Everything You Need to Know About Whale Watching in Oahu & Hawaii

By Go City Expert

Nature lovers already know that Hawaii is a tropical paradise filled with all sorts of flora and fauna. However, you may not know that one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii is to embark on a whale-watching cruise. If you’re traveling to Oahu during the winter and early spring, you’ll be able to hop on a cruise to seek out the elusive giants of the sea – humpback whales. These majestic creatures roam the waters around the Hawaiian Islands between December and May of each year, bringing joy and delight to locals and tourists alike. Oahu is one of the best Hawaiian islands for whale watching.

Save on Admission to Oahu Ocean Activities

If you’re headed to Oahu to pursue whale sightings, you may want to enjoy other Hawaii attractions as well. Consider picking up an all-inclusive Go Oahu pass, which can save you up to 55% on combined admission to top attractions like tours, cruises, bike rentals, museums, and more. See all available attractions, passes, and prices.

More About Humpback Whales & Things to Do in Oahu

whale-watching-hawaii-islands

More About Humpback Whales & Things to Do in Oahu

Humpback whales are among the most endangered of the whale species, having been hunted nearly to extinction by the commercial whaling industry in the last century. Conservation efforts have boosted their numbers, but there still aren’t many of these fascinating creatures in the world’s oceans. Humpback whales are found primarily in cold water during the summer. However, they do migrate to tropical climates in the winter to give birth to their young in more pleasant conditions. So, as an added bonus, you may see a baby whale or two, depending on when you’re traveling. Humpback whales are typically between 40 and 50 feet long, occasionally weighing in at an astonishing 80,000 pounds – these are some seriously big creatures! However, they’re also baleen whales, which means that they aren’t predators like some larger ocean mammals. They eat primarily by filtering ocean water through their baleen plates, which pull small ocean creatures like krill out of the water for consumption.

Fortunately, humpbacks are also easy to spot and identify. They have unique black and white markings on their flukes that marine scientists record and track. If you go on a cruise that looks for whales, they often have a reference book with tail patterns that could help you identify the whales you see.you’re in search of an appropriate cruise, the two-hour Makani Catamaran Sail could be a good option. They often report seeing whales during their daytime cruise, as well as dolphins, seabirds, and other sea life. Other options include whale-watching specific cruises that stay out on the water longer. If you prefer to keep an eye out for whales from dry land, excellent vantage points from which to see whales include Makapu'u Lighthouse and Diamond Head. Or, some of the best whale watching in Hawaii takes place right on the beaches, including the beach by Hanauma Bay.

For those who enjoy sea life of all sizes, a snorkeling adventure is another fun activity. You'll see tropical fish, rays, octopuses, sea turtles, and more. You won’t see any whales quite that close, but you can enjoy the wealth of ocean life around Oahu!

Tips for Hawaii Whale Watching

breaching-hump-back-whale-off-coast

Tips for Hawaii Whale Watching

  • Remember to dress warmly! Whale season dates in Hawaii span December to May, so you're mostly sailing in very cold weather.
  • You should also wear sneakers or other rubber-soled shoes, as the boat can become slippery.
  • A video camera is the best way to capture a record of the whales you see because you can often become distracted taking still photos.
  • Binoculars are also a must! Keep in mind that regulations prohibit vessels from getting within 100 yards of a whale, so you'll need something that helps you see long distances.

Remember to Save on Admission

When planning your Oahu whale-watching vacation, don’t forget to save money on admission to cruises and other top attractions. Consider using a Go Oahu pass to save up to 55% on combined admission to top Oahu attractions. We know you’ll never forget your whale-watching experience!

Continue reading

Blog

Things to do in Oahu When It's Hot Outside

Hawaii is hot in every sense of the word: its warm climate makes it pleasant to visit year-round, which in turn makes it one of the planet’s most popular tourist destinations, pulling in around eight million visitors every year. The majority of Hawaii sunseekers (around five million, give or take) wind up on the island of Oahu, home to some of the state’s biggest attractions – Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, Honolulu and the Diamond Head volcano, to name just a few. It goes without saying then that there’s plenty of fun to be had in the sun here. After all, no-one goes to Hawaii for its skiing opportunities, right? But with summer temperatures that average way up in the high 80s, you’ll likely want to pencil in a few slightly cooler activities (as well as covering yourself top to toe in factor 50, natch). Here, then, are a few ideas for things to do in Oahu and Honolulu when it’s hot outside, including: Beaches! Snorkeling! Catamarans! Pineapples! Shave ice! And more! Keep Your Cool on the Beach You’ll want to pack plenty of beach bag essentials for your day at Waikiki, Hanauma Bay, the North Shore and, well, whichever of Oahu’s stunning tropical beaches tickle your fancy. We’re talking UV sunglasses, great big floppy sun hats and gallons of bottled water as a bare minimum. You may want to add a parasol or tent for use in some of the more exposed bays, though you’ll also find plenty available to rent in the main tourist areas. Beaches like Lanikai and and Kailua on Oahu’s windward side (the east coast) tend to offer more natural shade, in the form of palm trees. Top-tip: before slinging your towel down underneath, check carefully for the very real and present danger of ripe coconuts up above. You’ll be cooling off in A&E if one of those beauties drops on your nut! Waikiki Beach is of course the most popular of Oahu’s beaches, and opportunities to cool off on snorkeling trips here abound. Cruise out onto the beautiful clear blue waters and come face to face with all manner of tropical marine life. You’re all but guaranteed to meet green sea turtles at the aptly named Waikiki Turtle Canyon. Hanauma Bay is where it’s at for some of Oahu's most spectacular sealife selfie opportunities. Vibrant yellow tangs and flamboyant spinner dolphins are just two of the cute critters you might spot on snorkeling excursions to the thriving coral reef that lies in the cone of this long-extinct volcano. Hit up the pristine sands of Lanikai Beach for more of the same (but with added palm cover), and crescent-shaped Kailua Beach (pictured above), where balmy trade winds encourage other watery pursuits including kitesurfing and kayaking. Oahu’s Hottest Tours If you simply can’t bear to spend all day lounging in the shade of a coconut palm, moving only to top up your rum-laced Mai Tai cocktail, there are plenty of island tours you can take around Oahu and Honolulu on hot days instead. Here, after all, is an opportunity to see this beautiful volcanic paradise from the lush cool confines of an air-conditioned coach. Try a trip to the Dole plantation on the North Shore. Sampling the sweet flesh of their world-famous pineapples under the hot Hawaiian sun is one that’s worth disembarking the refrigerated coach for, and no mistake! You could also take a tour of Oahu’s hidden gems, including tranquil temples, shaded Japanese gardens, and the cooling spray of epic blowholes like Halona. Or immerse yourself in rainforests and visit the 150-foot Manoa waterfalls, passing through jungle scenery used in The Hunger Games movie series. You can book tours including all of the above (and more) with an Oahu pass from Go City, which can save you up to 50% on top attractions, tours and activities on Oahu. Find out more and bag your Oahu pass here. Ice Cold in Oahu Hawaii is arguably as famous for its shave ice as its beaches, volcanoes and hula skirts. Find out what all the fuss is about at any one of dozens of purveyors of this frozen treat across the island. Shave ice is exactly what it sounds like: tiny shavings of ice liberally doused in lashings of fruit syrup, and boy is it refreshing on a hot day. Get yours from North Shore shave ice stalwart Matsumoto’s. A fixture on Oahu since the early 1950s, its natural lychee, passion fruit and yuzu flavorings are some of the best in Hawaii. Other local favorites include Ululani’s and Shimazu – for all the ice-cold refreshment but without the half-hour lines. Top tip: it’s ‘shave ice’ not ‘shaved ice’, so be sure to sidestep any vendor that didn’t get the name right on their signage. Life on the Ocean Wave Feel the sea breeze on your skin aboard a catamaran or luxury yacht as you tour the Oahu coastline in style. This is a fine (and crucially effortless) way of seeing a bit more of the island and perhaps even ogling the odd humpback whale, flying fish or green sea turtle on your travels. Don your floppiest sun hat, slather on the sunscreen and sip a glass of prosecco on deck-o as you cruise past jungle-clad mountains and over the coral-rich depths of Oahu’s submerged volcanic cones. Take your pick from straightforward catamaran excursions to decadent day trips that include lunch, snorkeling, and bottomless bubbly. You can access a variety of superb sea-faring options with the Go Oahu pass. Oahu’s Coolest Hikes Ok ok, so hiking may not be the first activity that springs to mind when it’s hot out in Oahu, but bear with us. The botanical gardens at Waimea Valley are a 1,875-acre oasis of lush plantlife and great fronds of greenery. Shady groves and a cooler climate make the gardens ideal for strolling, even when the tropical sun is at its most punishing. Meander gently through some of the park’s 52 themed zones, where towering cacti and fresh-scented hibiscus flourish, and where the picture-perfect Waimea Falls provide ample opportunity for cooling off should the heat get too much. Alternatively, hop across to Big Island, home of Mauna Kea, the highest peak in Hawaii. Hikes to the summit commence from the visitor center, 9,200 feet up, where you’re all but guaranteed freezing temperatures and possibly even snow. But be warned that this 12-mile round-hike is not for the faint of heart, with challenging terrain and the threat of altitude sickness the price of evading the Hawaii heat way up here. Save on Oahu and Honolulu Activities, Tours and Attractions Save on admission to Oahu attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Hiker in the mountains of Oahu island, Hawaii.
Blog

Day Trips from Oahu

There’s a reason Oahu is the most popular of Hawaii’s ‘big four’ islands, drawing in nearly twice the number of annual visitors as its next-nearest competitor. Sure Maui and the Big Island have their own allure – volcanic peaks, crashing waterfalls and pure white sands among them – but for sheer variety, Oahu is tough to beat. Our expert guide to the best day trips from Oahu includes household-name historic sites, awe-inspiring hikes, world-class snorkeling and pineapples so sweet you might never want to leave the plantation. No list of this island’s many attractions can ever be truly exhaustive, but our pick of some of the finest Oahu day trips are as good a place to start as any. Dive in! Historic Tour of Pearl Harbor and Honolulu What better way to understand the culture, heritage and psyche of America’s 50th state than on a day tour of its most historically significant sites. This immersive five-hour guided trip takes in the visitor center at Pearl Harbor and includes a moving film at the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theater documenting the 1941 attack that killed over 1,000 sailors and marines, thrusting the US into the Second World War. A US Navy shuttle boat will speed you out to the memorial that marks the resting place of the sunken USS Arizona battleship and you’ll also visit the National Cemetery of the Pacific in the extraordinary Punchbowl Crater on top of an extinct volcano. A drive through downtown Honolulu and its historic Chinatown district includes a stop for selfies at the highly popular 18-foot bronze statue of the legendary King Kamehameha. Makapu'u Lighthouse and Hālona Blowhole An island like Oahu practically begs to be hiked, and among its embarrassment of excellent trails Makapu’u Lighthouse is a perennial highlight. The gleaming white lighthouse with its distinctive red cap is an icon of Oahu’s windward coast, and you’ll see it on postcards and souvenirs – Makapu’u Lighthouse fridge magnet anyone? – in stores across the island. Take a stroll along the paved track and climb to the top of this 46-foot landmark, taking in unparalleled views of the Pacific, Koko Head, Koko Crater, Oahu’s entire southern coastline and perhaps even the odd migrating humpback whale or two. And, while you’re in the vicinity, don’t miss the spectacular Hālona Blowhole, a natural geyser that jets seawater up to 20 feet in the air. Hanauma Bay State Park Fine golden sands, balmy turquoise waters and some of the US’s most spectacular sealife make Hanauma Bay on the island’s southeastern tip a must-visit Oahu attraction. There’s a fee to enter the park and you’re advised to book well in advance, but boy is it worth it. Day trippers can expect to spot all manner of critters at this pristine marine ecosystem in the cone of an extinct volcano. Follow colorful yellow tangs and saddle wrasse as they dart among the reef’s many corals and keep your eyes peeled for eagle rays, green sea turtles and flamboyant spinner dolphins. You can rent snorkeling equipment for the day at the beach and in multiple other outlets nearby. Diamond Head Here’s another bucket-list biggie for all you happy hikers out there! Diamond Head is 760 feet of forested volcanic crater. Hike to its remarkable rim where views across its 3,500-foot diameter reveal panoramic vistas across Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and beyond. Named Diamond Head because bungling British sailors mistook sparkling calcite crystals in the lava rocks for something more precious, the volcano is known locally as Lē‘ahi. The name is said to have been bestowed by Hi'iaka, sister of the fire goddess Pele, thanks to the summit’s resemblance to the forehead of the ‘ahi fish. Which sounds like a Moana sequel just waiting to happen. Return shuttle trips to Diamond Head are included with the Oahu Go City attraction pass. North Shore and Dole Pineapple Plantation Think you’ve tasted pineapple? Think again. This tour of Oahu’s popular North Shore takes in photo stops at some of the island’s top beaches, offers another chance to visit our old pal King Kamehameha and gives you the opportunity to sample some of Hawaii’s finest homegrown coffee, shaved ice and macadamia nuts. But the main event on any North Shore day trip is always going to be the world-famous pineapple plantation founded by James Dole back in 1899. You’ll discover how the pineapples are planted and harvested, sample their oh-so-sweet flesh and even get one to take home with you. Commandeer a Catamaran! Boating day trips off Oahu’s Insta-perfect coastline are a great way to see a bit more of the island and maybe even spot the occasional dolphin, humpback whale or flying fish! Options range from short catamaran trips like this one to bells-and-whistles experiences aboard luxury yachts, with stops for snorkeling and lunch on deck. Make like a celeb and don your most dazzlingly white swimwear and massive morning-after sunglasses for holiday snaps that’ll be the talk of all your z-list pals back home. Waimea Valley Do you like flowers? Of course you do! Unless of course you’re allergic. In which case, you can skip this section and – achoo! – move on to the next one. Waimea Valley is a botanist’s technicolor dream come true; a sprawling 1,875-acre oasis comprised of botanical gardens, archaeological sites and a whopping great waterfall. Follow the paved trails through 35 themed gardens, marveling at more than 5,000 different tropical plant species, from delicate yellow hibiscus to towering cacti. Then cool off with a dip beneath the glorious Waimea Falls, the crowning glory of this huge natural park. More Day Trips from Oahu Finally, if you absolutely must leave this beautiful island, there are oodles of options for day trips from Oahu to neighboring Maui, Kauai and Big Island. Hit up Big Island for kayaking and swimming on the peaceful Umauma River and trips to the awesome Volcanoes National Park and towering Rainbow Falls. Maui is the place for sunset dinners accompanied by traditional music and fire dancers. Or brave the Hanapepe Swinging Bridge and go ziplining over the sugar plantations on Kauai. Save on activities and attractions in Oahu Save on admission to Oahu attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Blog

Where to Stay in Oahu

The island of Oahu is a hub of excitement, culture and natural beauty. Living up to its nickname the ‘’Gathering Place’’, the island draws in 10 million visitors each year – and it’s easy to see why! For anyone making their way to this major tourist hotspot for the first time, it can be a little difficult to figure out where would be best to stay. Here at Go City, we don’t enforce the idea that there’s one perfect place – rather, you should pick the spot that best fits your vacation plans. If you’re looking to be in the center of all the action, we recommend staying in Waikiki. For those who want to immerse themselves in nature, Diamond Head would be a great choice. Or, to have a more authentic experience away from all the hustle and bustle, the Windward Coast is an area well set up for vacations. Whichever way you choose to enjoy Oahu, we’re sure you’ll have a blast. For further information, have a read through our list of the top places to stay on the island. Waikiki Boasting beautiful sugar-sand beaches and unbeatable scenery, Oahu really has it all. Planning a trip to the island can be a little daunting, since there’s so much to take in. If you’re looking to stay in the center of all the excitement, we recommend Waikiki for its fantastic resorts and spirited energy. As the most popular place to stay in Oahu, most of the area’s accommodation is located here. Lively and fun, the area has everything to keep you busy. One of the area’s top attractions is, of course, Waikiki Beach. Amongst the various things to do here, you’ll find that snorkelling, surfing, sailing and whale watching are popular choices. As the epicenter of tourism in Hawaii, everything is on your doorstep; the streets are flanked by hundreds of restaurants, cafes, tour centers and convenience stores. Quite like the Las Vegas Strip, the area is well known for its vibrant nightlife – after sunset, Waikiki comes to life with waterside cocktail bars, fine dining and hula shows. Whatever trip you’re planning on having, this place is always a top choice. Diamond Head Though Oahu is quite small, it has many distinct areas catering all different types of travellers. For those looking for a quieter experience in nature, we recommend checking out Diamond Head. Whilst the area is still close to Waikiki, it tends to be less crowded, so you can take some time for yourself. With lots of big parks, relaxed beaches, and of course, the Diamond Head Trail in the vicinity, the area is great for those who are looking to take a break. Whilst the area is a little more low-key than Waikiki, you’ll still have plenty of options when it comes to shopping and dining. Another perk of staying in this particular area is that whilst it's still pretty close to Waikiki, you’ll find that accommodation is much cheaper – win-win! A small, laid-back region, Diamond Head offers the paradisial Hawaiin dream experience for those who like to take it slow. The Windward Coast Those looking to live like the locals will enjoy the Windward Coast for its fascinating culture and unfaltering serenity. Bringing the dreamy postcard picture of the ultimate Hawaiin vacation to life, this area is great for those who want something a little bit more relaxed. With its many beaches and ranches, this place is great for those who want to get in touch with Mother Nature. We recommend checking out the Kualoa Ranch, which has served as a popular filming destination for decades. Upon arrival, you can take Hollywood movie site tours, ziplining classes, or go sailing. If you’re looking to learn more about the background of the Windward Coast, you’ll be in luck - from botanical gardens and bays to lighthouses and temples, you’ll never be bored here. Another benefit of staying here is that it’s just a short drive out from Waikiki, meaning that you’ll never too far from all of the buzz, if you want to partake. Still, since this area isn’t at the center of Oahu’s tourism district, hotel prices tend to be cheaper. Perfect for those who are looking for peace and quiet on vacation, the Windward Coast is the way to go. The North Shore Oahu often conjures up the image of palm tree-fringed beaches and stunning views. If you’re looking to bring the dream to life, then the North Shore is where you’ll want to be. Great for families and solo travellers alike, the area is renowned for its rolling waves and tropical gardens. Base yourself here for nature, great food and a laid-back surfer vibe. Things to do at the North Shore run the gamut - indie galleries, surf shops and Hawaiin lunch spots line the streets. Amongst the various things to do here, you’ll find that snorkelling, cliff jumping, and paddleboarding are super popular. Far out from Waikiki, the North Shore is a world apart from all the hustle and bustle. Since the area is way out from Oahu’s main tourism center, lodging tends to be cheaper here. We recommend going in the summertime since you’ll be able to fully enjoy all the fantastic outdoor activities. Great for those who like to play it cool, the North Shore’s crystal-clear waters and wondrous nature trails and well worth the stay. Forever fun and exhibiting a rare type of natural beauty, Oahu has been a longtime favorite for vacations with friends and family and romantic getaways for generations. From its beautiful beaches to fantastic hiking opportunities, the island has so much to see, do and experience. Trust us when we say that you’ll never be bored here. For awe-inspiring landscapes, vitality, and culture, you couldn’t find anywhere better. And whilst planning a trip can be a little stressful, we promise that it will all be worth it! Explore Oahu to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

    Thick check Icon