Maui Kayak Whale Watching Tour

Paddle into the Pacific & Watch for Maui’s Humpback Whales! 

Start your morning paddling into the calm waters off Wailea during one of Maui’s most extraordinary times of year. From December 20 through March 31, North Pacific humpback whales gather in Hawaiian waters, creating the opportunity to watch these enormous animals from the intimate, water-level perspective of a tandem kayak.

Launching from Mokapu Beach, you'll paddle along South Maui’s beautiful coastline as the morning light spreads across the Pacific. Your experienced ocean kayaking guide leads the way, helping you settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm while scanning the surrounding water for signs of whale activity. Keep your eyes on the horizon for the misty burst of a whale spout, the flash of a tail fluke, pectoral fins slapping the surface, or—if you're fortunate—the unforgettable sight of a humpback launching into a breach.

Between wildlife sightings, your guide shares fascinating insights into humpback whale migration, behavior, and their seasonal return to Maui, giving you a deeper understanding of the animals you're watching. Because these are wild whales moving naturally through the ocean, every morning is different and sightings and behaviors can never be guaranteed.

With the quiet rhythm of your paddle, Maui’s coastline behind you, and the possibility of humpbacks surfacing across the surrounding ocean, this seasonal adventure offers an incredible way to experience whale season in South Maui—active, personal, and right at water level.

Duration

1. 1.5 Hour Total
   

Location / Where to Meet

1. Check In / Departure Address: Mōkapu Beach, Wailea-Makena, HI 96753, United States
   
2. Meet at the Maui Pacific Tours beach stand on Mokapu Beach, directly behind the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, 3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea, HI 96753 
   
3. The launch site is steps from the resort's beach access.
   
4. There is public parking nearby at Ulua Beach Parking but it fills up very quickly, so be sure to be there early! There are restrooms and showers available at this lot.
   

Ages & Requirements

1. All ages welcome!
   
2. Guests must be able to paddle a tandem kayak alongside a partner for the full 1.5-hour tour.
   
3. This is an on-the-water observation tour — guests do NOT enter the water during the whale watch.
   
4. This tour is only available from December 20th to March 31st, during Maui's humpback whale season.
   

What's Included

1. 1.5-hour guided tandem kayak whale watching tour
   
2. Tandem kayak and paddling gear
   
3. Guided paddling instruction
   
4. Experienced ocean kayaking guide with knowledge of local whale behavior
   

Not Included

1. Gratuity - Never expected but if you have a great experience, please consider gifting 10-25% to your guides!
   

What to Bring / Wear

1. Comfortable, Quick-Drying Clothing
   
2. Extra Layers of Clothing - Sweatshirts and Warm Hats (mornings on the water can be breezy)
   
3. Reef-Safe Sunscreen (non-nano, avoid oxybenzone and octinoxate)
   
4. Hat & Polarized Sunglasses
   
5. Reusable Water Bottle
   
6. Dry Bag
   
7. Required Paperwork - Signed medical form if required, waivers, etc.
   
8. Seasickness Medications - If you are prone to seasickness, it is recommended to take sea sickness medication at least 30 minutes to 1 hour before the scheduled kayaking time.
   
9. Waterproof Camera - The company is not responsible for any damaged or lost items.
   
10. Please remove any jewelry, watches, or anything that can get lost or damaged by the water.