Where to Spot Whales on Maui

Hawaii's warm Pacific waters are more than just a popular destination for people. Each year, two-thirds of the North Pacific humpback whale population migrates to the Islands to breed, calve, and nurse their young. Dubbed 'Whale Season,' this phenomenon occurs every year between November and May, reaching its peak in January through March.

During this time in the Hawaiian Islands, expect a whale of display (sorry - we couldn't help that one) on the horizon! Whale activity, such as tail slaps on the surface, blow hole sprays that shoot water up to twenty feet in the air, and awe-inspiring full-body surface breaches by these 45-ton majestic mammals can be easily seen from just about any island vantage point. As usual, however, if you ask a local, there are certainly some standout spots. 

Maui is home to some of the best whale watching in the world. The ocean channel between West and South Maui is protected by Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, setting the stage for endless visibility and shallow waters ideal for humpback whales.

Besides an on-the-ocean view while aboard a whale watching excursion, the locations below are some of Maui's best known sites for whale watching.

McGregor Point (Honoapiilani Hwy, near Ma'alaea)

This point is home to the McGregor Point lighthouse and sweeping ocean views!

Directions: Between Mile Markers #7 and Mile Marker #8, off the Honoapiilani "Pali" Highway, there is an unimproved rocky road that leads to the point overlook.

Papawai Scenic Lookout (Honoapiilani Hwy, near Ma'alaea)

This is the easiest lookout on the island to access and almost impossible to miss!

Directions: While traveling Lahaina-bound on the Honoapiilani "Pali" Highway, near Mile Marker #8, there is a turning lane entering the paved lookout parking lot.

Olowalu Area Beaches and Roadside (South of Lahaina)

This stretch of coast on the way into West Maui, backed by the towering West Maui Mountains, is a wonderful place to view whale activity on a clear day.

Whether you pull the car over, stop beachside for a dip, or join a kayak whale watch excursion in these waters – you're likely in for quite the show!

Local's Tips:

Drive safe! The sight of whale activity right offshore while driving on the coastal roads is not uncommon here (especially in the Olowalu and Honoapiilani Highway areas)! We know it's irresistible, but please stay focused and alert while driving.

Maui locals like to call whale season "fender-bender" season, as distracted driving is the cause for many preventable accidents.

Don't risk your precious vacation day or your safety(!) on a vehicle collision over a whale – when in doubt, pull over to enjoy the view!