During whale watching season around Maui, humpback whales display a range of natural behaviors. What you see on any given day depends on the whales present, ocean conditions, and timing.
Some days are very active, while others are quieter. Both are normal parts of observing wildlife in the open ocean.
Breaching #
Breaching is when a whale propels its body out of the water and lands back on the surface.
This behavior may occur:
- Once or multiple times in a row
- With different body angles
- Without an obvious pattern
Breaching is often associated with communication, play, or physical conditioning, but the exact reason can vary.
Tail Slapping #
Tail slapping, also called lobtailing, happens when a whale lifts its tail and slaps it against the water’s surface.
This can be:
- Repeated several times
- Loud and easy to spot from a distance
- Part of communication or social behavior
Pectoral Fin Slapping #
Whales may slap one or both long pectoral fins against the water.
This behavior:
- Creates visible splashes
- May occur while the whale is resting or socializing
- Is commonly seen during calm conditions
Other Whale Behaviors #
You may also see these common whale behaviors.
- Fluke up and fluke down dives signal a deeper dive, meaning the whale may stay under for an extended time
- Tail (peduncle) throws
- Competition pods
- Logging (whales resting at the surface, not moving)
- Mugging (whales get close to the vessel)
Surface Swimming and Blows #
Many sightings involve whales swimming calmly near the surface.
You may notice:
- The blow, or misty spray, when a whale exhales
- The back or dorsal ridge breaking the surface
- Slow, steady movement through the water
These sightings are common and often last longer than more dramatic behaviors.
Mothers and Calves #
During peak season, it’s common to see mothers traveling with calves.
Calf-related behaviors may include:
- Close positioning near the mother
- Gentle surfacing and diving
- Occasional playful movements
Mothers are protective, and vessels observe from a respectful distance.
Why Behavior Varies Day to Day #
Whale behavior is influenced by:
- Social interactions
- Resting or traveling needs
- Environmental conditions
- Individual temperament
Because whales are wild animals, there is no way to predict which behaviors will occur on a specific tour.
Observing Responsibly #
All whale watching follows federal guidelines that prioritize whale safety and well-being. Captains maintain appropriate distances and avoid actions that could disturb natural behavior.
Responsible viewing allows whales to act naturally and helps protect this seasonal experience for the future.
Every Day Is Different #
Some guests witness dramatic surface activity, while others enjoy quieter moments watching whales travel and surface. Both experiences offer a meaningful look at whale behavior in their natural environment.
