Each year, the Humpback Whales migrate around 4,000 miles, from summer feeding grounds in Alaska, to mate in Hawaii’s warm waters. Humpback whales migrate 4,000 miles, from Alaska to Hawaii, to mate in the warm tropical waters. Hawaii is a popular destination during mating season because of the increased activity by the whales that can be seen from a boat. The opportunity to see a whale breach makes a whale watching vacation very exciting.
Here are five tips to ensure you get the most out of your Hawaii whale watching experience.
1. Plan Your Trip during Peak Months Humpback whales begin arriving during November and return to Alaska in May, but keep in mind that you will likely see whales during the peak months of February and March. If seeing whales is your top priority, be sure to plan for your vacation around this time.
2. Visit Islands Known For Whale Watching Whales are mostly seen on the islands of Maui, Kauai and the Big Island, so plan your vacation on these islands. It is possible to see whales while on Oahu, but keep in mind that they won’t be as abundant.
3. Plan a Boat Tour Whale watching tours given on boats are perfect for seeing these magnificent creatures in their natural environments. Since whales are very curious about their surroundings, they may even approach the boat, making this the perfect way to catch a glimpse of these animals. In Maui, you will find many boat tours leaving the Lahaina Harbor several times throughout the day. While on the Big Island and Kauai there are many opportunities available, as the tour scheduled throughout the day has a knowledgeable tour guide.
If you prefer watching these creatures from shore, there is the Kilauea Lighthouse and Kealia Lookout on the island of Kauai. Of course, high points of land in coastal areas are always great places to start your whale watching adventure. They are easy to spot with playful splashes and majestic jumps across their ocean playground.
4. Respect their Space There are rules to whale watching, and one of the most important is that observers cannot be within 100 yards of the whale. This rule also applies to boats. There is no rule, however, that penalizes observers if the whale approaches them. The benefit of going with an experienced tour guide is that they know how to encourage them to come closer.
5. Preserve the Humpback Whale Mass commercial whaling in the early 20th century almost caused the humpback whale to become extinct. Today, however, there are over 30,000 humpbacks world wide. While laws protect them, doing the following can encourage the safety of these species:
* Keep beaches and waters clean and debris-free * Participate only in responsible whale watching activities * Support efforts to stop illegal whaling * Support legislation, research and preservation programs * Patronize eco-friendly companies and organizations While there are many books about whales, there are even more opportunities to see them with your own eyes. When you are in Hawaii next, seriously consider taking a whale tour, not only is it a great experience, but extremely memorable as well.
Hawaii is best known for its homey vacation rentals. Vacation rentals can be much better than hotels, especially for large traveling groups. The option to rent a cottage or home can fit more than the average hotel room. Vacation beach rentals are perfect for those looking at an island getaway, as it gives you direct access to the pristine ocean.
There are many great reasons why vacation homes are a great decision. Not only are they cheaper for large traveling parties, but also provide basic home amenities, such as a kitchen and washer and dryer set. Many also have hot tubs, cable television, and internet acess. Kauai has a number of places that you can find a beautiful vacation rental. One of these places is Haena, a little township nestled near waterfalls, jungles and hiking trails, while still close enough to the ocean to watch amazing sunsets. These beautiful surroundings can be enjoyed by renting a vacation home.
Other great locations for Kauai vacation rentals are Moloa`a and Anahola. Moloa`a is unique as much of the land in the region is adapted to local Hawaiian population, who use this land. In this area, you can golf, surf, snorkel and more. Anahola is near the airport and harbor, making its location convenient for travelers and residents. Here, you can find quick access to the beach accompanied by breath taking views.
Kauai is the picture of Hawaii’s natural beauty. With a vacation rental, you can enjoy the magnificence of this island and understand the true meaning of paradise.
Many people dream of the perfect honeymoon getaway. With the opportunity to have a peaceful and quiet getaway to having an active adventure filled vacation, Hawaii is the place to go. With fragrant, tropical flowers and endless amounts of restaurants to try, you will never run out of things to do. The four most popular islands for honeymooners are Oahu, the Big Island, Kauai and Maui.
For couples who want to spend their time in Hawaii’s natural surroundings, there are many places to swim, hike, scuba dive, and explore. Hawaii is also home to some of Hawaii’s best golf courses. There are unique activities to do while on your stay, including the visiting Polynesian Cultural Center to going on a dinner cruise or helicopter tour.
There are so many adventures you can take part in while in Hawaii, that you could spend weeks here without doing everything there is possible. To make the most of your honeymoon, the following list summarizes each island with two hotels sure to make you feel comfortable.
Oahu
Oahu is home to the iconic Waikiki Beach, which has many amazing restaurants, lining the shores. While on this island, you will find many cultural and historic sites to visit, as well as many nature trails and beaches. Many first time visitors to Hawaii visit Honolulu first as it has reasonably priced accommodations, as well as a number of vacation packages. You would also have access to the famous North Shore here, as well as two of Hawaii’s best honeymoon hotels.
Operating since 1917, the Halekulani is an open-air hotel located on the beach. The outstanding service and excellent dining only solidify the five-star rating this hotel received from AAA.
The Hyatt Regency Waikiki places you directly in front of Waikiki Beach, and it gives vacationers surfers riding the waves with Diamond Head in the background. You will be at the heart of the action at this hotel.
Big Island (Hawaii) The Big Island is the most ecologically diverse of the islands. The west side of the island, called the Kona Coast, has seventy miles of black sand coastline. At Volcanoes National Park, you can visit Kilauea, the world’s most active volcano. You can also visit the summit of Mauna Kea, is the tallest mountain in Hawaii, which offers the most amazing stargazing opportunities.
The Kona Village Resort, located on the beach, is a perfect honeymoon destination. On the beach, you can swim and explore the marine life, and on land, you can attend a traditional luau or massage at this resort. In fact, this has been rated as one of the world’s 50 romantic getaway destinations by Travel and Leisure Magazine.
The rooms at Oceanfront are breathtaking, as you have a view of the ocean on this resort built on a lava flow. It offers many services and has an accommodating staff that makes this resort one of the best.
Maui Maui has a number of natural wonders hidden between the many mountain ridges found on this island. The Hawaiian sacred site of Haleakala is now a national park. You can hike, drive or bike up to the 10,000 foot summit to see the sunrise. There is also the road to Hana, on which you can find some of Maui’s best beaches. Hawaii’s best surfing can be found on the western and southern shores. Many world class golf courses also call this island home, and attract many golf enthusiasts. If you want all modern conveniences and the natural beauty of Hawaii, this is the place for you.
On the east coast of the island is the Hotel Hana, which is noted for its seclusion and great service. Getting here can be an adventure as you can drive up the road to Hana to see the many beautiful sites along the way, or you could take a direct flight into Hana from Honolulu. Wailea is home to the Four Seasons Maui. Located on the beach, this hotel has a beautiful open courtyard, and each room facing the ocean. In the winter you can spend your time on the lanai looking for whales or watch the sunset. There are also many restaurants and shops in the area.
Kauai Kauai is known as the Garden Isle, and is covered with blankets and tropical vegetation. You can find all of this island’s tropical beauty along the Na Pali coast or in the enormous and gorgeous Waimea Canyon. There is a number of trails that meander through the forests and along cliffs for you to explore. The beach also has many adventures waiting for you.
The Princeville Hotel is found on the northern Na Pali coast. This elegant hotel is nestled between the waters of Hanalei Bay and the beautiful volcanic mountains. Many of the rooms in this hotel face the ocean and the hotel itself has access to the Puu Poa Beach. You can do a lot at this hotel, with activities like golf or kayaking.
On the southern shore, you can find the Hyatt Regency Kauai Resort and Spa. There are multiple pools integrated with the vegetation and terrain of the island. Golf courses, multiple spas, and five start restaurants make this resort difficult to leave. If you’re looking for luxury on your honeymoon, this is definitely the place to be.
This tropical paradise can certainly add to the romance between you and your loved one. Picking an island suited for your needs will certainly make you and your lover feel like you’re in paradise.
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