Watch humpback whales in Maui, Hawaii, the densest winter gathering of North Pacific humpbacks anywhere on Earth. Each winter thousands of whales migrate to the sheltered Auau Channel between Maui, Lanai and Molokai to breed and calve, making this one of the easiest, highest success whale trips in the world. Mothers, calves, breaching and singing males are all common from the boats, best from December to April.
Watch humpback whales in Maui, Hawaii, the densest winter gathering of North Pacific humpbacks anywhere on Earth. Each winter thousands of whales migrate to the sheltered Auau Channel between Maui, Lanai and Molokai to breed and calve, making this one of the easiest, highest success whale trips in the world. Mothers, calves, breaching and singing males are all common from the boats, best from December to April.
Up to 95% sighting chance in Maui Nui / Auau Channel, Hawaii, USA. Best months: February, January, March.
The season runs November to April, peaking January to March. February brings the most whales, when NOAA estimates over 11,000 humpbacks are in Hawaiian waters. Early morning and late afternoon usually offer the calmest seas.
At peak season sightings are near certain. Most Maui operators offer a free return trip if you do not see a whale.
A 2 hour tour runs roughly 50 to 90 US dollars per adult (2026 prices), with premium small group or top deck tours reaching 115 to 240 dollars.
Yes. Humpbacks are often visible from the west and south Maui coast, such as Lahaina, McGregor Point and Wailea, with no boat needed.
