Whale watching is one of the best water adventures you need to do while in the Hawaiian waters. This activity is considered the most popular as it can only happen at a specific time when humpback whales have their migration period.
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The best time for whale watching in Hawaii is between December and March. Though you can begin to see whales off the coast in the beginning of October (or even September) and as late as May, between December and March is when the population of humpback whales in Hawaii is the largest.
which Hawaiian island is the best for whale watching? In season, Maui is the best place to see humpback whales, but other islands also have many whales to see. The islands of Kauai, Oahu, and Big Island offer great whale-watching tours.
During the peak of the season from January-March, it isn't a question of if you'll see humpbacks—but rather which ones to watch. Maui is home to the world's densest population of North Pacific humpback whales, who make the six-week journey from Alaska to Hawaii to mate, rest, and give birth.
Although the protected oceanic areas known as the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary are mainly found between the islands of Maui, Molokai and Lanai, the island of Oahu is also a popular destination for humpback whales, and they can be found off the shores of Waikiki, the North Shore, and both the east (windward) ...
During the peak months of February and March, it's sometimes possible to see humpback whales from shore in Oahu. Some of the best locations for whale spotting are on lookouts along the south-eastern side of the island.
The best time of day for whale watching is any time of the day! Whales are active and resting 24 hours a day. They have intervals of activity and rest because they do not feed while they are in Hawaii, their behavior is related to mating and giving birth which happens at random during the day and night.
Whale watching season runs from November through April in Hawaii, typically peaking between January and March. It's easy to spot whales for free right from shore from Maui, Oahu and Kauai. It's important to do your research and pick a sustainable tour company that respects the animals and laws.
Here in the confines of Maui County the water is very shallow, which consequently means it's free of predators like fearsome killer whales. The channel between Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i is only about 200 feet deep, and the sandy bottom and calm conditions are a tropical “kiddie pool” for whales.
The best time to view whales is between dawn and dusk when they are most active. Whale-watching tours typically last 3-4 hours, but you may want to check with your tour operator about the specific times that their vessel will be sailing.
Although not required, a gratuity for your guide is a great way to show your appreciation for their outstanding service. Guiding is a hospitality industry comparable to that of a server at a restaurant. 10% – 20% gratuity is a good general rule, depending on how amazing your guide was.