Whale watching is a favorite excursion in coastal cities all over the country. You can see humpbacks in Massachusetts, finbacks in Maine, North Atlantics in Florida, and orcas in Washington; however, in none of these states do whales have the same cultural significance as they do in Hawaii. When you go whale watching in Hawaii, it’s about more than just witnessing the beauty of Mother Nature; it’s about seeing these legendary creatures with your own eyes and welcoming them home. Here’s why whale watching in Hawaii is like nowhere else in the world.

Whales as Divine Beings

Ancient artifacts and petroglyphs depicting the humpback whale, or kohola, indicate that the early Hawaiians interacted with these gentle giants. In fact, the birth of whales is even mentioned in the Kumulipo creation chant, which was written in honor of Prince Kalaninuiamamao—an ancestor of Queen Lili’uokalani—and includes a genealogy of the Hawaiian royal family. Ancient Hawaiians believed that whales were the physical manifestation of the god of the sea and helped the Polynesians find the islands.

Whales as Kama’aina 

In Hawaiian culture, whales are revered as spiritual guardians, as well as members of the family. Because humpback whales are born just off the coast, they are considered kama’aina, or natives, themselves. Therefore, when these creatures return to the islands between November and May during their migration route, it is not viewed as a mere stopover—but a homecoming of sorts—and the Hawaiians are more than happy to have them. To this day, the locals are proud of the role their people have taken on to ensure the whale population continues to thrive. 

If you want to see majestic whales in their natural habitat, book a boat tour with Dolphin Excursions Hawaii. Departing from the West Coast of Oahu, their tours promise an unforgettable journey full of breathtaking sights. For over 20 years, their knowledgeable marine biologists and naturalists have been leading adventures of a lifetime. Visit their website or call (808) 239-5579 to book your whale watching excursion today.