Which Maui tours are worth your morning

Winter

Whale watching on Maui

Humpbacks winter in the warm channel between Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi. In February you can see them breach from the beach. A boat gets you closer.

Best time

January to March, with February usually the peak. Maui shore counts averaged 739 whales in January, 866 in February and 272 in March from 2024 to 2026.

Season by month

MonthsWhat to expect
NovemberFirst whales arrive
Mid-DecemberWhale watching tours start
January to MarchHigh season; February usually the peak
Early AprilTours wind down
Late April to MaySightings rare
June to OctoberNo humpbacks

Ways to go out

Watch from shore

In season, try McGregor Point, Papawai Scenic Lookout, the Wailea Oceanside Path, the Kāʻanapali Beach walking path, or the beaches in Wailea, Kīhei and Lahaina.

Quick answers

When is whale season on Maui?

Humpbacks arrive in November and a few stay into May. Whale watching tours run from mid-December to early April. January to March is high season, and February is usually the peak.

Where are the whales on Maui?

Mostly in the ʻAuʻau Channel between West Maui, Molokaʻi and Lānaʻi, and off Maui’s western and southern shores.

Can you see whales from shore on Maui?

Yes, in season. Good spots include McGregor Point, Papawai Scenic Lookout, the Wailea Oceanside Path and the Kāʻanapali Beach walking path.