Humpback whales and whale season

Thousands of humpback whales come to Hawaiʻi each winter to mate and give birth. They can arrive as early as September and stay into May, with the peak in January and February. The best viewing is between Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi; stay at least 100 yards away.

• Season: as early as September through May; peak January and February.
• Best areas: the shallow channels between Maui, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi; Kauaʻi's north coast; the Kohala coast of Hawaiʻi Island. Oʻahu sees fewer, but they're spotted off the south and west shores.
• Shore viewing: look for blows and breaches from high lookouts in the morning when the water is calm.
• Federal law: stay at least 100 yards away by boat, kayak, board or drone.
• They feed in Alaska in summer and fast while in Hawaiʻi.
• The waters are protected as the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.

Sources: Hawaiʻi DLNR: Best time and place for whale watching · NOAA: Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary

Last checked Oct. 29, 2026. Hours, fees and rules can change, so confirm with the official source before you go.