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Each year during this time, approximately 1,500 to 2,000 humpback whales migrate south from their summer feeding grounds in the Arctic. Scientists estimate that this 3,000 mile swimming trip takes them from 80 to 100 days.

Hawaii whale watching tours are ideal for seeing these spectacular animals in their natural habitat. Humpback whales can also be observed from land if you prefer solid ground to the deck of a boat. Various high-points of coastal areas like Kauai, the Kilauea Lighthouse, Kealia Lookout are good places to observe whales.

On Maui, the opportunities for whale-watching from land are extensive. A good vantage point for seeing a whale from land is basically a wide ocean view. McGregor Point, at mile marker 9, from Maalaea, toward Lahaina, is a well-known whale watching place among the tourists. However, whales can also be seen off the Olowalu Reef between McGregor Point and the town of Olowalu.

When you head south on the Wailea coast, the Outrigger Wailea Resort provides another excellent whale viewing spot, with a telescope installed by the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. South from Wailea, Puu Olai overlooking Makeena Beach is considered Maui's best spot for whale-watching.

However, Whale watching requires patience. You need to scan the horizon for a cloud of spewing water that rises from 10 to 20 feet above the ocean's surface. You can get hold of a whale, simply by watching whale’s breath spray which is a water vapor that they exhale from their blow hole. So once you are able to locate that spray of water, you need to focus your eyes on the area. Here, binoculars are especially helpful.

The best way to see humpback whales is out in their domain. You can book the Boat tours that are available departing from Lahaina Harbor. On the Big Island and the island of Kauai, whale-watching opportunities abound with a full schedule of tours provided by seasoned, knowledgeable guides.