Golden Hour Whale Watch from Lahaina
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Set sail aboard ‘Alihilani, our 64-foot Gold Coast sailing catamaran, for a stunning Late Afternoon Whale Watch from 3:30 to 5:30 PM, departing daily from Lahaina Harbor. Enjoy Maui’s golden light as humpback whales breach, glide, and play in the calm ʻAuʻau Channel, one of the most active whale habitats in Hawai‘i.
Relax on spacious trampolines or shaded seating while our crew shares insights on whale behavior, migration, and Maui’s vibrant marine life. With the sails raised and the engines quiet, the experience becomes serene and immersive.
Each winter, thousands of North Pacific humpbacks return to Maui to mate, give birth, and care for their young. The late-day sun creates breathtaking viewing and incredible photo moments.
Discover why Maui is the world’s premier place to see humpbacks. Book your Lahaina Afternoon Whale Watch aboard ‘Alihilani and enjoy an intimate, unforgettable journey with Sail Maui.
Available options
Golden Hour Whale Watch from Lahaina
What's included
Soda/Pop
Alcoholic Beverages
Snacks
What's not included
Parking Fees
Gratuity
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meet us at the Lahaina Harbor loading dock. Please be respectful of the local environment and culture.
Important notes
Please sign the waiver form before arriving to the dock.
About Maui
Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.
Top Attractions
Road to Hana
A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.
Scenic Drive
Full day
Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)
Haleakala National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Nature
Half day to full day
$30 per vehicle (7-day pass)
Molokini Crater
A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Adventure
Half day
$100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)
Lahaina Town
A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)
Iao Valley State Park
A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.
Nature
1-2 hours
$5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.
Loco Moco
A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian and vegan versions available.
Malasadas
Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.
Dessert
Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Scuba Diving
Surfing
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spa treatments
Sunset cruises
Best Time to Visit
April to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
22-29°C
72-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
- • Use reputable tour operators and rental companies
Getting there
By air
- Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului
By bus
Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Kihei
Wailea
Lahaina
Upcountry Maui
Day trips
Lana'i
16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day
A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.
Molokini Crater
16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day
A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Haleakala National Park
48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Festivals
Maui Film Festival • June
Maui County Fair • Late September to early October
Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)
Pro tips
- Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
- Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
- Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
- Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
