
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
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.
Located on the widest stretch of beach this is Waikiki’s only true oceanfront resort. The resort offers 22 lush acres with 5 pools, a refreshing salt water lagoon, a wide variety of shopping and dining, activities and Friday night fireworks.
Our wildly popular flagship restaurant is located oceanfront on world famous Front Street in Lahaina, Maui. Home of the legendary 5-napkin Cheeseburger, our doors first opened October 25, 1989, and we have been serving up our unique brand of Aloha for over 30 years in this amazing location.
Destination Residences Hawaii offers an exclusive collection of premium vacation residences in beachfront and golf-front resorts in Wailea and Makena on the island of Maui. Come share our aloha, genuine Hawaiian hospitality and authentic Maui experiences.
Hilo's premier, full service hotel on the shores of Big Island's Hilo Bay. Outstanding views of the ocean or quaint Hilo town, authentic Hawaiian charm and aloha spirit embraces you! Resort features a restaurant, lounge, WiFi, swimming pool, meeting/banquet facilities. (FEMA & TLA Approved)
An oceanfront condominium, adjacent to Lydgate park, w/ a walking path along the coast. Centrally located, it features one-, two- & three-bedroom suites, all oceanview or oceanfront. Amenities include pool, tennis court, BBQs & putting green.
The Hawaiian Pie Co. is a family-owned multi generational bakery located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu. They specialize in melt-in-your-mouth buttery fruit pies and baked goods that features some of Hawaii's finest tropical flavors.
At Lappert's Hawaii, we make everything by hand from scratch using only the finest ingredients. From our five retail stores to our wholesale to High-end restaurants state-wide, we are proud to be part of Hawaii's community for over 30 years.
Oahu's best kept secret! Nestled in the heart of Waikiki, Royal Grove Hotel is located just 2 blocks behind the Hyatt Regency. Just steps away from world-famous Waikiki Beach, we offer great units with kitchens for the budget traveler.
Intimate boutique chic hotel within walking distance to all Waikiki has to offer. One block from Waikiki Beach and a short walk from Ala Moana Shopping Center, restaurants and the Hawaii Convention Center. The perfect place to mix business and leisure.

Learn More About The Cultural Significance Of Whales in Hawaii
