Whale Watching in Hawaii

Whale watching in Hawaii is an extremely popular activity if you’re visiting Hawaii during the winter. Each year, thousands of humpback whales make the 3,000 mile journey from Alaska to Hawaii in order to breed and to raise their young.

Because the annual migration is seasonal, whales can only be seen a few months out of the year. So, if you are set on wanting to do some whale watching in Hawaii, you might want to plan your vacation around the prime whale watching season. The best time to see whales in Hawaii is from December to April.

The most popular way to observe these majestic creatures is on a whale watch or snorkel cruise, but it’s not uncommon to be able to see them from shore as well.

Whale Watching on Oahu

You may be able to see whales at just about any spot around the island if you’re lucky, but if you want to increase your odds try popular lookout spots on the south or eastern side of the island, such as Makapuu Lighthouse, Halona Blowhole lookout, the Diamond Head lookouts, or even Hanauma Bay. A complete list can be found here.

Oahu Whale Watching Charters
Big Kahuna Tours
Navatek I - Read my review here.
Star of Honolulu
Royal Hawaiian Charters

Whale Watching on Maui

Maui is probably one of your best bets for whale watching both from shore or on a cruise, especially on the west and south shores. The entire drive between Kihei or Kahului to Lahaina will provide numerous sightings during whale season, and you’ll find lookouts where you can park to watch from shore. Molokai and Lanai are also great for viewing whales.

Maui Whale Watching Charters
Pacific Whale Foundation
Trilogy Excursions
Kai Kanani Sailing
Pride of Maui offers afternoon whale watching and snorkeling adventures departing from Maalaea Harbor. Spot North Pacific Humpback whales aboard the flagship “Pride of Maui” — a 65 foot Maxi Power Catamaran, built for Hawaiian waters. From the 360 degree panoramic viewing deck, you’ll be able to view and photograph these playful behemoths, which you’re guaranteed to see on Pride of Maui’s whale watching trips.

Whale Watching on the Big Island

In Hawaiian, humpback whales are called kohala, so it comes as no surprise that the Kohala and North Kohala coasts are popular viewing points for whale watching, including the Puukohala Heiau. Whales can be seen from Hilo as well, and numerous whale watch cruises and charters depart from Kailua-Kona during whale season.

Big Island Whale Watching Charters
Dan McSweeny’s Whale Watch Learning Adventures
Mauna Lani Sea Adventures
Ocean Sports

Whale Watching on Kauai

Popular whale watching spots on Kauai include from the Kalalau trail or Kilauea Lighthouse on the North shore, the Kapaa lookout, or even Poipu beach. Details for some of these locations can be found here.

Kauai Whale Watching Charters
Liko Kauai Cruises
Blue Dolphin Charters
Captain Andy’s

>> If your travel dates allow, you might also want to consider being a volunteer for the annual humpback whale count, which helps with research and conservation efforts for these beautiful animals.