Are you looking for the best way to get a glimpse of Hawaii’s magnificent koholā, or humpback whales
This guide will detail everything you need to know about whale watching in Oahu, Hawaii.
The Best Months for Whale Watching in Hawaii
Famous for its stunning white sand beaches, incredible shopping and local cuisine, and world-renown surfing, it’s no wonder Oahu is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. While Oahu is beautiful all year round, there are certain seasons that are best for whale watching.
Humpback Whale Migration to Oahu, Hawaii
Each fall, humpback whales migrate thousands of miles from their feeding grounds in Alaska to the warm waters around Hawaii. These incredible animals travel for 6-8 weeks in order to breed and give birth to new calves. The peak time to catch a glimpse of these incredible humpback whales is December through March.
Best Time of Day to See Whales in Oahu
The best time to see humpback whales in the waters around Oahu is the early morning, mid afternoon, or just before sunset. While there are many beaches and vantage points from the shore, the ideal way to witness these beautiful animals is by boat! With Ko Olina Ocean Adventures, you get the added bonus of whale watching with every tour you book during the migration season (December through March). Experience breathtaking views of these magnificent marine mammals during a catamaran boat tour in Oahu!
Where to See Whales in Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu is one of the best places in the world for whale watching. You can catch a glimpse of the humpback whales from land and sea.
Whale Watching from the Shore
Some of the best places to see whales from the shore in Oahu include the Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, Halona Blowhole Overlook, Lanai Lookout, and Sandy Beach Park. Enjoy beautiful views of the ocean and the chance to watch the majestic humpback whales breach the waves!
Amazing Whale Watching Boat Tours
By far, the best way to get up close and personal with Hawaii’s humpback whales is by boat. There is nothing quite as exciting as coasting along Oahu’s pristine and sparkling waters and watching these beautiful and graceful animals out at sea! Take an early morning catamaran snorkel tour and immerse yourself in the beauty of Hawaii’s ocean. Our expert guides know the best places and vantage points to get amazing views of these incredible animals.
Whales and Other Incredible Marine Life in Oahu
Hawaii’s warm waters are home to an abundance of incredible marine life including tropical fish, manta rays, dolphins, seals, and sea turtles!
Dolphins in Hawaii
Did you know that Hawaii is home to several different species of dolphins? The most commonly sighted are the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin, and False Killer Whale. These amazing marine mammals are known for their playful nature, and can often be seen leaping from the water and surfing on the waves around Oahu. They are also often regarded as one of the most intelligent animals on Earth. If you’re looking for one of the best ways to catch a view of Hawaii’s dolphins, take an afternoon catamaran snorkel tour!
Hawaiian Monk Seal
The Hawaiian Islands boast an incredible array of marine mammals that are endemic to the region, meaning they don’t exist anywhere else on Earth. The Hawaiian Monk Seal is critically endangered, with under 1,500 still living in the wild. Oahu is a great place to spot these beautiful animals. They can sometimes be seen near Waikiki Beach, Turtle Bay, and Punalu’u Black Sands Beach. It is important to maintain a safe and respectful distance from these beautiful animals, as to not disturb their natural habitats.
Reef Manta Rays
Reef Manta Rays are amongst the largest fish in the entire ocean! These gentle giants can reach wingspans of up to 18 feet and weigh 1500 pounds. They are known for their docile and graceful nature, and despite their size, pose no threat to humans. Reef Manta Rays are most active after sunset in Oahu’s waters, but can sometimes be seen in the evening or early morning.
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
The Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle, or Honu, is another species endemic to the island of Hawaii. They are the largest hard-shelled turtles in the world and can grow to be up to 4 feet and 300 pounds! These graceful animals are known for their unique nesting behavior, making the long and difficult journey to shore to lay their eggs as far away from the tide line as possible. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles can often be spotted on or near Oahu’s North Shore, eating seaweed, basking in the sun, and swimming in the shallow waters! Sea turtles are an endangered species, so please keep your distance and only observe them from afar.
What to Bring on Your Whale Watching Catamaran Tour
If you’re planning on going whale watching in Oahu, there are some essential items you’ll want to bring with you during your adventure! Make sure you pack extra sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. You’ll also want to bring a lightweight jacket, as there’s sometimes a breeze out on the water. We’d also recommend bringing drinking water, so you can stay hydrated during the three hour tour.
Some optional items that might improve your experience are binoculars, so you can get better views of distant whales and of course, a camera to capture some incredible memories!
The Best Whale Watching in Oahu
From the months of December through March, visitors and locals alike can experience something truly magical in Oahu, whale watching! Ko Olina Ocean Adventures offers the best snorkel and whale watching boat tours in Oahu. Catch a glimpse of these magnificent animals as they breach the waves during an early morning, afternoon, or sunset catamaran cruise! There is nothing quite as special and exciting as seeing a humpback whale out at sea as they glide under the waves and leap from the waters. Ready to book your whale watching tour in Oahu? Book online or contact us today!