Whales Photos

Humpback whale near Maui

Whales (Cetacea) Overview

The humpback whale is a fascinating mammal. Their surface maneuvers, such as breaching and tail-slapping, invoke awe and wonder in spectators. Whale watching season in Hawaii runs from December through the end of April. Prime whale watching spots are Makapu'u Lighthouse and Diamond Head Lookout on Oahu and Maui's west shore.

As much as 60 percent of the North Pacific humpback whale population migrates to Hawaiian waters to spend winter in the warm waters and commence with mating and birthing rituals. Whale calves can weigh 3,000 pounds (1,360 kg) or more!