Best Whale Watching in Maui Hawaii: 11 Amazing Experiences

Are you planning your next vacation to Maui and looking for something special? Look no further than a whale-watching tour!

From the moment you step onboard for your tour, you’ll be thrilled by the majestic beauty of these gentle giants as they glide through the sparkling waters of Hawaii.

Maui is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, with humpback whales migrating here from November through April each year.

In a hurry? Book the #1 rated tour here ⤵️

To help make sure your experience is unforgettable, we’ve compiled a list of our tours for the best whale watching in Maui for 2023.

Each tour offers its own unique take on this incredible adventure and will leave you feeling inspired and awestruck by nature’s grandeur.

So gather up your family or friends and get ready to embark on an amazing journey that will stay with you forever!

Best Maui Whale-Watching Tours Quick Guide

Best Whale-Watching Tours in Maui Tour Options

1. Ali’i VIP Whale Tour

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 1 hour 45 min 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

The Ali’i VIP Whale Tour is the perfect way for travelers to experience the majestic beauty of Maui’s humpback whales and other Hawaiian wildlife species.

With a friendly crew and only 12 passengers, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience that ensures everyone gets plenty of quality time with the whales.

As you sail around the sparkling waters, a special audio system will transport you to the majestic world of whale songs. And to make sure your journey is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, bottled water is included with each tour.

What past guests have said:

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

2. Small Group 2-hour Whale Watch from Raft

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

This tour is the perfect way to experience one of nature’s greatest wonders, the majestic humpback whale. Onboard a small raft you’ll be closer to the water than the bigger boats, and with fewer people in your group (max 20) you’ll have a better chance of getting a clear view.

You’ll cruise off to the Maui Nui Whale Sanctuary and observe these incredible creatures in their natural habitat. With the knowledge and passion of your expert guide providing commentary along the way, you’ll be sure to learn something new about whales and the ocean environment.

What past guests have said:

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

3. Private Paddleboard (SUP) Whale Watch!

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

Travelers looking for an unforgettable experience should book a private paddleboard whale watch tour in Maui!

Not only will you get up close and personal with the majestic humpback whales, but you’ll also be able to enjoy the stunning Hawaii scenery from the comfort of your own paddleboard.

You’ll be guided by a knowledgeable and passionate naturalist to help you spot the whales and learn about their behavior.

What past guests have said

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

4. Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar from Ka’anapali Beach

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

Head out on an unforgettable adventure with this 2-hour whale-watching cruise from Ka’anapali Beach!

Onboard a spacious catamaran and marvel at the spectacular sight of humpback whales breaching in their natural habitat as your knowledgeable and passionate naturalist guide informs you about their migratory patterns.

What’s more, enjoy unlimited drinks from an open bar while you take in the stunning Hawaii scenery.

With plenty of seating—including bean bags on open nets that get you close to the action—this family-friendly adventure is sure to create lasting memories!

What past guests have said:

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

5. Kayak Whale Watch and Turtle Reef Snorkel

⭐️ 4.5/5 ⌛️ 4 hours ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

This guided kayak and snorkeling adventure off the coast of Maui is an unforgettable experience. You’ll paddle along the beautiful Olowalu coastline, taking in spectacular views of the majestic West Maui Mountains, before hopping into the water to snorkel with endangered green sea turtles and colorful tropical fish.

The tour includes all necessary snorkeling gear, and during whale season (December to April), you’ll have the chance to spot Humpback whales underwater too!

What past guests have said :

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

6. Ultimate 4-Hour Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina Harbor

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 4 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

The Ultimate 4 Hour Whale Watch & Snorkel from Lahaina Harbor is an adventure like no other. This four-hour tour takes you out onto the beautiful waters of Maui for some unforgettable sights and experiences.

You, along with a maximum of 21 other passengers will heat to the island of Lanai, with snorkeling stops along the way! Keep your eyes open for fish, turtles, octopuses, manta rays, dolphins, and of course, whales.

This tour includes breakfast and snacks, along with access to smaller coves that large boats can’t get into.

My favorite part about this tour though, is that your ticket price helps support marine research and Maui’s whale entanglement response team.

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Breakfast
• Snacks
• Soda/Pop
• Use of Snorkeling equipment
• Flotation Devices
• Complimentary Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Wetsuit tops for rent

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

7. Olowalu kayak whale watch and snorkel tour

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 4 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

This private kayak and whale watch/snorkel tour is the perfect way to explore Olowalu, a beautiful destination located on the western coast of Maui. This tour offers a unique view of the majestic humpback whales, as you get up close and personal with them while kayaking in their natural habitat.

Not only will you kayak to whales but you’ll also be snorkeling with turtles, swimming with dolphins, and more! And if that wasn’t enough, you’ll even get to get pictures taken by your guide and get them the same day!

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Free Digital Photos that you will get the same day as your tour!
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Water and Snacks

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

8. Hour Eco-Raft Maui Snorkel Tour, Dolphins & Whales, Lahaina to Lanai

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 4 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

This is your chance to experience Maui and Lanai like never before. This eco-raft tour will take you on an adventure of a lifetime, as you explore the waters around the islands on board a state-of-the-art raft.

You’ll have the opportunity to spot dolphins and whales, making stops at two different snorkel spots for you to explore the local marine life.

You’ll also get to take in the views of the Maui and Lanai coast from your ocean raft and enjoy breakfast and delicious snacks on board!

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Breakfast
• Snacks
• Use of Snorkeling equipment
• Floatation Devices including pool noodles and float belts!
• Soda/Pop
• Bottled water

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

9. 2-Hour Whale Watching Experience

⭐️ 4.5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

Explore the Pacific waters surrounding Maui and enjoy an up-close look at whales on this two-hour whale-watching experience.

You will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share facts and stories about these majestic creatures as you sail along the coastline.

You will also get to take in the stunning views of Maui’s coastline, and the boat has both an upper deck and an enclosed main cabin, so you can choose to watch in the open air or be protected from the elements.

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Guaranteed Whale Sightings or go again for free!
• Expert Humpback Whale narration by an experienced Captain and Crew!
• On-board gift shop – 100% of proceeds go to research
• Underwater hydrophones to hear the whales sing while they’re below the boat!

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

10. Ultimate 2-Hour Exclusive VIP Whale Watch Tour from Lahaina Harbor

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

Experience the ultimate whale-watching tour from Lahaina Harbor! This 2 hour-long, small group excursion offers a VIP experience and amazing views of Hawaii’s humpback whales.

With educational talks about whales and other marine life by onboard marine naturalists, you will get up close and personal with these creatures in their natural habitat.

Coast guard style-rafts are a fun, safe, and efficient whale-watching vessel that allows you to get the best view of the whales in their natural environment.

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Bottled water
• Whale sightings guaranteed or come again for free

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

11. Small-Group Whale-Watching Adventure

⭐️ 5/5 ⌛️ 2 hours 🏵 Viator Badge of Excellence ✅ Book it

Why choose this tour?

This small group has a maximum of 20 passengers. Everyone gets a cushioned seat and a large open viewing platform. The boat has quiet engines which allow you to get closer to the whales.

You’ll sail with a knowledgeable crew that has worked together for years, which will help you learn more about whales and conservation.

What past guests have said:

This tour includes:

• Bottled Water

🐳 Check Rates and Availability Here

When are the best months to go whale watching in Maui?

The best time to go whale watching in Maui is during the winter months, between November and April. During these months, Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and give birth.

Peak season runs from mid-December through March when there are more whales present in Hawaiian waters. However, year-round sightings of Humpback Whales, dolphins, and other marine life are possible.

Plan your whale-watching trip to the best of your ability by checking the weather forecasts during the time of year you plan to go.

Hawaii Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary in Maui, Hawaii Video

What kind of whales can you see in Maui?

Maui is home to Humpback Whales, which are the most commonly seen whales in the area. These majestic creatures can be spotted from November to April when they travel from cold Alaskan waters to Hawaiian warm waters for mating and giving birth.

Other whale species that may be seen include False Killer Whales, Melon Whales, Sperm Whales, Pilot Whales, Orcas, and Cuvier’s Beaked Whales.

In addition, you may see a variety of dolphins and other marine life while whale watching.

It is also possible to spot migrating whales from the Big Island, Molokai, and Lanai during certain times of the year.

What Hawaiian Island is best for whale watching?

Maui is the best place in Hawaii for whale watching, but you can also catch a glimpse of whales near the other islands too!

What to Wear to a Maui Whale-Watching Tour

When heading out to the ocean you should be prepared for seasickness and sun exposure. Some tours provide water, but you should plan on bringing your own as well just to be prepared.

Sunscreen can pollute and damage the reefs, water, and marine life. If you must wear sunscreen, use reef-safe sunscreen. A better idea is to wear a rashguard to protect you from the sun without having to wear as much sunscreen.

Bringing your own reusable water bottle is always a good idea!

A lightweight, quick-drying towel is nice to have after you get back on the boat after your tour.

Be sure and take a hat to keep the sun off your face! These unisex hats are great, they float, fold up small, and some even come with a hole for your ponytail!

Rash guards can limit the amount of sunblock you need to apply. Here are choices for men, women, and children

If you must wear sunscreen, use only reef-safe sunblock. Just understand that no sunscreen is truly 100% reef-safe. Be sure and apply it before you head out, so it has time to absorb a bit before you hit the water.

You’ll want to be sure and capture all of the epic sights you see on your Maui whale-watching tour, so be sure and bring a camera!

The Go-Pro is my favorite underwater and action camera. I never go snorkeling without my GoPro! Be sure and grab the floaty stick to go with it!

If you want to use your cell phone for capturing your day, be sure and get a waterproof case. Even though most phones are “waterproof”, salt water is very corrosive and damaging.

Last, but not least, you’ll want a bag to carry your stuff onto the boat (or kayak, or paddleboard!)

A dry bag is a great way to protect your belongings if you choose to go on a kayak or paddleboard.

If you are going on a boat for your whale-watching adventure, a beach bag will be fine, as you likely won’t have to worry about it getting wet.

Maui Whale Watching FAQs

What month is best for whale watching in Maui?

The best time to watch whales in Maui is from November to April.

Is whale watching in Maui worth it?

yes, Yes, YES! If you have never seen these majestic animals up close, words cannot explain what an incredible experience it is! Maui is a beautiful setting for whale watching, and much less expensive than excursions in Alaska or other areas.

What part of Maui is best for whale watching?

The best place in Maui to watch whales is The Maui Nui Basin. This protected whale sanctuary is the area between Maui, Lanai, and Kaho’olawe.

What is the best time of day to see whales in Maui?

Early morning or sunset provides beautiful backdrops for whale watching, but anytime is a good time!

Is whale watching better in Maui or Big Island?

While you can see whales off the Big Island from time to time, the waters between Maui and Lanai are the best place to whale watch.

Can you see orcas in Maui?

You “may” see Orcas (killer whales) in Maui, but they are not residents there, so chances are slim. Humpback whales are the most common whales to see in Maui.

Can you swim with whales in Maui?

It is illegal to come within 100 yards of a whale, in a boat, paddleboard, kayak, or while swimming. For regulations, safety, and other questions you can refer to NOAA.

How close do whales come to shore in Maui?

Occasionally, whales come close enough to shore to see from areas such as Ka’anapali Beach, but in general, you are better off booking a Maui Whale Watching Tour.

How long is a whale-watching tour in Maui?

Most whale-watching tours in Maui range from 2 – 4 hours.

Skipped to the end? Here’s the #1 Whale Watching in Maui ⤵️

Our Pick

🏆 #1 WHALE WATCHING TOUR IN MAUI

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 A small-group whale-watching tour in Lahaina
Enjoy a VIP experience in a group limited to only 12 passengers
🐳 Listen to live recordings of whale sounds and songs on the boat
Spot humpback whales and other wildlife species along the coast

BOOK THIS TOUR NOW

Final Thoughts: Whale Watching Tours in Maui Hawaii

Maui is an ideal place to go whale watching due to its unique location and abundant marine life. With the right tour, you can get up close and personal with whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures while taking in the breathtaking views of Maui’s coastline.

Be sure to check the weather before your trip and wear suitable clothing to ensure you have the best whale-watching experience possible. With a knowledgeable guide, every seat is an excellent seat!

Finally, don’t forget to bring along a camera or binoculars so that you can take home lasting memories of your time spent whale watching in Maui. Explore Hawaiian waters like never before with a whale-watching tour in Maui!