Each winter, the magnificent humpback whales make their way from colder climates to enjoy the warm, tropical waters of Hawaii (just like many of our visitors!).
Immense and incredibly playful
Known as âna koholaâ in Hawaiian, these immense creatures can grow to 60 feet long and can weigh up to 40 tons. They are incredibly playful, and during whale season, which is typically between November and April, you can often see them spouting, breaching and slapping their tails on the water. As the whales come here to give birth, you may have the opportunity to see a mama and baby swimming together.
Endangered but increasing
Nearly wiped out by commercial hunting in the last century, humpback whales are still endangered, but their numbers are increasing. Of the approximately 80,000 humpbacks worldwide, 12,000 â 18,000 of them visit the Hawaiian waters each winter, traveling an average of 6,000 miles to get here.
Best place to watch whales
Interestingly, the Kohala Coast is known as one the best places on the island to catch a glimpse of these amazing mammals. If youâre visiting Hawaii during whale season, consider a whale-watching boat tour. While youâre out on the water, you may see dolphins and turtle as well.
But you donât have to book a tour to go whale watching in Hawaii. There are many spots along the coastline where you can watch for whales from shore. Weâve often spotted whales while simply driving down the highway.
Be a volunteer whale-watcher
You can even sign up as a volunteer to count whales. The Sanctuary Ocean Count project offers visitors and residents the chance to monitor humpback whales from the shore in January, February and March.
Ready to migrate to Hawaii for a winter getaway?
Check out Google Flights for current fares to Kona, and set up a fare tracker to be notified of great deals. Then, get in touch with us to save 10% by booking your vacation rental directly with Kohala Coast Properties.
Your perfect Hawaii vacation rental
From small studios to luxurious villas, we have the perfect home base for your Hawaii holiday â like the Mauna Lani Golf Villas. These gorgeous two-story units are located in a luxury gated community nestled on the famed South Course at Mauna Lani â the premier resort on the Kohala Coast.
Perfect for families or small groups, the three-bedroom, three-bath villas offer beautiful mountain and golf course views, quality high-end furnishings, luxurious linens, gourmet kitchen stocked with essentials, and outdoor grilling area on the spacious lanai. Youâll also have access to all the gear you need for the perfect day at the beach.
Youâll have exclusive use of the Golf Villaâs recreation area, swimming pool and spa, and fitness center. Within the resort area, youâll find several stunning beaches (including the private Mauna Lani Beach Club), two of the worldâs best golf courses, top-ranked tennis facilities, a spa, historical sites, fine dining and shopping.
Save on your Hawaii accommodations
Remember, you can save 10% on your vacation rental when you book directly with us and mention âAloha Escapeâ in your reservation. Hope to see you soon â a hui hou!
(Whale watching photo courtesy of Hawaii Ocean Sports.)