Will whales still be around in March?

Question

The purpose of my trip is mostly to see whales! I’m planning last minute and getting overwhelmed. So first things first… Will I see whales in March? If so, what hotels would you recommend? I’m looking for sunny and dry weather, up to $750 a night, near Whalers Village. I’m traveling solo for the first time and want more casual less expensive food options that are within walking distance. I’d like a nice pool and beach at the hotel. I’m into animals, birds and critter experiences. I’ve heard that you can see whales from the shore or hotel balcony at the right time of year. Please help me find a nice/fun hotel that will keep me busy. I’m not looking for anything overly quiet or isolated.

Answer

Yes, March is an excellent time to see whales in Maui! The peak of whale season runs from December through April, with the greatest number of humpback whales in the waters around Maui typically visible from January to March. March is still a great time to witness their spectacular behaviors, such as breaching, tail slapping, and spouting, so you’ll definitely be able to enjoy some whale sightings during your trip.

As for hotels, there are several great options near Whalers Village in Kaanapali that offer beautiful views, sunny weather, and are within your budget. Since you’re traveling solo and prefer casual dining and activities, here are a few hotels you might consider:

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa - This is a large resort with a great pool, direct beach access, and plenty of dining options within walking distance. It’s lively enough to offer fun activities but still offers a relaxing atmosphere. The hotel is also known for its incredible views of the ocean where you can easily spot whales from your room or balcony during the season.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa - Another excellent option near Whalers Village, The Westin has a variety of dining options, pools, and a beautiful beach. It's perfect if you're looking for something close to the action but still with opportunities for quiet moments. You can also watch whales right from the resort.
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa - Located on Black Rock, this hotel offers excellent whale watching opportunities right from the property. It has a nice balance of relaxation and activities, with a great beach and a variety of food options within walking distance at Whalers Village. You’ll also find casual eateries nearby, so you don’t have to worry about high-priced resort food.
Kaanapali Beach Hotel - If you're looking for something more affordable, Kaanapali Beach Hotel is a great option. It’s a bit more laid-back but still offers an authentic Hawaiian experience, with great views, a beautiful beach, and plenty of nearby casual dining options. It's also in close proximity to the Whalers Village, making it easy to explore.

As for food, you’ll find several affordable options within walking distance of the hotels. Whalers Village itself has a variety of dining options that are casual yet flavorful. Here are a few suggestions:

Leilani’s on the Beach - A casual beachfront restaurant with great seafood, sandwiches, and cocktails.
Monkeypod Kitchen - A popular spot with great pizza, local dishes, and happy hour specials.
Hula Grill - Located in Whalers Village, Hula Grill offers a mix of casual and slightly upscale options with fantastic ocean views.

For your animal and nature interests, Maui is a paradise. You can take a whale-watching tour from the harbor, or even look for whales from your hotel balcony or along the coastline. In addition to whale watching, Maui also offers a variety of animal experiences, such as bird watching, hiking in nature reserves, or visiting places like the Maui Ocean Center, where you can see sea life up close.

Given your interest in both animals and fun activities, staying near Kaanapali Beach offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and easy access to restaurants and activities. The area is vibrant, so you won’t feel isolated, but it’s not overwhelmingly busy either. Plus, with March being whale season, you’ll have the chance to enjoy these incredible creatures right from your hotel!

Enjoy your trip to Maui – it's sure to be unforgettable!