Our Favorite Whale Watching Tours in Maui
For thousands of years, kohola, humpback whales, have made the long journey from Alaska to the warm, gentle waters around the Hawaiian Islands to rest, mate, and give birth to their young. The kohola are a huge part of Hawaii’s culture and even our ancient myths.
Today, this same ancient journey continues. Through the months of November through May, you can see these huge, graceful animals glide through Maui’s waters before they once again migrate to Alaska. Whale watching is a great option for the entire family.
Here are some of our favorite whale-watching tours in Maui:
Whale Watch Lahaina – Pacwhale Eco-Adventures – Now Leaving From Maʻalaea Harbor
*In August of 2023, Lahaina Town and the surrounding area were devastated by wildfires. Our hearts go out to all of the people and businesses affected by this tragedy. It will be some time before access to this area is restored. This whale-watching tour has been relocated to Maʻalaea Harbor in Central Maui and the information below has been updated accordingly.
This two-hour group tour takes off from the Pacific Whale Foundation Ocean Store in Maʻalaea. While you cruise the waters looking for whale activity, you’ll get lots of great information from the boat’s certified Marine Naturalists. You’ll learn things like fun humpback whale facts, whale behaviors, and more. Take a listen on the underwater hydrophones to hear whale songs or encourage your kiddos to try the onboard Jr. Naturalist Program. Whale sightings are guaranteed on each trip, or you can take another trip for free! Multiple trips happen each day during whale-watching season.
Price: From $74.95 per adult*
From $49.95 per child 5-12
Children 4 and under are free
*All prices are subject to change
Whale Watch/Molokini Snorkel – Redline Rafting
Embark on a captivating 1.5-hour whale-watching experience with up to 20 people departing from the Kihei Small Boat Ramp (2800 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96779) between January 15th and March 31st. You will witness the enchanting behaviors of various whale species that reside in Maui during this time of year. In particular, humpback whales are known for their beautiful and harmonious melodies – male humpbacks have been observed singing complex songs that span up to 8 octaves, which they use as mating calls and to communicate with other males. Fascinatingly, these same melodies remain relatively unchanged from year to year, suggesting a distinct cultural pattern within the species.
Price: $75 per passenger*
*All prices are subject to change
Private Whale-Watching Kayak Tour
Every winter season, between December 15th and April 15th, spectacular humpback whales migrate south from Alaska to the sheltered and inviting waters of Maui. These majestic creatures gather in the shallower ocean depths of Maui County to mate and give birth, making it an ideal spot for adventurers looking to see them up close. This 4-hour kayaking tour will take you off the coast of Makena, where you can marvel at these remarkable animals while also snorkeling in crystal clear waters. From breaching to tail lobbing, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness their graceful movements as they hunt for food under the seawater’s surface. If you’re lucky, you might even get the chance to stroke one of these gentle giants! So don’t miss out on this incredible Maui whale watch and snorkel adventure – book your trip today for unforgettable memories of Hawaii’s underwater wildlife!
Pricing (whale watching only): $135 per adult*
*All prices are subject to change