Whale sightings in October are possible but uncommon, since only a few early-season humpbacks arrive that month.

Hawaiʻi’s waters host several species, including North Pacific humpback whales, false killer whales, sperm whales, orcas, Cuvier’s beaked whales, pygmy killer whales, dwarf killer whales, short-finned pilot whales, and melon-headed whales.

February is considered the best month for whale watching on Maui, with the highest concentration of humpbacks in local waters.

Humpback whales can arrive as early as October, with sightings increasing through November. The official whale season runs from December through March.

Humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaiʻi each winter to mate, give birth, and raise their newborn calves in warm, protected waters.

Maui is widely regarded as the best island for whale watching due to its shallow, protected basin that attracts large numbers of humpbacks each season.

Whales can be seen throughout the day, but early morning and sunset often offer the best viewing conditions. Midday (11 am to 3 pm) provides the brightest overhead light for spotting behavior at the surface.