A soft gaze along the oceans horizon will bring to light one the greatest aerial shows Hawaii has to offer. Approximately 4,500 Humpback Whales visit the Hawaiian Islands to bask in the warm waters, breed and give birth before migrating back to their Alaskan feeding grounds.
First sightings are generally in November and peak in February and March. It is speculated that the great humpback utilize ocean currents, temperature changes, acoustic cues and the earth’s magnetic field to find their way back to the worlds most remote island chain. The duration of their stay is an average of 6 to 8 weeks, with some extending their Hawaii “vacation” to late May or early June. The humpbacks then return to the icy, food-rich waters of Alaska to feed and replenish in preparation for their next Hawaiian holiday.
The South Shore of Kauai is a prime location to whale watch due to the deeper waters that are closer to the shore line. Most of the whales display surface behavior such as head, tail and pectoral slapping are related to courtship and mating. A rare treat is to bare witness to a full breach where the whale actually propels two thirds of its enormous body out of the water, often with a twisting motion. There is speculation that these aerial acrobatics could be a display of aggression or possibly a means of dislodging barnacles.
Whether you live on island or are here for a visit, be sure and take an opportunity to take part in a whale watching tour (one of our favorite tours is with Holo Holo Charters) or create your own by simply relaxing under a palm tree along the shore and cast your eyes towards the horizon. There could be one of the most magnificent aerial shows that nature has to offer right in front of our eyes.
Enjoy!
