Whale Watching in Maui, HI 2025

Maui is a paradise for whale lovers. The second largest Hawaiian island is where you can witness whales in all their glory. After all, more than half of the North Pacific humpback whale population choose the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, which covers the Maui Nui basin as their winter playground. The protected area between Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe, and especially the shallow and warm waters of the Auau Channel, is where thousands of whales breed and give birth to calves.

The Best Time to See Whales in Maui

Whales start to arrive in Maui in December and leave in late April or early May. Mothers with calves usually migrate first, followed by juveniles and finally adult whales. The population reaches its peak numbers between January and March, which is optimal for observing these water giants. This is when it's even possible to spot the kohola, as locals call humpback whales, right from the shore in Lahaina, Ka'anapali Beach, and Ma'alaea Bay. February is considered to be the best time for whale watching in Maui. It's also when the annual Maui Whale Festival takes place. You can surely learn a lot about humpbacks during this popular event that features exhibitions, movies, and various activities.

Humpback Whales in Maui

Hawaii's North Pacific humpback whales travel over 3,500 miles from Alaskan waters to Hawaiian oceans every year during their annual Winter migration. Spending cols season in Maui, humpback whales are occupied with such activities, as courtship, competing for mates, mating, calving, and nursing newborn calves. They breach, slap fins, and flukes on the surface to communicate. They are also known for their unique songs that are heard for miles. One of the largest whale species on Earth, humpbacks reach 60 feet (18 m) in length and weigh up to 40 tons. Their lungs are the size of a small car. When whales sleep, just one side of their brain rests, and one eye remains open so that they remember to breathe.

The North Pacific humpback whale typically lives around 50 years, though some individuals have been known to reach up to 90 years. These whales generally reach sexual maturity between the ages of 5 and 7. Adult humpbacks usually surface to breathe every 10 to 15 minutes but can stay submerged for up to 45 minutes. Humpback calves, on the other hand, surface more frequently, every 3 to 5 minutes, making them more visible mid-season. To spot a humpback whale, look for the blowing spray that rises above the ocean's surface, which indicates the whale is breathing.

Shoreline Viewing

The Island of Maui is, without a doubt, the best place to be in Hawaii for whale watching from the shoreline. On locations like Ma'alaea and Lahaina, you can watch them from the sand, from a scenic lookout, or even as you are driving. The best vantage point for observing humpback whales breaching and playing from afar is along Highway 30 between Ma'alaea and Lahaina. Additionally, humpback whales can be spotted offshore in the South Maui coastal regions, including Kihei and Wailea, as well as along North Shore beaches such as Paia Bay and Ho'okipa Beach Park.

Maui Whale Watching Locations & Tours

Maui offers a variety of ways to encounter whales: from catamarans, Zodiac boats, sailboats, or rafts. It's one of the few places where you can see whales while kayaking, paddling, or snorkeling.

Lahaina Harbor

Most whale watch tours in Maui depart from Lahaina Harbor, a former whaling hunt center. Now, you can celebrate these beautiful creatures here and watch them from a safe distance. One of the most popular operators is Ultimate Whale Watch running small hydrophone boats with an underwater microphone so that you can hear whale songs. And if you don't see any whales on the day of your adventure, you'll get a chance to take another trip without extra cost. Another great option to try is a sailing catamaran. Catamarans are used by several tour operators who transport extensive groups. You can take an opportunity from Sea Maui to book a Combination Snorkel and Whale Watching Tour. Finally, Maui is where one can enjoy a unique experience: kayaking with whales. With PacWhale Eco-Adventures, you can book the exclusive whale watch with the experts, which includes a 3-hour whale watch with our certified marine naturalist onboard and offers the perfect small group platform for whale watching and photography.

Kihei and Ma'alaea Harbor

Kihei and Ma'alaea Harbor on the northwest side of the island is another popular whale-watching destination. Options include a guided kayak tour with safety instructions and snorkeling and an eco-friendly 2-hour tour on a larger boat. You can also book a whale-watching excursion from other locations throughout the islands. Whales can be spotted in great numbers near Oahu, Big Island, and Kauai.

What to Wear During the Whale Watching

If you are going to travel on a Zodiac or a raft, make sure to bring a waterproof windbreaker as well as a waterproof sleeve for your phone and camera to protect your gear. Wear long pants and sneakers to be comfortable on board. And don't forget about binoculars! For protection against the harsh UV light, bring a sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. If you suffer from motion sickness, make sure to take some medicine before the trip.