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Maui is the undisputed whale watching capital of Hawaii — and 2026 is expected to be one of the most spectacular whale seasons ever recorded. Every winter, tens of thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Maui’s warm waters to give birth, raise their calves, and perform breathtaking displays just off the coast.
If you’re planning to visit Maui in 2026, this guide will show you how to experience the best whale watching, how to choose the right tour, and how to combine whales with snorkeling, turtles, and luxury sailing.
Why Maui Is the Best Whale Watching Destination in the World
Nowhere on Earth offers whale encounters like Maui.
Maui sits inside the Maui Nui Basin, a shallow protected channel between Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. This creates:
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Calm waters
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Warm temperatures
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Safe nurseries for baby whales
In 2026, whale researchers predict record numbers of humpbacks using this basin, making Maui the top place on Earth to see whales up close.
Maui Whale Season 2026
The official season runs from:
December 2025 to May 2026
Peak whale watching months:
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January
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February
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March
These are the months when whales are:
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Giving birth
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Teaching calves to swim
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Competing for mates
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Breaching and tail-slapping
During peak season, it’s common to see dozens of whales on a single tour.
Best Whale Watching Tours in Maui for 2026
MauiTicketsForLess works with the most trusted whale watching operators on the island.
🐋 Pacific Whale Foundation – Maui Whale Watches
This is the most respected whale research and conservation organization in Hawaii.
Their tours offer:
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Marine naturalists onboard
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Hydrophones to hear whale songs
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Stable, eco-friendly boats
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High sighting success
Perfect for families, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants a meaningful whale experience in 2026.
🌊 Trilogy Maui Whale Watch Tours
Trilogy is famous for its luxury catamarans and small-group experiences.
These tours feature:
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Premium sailing
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Spacious decks
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Complimentary drinks
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Friendly crew
A favorite for couples and travelers seeking a relaxed, upscale whale watch in Maui 2026.
🚤 Hawaii Ocean Rafting – Whale Watch by Raft
For adventure lovers, this is the most exciting way to see whales.
You get:
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High-speed rafts
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Close water-level views
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Small groups
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Intense encounters
This tour is ideal for thrill-seekers who want to feel the power of Maui’s whales in 2026.
Bonus Experience: Snorkeling with Turtles & Whales
Many travelers combine whale watching with snorkeling in 2026.
Calypso Maui – Molokini & Turtle Town Snorkel
This is one of Maui’s most famous ocean adventures.
You’ll experience:
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Molokini Crater snorkeling
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Turtle Town coral reefs
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Tropical fish
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Possible whale sightings in winter
It’s the perfect way to add underwater adventure to your Maui 2026 whale season trip.
Why Book Through MauiTicketsForLess
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Local discounted prices
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Verified operators
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Flexible rescheduling
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Mobile tickets
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No hidden fees
Final Thoughts
Maui in 2026 will be a paradise for whale lovers. Whether you sail with Trilogy, learn with Pacific Whale Foundation, or speed across the waves with Hawaii Ocean Rafting, your Maui whale watching experience will be unforgettable.
