Is whale watching better in Oahu or Maui?


Is whale watching better in Oahu or Maui? Maui is the best Hawaiian island for whale watching. While you can see whales off all the Hawaiian islands, Maui is the best one for it, given that the shallow Auau Channel, between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai, provides one of the highest concentrations of humpback whales on the planet during the winter months.


Is whale watching better in Oahu or the Big Island?

On the Big Island, the Kohala coast and north Kona are the best places to watch whales. Hilo and green sand beach are good alternatives. On Oahu, you want to go to the north shore. On Maui, the west coast is a true hotspot for whales (see also our guide to Maui whale watching tours).


How do I get from Oahu to Maui?

Many airlines offer non-stop flights direct to Maui. You may also fly into Honolulu International Airport (HNL) on O?ahu before heading to Maui on a short, 30-minute flight. There is also daily ferry service to and from the nearby island of Lana?i.


What is the best month for whale watching in Oahu?

The best time for whale watching in Hawaii is between December and March. Though you can begin to see whales off the coast in the beginning of October (or even September) and as late as May, between December and March is when the population of humpback whales in Hawaii is the largest.


Is it better to go to Oahu or Maui?

But, there are important differences between Maui and Oahu vacations. If you're looking for a typical Hawaiian tourist vacation, Oahu offers Waikiki Beach, historical memorials and modern culture. Meanwhile, travelers should head to Maui to enjoy outdoorsy adventures, from snorkeling to hiking volcanic peaks.


Which Hawaiian island has the prettiest beaches?

Oahu. Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place,” is home to some of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii, including world-famous Waikiki Beach, Lanikai Beach, and Sunset Beach. Waikiki Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the world and is known for its stunning views of Diamond Head, a volcanic cone.


Is Maui more relaxing than Oahu?

Maui in a Nutshell It is a bit more relaxing and a lot slower, and the people who visit enjoy that pace. It's the second most visited Hawaiian island after Oahu. Maui's highlights include: the Road to Hana.


Which side of the island of Hawaii is best to visit?

For what you want, the west side is the best. You have no guarantee whatsoever on the east side that you'll see any sun to soak up. It's very popular for active itineraries and to see a side of old Hawai`i.


Is it better to whale watch in the morning or afternoon in Hawaii?

The best time of day for whale watching is any time of the day! Whales are active and resting 24 hours a day. They have intervals of activity and rest because they do not feed while they are in Hawaii, their behavior is related to mating and giving birth which happens at random during the day and night.


Should I go to Honolulu or Maui first?

Hawaii is a stunning location with plenty of fun things to do, no matter which island you visit. If you're in the market for a beachy, relaxing vacation, you may want to head to Maui. Otherwise, consider Honolulu for its abundance of hotels, things to do and plentiful flight connections to other U.S. cities.


Is Honolulu or Maui prettier?

Both are lovely but it really depends on what you like to do on vacation. Many consider Maui to be the prettiest island. There is a world class golf course in Kapalua. Oahu is the most developed island - there is a downtown area along with history (visiting Pearl Harbor).


What is the best month to see whales in Maui?

if you're planning a trip to Maui and want to experience whale watching, the best month to visit is January, followed by February and March. However, if you can't make it in those months, you may still be able to see some whales in December and April.


Why do people prefer Maui?

There are many reasons why Maui is the best Hawaiian island to visit, but one of the top reasons is its breathtaking beaches and tropical landscapes. You won't want to miss the world-famous Kaanapali Beach, where you can spend the day swimming in crystal clear waters or lounging on soft white sand.


How many days in Maui is ideal?

Like anywhere, the more time you spend on Maui, the more you can see. I recommend at least one week in order to experience all that Maui has to offer. You can still get a flavor of Maui even if you just visit for one day. However, as a minimum, try to plan 3 to 5 days in Maui.


Which Hawaiian island has the best whale watching?

While Maui is the best location for humpback whale spotting, the other islands also see many whales in season. There are fabulous whale-watching tours on Kauai, the island of Oahu, and off the shores of the Big Island.


Why do whales prefer Maui?

Here in the confines of Maui County the water is very shallow, which consequently means it's free of predators like fearsome killer whales. The channel between Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i is only about 200 feet deep, and the sandy bottom and calm conditions are a tropical “kiddie pool” for whales.