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Honeymoon Idea: Best Whale Watching Spots in Maui
Searching for unique and unforgettable ideas for your honeymoon? You’ve reached the right place! Imagine you and your beloved, hand in hand, on a boat as the sun sets, casting a golden glow over the ocean. Suddenly, a massive humpback whale breaches the surface, its majestic form silhouetted against the twilight sky. Welcome to Maui, the ultimate honeymoon destination for whale watching, and much more!
From December to April, Maui’s waters become a playground for these gentle giants, offering a romantic symphony of whale songs and acrobatic feats. This gorgeous island also offers some of the best whale-watching spots in the world.
My first whale-watching trip in Maui was a mix of awe and hilarity—trying to capture the perfect shot while squealing like a kid on Christmas morning.
So without further ado, as part of our honeymoon travel tips, let’s dive into this wondrous place…
A bit about Maui
Maui is the place to be if you want magnificent beaches, fascinating history, fun shopping adventures, a one-of-a-kind road trip on the Road to Hana, and views of the Haleakala Crater.
The magnificent beaches of Maui. Photo by Neora Aylon on Unsplash.com
As if Maui was not perfect enough; If you plan on visiting this hugely popular tourist destination, add whale-watching to your list of must-dos. Beautiful and playful humpback whales visit Maui during the winter. You may also spot a few pilot whales and even false killer whales.
But you will only see them if you know where to go. Below are some of the best whale-watching spots in Maui to visit on your next trip to the Valley Isle.
Kaanapali Beach Walk Trail
If you want to hike while whale watching, and you do not mind that the whales are breaching far away, the Kaanapali Beach Walk Trail is a perfect spot. The beach walk trail is a paved path that stretches from one end of Kaanapali Beach to the other. It will take around three hours to complete the hike, depending on how fast you walk.
This path also offers one of Earth’s most beautiful sunset or sunrise walks. As you go along the boardwalk, you will look out onto the horizon as the humpback whales frolic in the distance.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Papawai Point
Papawai Point, or McGregor Point (thanks to the nearby lighthouse), is a hugely popular whale-watching spot. It sits on the west side of Ma‘alaea Bay, and you can reach it from Highway 30.
As you look out across the ocean here, you will marvel at the sights of Kahoolawe and Molokini while you keep an eye out for the whales. When it is clear out, you may even spot the Big Island far away.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Molokini Crater
If you want to get up close to the whales (as close as the law permits), you should book a boat tour of the Molokini Crater. On the way there and back, you are pretty much guaranteed to see humpback whales in the deep waters.
You will likely also spot green sea turtles and dolphins. When you get to the crater, you can snorkel to explore the underwater marine life of Maui.
Even if you do not want to snorkel, the Molokini Crater is a gorgeous sight to behold above the water. Sometimes, the whales even enter the crater, which causes much excitement among visitors and tourists.
If you are under the water when the whales arrive at the crater, remember to listen to their songs as they communicate with each other.
Watch this video to get a glimpse of the crater:
Maui Ocean Center
If you want to get even closer to the humpbacks, the Maui Ocean Center is the perfect place to be. The center’s 3D Sphere experience will allow you to explore the kingdom of the whales, with shows running every 30 minutes.
You will get special 3D glasses to enjoy the humpback whale exhibit, which includes the Monolithic Dome. While the sphere only projects the image of a humpback whale, it is so lifelike that you will reach out and try to touch it.
Watch this to get a glimpse of the Maui Ocean Center:
Kayak Tours
If you are up for an adventurous whale-watching expedition, a kayak tour may be just the thing for you. Kayaking is something beginners and experienced kayakers can do.
Seeing a humpback whale from ocean level is something all ocean and whale lovers must experience at least once in their lives. On a kayak, you will see whales breaching up close or slapping their fins.
You can even watch whales while paddle boarding. However, this is only recommended if you have experience with a paddleboard. While on a board, you can stand still and allow the whales to move around you. They probably will not come too near, but they will be close enough for you to admire.
Watch this amazing video of a kayak tour in Maui that managed to get a stunning glimpse of a humpback:
Tips for Whale Watching
If you are going to be whale watching in Maui for the first time, the following tips will help you make the most of the experience:
- Plan your trip between December and April. These are the months when the whales are most active in Maui.
- Familiarize yourself with local regulations about approaching or photographing whales. This is especially important if you are whale watching on your own, whether on land or from the sea.
- Make a boat tour part of your whale-watching efforts. Being on a boat is one of the best ways to see whales simply because you can get so close to them. If you decide to go on a boat tour, ensure that you book one with a reputable whale-watching tour operator.
- You must dress comfortably, and do not forget to bring sunscreen. You will likely spend a lot of time on the water or the beach, so bring a hat and sunglasses, too.
- Do not forget the binoculars. If you are trying to spot the whales from land, binoculars will help you get a closer look.
- Always respect the whales. It is very exciting to see a whale up close and in person. But loud noises frighten and stress them. Try your best to contain your excitement by not shouting or shrieking when you see them.
- Be patient. Just because you are looking for the whales does not mean they will magically appear. You will have to be patient and remember that whale sightings are unpredictable.
- Always book a tour in advance. No matter what type of whale-watching tour you book, always do so in advance, especially during peak seasons. Whale-watching tours tend to fill quickly, so book your spot to avoid disappointment.
- Learn more about whales. Use every opportunity to educate yourself about humpback whales and their behaviors. Everything you learn about these magnificent creatures will enhance your whale-watching experience.
Maui Is a Breathtaking Destination for Whale Watching
Maui offers an unparalleled whale-watching experience against an unforgettable backdrop of natural beauty. The island’s pristine waters and geographical location make it one of the best whale-watching destinations on the planet.
By choosing one or more options listed above and following the tips mentioned, you can almost guarantee seeing humpback whales and other sea creatures every time you go on a whale-watching tour. Just remember to respect all sea animals and keep your distance. Then, you will be rewarded with a most memorable whale-watching event.
