Whale Watching in the Sanctuary  Whale Behaviors Whale watchers should scan the surface of the water, whether from the shore or a boat, for blows, tail slapping or unusual activity. Each winter in Hawai`i brings an increased buzz of excitement and influx of visitors to the islands--not just in the form of two-legged tourists, but of the long-finned, gargantuan variety as well. We're talking about humpback whales, the State of Hawai`i's official marine mammal. From as early as September until as late as May, humpback whales can be seen in the near-shore waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Scientists estimate that approximately 4,000 to 5,000 humpback whales--two-thirds of the North Pacific stock--migrate to Hawai`i each winter. From their feeding grounds in Alaska, they cross 3,000 miles of ocean to reach their winter destination, which offers the promise of relaxation, adventure and "romance." The primary activities that humpback whales engage in during their stay in Hawai`i include mating, birthing and nursing. Male humpbacks also spend their time Patience will often reward whale watchers with a glimpse of a tail or a full breach. (Photo: Suzanne Canja) competing with others for female attention and perfecting their singing techniques. Sighting humpback whales can be an awe-inspiring experience whether from the water or the shore. Their impressive acrobatic displays are visible from miles away. Mothers can be seen teaching their calves to breach, and males can be seen competing with one another in fierce head-to-head battles. The underwater vocal stylings of male humpback whales can even be heard by divers, snorkelers and boaters. It is no wonder, then, that the thrill of such encounters has fostered a strong love of humpbacks in the islands and has contributed to the development of a multi-million dollar whale-watching industry in Hawai`i. There are a variety of ways in which you can catch a glimpse of one of Hawai`i's humpback whales. Boat tours and whale-watching cruises continue to be a Lana`i Lookout on the east side of O`ahu is a popular spot for whale watching. Here, volunteers for the annual Ocean Count crowd this site in hopes of seeing some whale activity. popular venue, but oftentimes, whales can be seen quite easily from the shore. Each year the sanctuary conducts the Sanctuary Ocean Count to get a better idea of the number of humpback whales that frequent the waters around the Big Island, O`ahu and Kaua`i. The volunteers who turn out for this event each year are often surprised to learn that humpbacks can be seen from the beach, the road, and sometimes even from their own balconies! If you know where to look, you may be lucky enough to see one yourself.     For more information on viewing whales and other protected marine species, visit NOAA's National Marine Fisheries Service Office of Protected Resources Web page. [top]