Seeing humpback whales off Maui is on many travelers’ wish lists. Hawaiian Paddle Sports, an ocean activity company on the island, offers a quieter way to do it, far from crowds, engines and noise.
The company runs private kayak tours, outrigger canoe tours and private stand up paddle (SUP) lessons. Each one is built to bring guests close to the whales while they move at their own pace.
Owner Timothy Lara said the private tours were created so that Maui visitors could have the time of their lives. He explained that they differ from boat tours because the marine naturalist guides shape every trip around each guest’s wishes and experience level.
The whale tours run every day in West Maui and South Maui from January 1 to April 1. During those months, humpbacks often break the surface to play and breathe. Sometimes guests even hear whale songs coming from under the water. If time permits, groups also snorkel among green sea turtles, known locally as honu, as well as manta rays and tropical fish. Digital photos come free with every kayak tour, canoe tour and SUP lesson.
The company says no place in the world beats Maui for whale watching this winter. Because the waters around the island are warm, shallow and protected, whales come there to mate and give birth. The west and south shores, including Kihei, Lahaina, Wailea, Olowalu, Makena, Kaanapali, Kapalua and Napili, rank among the most whale-rich spots on the planet. As a result, families, couples, groups and solo travelers all treat a whale watch as a must.
Hawaiian Paddle Sports was founded in 2010 and runs sustainable eco-tours meant to deepen guests’ bond with Hawaii’s ocean. All of its guides hold CPR, lifeguard and marine naturalist certifications. The company is a Certified B Corporation and also a certified sustainable tour operator under the Hawaii Ecotourism Association. Since its first year, it has run a monthly give-back program for local nonprofits and environmental groups.
