Whale Watching

Perhaps one Maui's biggest attractions occurs during the winter months between late December to early April when large numbers of humpback whales visit the island chain.

Although many other species of whales frequent the coastal waters none is more visible or entertaining thene the humpback. While other islands such as Oahu and the Big Island have occassional whale spottings the channel located between Maui, Lanai and Kaho'olave attracts the majority.

Whales can easily be spotted breaching (jumping) from the shorelines of Kaanapali, Makena, Kihei and Wailea. For a even closer look many boats cruise the area and even kayak tours are available for the more adventurous

Federal law prohibits boats from approaching the mammals and they enforce a boundry of 300 yds depending on the situation. Very rarely is this an issue as humpbacks are naturally friendly and often surface in very close proximity to crusing boats.

To learn even more about these creatures visit the Whalers Village Museum in Kaanapali or the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary headquarters in Kihei which is also has fantastic viewing platform open to the public.
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