Bookings and reservations have begun to open in Kauai as the Island prepares for another exciting Whale-watching season. Kauai Hawaii Whale Watching has fast become one of the main events on the prolific Island, as visitors from all parts of the world find their way to the Hawaiian Island for a glimpse of one of the world’s most magnificent creatures.
On one edition of CNN’s 30 Seconds of Calm, we see an ocean with a pod of whales moving in a particular direction, each taking a dive in uniform succession. That scene says a lot about whale watching and how nerve-calming it can be for spectators. One notable destination in the world for whale watching is Kauai in Hawaii. If you’re thinking about taking that item off your bucket list, you should consider Kauai Whale Watching.
This guide will tell you everything you need to know about Whale Watching in Kauai.
What type of Whales will you find in Kauai?
Kauai, like most other parts of Hawaii, is known for its Humpback Whale season. During this period, thousands of Humpback Whales adorn the Hawaiian waters for several months. But are there other species of whales on the Island? There have been rare sightings of species like the rarely seen pygmy killer, pilot whales, and the False Killer Whales with an estimated population of just 150 in all of Hawaii.
You may also find Melon-headed Whales, Sperm Whales, Dwarf Sperm Whales, Orca, as well as the Blainville and Cuvier’s Beaked Whales, among others. You may not necessarily spot these other species during a whale watching adventure but going on a boat trip may offer a great opportunity. For Whale watching, Humpback Whales are your best bet.
Where and how can you watch whales in Kauai?
There are quite several locations on Kauai where you’ll be able to spot humpback whales on the Island. One notable spot is the Northern Shore of Kilauea Lighthouse and National Refuge where you’ll get a good view of the whales between November and March every year. Another amazing spot to revel in the beauty of these amazing creatures is the Kealia Beach. From the South Shore to other parts of the Coast, the calm ocean is a great spot for viewing Humpback whales.
Some visitors and enthusiasts go on whale watching boat tours for a closer encounter with the whales. And even though the Kohola (their traditional Hawaiian name) is no longer considered an endangered species, you’re not allowed to touch or go too close to them. There’s a prescribed distance according to city laws and regulations.
At what time of the year can you go Whale-watching in Kauai?
Humpback Whale-watching season in Kauai starts in late November and runs through the end of April. This is due to an annual migration of the whales from Alaska- after their feeding campaign in the Alaskan waters- to the colder Hawaiian waters from September, with the final pod arriving sometime in late May.
Although it is not uncommon to find one or two Humpback whales as early as September, you’ll get your money’s worth if you go during the peak of the season which is between late December and March.
Further tips?
If you want to go Whale watching, the best bet is to wait for the season. However, if you desire to take advantage of your summer vacation in Kauai, you may need to look out for other species that are likely to expose their fins as you go on a boat adventure or spot a dive or two as you enjoy a warm sun bath at the beach.
