Maui Whale Watching Q&As

Every winter, the North Pacific Humpback Whales migrate from the frigid waters of Alaska to mate, give birth, and bask in the warm seas of the Hawaiian islands, enjoying their own sort of tropical vacation. They are our most treasured annual visitors, and Maui whale watching becomes an obsession during this period.

Planning a trip soon and interested in Maui whale watching? Read on for frequently asked questions and the top Maui whale watching tips. 

Maui Whale Watching Q&As

 

When is whale season on Maui?

 

Whales usually start showing up in October, though “official” whale season is typically December 15-April 15. Tour boats operate during the “official” season. Some tours even run until May. 

 

When is the best time to see humpback whales on Maui?

 

February is peak whale season on Maui. Thousands of whales are swimming around Maui’s shallow channels during this time. Good luck not seeing a whale in February! While February is peak season, whales are also abundant in January and March. 

 

 

When do whales leave Maui?

 

Whales start leaving Maui in April and May. It’s very unlikely you’ll see a whale in June. But not impossible! A diver on Oahu had an up-close encounter with a humpback whale in July 2024. Boat captains have occasionally reported similar experiences. Some scientists speculate that some humpbacks stay and feed year-round in Hawaii. Even so, it’s extremely rare to see a whale between June and September, so don’t get your hopes up!

 

 

Is whale watching on Maui safe?

 

Yes, whale watching on Maui is very safe. Maui boat captains are very experienced and will not take risks or go out in dangerous weather. It is also illegal to approach a humpback whale within 100 yards–a safety measure to avoid boat strikes. However, sometimes humpbacks choose to approach you. Often a curious whale will approach a Maui whale watching tour boat or unsuspecting kayaker, providing an unforgettable “close encounter” for those fortunate enough to be on board.

 

 

Are humpback whales endangered?

 

As of 2016, the North Pacific Humpback is no longer deemed an Endangered Species, but they are still protected by both State and Federal law. In fact, the waters surrounding the main Hawaiian Islands are a National Marine Sanctuary for humpback whales. Certain ocean activities in Maui are prohibited during whale season. For instance, jet ski and parasailing operators are closed December 15 to May 15 in order to protect the whales from potential injury from high-speed watercraft and propellers. It is illegal when in the water (by boat or any other means) to approach closer than 100 yards of a humpback whale, and within 1,000 feet when in an aircraft. It is illegal to harass or disrupt the normal activity or behavior of a humpback whale in any way. 

 

How big are humpback whales?

 

Adult humpbacks measure some 40 to 50 feet long and weighing around 40 tons. On Maui, you can enjoy the beauty of these magnificent creatures by land or by sea. During the height of whale season you can readily view whale activity at any time of day just by standing on shore and looking out to sea. 

 

 

Can I see whales from the shore?

 

Short answer: YES!: While whales may be present anywhere in Maui’s waters, the most whale sightings are generally from the south and west shores of the island. Just stand on shore (or on the lanai of your accommodations) and look out to sea. Scan the ocean surface for what appears to be a spout of steam. There’s a whale there…and probably more than one. Keep watching those “steam spouts.” If you’re patient, you’ll probably be rewarded with a flipper coming out of the water or a sleek back curving up and over, ending in the flip of a fluke (whale tail). If you are REALLY lucky, you’ll see a whale breaching (pictured here)–leaping into the air and slapping the water as it comes down—the ultimate in whale sightings!

 

 

What’s the best whale watching tour on Maui?

 

There are plenty of excellent Maui whale watching tours. Here are a few of our favorites—broken down by region so you can choose one close to where you’re staying 

 

South Maui

 

Redline Rafting: Small group raft tours departing from Kihei Boat Ramp. An intimate, adrenaline packed adventure that often results in up close approaches by curious whales!

Kai Kanani: Relaxed catamaran cruise from Maluaka Beach in Makena with attentive staff and onboard naturalists to describe whale behavior—plus great views! 

 

West Maui 

 

Makai Adventures: Small group raft tours out of Mala Wharf in Lahaina, takes you out into Maui’s most whale-packed waters! Whale sightings guaranteed. 

Trilogy: Tour the Pailolo and Auau Channels aboard this catamaran departing directly from Kaanapali Beach. Known for great service. 

 

 

Can I see whales without a boat tour?

 

Absolutely! If you’re near the ocean, you can see whales—boat or not. 

• Watching Whales from a Helicopter: This may sound odd, but I’m here to tell you this is one of the coolest ways to see the whales! As you float through the air on a magnificent helicopter ride, look down. When you’re flying over the ocean, you can see the whales from the top! Look for the males trying to court females, and mamas teaching the young how life in the ocean works. The sheer comparison of a 40-foot-long whale to a boat below can be shocking.
• Watching Whales From Your Car: Often you will see whales spouting or breaching along the shore as you drive on Maui’s coastal roads. Please use caution. I know it’s thrilling, but don’t slam on your brakes, swerve suddenly, or slow to a crawl in order to snap a picture. Whale season car accidents are all too numerous on Maui! Slow down and pull off the road, so you can enjoy the whale activity without obstructing drivers behind you or endangering yourself!
• Insider Tip: The cliffside stretch of highway coming around the bend between West Maui and Central Maui is referred to as “the Pali.” This road provides a lot of whale watching opportunities for your passengers because you are driving along 100-plus-foot-high cliffs overlooking the ocean. But, the driver trying to whale watch here is one of the TOP causes for accidents on this road. The best scenic outlook on the island is located here. Pull off and park in the designated area for a safe view of the whales that everyone can enjoy!

 

 

What are unique ways to whale watch on Maui?

 

• Photographing Whales with a Professional Wildlife Photographer: No one quite knows the whales like someone who has followed them his whole life. Rob Owen has photographed whales all over the world and has begun offering Photo Safari tours to help you experience the humpback whales in a new way. If you’re an amateur photographer, aspiring professional, or ready to make your next submission into National Geographic, this is for you. Learn about how to predict their behavior, prepare your camera settings, and benefit from the boat captain steering the boat in a way for you to get the PERFECT shot. 
• Watching Whales from a Kayak: You really cannot comprehend the sheer size of these creatures until you’re bobbing in a kayak on the surface above them! Peddling in a kayak on a Boomkanani Kayak Tour is truly a unique experience. Learn about the island and the many sea creatures from the expert guides as you pedal off the coast of Maui, and keep an eye out for spouts in the distance!
• Hearing their Whale Song Underwater: If you are a scuba diver, snorkeler, or ocean swimmer, you can actually hear the whales while underwater. Put your head under the surface, quiet yourself, your movements, and your breathing. Listen. Whale song (the sounds of humpback whales) carries for great distances underwater, and if there are whales in the area you might hear them singing—a magical and haunting sound.

 

 

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