🌊 The Whales Have Arrived — Earlier Than Expected
On October 8, 2025, the first humpback whale of the season was spotted off Hawaiʻi’s Big Island coast — marking the official start of whale watching season! Each year, thousands of humpback whales (koholā in Hawaiian) migrate nearly 3,000 miles from the icy feeding grounds of Alaska to the warm, protected waters of Hawaiʻi.
This early sighting signals the beginning of one of the most magical times of year on the Big Island, especially for those of us lucky enough to experience these gentle giants up close.
🧭 From Alaska to Hawaiʻi — Nature’s Longest Commute
Every fall, humpback whales leave the nutrient-rich waters of Alaska after a summer of feeding on krill and small fish. As daylight shortens and the northern seas cool, they begin their epic journey south to Hawaiʻi — a migration that can take several weeks and span 4,000 miles.
Once they arrive, the whales use Hawaiʻi’s warm, shallow bays as a safe haven to mate, give birth, and raise their newborn calves. The calm, clear waters off Puako and the Kohala Coast make this area one of the best whale watching locations in the state — and far less crowded than Kona’s busy harbors.
📍 Why Puako Is the Best Place to Whale Watch on the Big Island
While Kona offers plenty of tours, Puako provides a more intimate, eco-friendly experience. With fewer boats on the water and excellent visibility, guests can often see whales breaching, tail-slapping, or nursing their calves in peace.
Local guides know these waters intimately and understand how to respectfully approach whales while keeping them safe and undisturbed. That means you’ll get an up-close encounter without the crowds — and with the kind of quiet awe that whale watching deserves.
🐳 What to Expect This Whale Season
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Peak Season: January – March 2026
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Best Time of Day: Early morning, when the ocean is calm and visibility is highest
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What You’ll See: Breaches, spouts, tail slaps, and mothers teaching calves to swim
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Where to Go: Puako, Waikoloa, and the Kohala Coast for clear water and calmer seas
With the first whale sighting already confirmed, the next few weeks will bring more activity across the Big Island — so now’s the time to plan your trip or tour.
💙 Protecting the Whales
As we celebrate the return of the koholā, it’s important to remember our responsibility as stewards of their habitat. All tours should follow NOAA’s whale watching guidelines, keeping a respectful 100-yard distance and minimizing noise and wake. Sustainable tourism ensures that these magnificent animals return year after year.
🛥️ Ready to Experience the Magic?
Join us in Puako for an unforgettable whale watching adventure along Hawaiʻi’s stunning Kohala Coast. Our small-group, eco-friendly tours give you front-row seats to one of nature’s most inspiring migrations.
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