
With Apple Vacations, you’ll have complete flexibility to create your ideal vacation. Relax on one island or create a multi-island vacation and discover the unique characteristics of each. Combine whatever you desire and design your perfect getaway.
Makani Catamaran is a luxury sailing vessel with a capacity of 80. Offering 4 sails daily. Departing from Kewalo Harbor. With an experienced crew, full wet bar, interior cabin with large screen TV, and surround sound its World Class Sailing at its finest!
Hawaii Nautical is one of Hawaii's largest ocean-activity providers, with a fleet of vessels serving many harbors across Oahu and the Island of Hawaii. We respect the ocean and the ecosystem, and follow strict guidelines so that all marine mammals and wildlife are protected.

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