
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
Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Hawaii’s marine life at Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii. Encounter schooling reef fish, sharks, stingrays, turtles, and experience the world's first virtual encounter with Hawaii's humpback whales in the Humpbacks of Hawaii Exhibit & 3D Sphere.
At Pearl Harbor Tours we strive to be the most convenient, entertaining, personalized and safest tours on the road here in Hawaii so you can enjoy a stress-free experience visiting Oahuʻs top attractions. Our small group tours of 12 passengers or less will make you feel part of our ohana. Join Us.
Valley Isle Excursions takes you on one of the most breathtaking drives on earth down the road to Hana Maui. Spectacular cliffs, bamboo jungles, hawaiian waterfalls, tropical scenery and colorful fragrant flowers are part of our "Heavenly Hana" tour.
Located in Hilo's upscale enclave, Reed's Island, a mile from downtown Hilo. The three-bedroom house is perched at eye level to one of Hawaii's most beautiful waterfalls, and is flanked by the Wailuku River and rainforest.
At Hawaii Car Rentals we pass our Corporate Discount Rates, Specials and Waivers on to you. Rent from major national brand car rental companies and get our pre-negotiated discount rates. No Pre-Payment, No Cancellation Fees, No Booking Fees. Free Driver(s), Reduced Young Driver Surcharge.
Located on a bluff in the beautiful North Shore of Kauai, The Cliffs at Princeville offers both ocean and island views. Spacious units, fully-equipped kitchens and two full baths make a comfortable and upscale environment for your special vacation.
Recognized as the premier Farm to Cup coffee company in the world, focused on the ultimate Hawaiian coffee experience while embracing the Spirit of Aloha.
Island of Kauai - Discounted rates on Jeep Wranglers 4WD, convertibles, SUVs, vans and cars from major national companies. Lihue airport and resort locations. Toll Free 1-800-292-1930 or book directly on our website www.discounthawaiicarrental.com. We specialize in customer service.
Expeditions, the Lahaina-Lanai Ferry, provides affordable service between Maui and Lanai, five times a day, every day! Packages are available for a day of championship golf, luxury accommodations, Jeep rental, 4X4 Trekker Tours, Archery, Sporting Clays.
Ala Kukui is a cultural center for native Hawaiian spiritual and intellectual advancement. Our retreat space offers a unique opportunity to engage with our local community of cultural practitioners who pay respect to the environment through traditional Hawaiian practices.

Learn More About The Cultural Significance Of Whales in Hawaii
