Maui Shoulder Season Activities to Enjoy Before Humpback Whales Return
Maui’s shoulder season, the magical period just before the humpback whales return, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a quieter island vibe, fewer crowds, and some incredible activities that pause once the whales arrive. Every year from mid-December to mid-May, humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters, making it a premier destination for whale watching. However, as the whale season kicks into gear, some popular ocean activities close to protect the majestic marine mammals from fast-moving ocean vessel traffic.
If you’re planning a trip to Maui during the shoulder season—typically from September to November—you’ll want to take advantage of the unique tours and adventures that temporarily close once whale season begins. Let’s dive into the must-do activities before they take a break for the whales!
1. Lanai Snorkeling and Dolphin Tours
What to Expect: Lanai snorkeling tours typically begin with a boat ride across the Au’au Channel, offering scenic views of Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. Once you reach Lanai’s protected bays, you’ll have the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, including colorful fish, coral gardens, and the occasional dolphin sighting. Tours include breakfast and lunch, snorkeling equipment, and a good time!
Where to Go: These tours depart from Maalaea Harbor in the morning to make the most of the calm ocean conditions.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Lanai offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii, with fewer crowds than many of Maui’s more popular spots. The island’s relatively untouched reefs are home to a variety of marine species, making it a dream destination for underwater explorers. Plus, the chance to spot wild spinner dolphins that might cruise the ocean with you is a magical experience you won’t forget!
Book Quicksilver Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter through Auntie Snorkel and save!
Last Day: November 22, 2024
Book Pacific Whale Foundation Lanai Wild Dolphin Snorkel Tour through Auntie Snorkel and save!
Last Day: December 12, 2024
2. Parasailing Over the Maui Coastline
What to Expect: You’ll be harnessed to a colorful parachute, which is then towed behind a speedboat. As the boat accelerates, you’ll rise gently into the air, giving you breathtaking panoramic views of the island, its beaches, and the ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. From this vantage point, you can spot marine life, coral reefs, and, if you’re very lucky, schools of dolphins playing in the water below.
Where to Try It: Parasailing tours depart from Ka’anapali Beach, one of Maui’s most picturesque spots. Tours offer single and tandem flights, so you can share the adventure with a partner or friend.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: Parasailing a thrilling way to see Maui from above, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the island’s natural beauty. Since parasailing operations stop once whale season begins, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting in the shoulder season.
Book UFO Parasailing Tours through Auntie Snorkel and save!
Last Day: December 14, 2024
3. Molokini Express Tours
What to Expect: Molokini express tours are perfect for those who want to experience the crater’s underwater wonders without committing to a full-day excursion. These tours zip you out to Molokini on high-speed small boats, allowing you to spend more time in the water and less time traveling. The quick pace also means fewer crowds and a more intimate experience at this world-class snorkeling spot.
Where to Go: Express tours to Molokini typically leave from Kihei Boat Ramp, keeping the travel time to a minimum.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss It: The express tour offers a convenient way to explore Molokini’s vibrant underwater ecosystem. With the whales returning soon, and stricter boating regulations in place to protect them, this quick, exhilarating trip is one to catch while you still can!
Book Blue Water Rafting Molokini Express Tours through Auntie Snorkel and save!
Last Day: December 14, 2024
Why These Activities Close During Whale Season
Many ocean tours and activities, such as parasailing and express boat trips, close during whale season to avoid interfering with the humpback whales’ migration and breeding. The whales travel thousands of miles from Alaska to give birth and mate in the warm, shallow waters around the Hawaiian Islands. Federal regulations require boats to stay a safe distance from the whales and travel at slow speeds to avoid collisions. Many tour operators voluntarily close down specific activities that could pose a risk to these gentle giants.
Furthermore, during whale season, the focus shifts to whale watching, with many boats offering dedicated tours to observe the humpbacks from a respectful distance. While this is an unforgettable experience in itself, you won’t want to miss out on the seasonal activities that go on hiatus once the whales arrive.
Additional Maui Shoulder Season Activities
In addition to these limited-time activities, the shoulder season in Maui is also a great time to explore other adventures. Check out our recent article about Festive Fall Activities in Maui for more fun to add to your itinerary.
Conclusion
Maui’s shoulder season offers a wealth of exciting activities before the arrival of humpback whale season. Whether you’re soaring above the coastline on a parasail, zooming out to Molokini, or exploring Lanai’s untouched reefs, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this quieter, idyllic time on the island. Just be sure to act fast—these incredible experiences will soon take a break as the humpback whales return to Maui’s warm waters for their annual visit!
