Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Hawaii’s waters to partake in whale watching. The islands are home to several species of whales now rarely seen in other areas, and a series of protected areas around the state offer these magnificent animals a safe haven to breed and thrive. Here are a few of the species you can look for on your next trip to Maui.

A Guide to Whale Species Commonly Seen in Hawaii

1. Humpback Whales

One of the most numerous and popular whale species to watch for in Hawaii’s waters is the mighty humpback. Each year, as many as 10,000 humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii for the winter, spending their time giving birth, nursing their young, mating, and resting.

As one of the larger whale species, humpbacks can weigh up to 100,000 pounds. Their distinguishing features, apart from their characteristic hump, include two blowholes, distinctive markings unique to each individual on their tails, and baleen plates in their mouths, which are large, comb-like growths that they use to feed on plankton and krill.

2. False Killer Whales

Although true killer whales, or orcas, can occasionally be seen off Hawaii’s coasts, a more frequent sighting feature false killer whales. Like the orcas, false killer whales are technically not whales, but oceanic dolphins, and they’re similarly apex predators who hunt in groups and feed primarily on fish and squid. They have a distinctive bulbous head containing a melon, which is an organ used for echolocating to find food.

False killer whales make up three distinct populations in Hawaii that don’t interact with each other. The primary population consists of about 170 individuals, which whale watching groups may notice close to coastal waters in pods of 10 to 20 members.

3. Short-Finned Pilot Whales

Short-finned pilot whales typically spend their time offshore, diving to depths of up to 1,650 feet to catch the fish, deep-sea fish, and octopuses on which they primarily feed. On occasion, however, they’ve been known to explore the waters on the leeward side of Maui, and they are largely identifiable to whale watchers for their sleek, black coloring and impressive length of up to 24 feet.

When you’re ready to experience the stunning diversity of Hawaii’s marine life up close, head to Sea Maui to discover more about their whale watching, snorkeling, and boat trips. Based in Lahaina, HI, this tour company offers snorkeling tours, sunset boat trips, and charter boat services to show you the full majesty of the island’s natural beauty and wildlife. Call (808) 732-6284 to schedule a trip, and visit their website for more information.