
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
Enjoy a casual lunch, ice cold beer and libations on legendary Mauna Kea Golf Course at the clubhouse. Venue available evenings for special events.
Donkey Balls? Visit the original chocolate factory and store in Kainaliu, where we've been hand making gourmet chocolates for over 14 years. Stop in and sample our wide selection of over 50 flavors or try our flavored macadamia nuts, award-winning brittles, hot sauces and more.
Enjoy a respite from the warm tropical sun with a delicious meal and cooling beverage from Naupaka Beach Grill. In the evening, relax to live Hawaiian entertainment as the sun dips below the Pacific’s blue horizon.
Parker Ranch Center, where friends and visitors find everything! Anchored by the popular tourist attraction Parker Ranch Store and the life-size, historic Ikua Purdy statue.
KTA Super Stores is a homegrown, locally owned family grocery chain, proudly serving Hawai‘i Island for over 100 years.
Copper Bar is a place to gather with friends and family to enjoy creative, casual cuisine based on abundance and sharing along with crafted cocktails, beers and wine. Of course, the centerpiece was and remains sweeping views of Kauna'oa Bay that have beckoned travelers for decades.
The Kona Coffee and Tea Company is an Award-winning, single-estate, 100% Kona coffee farm, that is family-owned and operated. We grow, mill, roast, package and brew our own beans. "From our farm to your cup"
This award-winning, beachfront restaurant is open daily for breakfast & dinner. Serving lavish buffets, as well as savory entrees, Honu's on the Beach offers island-inspired cuisine & farm-to-table goodness. Enjoy its ocean view dining room or spacious lanai, complete with fire pits & scenic views.
Visit our beautiful Kona Coffee Estate overlooking Kailua Bay or roast your own private label 100% Kona Coffee. RSVP required for the Farm & Roastmaster Tours. Come and sample our "Crack-u-lated Kona coffee"
Hapuna’s new signature dining experience introduces an innovative menu inspired by the Mediterranean and infused with our island’s bounty.

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