Come and meet the biggest Hawaiian locals of all!

From November to May, almost one third of all North Pacific humpback whales return to Hawaiian waters. For locals this represents much more than an annual migration, it’s a homecoming.

Hawaii’s incredible weather and warm waters attract not only human travelers; it also attracts kohola, by the thousands! Kohola is the Hawaiian word for humpback whale. Many of these whales are born in the breeding and calving waters around Hawaii, and so they are considered native too, and treated as sacred family guardians.

Hawaii has shared a long history with these gentle giants, from the earliest creation songs to the bloody days of whaling in the 1800s. Today the waters of Hawaii are a sanctuary and whale numbers have rebounded, delighting the locals and visitors who commune with these marine wonders each season.

There are fabulous whale watching vantage points all over the archipelago, from Diamond Head to the beaches of Hilo Bay – the trick is just to stop, and wait. Nothing compares, however, to taking to the waters with an experienced skipper and meeting these special native sons and daughters up close. Explore our listings below for an operator or charter closest to your hotel or resort.

Featured whale watching and related activities in Hawaii

See all Things to Do in Hawaii

Destinations whale watchers will love in Hawaii
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Visit the true tropical paradise of Hawaii’s most populated island, which has the state’s sprawling capital in the south and world-class surfing on the long North Shore.
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Hawaii’s “sunny side of paradise” balances adventure with relaxation, offering world-class waves and outdoor activities amid a serene tropical setting. 
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Surf's up at the birthplace of Hawaii's big-wave surfing, an attractive half-moon beach known for its surfing, swimming and bodyboarding opportunities. 
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Hawaii’s northernmost point is renowned for its dramatic coastline, abundant bird and sea life, and for being the “Guava Capital of the World.” 
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Visit this Kohala harbor town to enjoy excellent fresh seafood and art galleries, surf clear swells rolling into the harbor and see an ancient Hawai’ian temple.
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At the “end of the road” of Kaua’i Island, discover wet caves and magnificent beaches, explore nature trails and enjoy breathtaking coastal views. 
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Fresh farm produce, turn-of-the-century architecture, charming art and craft galleries and stunning volcanic wilderness await in this scenic Puna district town.
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This city on O'ahu’s windward side is protected from the wild Pacific Ocean and offers plenty of non-beach activities.
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Home to many of the Big Island’s major luxury resorts, this stretch of coast is known for its golf courses and beautiful beaches.
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The former capital of Hawaii was once the heart of the global whaling trade. Today, it’s a popular beach city and starting point for whale-watching tours.
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The “Magic Isle” of Hawai‘i is known for its beaches, blue water, abundant marine life, the volcanic Haleakalā National Park, quaint towns and scenic drives.