What time of year do whales migrate to Maui?
What time of year do whales migrate to Maui? Officially, whale season in Maui runs from December 15th-May 15th, although it's still possible to see whales outside of the official“whale season” dates. While the first Maui whale sighting differs every year, it's usually sometime in late September that the first whales are spotted off Maui.
Can you see orcas in Maui?
The reality, however, is that they do exist in Hawaii, but they aren't a part of a resident population that is regularly spotted in the islands. There have been a handful of orca sightings off the Big Island of Hawaii as well as Maui and Lana'i, and a dead orca once washed ashore along the southern coastline of Lana'i.
What is the best part of Maui to stay?
Wailea: For high-end lodgings, look no further than Wailea. This area includes several incredible beachfront resorts, condo complexes, a lovely outdoor mall, and several quality restaurants. Our favorite luxury resorts include the Four Seasons Maui, Hotel Wailea, the Wailea Beach Marriott, and the Grand Wailea.
What side of Maui is best for whale watching?
“One of the best places that I have found whales … is in Lahaina Harbor,” Sullivan said. Not so coincidentally, many of the boat tours depart from Lahaina, the West Maui town between the resorts of Kaanapali Beach and Wailea. “The whales will come all the way up to the boats that are moored,” he said.
What time of day are whales most active in Maui?
The best time to view whales is between dawn and dusk when they are most active. Whale-watching tours typically last 3-4 hours, but you may want to check with your tour operator about the specific times that their vessel will be sailing.
Is whale watching better in Honolulu or Maui?
The majority of humpbacks will stay around Maui's calmer, shallower water, which is ideal for moms and their calves, according to Conner Humann, a certified humpback whale naturalist and a crew member in the charter, making it the best island for whale watching.
What month is best for whale watching in Maui?
When Is Maui Whale Watching Season? Whale watching season in Maui is November-May with peak season typically running between mid-January and March.
Is Maui more popular than Honolulu?
However, the island of Oahu is the most popular by far. In 2021, Honolulu, Oahu, saw a total of 3.3 million visitors, while neighboring Maui received fewer at 2.3 million.
What is rainy season in Maui?
The wet season in Maui lasts typically from November to March, although Wailea's location on Maui's leeward side gives it a microclimate that is drier than the rest of the island, even during the wetter winter months.
What is the best time to visit Maui?
The best times to visit Maui are April through May and September through November. The spring and fall shoulder seasons provide the pleasant weather Hawaii vacationers seek without the high rates and heavy crowds that accompany the summer and winter.
What is the best island in Hawaii for whale watching?
The Maui Nui Basin was designated as the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale Sanctuary because Maui is the main Hawaiian island destination for Humpback Whales. Maui is the best island in Hawaii for whale watching and begins offering whales tours from December 1st every year until April 15th.
How do you dress for whale watching in Maui?
Staying Warm Even though Maui is known for its warm weather, it can still get chilly on whale watches— even in the sun! The wind coming off the water can be cold, so pack a light jacket or hoodie to bring on board. Layers are key on whale watches.
What is the best month for whale watching in Hawaii?
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.
How long is a whale watching tour in Maui?
Whale-watching tours depart from Lahaina Harbor, Kaanapali, Kihei, and Wailea and typically last two to five hours. Most whale-watching cruises depart in the morning when the ocean is calmest and conditions make it easier to spot whales.
Can I wear jeans in Maui?
Can you wear jeans in Hawaii? Sure, you can wear jeans in Hawaii. But unless you're going up to the summit of Haleakala you'll probably be more comfortable in almost anything else due to the balmy temperatures and humidity. I have visited Hawaii in every season and never wished I had jeans with me.
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.