PHOTO: You never know when you're going to see one of these magnificent creatures. (Courtesy Makena Beach and Golf Resort)
Every year, a large population of humpback whales spreads across the Hawaiian Islands and visitors to Maui should put this on their list of must-sees when visiting. It is possible to get an up-close and personal view of these incredible mammals, who can grow up to 46 feet in length, by enjoying a whale watching experience.
The Makena Beach & Golf Resort in Maui offers a two-hour guided whale watching tour on their Kai Kananai II Catamaran, or on their newest luxury charter yacht, the Satisfaction.
SEE MORE: Accommodations at the Makena Beach & Golf Resort
However, you should put aside the thought that the only way you can watch whales is to sit back on a boat and wait for them to appear. The Makena Beach & Golf Resort, located on the southern shore of Maui, next to Wailea, in the Makena district of the island, goes above and beyond to get guests off the boat and into the water to experience an even closer encounter with the whales.
There are several options to choose from, including a two-hour canoe adventure that includes swimming and snorkeling in the reefs, swimming alongside turtles and exploring underwater caves, all while encountering a humpback whale or two in the water.
Maui is also the perfect place for snorkeling, and Makena Beach Resort makes sure to combine whale watching with snorkeling. One of their snorkeling adventures includes a two-hour experience that starts in a kayak, where visitors not only learn about the humpbacks and their habitat, but an education of Makena's eco system. Don't worry; all of the basic snorkeling gear is included in this trip.
Listen carefully when you are in the water, because snorkelers and divers may have a chance to hear the humpback whale's signature call during a 45-minute tour at Makena that, again, includes snorkel gear, basic instruction and safety guidelines.
READ MORE: Makena Beach Golf & Resort Celebrating 30 Years
If you prefer to dive down deeper into the ocean, Makena Beach & Golf Resort partnered with Scuba Luv Maui for scooter dives that will take your diving and whale watching experience to a new, and much faster level. Along the way on your dive you have the chance to see colorful tropical fish, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, dolphins, manta rays, remnants of a sunken WWII Military landing craft of an era gone by and, of course, humpback whales.
Visitors who would prefer to walk on water can partake in a 40-minute water paddleboard lesson where you will learn the basics of the sport, while you are getting closer to the whales natural habitat.
Humpback whales are majestic sea creatures who are enjoyable to watch if you have the chance. No matter what adventure you choose, don't forget your camera, but remember to put it down for part of the trip and watch what's happening right in front of your eyes.
Topics From This Article to Explore
