WHALE WATCHING
MAUI IS HUMPBACK’S FAVORITE ISLAND!
Humpback whales are true ocean giants! They feast in the cold waters of Alaska during the summer before making an over 3,00 miles journey to Hawaii’s warm waters, where they mate, give birth and raise their calves.
You can spot them on all the Hawaiian islands, but the biggest concentration is on Maui, making it the perfect place to see these majestic creatures up close.
WHEN IS HUMPBACK WHALE SEASON IN HAWAII?
Whale season is oficially November to May, but generally runs from mid-December to mid-April, with peak activity in January to March – perfect for those looking to catch the most action!
HOW DO HUMPBACK WHALES TRAVEL BACK?
Humpback whales journey back to Alaska in a group of three: the female, her calf, and a male escort.
Fun Fact: A newborn humpback calf weighs as much as a small car – about 1 ton. AND, they grow up to 100 pounds per day during their first months!
WHERE IS THE BEST PLACE TO SPOT THEM ON MAUI?
The best place to spot humpback whales on Maui is on the island’s West Side, where boat tours from Lahaina or Ka’anapali will take you to the Maui Nui Basin. This protected area, located between Maui, Lanai, and Kaho’olawe, is where humpback whales come to rest and breed.
HOW TO PICK THE RIGHT TOUR FOR YOU?
It all comes down to what you’re looking for—whether you’re after adventure, luxury, thrills, or something unique. We’ve rounded up our top tours based on price, amenities, and real experiences to make it easier for you to decide!
Pro Tip: Book your whale watch early in your trip to allow flexibility in case the weather changes. You’ll have more chances to witness this incredible spectacle!
KNOW THIS BEFORE YOU GO
- Be sure to book your tour in advance, as spots can fill up quickly. It’s also a good idea to give the company a quick call the day before—just to confirm everything is set. If the weather looks uncertain, don’t hesitate to ask about alternative options or the chance to reschedule.
- Even if you don’t normally get seasick, taking motion sickness medicine is a smart move—it helps you stay fully present and focused. After all, you never know when a whale might breach right in front of you! Try this iPhone trick to take photos without feeling sick!
- For this adventure, we recommend bringing a good camera to capture the experience. Whether you’re taking wide shots, close-ups of marine life, or action shots, the right gear makes a big difference. Your phone works well too and takes great photos! If you bring an action camera, some tour companies let you film under the boat to catch amazing footage of humpback whales. Don’t forget to check out our “Photography Essentials for Hawaii” guide for our top tips and favorite equipment!
- We highly recommend checking out our “What to Bring in Hawaii” guide to help you prepare!
Not all whale tours are the same.
Depending on the type of experience you’re looking for, we’ve shared our favorite trusted companies below to help you choose the best one!
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