Why 2026 is the Perfect Year for Hawaii Whale Watching

Prepare for an unforgettable 2026 whale season as over 12,000 humpback whales migrate to Hawaii's warm waters from Alaska. Peak sightings run from December 2026 to April 2027, with early arrivals possible in November. Our curated list of the 25 best tours spans Maui, Oahu, the Big Island, and Kauai, featuring everything from luxury catamarans to adrenaline-pumping Zodiac rafts. Whether you're seeking guaranteed sightings or eco-focused excursions, these operator-vetted tours promise close encounters while respecting NOAA's 100-yard distance rule.

Book early—spots fill fast during January and February peaks. All tours include expert naturalists, hydrophones for whale songs, and sustainable practices.

Maui: The Whale Watching Capital (Tours 1-12)

Maui's Auau Channel hosts over half of Hawaii's humpbacks, making it the top island for sightings.

• 1. Pacific Whale Foundation Eco-Adventures
  2-hour catamaran from Maalaea Harbor with marine naturalists and hydrophones. Guaranteed sightings or reschedule free.
  $59–$89 Book Now
• 2. Ultimate Whale Watch
  Thrilling 2-hour Zodiac raft for close-up action; small groups (up to 12). Expert captains chase breaches.
  $149 Book Now
• 3. Ali'i Nui Luxury Catamaran
  Premium 2-hour sail from Maalaea with gourmet snacks, open bar, and panoramic views. Whale song hydrophones included.
  $199 Book Now
• 4. Captain Steve's Rafting
  Adventurous 2-hour rigid-hull inflatable from Lahaina; ideal for active families. Hydrophones and snacks provided.
  $139 Book Now
• 5. Sea Maui Beach-Loaded Tour
  Easy 2-hour catamaran from Kaanapali Beach; bean bags and shaded seating for comfort.
  $129 Book Now
• 6. Kai Kanani Sailing
  Relaxed 2-hour sail from Wailea with continental breakfast and mimosas. Sunset options available.
  $159 Book Now
• 7. Hawaii Ocean Rafting
  2-hour high-speed raft from Lahaina; small groups for intimate encounters.
  $135 Book Now
• 8. Redline Rafting Adventures
  Budget-friendly 2-hour tour with naturalist guides; departs Maalaea.
  $99 Book Now
• 9. South Pacific Kayaks
  Unique 3-hour kayak + whale watch combo from Makena; snorkel option.
  $119 Book Now
• 10. Trilogy Excursions
  Family-friendly 2-hour catamaran with brunch; departs Lahaina.
  $149 Book Now
• 11. Teralani Sailing
  Sunset whale watch with live music and pupus; 2 hours from Lahaina.
  $169 Book Now
• 12. Pride of Maui
  3.5-hour snorkel + whale combo; open bar and BBQ lunch included.
  $189 Book Now

Oahu: Urban Access to Ocean Giants (Tours 13-17)

Oahu's south and west shores offer convenient departures from Waikiki.

• 13. Star of Honolulu Early Bird Cruise
  2-hour catamaran from Honolulu; continental breakfast included.
  $99 Book Now
• 14. Hawaii Nautical West Oahu Tour
  2-hour power cat from Ko Olina; small groups for personalized spotting.
  $125 Book Now
• 15. North Shore Catamaran Whale Watch
  2-hour tour from Haleiwa; scenic North Shore views.
  $139 Book Now
• 16. Ko Olina Ocean Adventures
  Eco-focused 2-hour sail; hydrophones and education emphasis.
  $119 Book Now
• 17. Sail Hawaii Dolphin & Whale Eco-Tour
  2-hour snorkel-optional from Honolulu; family-friendly.
  $109 Book Now

Big Island: Intimate Kona Coast Encounters (Tours 18-22)

The Kona Coast's deep waters attract playful pods.

• 18. Hawaiian Adventures Kona Whale Watch
  2.5-hour zodiac from Kona; guaranteed sightings with hydrophones.
  $109 Book Now
• 19. Kona Snorkel Trips Zodiac Adventure
  3-hour raft tour; expert guides in the Humpback Sanctuary.
  $127 Book Now
• 20. Waikoloa Whale Watch
  1.5-hour catamaran from Anaeho'omalu Bay; resort pickups.
  $119 Book Now
• 21. Captain Dan McSweeney's Year-Round Watch
  Research-focused 3-hour tour; hydrophone listening.
  $139 Book Now
• 22. Adventure X Boat Tours
  2-hour combo with snorkeling; manta ray potential.
  $129 Book Now

Kauai: Dramatic Na Pali Backdrops (Tours 23-25)

Kauai's north shore offers rugged, scenic whale views.

• 23. Capt Andy's Raft Whale Watch
  4-hour Na Pali raft tour; cocktails and cave access.
  $159 Book Now
• 24. Kauai Sea Tours Super Raft
  3-hour south shore adventure; hydrophones included.
  $126 Book Now
• 25. Blue Dolphin Charters Na Pali Whale Watch
  5-hour catamaran along Na Pali; lunch and Niihau views.
  $199 Book Now

Essential Tips for Your 2026 Whale Watching Trip

• Pack layers, sunscreen, and motion sickness meds—mornings offer calmer seas.
• Listen via hydrophones for haunting songs; bring binoculars for shore backups.
• Support eco-tours: Choose operators donating to conservation like Pacific Whale Foundation.
• Respect rules: No drones or chasing; report violations to NOAA.
• Join Sanctuary Ocean Counts in January–March for free volunteer spotting.