If you’re looking for an up-close encounter with some of the world’s largest mammals, then whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is some of the best whale watching in the world .
Here, you can find out when is the best time to see whales, what types of whales you might encounter and how much it’ll cost you.
Plus, we share some top tips on what to know before going whale watching in Hawaii. So read on and start planning your once-in-a-lifetime experience today!
Table of Contents:
- The Best Places to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii
- When Is the Best Time to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?
- What Types of Whales Can You See on the Big Island of Hawaii?
- How Much Do Whale Tours Cost on the Big Island of Hawaii?
- What should you know before going Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii?
- FAQs in Relation to Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii
- What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?
The Best Places to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to see whales but some areas are better than others.
There are many different types of whales that can be seen here, and the best time to see them is from December to April. Whale watching tours typically cost around $100 per person but some times can be a little cheaper if you book a larger group.
While there are many great spots for whale watching on the island, some locations offer better opportunities than others.
Here are three great places to catch a glimpse of these amazing creatures while they’re passing through Hawaiian waters:
1) Kealakekua Bay – This sheltered bay is located just south of Captain Cook Monument and provides an ideal location for snorkeling and swimming with dolphins as well as whale watching.
Humpback whales frequent this area between January and March making it one of the best times to visit Kealakekua Bay if you want to spot one!
2) Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail – Located on Oahu’s southeastern shore, this popular hiking trail offers stunning ocean views along its 1.8-mile journey up steep cliffsides (don’t worry, there are also plenty rest stops along the way).
On a clear day, you might even be able to spot humpback or sperm whales breaching in distant waters – definitely worth hike!
3) Lahaina Harbor – Maui’s Historic Whaling Town Comes Alive During Winter Months as Humpback Whales Migrate Past Its Shores En Route from Alaska to Their Breeding Grounds Off Lana’i and Moloka’i Islands Further South.
While Lahaina Harbor itself doesn’t offer much in terms of whale sightings (due mostly large boats), simply take a short drive northward towards Kapalua Beach where you should have no problem spotting these giants playing offshore.”.
4) Māhukona Beach Park- Pull up your chair on what used to be a dock for boats coming to a Sugar Cane Mill
Not on all the guides because it’s a favorite of locals so be very respectful at this place. (although you should be respectful on all areas of the island). Jan through March it has beautiful sunsets and we see wales 50% of the time we’re there. More if you have binoculars.
Key Takeaway: The best places to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii are Kealakekua Bay, Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail, Māhukona Beach Park and Lahaina Harbor.
When Is the Best Time to See Whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?
“The best time to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii are December through May”. Humpback whale watching is one of the most popular tourist activities on the Big Island of Hawaii but it’s not an all-season sport.
Every year, these majestic creatures migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and give birth in our warm waters. This amazing natural phenomenon attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world who come to marvel at these gentle giants.
So when is the best time to see whales on the Big Island?
The answer may surprise you – it’s actually not during whale season! While peak whale season runs from December through May, we recommend coming slightly outside of those months if you really want to maximize your chances of seeing a humpback.
Why, you ask?
It all has to do with timing and luck. You see, even though humpbacks begin migrating towards Hawaiian waters as early as October or November, they don’t tend to stay close to shore until after mating and calving season has ended in late February or March.
So while there are certainly more whales around during peak season (December – May), your odds of spotting one from shore are actually higher later in the springtime.”.
If you’re interested in whale watching on your next visit to the Big Island, we recommend planning your trip for April, May, or June.
These months offer the perfect combination of warm weather and high odds of seeing a humpback close to shore.
And even if you don’t see a whale during your stay, there are plenty of other amazing things to do on the island – from hiking, exploring volcanoes to relaxing on beautiful Big Island beaches!
Key Takeaway: The best time to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii is actually not during whale season, but rather later in the springtime.
What Types of Whales Can You See on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Humpback whales are the most commonly seen type of whale on the Big Island of Hawaii. These majestic creatures can be seen year-round off the coast, making them a popular tourist attraction.
Other types of whales that have been spotted in Hawaiian waters include sperm whales, orcas, and blue whales. While not as common as humpbacks, these other whale species can still be seen occasionally by lucky viewers.
How Much Do Whale Tours Cost on the Big Island of Hawaii?
Prices for whale watching tours on the Big Island of Hawaii vary depending on the company, but typically range from $50 to $100 per person. Prices may also vary depending on the time of year and availability.
For example, prices may be higher during peak season (generally between December and April) or if there are special events happening that draw in more tourists.
If you’re looking to book a tour, it’s best to shop around and compare rates before making a decision.
Be sure to read reviews as well. Here are our favorite Whale Watching Tours on the Big Island of Hawaii
Looking to go whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii? Prices for tours typically range from $50 to $100 per person. Shop around and compare rates before making a decision – and be sure to read reviews! Click To Tweet
What should you know before going Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii?
What should you know before going whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii?
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching. Every year, thousands of people come to the island to see these majestic creatures up close.
However, before you book your tour, there are a few things you should know. First and foremost, the best time to go whale watching on the Big Island is between December and April. Coming on Summer Vacation will yield tons of fun and sun but it include any whale sightings.
This is when the weather is warmest and whales are most active in Hawaiian waters. There are several types of whales that call Hawaii home including humpback whales, pilot whales, and sperm whales.
Each type has its own unique behaviors and characteristics that make them interesting to watch. Most tours last 3-4 hours and cost around $150 per person.
This includes time spent traveling out to where the whales are as well as time actually observing them. Be sure to dress comfortably for your tour with sunscreen and layers as it can be quite sunny out on the water.
Lastly, remember that while Whale Watching can be an incredible experience, it’s important not to disturb or harass these animals in any way. Doing so is not only rude but also illegal.
Now that you know a little bit more about whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii, it’s time to start planning your trip. Keep these tips in mind and you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Key Takeaway: The best time to go whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is between December and April.
FAQs in Relation to Whale Watching on The Big Island of Hawaii
What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?
The best month for whale watching in Hawaii is typically between December and April. This is when the humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around the Hawaiian Islands to mate and give birth.
During this time, there are often more than 10,000 humpback whales in Hawaiian waters at any given time.
Where is the best place to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii?
There are a few great places to see whales on the Big Island of Hawaii. One is from the shores near Kapa’au, where North Pacific humpback whales can be seen breaching and spouting offshore from December to April.
Another good spot for whale watching is at Punalu’u Beach, where you might see migrating sperm whales as well as Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun.
Finally, don’t forget about Makahoa Point in Kohala Coast State Park, which offers stunning views of both humpback and spinner dolphins playing in the waves.
Can you see whales from the Big Island of Hawaii?
Yes, you can see whales from the Big Island of Hawaii. Humpback whales are often seen in Hawaiian waters between December and April, while false killer whales and melon-headed dolphins can be spotted year -round.
The best place to whale watch on the Big Island is undoubtedly Kealakekua Bay, where spinner dolphins also frequent.
When can you see whales in Kona?
Whales can be seen in Kona all year round, but they are more commonly seen from January to April. Heading northing to less crowded beaches and longer views makes it a little easier to sight whales as well.
There are two main types of whales that can be seen in Kona:
Humpback whales and false killer whales. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from Alaska every winter to mate and give birth, while false killer whales live in Hawaii all year round.
Conclusion
Whale watching on the Big Island of Hawaii is an amazing experience that everyone should have at least once in their lifetime. The best places to see whales are along the Kohala Coast and near Kealakekua Bay.
The best time to see whales is between December and April. You can see different types of whales, including humpback whales, pilot whales, false killer whales, and sperm whale calves.
Whale tours typically cost around $50-150 per person depending on tour group. Before going on a whale tour, make sure to dress warmly in layers and bring sunscreen and binoculars.
Looking to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most majestic creatures? Then look no further than whale watching on The Big Island of Hawaii! Here, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of different whales, including humpback whales, year-round. And there are plenty of tour operators offering affordable excursions that will take you right into their natural habitat. So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and experience these amazing animals firsthand!
Need a guide book for whale watching and more activities on the Island? There is one book that we recommend to all friends and family that visit the Big Island of Hawai. “The Big Island Revealed” I would rather forget my swimtrunks that forget this book. Its really is the Bible of traveling around the Big Island. You won’t regret buying it.
PHOTOS on the page courtesy of the amazing artist and photographer Jacob Vandervelde