Whale Watching

From December to May, you may catch a glimpse of a majestic koholā, or humpback whale, in Oʻahu's southern seas. The gentle giants come to the warm Hawaiian waters every year to breed and give birth to new calves.

Schedule a tour or charter a boat to spot these magnificent creatures. Treat yourself to scenic ocean views as expert guides take you to the best spots to observe whales playfully surfacing, tail slapping or blowing spouts in the air. Regulations prohibit boats from approaching within 100 yards of a whale and you should never swim with or touch whales or any other marine mammals.

You can also spot whales from Oʻahu’s many beaches and from southeastern Oʻahu spots like the scenic Makapuʻu Lighthouse, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, and along the seaside overlooks near Lēʻahi (Lēʻahi Head). Whale watching tours and cruises depart from various ports along Oʻahu’s southern and western harbors.