The best time to see humpback whales off the coast of Oahu is during Hawaii’s whale-watching season, which typically runs from mid-December to early May. The peak months are January through March, when whale activity is most abundant, as many humpbacks are present in Hawaiian waters for mating and calving.

During these months, whales can often be spotted from the shore at popular viewing locations, including the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, which offers excellent vantage points along the southeastern coast of Oahu. For a closer view, whale-watching boat tours operate regularly, offering guided experiences with marine experts.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary provides some additional resources and supports conservation efforts for these incredible animals, which migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters each winter.