The Return of the Humpback Whales to Hawaii 2024-25

The Return of the Humpback Whales to Hawaii 2024-25

Aloha! The majestic humpback whales have returned to Hawaii’s warm waters, marking the start of the 2024-25 whale watching season. This annual spectacle has commenced with multiple whale sightings reported.

• Humpback Whale Return: Humpback whales have returned to Hawaii for the 2024-25 season (November to May).
• Migration Purpose: Whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii for breeding and calving in the warm, shallow waters. They do not feed in Hawaii, relying on stored energy.
• Prime Whale Watching Locations:
  • Maui: South and West shores (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Maalaea Bay)
  • Oʻahu: Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail
  • Kauaʻi: Poʻipū Beach
  • Big Island: Kohala Coast
  • Caution: Do not rubberneck while driving.
• Season Outlook: An active season is predicted due to improving ocean conditions and growing whale populations. Expect breaching, tail slapping, and mother-calf interactions.
• Responsible Whale Watching:
  • Maintain 100-yard distance from whales.
  • Avoid sudden movements and loud noises.
  • Choose eco-certified tour operators.
• Cultural Significance: Whales (koholā) are revered in Native Hawaiian culture as guardians of the ocean, symbolizing strength, protection, and spiritual guidance.
• Planning:
  • Book whale watching tours early.
  • Consider shore-based viewing.
  • Bring a camera.

Why Do Whales Migrate to Hawaii?

From November to May, humpback whales complete an extraordinary 3,000-mile migration from Alaska’s cold waters to Hawaii. These marine mammals seek the islands’ shallow, warm waters as the perfect nursery for breeding and raising their young. Unlike Alaska’s nutrient-rich feeding grounds, Hawaiian waters are sparse. During their stay, whales rely entirely on energy reserves accumulated before their journey, fasting throughout their time in the islands.

Where to Watch the Whales

Whale sightings are abundant across Hawaiian Islands, with several prime locations:

Maui’s South and West Shores: Especially near Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Maalaea Bay.
Oʻahu’s Makapuʻu Lighthouse Trail: An exceptional spot for shore-based whale watching.
Kauaʻi’s Poʻipū Beach: Known for consistent early morning whale activity.
Big Island’s Kohala Coast: Offering excellent viewing opportunities from both shore and boat tours.

CAUTION: While driving along the Coast do not become distracted and “rubberneck” trying to spot whales and drive at the same time.

What to Expect This Season

Marine biologists predict an active season, thanks to improving ocean conditions and growing humpback whale populations. Visitors can anticipate spectacular displays of breaching, tail slapping, and intimate moments of mother whales teaching their calves vital oceanic survival skills.

Best Practices for Whale Watching

Responsible observation is crucial to protecting these magnificent creatures:

– Vessels must maintain a minimum 100-yard distance from whales.
– They should avoid sudden movements or loud noises that might disturb the whales.
– Select eco-certified tour operators committed to responsible whale watching.

Cultural Significance

In Native Hawaiian culture, whales (or koholā) are deeply revered. They symbolize more than marine life—they are guardians of the ocean, representing strength, protection, and spiritual guidance. Witnessing these marine giants is more than a visual experience; it’s a way to connect to the Hawaiian cultural heritage.

Planning Your Whale Watching Experience

Whale-watching tours fill up quickly, so early booking is recommended. Please check out our available whale watching tours including newly added itineraries with popular PACWHALE Eco-Adventures.

An alternative to consider is shore-based viewing along with a picnic. Regardless of your chosen method, don’t forget your camera to capture these extraordinary moments.

As the whales return to Hawaii, they bring a sense of wonder and a reminder of the natural world’s incredible beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned whale enthusiast or a first-time visitor, the 2024-25 season promises the chance for unforgettable encounters.

Have you spotted any whales yet? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Read more:

First Humpback Whale Count of the Year-2025
Why is the whale watching so good off Maui?
The Annual Humpback Whale Migration to Hawaii

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