Whale Sharks in Hawaii: Where & When to See Them
Whale sharks in Hawaii? Yes, but sightings are rare! Find out the best places and times to increase your chances of an amazing marine wildlife experience.
A place where the ocean is respected, protected, and unbelievably pristine; Hawaii is a dream destination for marine life enthusiasts. Through the Jurrasic-like mountain passes, and over the sparkling black sand beaches, the waters surrounding Hawaii’s islands hold wonders like nowhere else in the world.
One of which is the ocean’s gentle giant – the whale shark. Growing up to approximately 60 feet long, these creatures are anything but aggressive, despite their name and size. Instead, whale sharks are mellow, friendly, and curious filter feeders, making them one of the best animals to see underwater.
Whale Sharks in Hawaii
Whale sharks in Hawaii are visitors. There is no one site where they reside, nor is there a specific time of year when populations increase dramatically. Some say sightings are more frequent between the warm water months of Summer and fall (May to November), however it is not a guarantee, and they are known to visit all year round.
Where? Most whale shark sightings occur around the Big Island of Hawaii. These waters are rich in plankton – the primary food source of marine filter feeders. Furthermore, whale sharks are tropical migratory creatures, generally following seasonal patterns and oceanic currents that affect water temperature and food availability. Due to this, they can also be sighted in the waters surrounding Kaua’i, Niihau, Maui, and Oahu – so you’re spoilt for choice!
When?Whale sharks are most often spotted during the summer months when Hawaii’s waters are at their calmest. Because of their infrequent passing through Hawaii’s waters, the sighting of whale sharks amongst the islands is a special occurrence. Luck needs to be on your side, which is why when it does occur, it is a magical experience that is incomparable to any that lures, baits, or chases marine life for the purpose of tourism.
Recommended Tour Operators
For a safer and more eco-friendly experience, it’s essential to choose a reputable and responsible tour operator. We have selected establishments that prioritize safety, conservation, and respect towards marine life – These are the elements to look for when deciding on your next wildlife tour operator.
We’ve done the research, so you don’t have to! By following our guide, you’ll have the best chance of spotting a whale shark. Combine that with good preparation, patience, and a bit of luck, and you’ll maximize your experience in the water.
Here are our top picks for reputable, responsible tour operators who can guide you on a safe and ethical whale shark swim!
One Ocean Diving is an exceptional tour company located in Haleiwa, Oahu. Specializing in shark dives, their guides are all specifically trained for this purpose. One Ocean Diving also supports shark conservation, research, and outreach through local education programs and citizen science data collection!
Operating out of the North Shore of Oahu, Deep Blue Eco Tours is a tour operator prioritizing safety and environmental sustainability. With a team of marine biologists and people who are passionate about the ocean and marine life, Deep Blue Eco Tours leads educational snorkel and dive tours. Additionally, they also contribute towards conservation efforts such as monthly beach clean ups with 4Ocean, are partnered with Shark Allies and the North Pacific Large Whale Entanglement Network, and provide updated petitions on their website that help protect the ocean and the environment of Hawaii.
Wild Side Hawaii aims to provide quality experiences on their dive tours by keeping group numbers low and schedules flexible to provide the best service that matches the conditions of the day. Their tours are led by marine biologists and trained naturalists who share their knowledge and passion for the ocean and its incredible inhabitants.
Wild Side Hawaii also has an extensive FAQ page on their website where they thoroughly explain safety precautions, ethical behaviour in the water, and display transparency about their operation.
Whale Shark Specialty Tours, June 2024
Based on the island of Kaua’i, Holo Holo Charters is a reputable tour operator that aims to be “the most ecologically conscious boat tour company”. Prioritizing ethical behavior in the water, offering reef safe sunscreen on their vessels, and certified by the Sustainable Tourism Association of Hawaii, Holo Holo Charters is a good option if you’re looking for a responsible and reputable tour operator in Kaua’i.
Snorkel with Hawaii Ocean Rafting Eco Adventures for a chance to see whale sharks off the island of Maui. Locally owned and operated, this company exudes environmental responsibility through their intimate tour capacities, by adhering to local regulations in regards to marine life interaction, and in their mission statement which is, “to provide a fun, authentic, aloha filled, Maui ocean experience that educates and inspires visitors to love and respect Hawaiian culture, the ocean, and our island.”
What Hawaii is Famous For: Marine Life Beyond Whale Sharks
Whale sharks are only just the beginning of exciting marine life that can be spotted in Hawaii. If you’re a shark lover, Hawaii’s common species include reef and oceanic black tip and white tip sharks, mako sharks, sandbar sharks, silky sharks, and even occasionally great whites and tiger sharks. One Ocean Diving and Deep Blue Eco Tours (mentioned above) are exceptional tour operators to check out if you’re after a safe and sustainable cage-free shark diving experience!
Another iconic dive in Hawaii for marine enthusiasts is the manta ray night dive in Kona, Big Island. This is one of Hawaii’s top ocean experiences and should not be missed out on if you’re in the area!
Furthermore, Hawaii is also a popular site for whales to pass through on their seasonal migrations. Species include sperm whales, pilot whales, melon-headed whales, false killer whales, beaked whales, and humpback whales!
Conservation and Marine Protection Efforts
Due to Hawaiian laws protecting sharks, whales, marine habitats, and other marine organisms, it is not possible to swim with most whales, and there are limits to the level of interaction humans are allowed to have with different marine species. These regulations are in place not only to protect the environment, but also to protect us, and to safeguard a delicate ecosystem for generations to come.
Some of these laws and regulations include the prohibition of feeding marine animals in Hawaiian waters, a ban on the taking of protected species (hunting, trapping, harassing, etc), and limited approach distances to certain species. Reputable and responsible tour operators should adhere to these regulations and also aim to preserve marine life in their own conservation efforts, as with the companies mentioned previously.
The colossal beauty of Hawaii’s natural environment is a large part of what draws people and tourism into the country.
Promoting ethical wildlife tourism and sustainable conservation practices is key to supporting local livelihoods and preserving the natural environment, ensuring a harmonious balance for all.
Sharks in Hawaiian Culture
Protecting Hawaii’s environment has long been intertwined with local culture. Historically, ancient Hawaii thrived on polytheistic and animistic beliefs, and today, the roots of these traditions still run strong beneath the waves and flowers of modern Hawaii. The belief that all physical things hold spiritual significance and are deeply connected remains a powerful perspective across the islands.
The way that sharks fit into this is via the status of being aumakua. This term can be translated as family guardian or ancestral spirit. This spirit is unseen, however can manifest itself in the living world, sometimes in the form of a shark, and is believed to carry messages and signs through dreams and visions. These messages can come as warnings, advice, protection, or comfort in hard times.
Sharks are not only revered as aumakua but have also appeared in relics, art, and stories throughout ancient Hawaiian history, symbolizing strength, courage, and guidance.
In one particular legend, it was a god in the form of a giant shark named “Kamohoali’i” who guided the first people to Hawaii, and continues to protect the island and its inhabitants from dangers.
Thus, sharks have been revered and respected throughout the history of Hawaii for their spiritual role in protection and guardianship. In addition to Hawaii’s recognition of the intrinsic value of nature and its interconnected role in our lives, the natural environment-and sharks in particular- continue to be protected and respected in Hawaii.
Final Thoughts
The beauty and diversity of Hawaii’s marine life are incomparable to any other place in the world. Hawaii is a unique paradise where you can expect to swim with sharks and manta rays, witness dolphins and breaching whales, and relish in the overwhelming natural beauty of the land, coastline, and sea.
Hawaii and its people have worked hard to protect and preserve their natural environment for all to enjoy and thrive – so let’s support sustainable growth and responsible tourism when visiting!