Each year humpback whales make the 6000 mile journey from the North Pacific waters off the coast of Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii. This long migration occurs during the winter months of November through May. You can see these giant mammals up close and personal in the protected waters off the coast of Maui and Lana‘i on a variety of watercrafts. Along the coast from Kapalua to Wailea you’ll find easy access to beach launched catamarans that will take you whale watching or jump on a zodiac for a close encounter or consider a traditional power boat or sail boat departing from Maui’s two harbors, Mā‘alaea and Lahaina.   Humpbacks visiting the islands are renowned for their various acrobatic displays. One of the humpbacks more spectacular behaviors is the breach. Breaching is a true leap where the whale generates enough upward force with its powerful flukes to lift approximately two-thirds or more of its body out of the water.  It is an unforgettable sight to see a one-ton adult whale fly out of the water and it’s easy to spot them from the shoreline or boat!