
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
Unique location overlooking Kamuela town, has an expansive view of the vocanoes Mauna Kea & Mauna Loa. A breathtaking view of the Kohala Coast & Pacific ocean. 15 minutes from best beaches. Next to Parker Ranch. Walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Kauai Bound is a locally owned snorkel, golf, underwater camera, and beach rental and retail shop located in Lihue at Anchor Cove Shopping Center. We carry quality dry snorkels with silicone masks, new Wilson golf sets, underwater cameras, and more!
Located just steps away from the beach and pier, our bright and airy Hawaiian Victorian Style home is the ideal accommodation for any special occasion.
Princevile Makai Golf Club at the Princeville Resort sits on a rolling plateau high above the Pacific Ocean and beautiful Hanalei Bay. As one of Americas' Top 100 Public Golf Courses and "Top 5 Most scenic golf settings" it is a must play while on Kauai.
Plantation Style Vacation Rental Beach Homes & Cottages on Kauai's sunny west side. Kekaha is located just 50 minutes from the Lihue Airport on the West side of the Island of Kauai, with the longest continuous stretch of white sand beach in the country!
The Kauai Palms Hotel is clean, affordable and just 5 minutes from the Lihue Airport. Standard room rates start at $95/night. Deluxe rooms and rooms with kitchenettes and full kitchens are available. Walk to dining and the white sands and surf of Kalapaki Beach are just minutes away!
Come early and stroll the Plantation's tropical grounds as you enjoy the late afternoon sun or walk through an amazing craft fair and view beautiful creations that are all "Made on Kauai".
Private Kauai Vacation Home Rental in Princeville, near all North Shore beaches, the Town of Hanalei and Princeville Golf! WiFi, mountain bikes, golf clubs, private tropical garden setting, full kitchen, outdoor shower, outdoor living space and many extras! Great Value for couples or families!
The Courtyard King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel offers resort-style amenities without the resort price tag. This beachfront hotel features 452 guest rooms, 2 ocean view restaurants, an infinity pool, & is home to 20,000 square feet of event space, which can accommodate up to 500 persons.
Savor your privacy in a private residence with full kitchen, laundry facilities & spectacular views. Enjoy nearby secluded beaches, waterfalls, championship golf, tennis, restaurants, shopping and more.

Learn More About The Cultural Significance Of Whales in Hawaii
