Humpback Whales in Hawaii, Where to Find Them
BY KAPINA LANSDALE
This time of year welcomes not only tourists from around the world but also the Kohola(humpback whales). These warm and shallow waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands are ideal for the whales to leave the icy waters of Alaska to breed, calve and nurse their young.
“Humpback whales are born in Hawaiian waters, making them Kamaaina(native born). Some native Hawaiians also believe the whales are Aumakua(family guardians), so these gentle giants are treated with great respect.“
Whale Watching in Hawaii
Kohola season in Hawaii is between November and early May, but some months are better than others if you want to see the most whales.
The first whales start arriving to the Big Island of Hawai’i in November and more arrive as the season goes on. Their numbers peak in the months of January, February and March. They slowly start to leave late April to early May.
Whale Watching Tips
- The Kohala coast is by far the best place to see humpback whales. Sightings here are sometimes double or triple the amount than at other locations on the island.
- January and February are the best months to see whales at the Kohala Coast. In March the total count cuts down by half, but on the positive side there seem to be slightly more sightings on the Hamakua (northeast) coast.
- Early in the morning is the best time to see whales. The number of whale sightings on the Big Island around 8am is 50% higher than the amount spotted at noon. Also mornings often have calmer weather which means the ocean surface is calmer and makes it easier to spot whales.
- Average number of sightings fluctuate. On average over all locations, between 3 and 6 whales were seen per 15- minute period in January and February. For more helpful tips and island information join my newsletter to be the first to know.
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