April whale watching

Question

Hi All, heading back to Maui for the first time in 2 yrs. We arrive April 14. Can anyone tell me of websites I can check to see if whales are still around. I know it's late in the season but I'm hoping we can still take a tour. Staying at Whalers

village

Mahalo!

Answer

Welcome back to Maui! Whale watching is one of the highlights of a Maui vacation, and while April is getting toward the end of whale season, you can still catch some of the migrating humpback whales in the waters around the island.

Here's what you can do to check if the whales are still around during your stay and make the most of your whale watching experience:

1. Whale Watching in April:

While whale season officially runs from December through April, humpback whales may still be visible in early April, especially around the channels between Maui, Moloka'i, and Lanai. By mid-April, most of the whales will begin their migration north to Alaska, but it's still possible to spot them in the waters off the coast.

2. Websites and Resources to Check for Whale Activity:

Maui Whale Watch: Many tour operators on Maui post daily updates on whale sightings, especially during the peak season. You can check with them to get current information about whale activity. Some operators even track whale sightings on their websites, giving you an idea of how active the whales are that day.
Pacific Whale Foundation: This non-profit organization offers whale watching tours and frequently posts updates on whale sightings. Their website also provides information on whale behavior, migration, and the best times to spot them. It's a great resource for planning your whale watching tour.
Hawaii Whale Watching Hotline: The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary has a whale watching hotline (808-879-2818) that provides the latest updates on whale sightings across Maui, especially for those interested in knowing if there are still whales around in April.
Maui’s Official Tourism Website: VisitMaui.com often features updates about whale sightings and can help you find whale watching tours near you, as well as tips on what to look for when spotting whales from the shore.

3. Whale Watching Tour Operators:

Several companies offer whale watching tours from the Lahaina area, and many of them operate throughout the month of April, though availability might be less than earlier in the season. Here are some well-known tour operators you can check with:

Pacific Whale Foundation: They offer eco-friendly tours and are one of the most reputable operators in Maui, with knowledgeable guides who can provide a wealth of information about humpback whales and their behavior.
Whale Watch Maui: Another popular choice for whale watching tours that operates out of Lahaina Harbor. They offer various options, including morning and afternoon tours.
Alii Nui: Known for their luxury whale watching cruises, Alii Nui offers a more intimate and comfortable experience with fewer passengers and premium service.

4. Spotting Whales from Shore:

If you prefer not to go on a tour, there are several spots around Maui where you can still catch a glimpse of the whales from land. Look for the following prime whale watching locations:

McGregor Point Lookout: Located on the road to Lahaina, this spot provides great views of the ocean, and you may be able to see whales breaching or tail-slapping from the shore.
Ka'anapali Beach: Since you're staying at Whalers Village, Ka'anapali Beach is a great spot to watch for whales from the shore. Early mornings are the best time to catch a glimpse of whales.
Shoreline of Lahaina: Walk along the coast in Lahaina, and you might spot whales, especially on calm days when the whales are closer to the shore.

5. When to Go on the Tour:

For the best chances of seeing whales, consider booking a tour in the morning. Early tours tend to be less crowded, and the calm morning waters often provide clearer views. The whales are also more active in the morning as they feed or breach, so it's a great time to go.

In conclusion, although you're visiting in mid-April, you can still have an amazing whale watching experience on Maui. Be sure to check the recommended websites for up-to-date whale sightings, and consider booking a tour or visiting some of the prime whale watching spots around the island. You're bound to have a memorable time celebrating your anniversary and enjoying the natural beauty of Maui!

Mahalo, and enjoy your time on Maui!

April whale watching

More Maui Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions