The South Shore is a prime location for Kauai whale watching due to the deeper waters that are closer to the shoreline.
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The Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary constitutes different portions of the Hawaiian islands, including Kauai's Hanalei Bay (The Jewel of North Shore.) The sanctuary is a perfect place for whale watching, both from shore and sea, as it lies in the shallow warm waters, within a depth of 600 feet.
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.
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.
Kauai is the winnerIt has a variety of views and terrain to see. Rocky coastlines, beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and mountains and valleys. There is so much to see and do.
Regarding dramatic Hawaiian scenery, Maui and Kauai are both exactly what most travelers imagine. Stunning coastlines, towering mountains, and lush jungles abound on both islands. However, the main difference between the two islands comes down to the variety in the landscapes, which Maui wins by a narrow margin.
The best time of year to visit Kauai is during off-peak seasons, between September and December or between April and June. During these times you can avoid the crowds and enjoy lower prices on accommodations and excursions. Either way, be sure to book everything far in advance!
Lumahai is the subject of many postcards and paintings, but is also known on island as one of the most dangerous beaches for drownings and is not recommended for swimming. During the summer months the conditions at Luimahai are calmer, but still use caution. Lumahai is exposed to open ocean and strong currents.
Killer whales are one of 18 marine mammals found in the Hawaiian Waters however many of these are rare and never seen. Some of the more common marine mammals found in Hawaii are: Humpback Whales, Monk Seals, Bottle nose dolphins, Spinner Dolphins, Stripped Dolphins and other dolphins and whales.
The South Shore is definitely one of the more popular areas for tourists to stay in Kauai. The weather on this side of the island stays pretty sunny year-round, making it the perfect place for pool-side lounging and long beach days.
Kauai's West ShoreThe West Shore of Kauai is often underrated, but it's one of the most beautiful places on Earth, in our humble opinion. The West Shore is separated from the north by the Napali Coast, which gives the west a distinct desert-like feel.
For a well-rounded experience, spending at least 5-7 days on Kauai is recommended. This allows enough time to explore the island's diverse attractions and participate in various activities while having some downtime for relaxation. If you're short on time, 4-5 days will allow you to see most of the island.
The West Side of the island, the leeward coast of Kauai, is drier and the mountains in the center of the island block the rest of Kauai from the rain. This is one of the least visited parts of the island, excluding the sights along Highway 550 (like Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park).
The average daily cost (per person) in Kauai is $190, while the average daily cost in Maui is $275. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment.
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.