Whale Watching in Hawaii:What You Need to Know
Hawaii is a popular destination for whale enthusiasts due to the large number of Humpback whales that migrate there every year. The main reasons for these migrations are food, breeding, and giving birth. Humpback whales favor the warmer waters around Hawaii’s coast, which feature abundant food sources and fewer predators than their icy polar counterparts. Fewer predators mean a safer environment for newly birthed calves, and the warmer waters ensure they won’t freeze before accumulating the necessary blubber that keeps them warm.
What is the Best Month for Whale Watching In Hawaii?
The best month for whale watching ranges from December to April. Within that time, the peak months are January and February.
Which Hawaiian island is the Best for Whale Watching?
Maui is considered the best Hawaiian island for whale watching due to the shallow Auau Channel that runs alongside it. This shallow channel brings the whales closer to the surface and increases your chances of spotting them breaching or hunting for krill or small fish.
Are You More Likely to See Whales in the Morning or Afternoon?
Early morning is the best time for whale watching; however, whales are active throughout the day, so you’re still likely to see them even in the afternoon. Many cruises also have a guaranteed whale sighting policy, which means you can book again for free in case you weren’t able to see any on the original date you booked. We recommend booking whale watch cruises that sail on the first few days of your trip so you can rebook when necessary.
Is it Better to DIY or Book a Whale Watching Tour?
Although it may be tempting to set sail on your own for a whale watching excursion, it’s much safer and more exciting to utilize the services of a whale watching tour. The staff are familiar with the waters around each island and know the spots the whales visit most. Tours are also more convenient and usually have an expert tour guide that gives fun and fascinating facts about whales and how they interact in the area. You can also listen to the hauntingly beautiful whale songs using underwater hydrophones and eat free snacks while onboard. When you take a whale watching tour, the captain also knows how to avoid any dangerous areas, which is why sticking with the professionals is always your best bet!
Whale Watching Tips
Here are a few tips you can use for the best experience on your whale watching adventure.
- Wear layers to protect yourself from the wind and sun.
- Wear a seasickness band to help prevent motion sickness and make your time on the water more enjoyable.
- Try to book whale watching cruises that sail on the earliest dates of your trip. If the whale watching cruise has a guaranteed whale sightseeing policy, you can book again for free in case you don’t spot a whale on your first try.
- Pack eco-friendly sunscreen. Hawaii prohibits the use of coral-harming products, so make sure the one you choose is environment-friendly. In case you forget to pack one before you go, you’ll find a lot of Hawaii-made reef-safe sunscreen in local shops.
- Don’t forget your camera.
Oahu Whale Watching Tours
Whale watching tours on Oahu are a fun way to spot whales from beautiful areas like the scenic Makapuu Lighthouse and Hanauma Bay. There are various ports where the tours depart from, giving you many choices for your exciting adventure.
![Star of Honolulu Waikiki Morning Whale Watching Cruise [Jan - Mar]](https://www.hawaiiactivities.com/travelguide/wp-content/uploads/Star-of-Honolulu-Waikiki-Morning-Whale-Watching-Cruise.png)
Go on Waikiki’s best whale watching cruise aboard the Star of Honolulu, Hawaii’s largest vessel! The boat features four observation decks to enjoy great views of humpback whales as you set out on a smooth sailing winter Waikiki whale watch.
Experience a family-friendly whale watching tour, with the option to relax on lounging nets or stand at the railings while. Amenities include a full bar, enclosed and covered cabin area with and top-notch surround-sound system. Don’t see any whales? No problem – go again for free!
Get up close and personal with humpback whales and Hawaiian spinner dolphins in their natural environment. Choose from whale watching cruise options to Waikiki, Hawaii Kai, or Waianae. Bring your own drinks and food for a customizable experience
Maui Whale Watching Tours
Lahaina Harbor is one of the most popular areas for whale watching tours on Maui, with most traveling to the Maui Nui Basin, where more than half of the humpback whale population migrates for breeding.
Take a catamaran boat cruise from Maalaea Harbor to go whale watching with experts! Certified Marine Naturalists take you on an informative and adventurous whale watching tours, one of Maui’s top-rated ecotourism experiences!
Set sail from Kaanapali beach in search of Hawaii’s most famous winter visitors, the Humpback Whale! Relax on a smooth sailing catamaran and enjoy delicious cocktails and beers from the premium open bar while watching these gentle giants.
Cruises use a luxurious and smooth boat called “Amore”. This avoids crowds for a relaxing experience. Bring beverages and snacks to enjoy during cruises. If no whales are seen, cruise again for free on a trip of same or lesser value from various Hawaiian islands.
Big Island Whale Watching Tours
Whale watching tours on the Big Island are an excellent addition to any Hawaiian vacation. Many tours depart from Kona and experience astounding interactions from the high concentration of humpback whales that congregate in the area.
Sail from two locations on the Big Island to suit different whale-watch schedules. All ages are welcome on tours, making it suitable for families or others seeking the experience. An on-board naturalist can answer questions about the humpback whales seen during tours.
Set out on a Big Island whale watch with a captain who is an expert in the area. The Ocean Encounters’ whale watch offers snacks, water, and soda. If whales are not spotted, come back for another trip with the guarantee. Upper deck provides additional views during the trip.
Come and join Hawaii Nautical’s Big Island whale watching tour! Their Whale Watch Guarantee means if you don’t see whales, you can sail again for free. The on-board naturalist will make sure you find whales and enjoy your whale watching cruise!
