As we stand on the edge of the ocean, searching the horizon with wide eyes, we silently hope to see something miraculous– a whale’s huge tail, towering lawn brightening up against the blue sky. If at any time we have such a feeling, then we should finally know that whale-watching in Maui is full of delight. There is no pastime here; rather it is finest Shakespearean theater acted out of doors. The sea. See a 40-ton whale leaping from the sea and one is mesmerized, like a child standing before piles of candy.
When it comes to whale watching, Maui is the place to be. All winter long, from December through April, the Pacific bustles as humpback whales travel from Alaskan icebergs to warmer Hawaiian waters. It is a giant aquatic family reunion complete with loud splashes and deep-sea songs.
Some places on Maui offer such splendid views that they are like secret spots which only those who really know them have anything to say about. Take Makena Beach for instance. It’s like finding a hidden retreat. The world-class show greets you with its full force, except that here there are no crowds to elbow with. You may as well do without the crowds, but the sight is not any less magnificent.
You should never miss a whale-watching trip on a boat. Stepping into a living postcard, you find yourself surrounded by the deep song of whales and the contagious excitement of fellow passengers. Guides turn into storytellers full of fascinating bits and pieces such as learning how each whale has its own particular tail pattern– rather like a snowflake.
Prepare to feel small in the presence of these oceanic giants. It’s while a humpback whale traces a graceful arc in the lower depths that you begin to understand afresh how large nature really is, and how small our everyday worries look by comparison. Meantime
For people who require a more individual type of experience, there’s nothing to compare with a coastal walk in “whale season.” Armed with binoculars and eyes glued to the surface of the water, the crowd’s excitement is infectious. Calls of “Over there!” penetrate the sea breeze and you can’t help but shout excitedly along with them.
While you’re still in the midst of an adrenaline rush like this, remember to stop and take a look around. Sometimes just being silently amazed is nature’s most appropriate display. Get ready with an open mind and perhaps some rather stylish sunglasses for a whale watching adventure that will stick in the memory as a treasured splash of surprise.