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No trip to Maui is complete without a tailslap!
Humpback whales migrate to the warm shallow waters near Maui each winter from November to May with peak season running January to March. The area between West Maui and the nearby island of Lanai is the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. It is possible to see whales breaching and tail slapping from shore (I’ve seen breaches from both Wailea’s Ekahi Village and the Gold Golf Course) but the most exciting and interesting whale watching happens on the water.
There are many different types of whale watch adventures you can go on while on Maui. The main departure marina is in Lahaina, but tours leave from Ma’alaea and Kihei as well. Some just cruise the open water looking for whales, while others take you on a snorkel trip with the added bonus of whale watching!
If you are interested in giving back a little, then the Pacific Whale Foundation is the tour for you. A non-profit with the stated goal “to protect our oceans through science and advocacy.” During the whale season, the foundation runs several daily tours departing from Lahaina and Ma’alaea Harbors. Their boats are tall and you can see well, but you’re off the water.
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