Whale Season Is Almost Here – and We’ve Already Spotted Humpbacks!
It’s not even December yet, and the ocean is already giving us a reason to celebrate! 🌊
Just last week, guests on our Dolphins & You tour in West Oʻahu were lucky enough to spot a humpback whale breaching — a sure sign that Hawaiʻi’s whale season is on the way.
While our dedicated Whales & You tours officially begin in December, these early sightings remind us how magical and unpredictable the ocean can be. Every year, thousands of North Pacific humpback whales travel more than 3,000 miles from Alaska to the warm Hawaiian waters to mate, give birth, and nurse their calves. And sometimes, a few arrive a little early — giving our guests a sneak preview of the season ahead.
Please note: sightings of whales, dolphins, turtles, or any other marine animals are not guaranteed. All our tours are conducted with deep respect for wildlife and their natural behaviors.
When Is Whale Season in Hawaii?
Humpback whales usually start arriving in Hawaiʻi around December, and the season continues through March, peaking between January and February.
During these months, Oʻahu becomes one of the best places in the Pacific to witness these majestic animals up close. They migrate south each winter to the islands’ warm, protected waters — perfect for giving birth and raising their young before the long journey back to Alaska in the spring.
That’s why our Whales & You tour runs only during this window, offering guests the chance to see whales off the coast of Waikīkī and Turtle Canyon. Each trip is a reminder of how vibrant and alive Hawaiʻi’s ocean ecosystem truly is.
Where to See Whales on Oʻahu
While whales can occasionally be spotted from shore, being out on the water gives you the best chance to witness their incredible displays. Here are the top areas around Oʻahu:
South Shore (Waikīkī & Ala Moana area)
This is the home base for our Whales & You tours. Departing from Waikīkī, our boats often encounter humpbacks breaching, tail-slapping, or blowing water just offshore near Turtle Canyon. On calm mornings, you might even hear their hauntingly beautiful songs through the water.
West Oʻahu (Leeward coast)
Early in the season, whales sometimes appear first on Oʻahu’s west side — where our Dolphins & You tours take place. The waters are deep and calm, offering ideal conditions for migrating whales. That’s exactly where our guests spotted them last week!
North Shore (Kaʻena Point and Sunset Beach)
When waves aren’t too large, you can occasionally see whales spouting offshore from the cliffs and beaches. It’s a great spot for land-based viewing later in the season.
What to Expect on a Whale-Watching Tour
A typical whale-watching tour in Oʻahu lasts about two to three hours and offers more than just sightseeing — it’s an immersive encounter with nature.
You might see:
- Massive breaches where whales leap entirely out of the water
- Tail slaps that echo across the ocean
- Playful pectoral waves
- A mother whale swimming beside her newborn calf
Every sighting is a little different, and every encounter is unforgettable. Still, it’s important to remember that whales are wild animals in their natural habitat.
Disclaimer: While sightings are common during the season, we cannot guarantee encounters with whales or any other marine animals on any tour. Our captains and guides follow NOAA’s responsible wildlife-viewing guidelines to ensure a safe, respectful experience for both guests and marine life.
Why Are Whales Arriving Early This Year?
Spotting humpbacks as early as November isn’t unusual, but it always sparks excitement!
Marine researchers believe early arrivals may be influenced by:
- Warmer ocean temperatures encouraging earlier migration
- Healthier populations of humpbacks after decades of conservation efforts
- Favorable ocean currents that make their journey slightly faster
Whatever the reason, these early sightings signal the official start of the season — and a wonderful reminder that the whales are back in Hawaiian waters once again.
Join Us for Whale Season in Oʻahu
Our official Whales & You tours start this December and run through March, departing from Waikīkī. Each tour is guided by experienced local crew members who share stories, culture, and insights about these incredible animals.
If you’re visiting Oʻahu before December, our Dolphins & You tours run year-round — and who knows? You might be lucky enough to witness an early whale just like our guests did last week.
Whether you come for the dolphins, turtles, or whales, you’ll leave with memories that last a lifetime — and a deeper appreciation for Hawaiʻi’s natural beauty.
Plan Your Whale-Watching Adventure and Save
If you’re planning to join us for whale season, we have a special treat for early planners!
- 🌊 Whales & You Early Bird Offer
Book your Whales & You tour at least 14 days in advance and use promo code EARLYBIRD25 at checkout to receive 25% off your booking.
Valid for tours running December through March. - 🐬 Dolphins & You Fall Promotion
Can’t wait for whale season? You can still experience the magic of the ocean right now!
Book our Dolphins & You tour and use code FALLLOVE20 to enjoy 20% off your adventure.
Available for a limited time.
Both tours depart from Oʻahu and are guided by our friendly local crew who share the aloha spirit and deep respect for Hawaiʻi’s marine life. Whether you’re spotting dolphins dancing beside the boat or watching whales breach on the horizon, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of your time in Hawaiʻi.
Note: Marine animal sightings are not guaranteed on any tour. All activities are conducted responsibly under NOAA guidelines.
Mele Kalikimaka to Our Ocean ʻOhana
As whale season approaches, our team couldn’t be more excited to welcome these gentle giants back to island waters. Keep your eyes on the horizon — you never know when a humpback might surface to say aloha.
Join us this winter for an unforgettable ocean adventure with And You Creations — and experience the magic of whale season in Hawaiʻi.
