At 726 S Kihei Rd in Kihei, this free visitor center introduces the humpback whales that migrate to Hawaiian waters and the marine life around them. Browse interactive displays, watch videos and ask volunteers about whale migration, conservation and local ecosystems. Outside, the historic fishpond behind the center is a place to look for green sea turtles basking on the rocks; binoculars are available for spotting wildlife offshore. It’s a useful, low-cost stop before a whale-watching trip, with activities for children and ocean views.
Exhibits and whale lectures
The visitor center explains humpback whales and the waters around Maui through exhibits, interactive displays and videos. Topics include whale migration and conservation, whale songs, weather and climate change, coral reef health, and native Hawaiian plants and culture. The displays also connect the whales with the marine environment they depend on.
Volunteers can answer questions about the exhibits and local sea life. Free whale lectures are held a few times each week, with presentations about the humpback population that moves between the North Pacific and Hawaii. Ask at the center whether a lecture is scheduled during your visit.
The fishpond and wildlife viewing
Behind the center is an ancient fishpond, with remains of a structure built by Hawaiians hundreds of years ago. Green sea turtles sometimes bask among the rocks nearby. They can be hard to distinguish from the rocks, so take time to scan the shoreline; volunteers may be able to point them out.
You can also look offshore for whales and other wildlife. The center provides binoculars, though sightings are not guaranteed. The nearby beach has calm water and is used by local families.
A stop for families
Children have their own area with puzzles, books, stuffed animals and craft activities. The exhibits and videos provide a way to learn about marine life indoors, while the fishpond and beach offer more to explore outside. The center is a compact visit, but you can spend longer around the beach area.
The sanctuary and whale season
The sanctuary protects humpback whales and their Hawaiian habitat through education, research, resource protection and outreach. Maui’s warm, shallow waters are part of the breeding and birthing area used by humpbacks that travel to Hawaii for winter.
Whales are generally in Hawaiian waters from November through April, though the timing can vary: some arrive in October and some remain into April. The visitor center is a shore-based place to learn about them and look for them, but an offshore sighting is never certain.
Perguntas frequentes
Is the visitor center free?
Yes. Admission is free.
How long should I spend at the visitor center?
A visit can take 15 minutes to an hour, depending on how long you spend with the displays and videos.
Can you see whales from the visitor center?
Whales may be visible offshore, especially during the November-to-April season, but sightings are not guaranteed. Binoculars are available.
Are there activities for children?
Yes. The center has a children’s area with puzzles, books, stuffed animals and craft activities.
