
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
Fresh Big Island products prepared in an exciting contemporary manner by critically acclaimed Chef Merriman.
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.
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"
Rooster Farms is the Oldest Organic Farm in Hawaii and has won prestigious cupping contests. Come visit our agroforest with Ed Chen, a Columbia educated Environmental Engineer for a farm tour, agricultural education, and Tara Cronin, a exhibited photographer on big island to learn about Kona coffee!
Silversword is a comfortable venue in our stunning lobby where guests may enjoy an elevated wine tasting experience during the daily Sheraton Social Hour. Or, gather with friends for an afternoon or early evening cocktail while appreciating gorgeous views of Keauhou Bay and the Kona coastline.
Greenwell Farms offers farm tours continuously from 8:30am through 4:30pm Monday through Sunday. Take an interesting personal walking tour of coffee fields and the processing facilities, enjoy free samples of various coffee products, and see a working Kona coffee farm.
Choose from a wide selection of healthy refreshments, a quick, satisfying snack for the family, a Cup-o-Kimo freshly brewed coffee for yourself, or relax and enjoy the scenery and a refreshing cocktail as the resort's canal boats glide quietly by.
At Ainakai, guests enjoy a tropical buffet breakfast, Island juices, fresh fruits and made-to-order specialty items enhanced with warm aloha service. Ala Carte options are also available.
Overlooking Hilo Bay, Coconut Island, and Mauna Kea mountain. Queen's Court Dining Room serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Features American - International flair cuisine. Wai'oli Lounge. Hilo Hawaiian Bakery.

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