During these months you will find boat tours, whale watching cruises as well as being able to spot them along the coast line especially with binoculars. Whale watching waikiki coast star of honolulu tour. Whale watching on oahu graceful and gentle giants of the ocean, arching, breaching, and frolicking, hawaii s humpback whales take center stage during whale season. Here in the hawaiian islands, however, the white clumps of water that signify winter are found in splashes and spouts, when between 10,000 and 15,000 humpback whales arrive in hawaii for the holidays. Boat tours and whale watching cruises have become increasingly popular. These humpback whales spent the summer months feeding in alaska and have now arrived in hawaii, after traveling nearly 3,000 miles. Humpback whale watching season starts early in hawaii. Cruise in the comfort of hawaii s largest vessel with hightech stabilizers for smooth cruising and the most outdoor space with four walkaround decks and a top observation deck for optimal whale. The outfitter leaves from two different destinationswaikiki and west oahu and offers sailing or motoring excursions on giant catamarans. November, december and january are frequently listed as the start of the season with april and may usually designated as the end of the season. Officially, whale season in hawaii runs from december 15may 15, although the first whale of the season is usually spotted sometime in early october. Humpback whales arrive in hawaii for mating season nat.
Oahu whale watching tours oahu whale watching tours are another great reason to visit oahu in the winter months. While other cruises incorporate whalewatching, snorkeling and general sightseeing, tours on hawaii nautical are dedicated just to whalewatching. Humpback whales begin arriving in hawaii in november and head back to alaska in late may. The first humpback whale of hawaiis 2019 winter season is spotted off kauai the giant annual visitors have returned to the hawaiian islands. Free whale watching in hawaii 2020 season underway.
The whale watching season is usually under way by the 15th of december and usually lasts through april. Save on the best hawaii whale watching tours on the hawaiian islands. Whale watching on oahu graceful and gentle giants of the ocean, arching, breaching, and frolicking, hawaiis humpback whales take center stage during whale season. On the chains most populous island of oahu, oahu diving takes small groups out during humpback whale season. Whale season each year from december to may the waters off oahu become a temporary home to humpback whales who have migrated to the warm area to breed and give birth. Humpback whales have returned and free whale watching in ha waii is really possible. From december to may, you may catch a glimpse of a majestic kohola, or humpback whale, in oahus southern seas. Everything you need to know about whale watching in oahu.
Although the official season is from november thru may, i personally see the most whales from january thru march. During the months of december through april, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of hawaii to give birth. Whales can be seen quite easily from most shorelines around the hawaiian islands. Learn more about hawaiis humpback whale season and the best places to see them. Oahu whale watching tours whale watching cruises are some of the most popular and fun things to do in hawaii s whale season, which runs from december through april. If no whales are sighted during your cruise guests can go out again for free. Jan 17, 2018 humpback whale watching tours are in full swing in hawaii, and some visitors are discovering the giant mammals to be curious creatures. Graceful and gentle giants of the ocean, arching, breaching, and frolicking, hawaii s humpback whales take center stage during whale season. There are a variety of ways in which you can catch a glimpse of hawaii s humpback whales. The pacific whale foundation now has over 200 employees, they research marine mammal behavior and the threats they face. Island divers brought whale listening to the tour industry in the 201112 season. This whale surface behavior, such as breaching and tail slaps, make for exciting whale watching in hawaii. Chose a oneandahalf or twohour whale watch adventure that takes off from lahaina harbor with 17 other guests aboard its 30foot rigidhulled inflatable raft. On the southern end of the island, visitors make their way to makapuu lighthouse for a heightened view of the ocean, searching for a glimpse of a humpback whale.
The hawaii whale watching season is the most anticipated time of year regarding activities in the islands. Whale season begins in november and lasts until may, with the peak months being jan thru march. And for those lucky enough to experience this once in a lifetime influx of such extraordinary creatures these sea stars offer performances worthy of oscars, it is truly a. Just as our idyllic weather welcomes tourists from around the world, the warm and shallow waters surrounding the hawaiian islands are a favorite destination for kohola, or humpback whales. That while their season in hawaii isnt normally set to get underway for about a month. While nursing in hawaii, humpback whale mothers are unable to feed again until they and their calves make the long voyage all the way back to alaska in spring. While other cruises incorporate whale watching, snorkeling and general sightseeing, tours on hawaii nautical are dedicated just to whale watching. Sep 16, 2018 hawaii real nature tours provide some of the best tours on oahu and love sharing all the magic that hawaii has to offer. When is the best time to see humpback whales in hawaii. Years before we moved to hawaii, my husbands family would come to hawaii in the winter to see whales. Sail in the company of whales, oahu whale watching, marine biologist crew guided photo tours, watch humpback whales in season, tours depart near ko olina, honolulu, waikiki. Experience whale watching in hawaii, one of the most popular activities in the winter. Explore whale watching hawaiian islands humpback whale.
The outfitter leaves from two different destinationswaikiki and west oahuand offers sailing or motoring excursions on giant catamarans. Scientists estimate that twothirds of the entire north pacific humpback whale population return to hawaii to breed, calve and nurse their young. So if you have not made your travel arrangements yet, shoot for these months. Hawaiis whale watching season takes place from late november to midapril. If you have planned a hawaii vacation during this time, you should have no problem spotting whales.
The very best months are february and march when whale sightings are almost guaranteed. Sep 26, 2017 when is the best time to see humpback whales in hawaii. You can use the species and date filters to see changes throughout the year. However, peak hawaii whale watching season occurs during february and march. Go whale watching off the coast of oahu on this excursion from waikiki or ko olina.
Where to see humpback whales on land in oahu during the peak months of february and march, its sometimes possible to see humpback whales from shore in oahu. Its whalewatching season in hawaii, and these creatures are. So its hard on the mother, but perfect for the baby. Although most hawaii guidebooks state that whale watching season runs from november to april, the peak time for whales in kona is from midjanuary through early march. Every winter, over 5,000 humpback whales travel from alaska to hawaii. At oahu diving we occasionally get the honors of seeing and yes swimming with these majestic big mammals of the sea. One of the giants was reportedly seen breaching multiple times.
Its whalewatching season in hawaii, and these creatures. Dec 31, 2018 whale watching cruises in maui also depart from ports in maalaea, kaanapali, kihei, mcgregor point, and wailea. In your research, you may have seen different timeframes defining humpback whale season in hawaii. With a small group of people, watch the gentle giants swim, feed, breach and play around your boat. Hawaii whale watching, oahu whale watch near ko olina, waikiki. You should also wear sneakers or other rubbersoled shoes, as the boat can become slippery. Jan 15, 2017 see if you can spot the whales as you watch this tour out honolulu harbor along waikiki beach in beautiful oahu, hawaii. But humpback whales visit the hawaiian islands every year from november to may, so its possible that you can see whales outside of that january to march peak whale season too. The peak season is from january through march, but you might see them in april or possibly as late as early may.
Both tours are truly dedicated to the oahu whale watching experience, and expert naturalists share insightful information and educational commentary on the humpback whales behavior and biology. Were fodors choice for whale watching on oahu, and deemed by cbs josh horwitz author of war of the whales as one of the top five american whale watching tours. Set sail for an amazing hawaiian experience as we scan the waters for kohola whales. Hawaiian islands humpback whale explore whale watching. Oahu whale watching whale watching tours in oahu are offered at a discount. At the end of summer, they make the long journey to the hawaiian islands where the whales mate and give birth. During this time literally thousands of pacific humpback whales make their journey from the cold waters off alaska to hawaii. Seeing these gentle giants of the sea is an exhilarating experience and the highlight of any hawaii vacation. If you dont want to book a whale watching tour, try a hike to higher elevations like. Nov 29, 2018 9 extraordinary places in hawaii to whale watch this season. Humpback whales are born in hawaiian waters, making them kamaaina native.
They only would come to hawaii when they knew they could see whales, usually around february. A short and basic guide for whale watching in hawaii aloha. Whale sprout from the whale watch cruise boat in the waters near maui island. These majestic creatures roam the waters around the hawaiian islands between december and may of each year, bringing joy and delight to. Whale watching cruises are some of the most popular things to do in hawaiis whale season, which runs from december through april. Maui, molokai and lanai offer the best whale watching opportunities. Oahu whale watching season lasts from december through about april. The gentle giants come to the warm hawaiian waters every year to breed and give birth to new calves. You can also spot whales from oahus many beaches and from southeastern oahu spots like the scenic makapuu lighthouse, hanauma bay, and along the seaside overlooks near leahi diamond head. The most wonderful time of the year is whale watching season in hawaii. Heres what you need to know about where to go and how to spot them. Each year, from december through april, majestic humpback whales migrate from alaska to the warm waters of hawaii to mate, give birth, and care for their newborn calves. By the week after thanksgiving, its common to find whales off of maui or lanai as they breach and leap from the waterwith many of the whales.
Oahu whale watching tours are another great reason to visit oahu in the winter months. Whale watching tours on oahu 2020 travel recommendations. Whale watching island divers hawaii oahus friendliest. A short and basic guide for whale watching in hawaii. Whale season is between the 15th of december until the 15th of may. With up to 30 whales and dolphin species that are found in hawaii, whale watching season is all year round. Should you choose not to enjoy a boat tour or whale watching tour and seek to spot them on your own we have a few whale watching tips for all. Hawaiian islands humpback whale marine life top 10. Hawaii is a popular destination for whale watching because, during mating season, humpback whales are more active resulting in elevated surface activity. They race more than 3,000 miles from the gulf of alaska to hawaii, then stay for a lengthy vacation, frolicking just off our shores and delighting spectators from december through may. Though the thick of humpback whale season doesnt begin until late december to early january, you might see one if youre visiting between now and then. Our whale watching tours in oahu are a mustdo on your hawaiian vacation, and with our convenient and frequent departure times, our tours are the perfect choice for your whale watching adventure. The whales dont have calendars though there are whales here now, and have been for a month.
When we visit hawaii during humpback whale season, we spend just. Scientists estimate that twothirds of the entire north pacific humpback whale population return to hawaii to breed. Island divers hawaii whale watching charter is the only charter on oahu which conducts their tours inside the hawaiian islands humpback whale. When is the best time to see humpback whales in hawaii and which. Whale watching waikiki coast star of honolulu tour oahu. Best spots for whale watching on oahu expedia viewfinder. Sep 02, 2018 youll see tropical fish, rays, octopuses, sea turtles, and more. Humpback whales take refuge in the warm waters of hawaii as they raise their calves. The makapuu lighthouse trail is known as having a good potential for whale.
The best places to spot humpbacked whales in hawaii. Whale season is the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures, which populate the waters near the hawaiian shore to breed, give birth, and raise their young calves in safety. Hawaiian waters are too warm for humpback whales favorite foods to thrive. You can book a whale watching tour on maui through hawaii aloha travel. You wont see any whales quite that close, but you can enjoy the wealth of ocean life around oahu. This tour is best for people staying close or in waikiki who would like transportation. The winner of our 10th annual predict the 1st humpback whale sighting contest is cora, who guessed october 1. We are blessed to have a grand show of whales showing off their beauty during this time of the year. This trail can be a good spot for free whale watching.
Whale season in hawaii will be here soon so heres a whale tip for all you winter travelers. From december to may, you may catch a glimpse of a majestic kohola, or humpback whale, in oahu s southern seas. During the months from december to may, pods of humpback whales migrate through hawaii s warm waters, and this tour guarantees whale sightings. Whale watching tours and cruises depart from various ports along oahus southern and western harbors. Oahu whale watching whale watching honolulu barefoot tours. You will find excellent viewing points along oahus north shore, easternmost tip, and southern shore.
If you want to see whales from oahu your best bet would be to take some kind of boat tour. Best tours on oahu whale watching season in hawaii. By 1993, it was estimated that 4,000 whales from the north pacific ocean came to hawaii. Last week a young, playful whale appeared beside some kayaks. But humpback whales visit the hawaiian islands every year from november to may, so its possible that you can see whales outside of that january to march peak whale season. During these winter months thousands of pacific humpback whales migrate from their summer feedings grounds in the waters off alaska to the warm hawaiian waters to mate and nurse their. A humpback whale was spotted in western hawaii on thursday, aug.
A video camera is the best way to capture a record of the whales you see because you can often become distracted taking still photos. Oct 03, 2019 humpback whales have returned and free whale watching in hawaii is really possible. Humpback whales are already being seen almost daily for the 20192020 whale season now, through early april. Whale watching tours kauai oahu maui hawaii island big island. According to noaa, the peak season for whale watching in oahu is january to march. Scientists estimate that twothirds of the entire north pacific humpback whale population return to hawaii. And for those lucky enough to experience this once in a lifetime influx of such extraordinary creatures these sea.
While they do not deliberately seek out the whales, reef areas that the dive. Courtesy of a research hydrophone, you can listen to live whale song through the vessel stereo system. Scuba diving hawaii humpback whales whales in hawaii humpback whale season december to may. Mar 12, 2014 whale season in hawaii it takes lots of patience and time for me to share these wonderful graceful creatures with you. See if you can spot the whales as you watch this tour out honolulu harbor along waikiki beach in beautiful oahu, hawaii. Most whale watching companies will begin in december and run through march and sometimes april. Take a trip to the beach or a scenic lookout and watch for the blows, pec slaps, flukeup dives, and breaches of hawaiis humpbacks. Makapuu lighthouse trail best views for whale watching. Aloha dear friends, i love this time of year january, as its whale season in big island, hawaii. First hawaii humpback whale sighting for 20192020 season. Get in touch with your wild side on our oahu whale watch tours. Hawaii nautical has boats that dock at both the waianae boat harbor on the west side of the island and kewalo basin on the south side near waikiki. There are a variety of ways in which you can catch a glimpse of hawaiis humpback whales. If youre in hawaii during the winter months when its whale season in oahu, theres another incentive for you to go on this trail.
Its very protected, said bill unruh, lead naturalist for atlantis adventures whale watch cruises off waikiki on the island of oahu. Island divers hawaii whale watching charter is the only charter on oahu which conducts their tours inside the hawaiian islands humpback whale national marine sanctuary. Whale season dates in hawaii span december to may, so youre mostly sailing in very cold weather. The first humpback whale of hawaiis 2019 winter season is. Humpback whales leave the icy waters of alaska to mate and give birth in warmer waters. Chinese heritage festival, hula o na keiki, made in maui county festival hawaii. Hawaii nautical guarantees whale sightings or you can come back again 1 more time for free. Whale watching is available for visitors to enjoy between. Humpback whales visit hawaiian waters each year from november to may with the peak of the season being from january to march. Oct 02, 2019 the peak season is from january through march, but you might see them in april or possibly as late as early may. Wild side specialty tours, oahu, hawaii whale watching oahu. Learn more about hawaii s humpback whale season and the best places to see them. As hawaii s busiest island, oahu has the most choices when it comes to whale watching cruises.
The official season for this whale of an adventure takes place from mid december and lasts throughout the middle of may each year. You may also spot kohola from the southern shores of oahu, especially at. The first humpback whale of hawaiis 2019 winter season was spotted yesterday off the coast of kee beach, on kauais north side, by a holo holo charters boat. Marine wildlife sightings have been recorded by our certified marine naturalists onboard pacwhale ecoadventures since 2001 and whale. Waikiki and kewalo basin charters are not in the sanctuary. Schedule a tour or charter a boat to spot these magnificent creatures. Humpback whales in hawaii with oahu diving whale watching tour. It takes hours of filming due to a large mass of ocean to scan over the. Fall hawaii international film festival, vans world cup of surfing maui.
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