Where do you see the most whales in Maui?

The best place to see whales in Maui is the Maui Nui Basin. It's estimated that more than half of the humpback whale population migrates to the Maui Nui Basin for breeding every winter. The Maui Nui Basin refers to the waters between Maui, Lanai, and Kaho'olawe and is a protected sanctuary for the whales.



People Also Ask

When Is Maui Whale Watching Season? Whale watching season in Maui is November-May with peak season typically running between mid-January and March.

MORE DETAILS

November marks the traditional start of the 2022-2023 whale season at the sanctuary. Humpback whales are generally seen in Hawai'i from November into May each year, with the peak season running from January through March, according to the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.

MORE DETAILS

The reality, however, is that they do exist in Hawaii, but they aren't a part of a resident population that is regularly spotted in the islands. There have been a handful of orca sightings off the Big Island of Hawaii as well as Maui and Lana'i, and a dead orca once washed ashore along the southern coastline of Lana'i.

MORE DETAILS

Wailea: For high-end lodgings, look no further than Wailea. This area includes several incredible beachfront resorts, condo complexes, a lovely outdoor mall, and several quality restaurants. Our favorite luxury resorts include the Four Seasons Maui, Hotel Wailea, the Wailea Beach Marriott, and the Grand Wailea.

MORE DETAILS

Staying Warm Even though Maui is known for its warm weather, it can still get chilly on whale watches— even in the sun! The wind coming off the water can be cold, so pack a light jacket or hoodie to bring on board. Layers are key on whale watches.

MORE DETAILS

Whale sightings in Maui typically occur between November and May. The best months to see whales is usually between mid-January and March as this is considered peak whalewatching season. On occasion, we will have our first whale sighting as early as October or late September.

MORE DETAILS

Whale-watching tours depart from Lahaina Harbor, Kaanapali, Kihei, and Wailea and typically last two to five hours. Most whale-watching cruises depart in the morning when the ocean is calmest and conditions make it easier to spot whales.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Stop if you're too close: Stop immediately if you are within 100 yards of a humpback whale. Leave engines running and out of gear (in neutral) until the whale moves away. Go around whales from behind: If you encounter whales in your path, go around them from behind while maintaining more than 100 yards distance.

MORE DETAILS

The Maui Nui Basin was designated as the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale Sanctuary because Maui is the main Hawaiian island destination for Humpback Whales. Maui is the best island in Hawaii for whale watching and begins offering whales tours from December 1st every year until April 15th.

MORE DETAILS

The best destinations in the world for whale watching
  • Hervey Bay, Australia. ...
  • Silver Bank, Dominican Republic. ...
  • Maui, Hawaii, USA. ...
  • Juneau, Alaska, USA. ...
  • Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. ...
  • San Juan Islands, Washington, USA. ...
  • Puerto Madryn, Argentina. ...
  • Monterey, California, USA.


MORE DETAILS