Every winter, something extraordinary happens off the coast of Maui. The warm, protected Hawaiian waters between Maui, Lānaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe become a playground for thousands of humpback whales that migrate from the cold Alaskan seas to breed, give birth, and nurse their calves. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii, Maui whale season 2025 is your chance to witness one of nature’s most unforgettable spectacles — a true celebration of life in the whale national marine sanctuary.
From December through April, these majestic 40-ton creatures breach, slap their fins, and sing haunting underwater songs that can sometimes be heard miles away. We don’t have a dedicated whale-watching season tour; however, whales are often seen while traveling to and from our snorkeling destinations. One thing we know: whale season in Maui is pure magic!
Maui Whale Season 2025: Quick Facts
• Season window: Late Nov–Apr (peak Jan–Mar)
• Best places: Maʻalaea, Kāʻanapali/Māla, Kīhei‑Wailea (Auʻau Channel).
• What you’ll see: Breaches, tail/pec‑slaps, spyhops, mother‑calf behavior.
• Safety law: Keep 100 yards from humpbacks; no in‑water approaches.
• Bonus: Sometimes you can hear whale songs while snorkeling—surreal!
When Is Whale Season in Maui?
Humpback whales begin arriving in the Hawaiian Islands as early as November, but the peak of Maui whale season 2025 will stretch from mid-December through mid-April. During these months, sightings are so common that it’s nearly impossible to spend a day on the water without spotting at least one great whale.
Early Arrivals (November – December)
By late November, the first whales begin making their way to Maui’s warm waters. These early travelers are often males scouting for mates and establishing breeding areas. December marks the official start of whale watching season in Hawaii, with activity picking up daily.
Peak Viewing (January – March)
This is the best time to see whales in Maui. The ocean is alive with activity—breaches, tail slaps, and even baby calves learning to swim alongside their mothers. If you’re visiting in January, February, or March, you’re in for a front-row seat to one of nature’s greatest shows.
Farewell Months (April – Early May)
By April, most whales begin their long journey back to Alaska. You’ll still spot some stragglers—often mothers and calves who linger to let the young ones build strength before heading north.
Where to See Whales in Maui
Maui offers some of the best whale watching in all of Hawaii. The island’s western and southern shores provide calm, protected waters and excellent visibility—part of the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, which was established to protect these gentle giants and their habitat. Here are the top whale-watching locations on the island:
1. Maʻalaea
This is one of the best spots for whale watching in Maui—and it’s also home to Maui Snorkeling’s morning and afternoon tours. From the deck of a catamaran, you can often spot humpbacks breaching just beyond the harbor. During peak season, whales are known to come astonishingly close to boats here.
2. Lahaina and Kāʻanapali
Today, most West Maui whale‑watching boats launch from Kāʻanapali Beach or Māla (Mala) Boat Ramp while Lahaina Harbor’s commercial operations remain limited during recovery. Departure points in West Maui are subject to permits and ongoing recovery; confirm the current launch location when booking.
3. Kīhei and Wailea
If you prefer to keep your feet on solid ground, Kīhei’s sandy shoreline and Wailea’s calm bays offer stunning views of offshore whale activity. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens—you might even see a full breach from the beach!
4. Makena and Turtle Town
Located just south of Wailea, this area combines incredible snorkeling opportunities with frequent whale sightings offshore. It’s a great spot for those who want to mix marine naturally encounters with whale watching.
Why Whales Come to Maui
Every year, an estimated 10,000 to 12,000 North Pacific humpback whales migrate over 3,000 miles from Alaska to Hawaii. Their goal? Warm, safe waters for breeding and calving.
The shallow Auʻau Channel, located between Maui, Lānaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe, provides protection from predators and calm conditions perfect for newborn calves. While they don’t eat while in Hawaii—living off stored fat reserves from their Alaskan feeding grounds—these gentle giants seem to thoroughly enjoy their tropical getaway.
What You’ll See During Whale Season
Breaching and Tail Slaps
Nothing compares to seeing a humpback whale launch its massive body out of the water and crash down with an earth-shaking splash. It’s one of the most thrilling natural sights you’ll ever witness.
Pectoral Fin Waving
Whales are surprisingly playful. They often slap their long fins on the surface or wave them in the air, possibly as a form of communication or courtship.
Spyhopping
This behavior happens when whales lift their heads vertically above the water to look around. It’s as if they’re as curious about us as we are about them!
Mother and Calf Bonding
If you’re lucky, you’ll see mothers gently nudging their calves to the surface for air or teaching them how to breach. These moments are heartwarming reminders of the intelligence and tenderness of these ocean giants.
Tips for Whale Watching in Maui
1. Choose our Morning Tour
The morning ocean is often calmer, making for smoother conditions and better visibility. The lighting is also perfect for photos!
2. Bring Binoculars or a Zoom Lens
Even from shore, a pair of binoculars can bring you close to the action. Many travelers capture incredible whale breaches right from their hotel balcony.
3. Listen for Whale Songs
Sometimes you can hear the beautiful sounds through the water while snorkeling—an unforgettable experience you’ll talk about for years.
4. Follow Ocean Etiquette
Safety first: Federal law prohibits approaching humpback whales within 100 yards (≈91 m); aircraft must stay 1,000 ft above. Respect time/space so mothers and calves can rest.
Snorkeling During Whale Season
Whale season is also an amazing time to go snorkeling in Maui. The ocean is still warm, visibility is excellent, and you may even hear the distant songs of humpback whales while you’re underwater.
Imagine floating above a colorful coral reef surrounded by tropical fish and hearing the echo of whale calls through your snorkel mask—it’s surreal! While you won’t get close to the whales themselves (and shouldn’t), their presence adds something truly special to every snorkel trip.
Maui Snorkeling Tours: See the Best of Whale Season
During Maui whale season 2025, join one of our Maui Snorkeling tours aboard the Lani Kai II for an unforgettable adventure!
Molokini Crater Morning Snorkeling Tour
- Time: 7 AM – 12 PM, daily
- Stops: Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
- Includes: Breakfast, lunch, snorkeling gear, and use of our waterslide
- Highlights: Spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even whales on the ride out!
Afternoon Snorkeling Tour
- Time: 1 PM – 4 PM, daily
- Stop: Coral Gardens
- Includes: Lunch, snorkeling gear, and waterslide fun
- Highlights: Calm afternoon seas and stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life
Even though our tours focus on snorkeling, whale sightings are common from the boat during whale season—especially in January through March. There’s nothing like watching a humpback breach in the distance while sipping a tropical drink aboard the Lani Kai II.
Respecting the Whales and Ocean Environment
The whales’ visit to Maui is a sacred part of the island’s natural rhythm. Native Hawaiians have long viewed these creatures, known as koholā, as symbols of family, guidance, and spiritual connection. Observing them reminds us of our responsibility to protect the ocean and all who call it home.
When participating in whale watching or snorkeling activities:
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to avoid harming coral reefs.
- Never feed or chase marine life.
- Support tour companies that follow responsible wildlife guidelines.
By showing respect, we help ensure that future generations will continue to enjoy the awe-inspiring whale migration in Maui.
Plan Your Trip Around Maui Whale Season 2025–2026
If you’re wondering when to visit Maui for whale season, the answer is simple—any time between mid-December and early April will offer fantastic opportunities. Book your tours early, as this is one of Maui’s busiest travel periods.
You can combine whale watching with other amazing island experiences, like:
- Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
- Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
- Relaxing on Wailea Beach
- Taking a scenic drive along the Road to Hana
Final Thoughts: Experience the Wonder of Whale Season in Maui
Maui whale season 2025–2026 is a reminder of how alive and connected our planet truly is. Watching these magnificent humpbacks breach and play in the Pacific Ocean is something you’ll never forget.
Whether you join a dedicated whale-watching cruise or hop aboard one of our Maui Snorkeling tours, you’ll experience the same breathtaking beauty that draws these giants back year after year.
Ready to Plan Your Maui Adventure?
Book your Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour or Afternoon Snorkeling Tour today, and make whale season 2025 the trip of a lifetime!
Frequently Asked Questions About Maui Whale Season 2025–2026
If you’re planning a visit during whale season, these quick answers will help you make the most of your trip.
When is Maui whale season 2025–2026?
Whales begin arriving in late November, and the official Maui whale season runs from December through April. The best time to visit is between January and March, when sightings are most frequent.
Where can I see whales in Maui?
Some of the best spots include Maʻalaea Bay, Lahaina, Kāʻanapali, Kīhei, and Wailea. You can often spot whales from shore, but joining a boat tour gives you the best views and the chance to hear their songs through hydrophones.
Can you hear whales while snorkeling?
Yes! During peak season, snorkelers sometimes hear the haunting songs of humpback whales underwater, even from miles away. It’s one of the most magical underwater experiences you can have in Maui.
Are whales dangerous to snorkelers?
Not at all. Humpback whales are gentle giants. However, they are protected under federal law, which means boats and swimmers must keep a respectful distance. Always follow your captain’s guidance for a safe and respectful encounter.
Can I see whales on a Maui Snorkeling tour?
Absolutely! While our tours focus on exploring colorful reefs and sea turtles, whale sightings are very common during the season — especially on the ride out to Molokini Crater or Coral Gardens.
What should I bring for a whale-season tour?
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a light jacket for breezy mornings, polarized sunglasses, a hat, and your waterproof camera to capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments.
