Every winter, approximately 10,000 humpback whales make the 3,000-mile journey from Alaska to Hawaii's warm waters to breed, give birth, and nurse their young. The Big Island offers exceptional whale watching opportunities, and staying at Island Goodes puts you in a prime position to experience this natural wonder.
When to See Whales
Whale watching season runs from December through April, with peak activity typically occurring from January through March. During this time, you can spot whales from shore, from boats, and sometimes even from your lanai at Island Goodes!
Best Shore-Based Viewing Spots
From Island Goodes
Our Hilo Bay Room offers ocean views where guests have spotted whales breaching right from their private lanai. Bring binoculars and watch for spouts on the horizon.
Laupahoehoe Point
About 25 minutes north of Island Goodes, this scenic lookout offers dramatic cliffs and excellent whale watching. Pack a picnic and spend the morning scanning the horizon.
Richardson Beach
Just 10 minutes from Island Goodes, this black sand beach is a great spot for whale watching. The calm waters also make it perfect for snorkeling when you want to cool off.
Whale Watching Tours
For the best experience, consider a whale watching boat tour. Tours depart from Hilo Bay and typically last 2-3 hours. Many tours offer a whale sighting guarantee during peak season.
What to Expect
- Breaching: Whales leaping out of the water—the most spectacular behavior
- Tail slapping: Whales slapping their flukes on the water surface
- Spy hopping: Whales poking their heads above water to look around
- Spouting: The spray from a whale's blowhole, visible from far away
Tips for Whale Watching
- Bring binoculars for shore-based viewing
- Take motion sickness medication before boat tours if you're prone to seasickness
- Morning tours typically have calmer waters
- Wear layers—it can be windy and cool on the water
- Keep your camera ready—whale behavior is unpredictable!
Humpback Whale Facts
Humpback whales are truly remarkable creatures:
- Adults weigh up to 40 tons and can be 60 feet long
- Calves are born weighing about 1 ton and measuring 10-15 feet
- They don't eat while in Hawaii—they live off fat reserves from feeding in Alaska
- Male humpbacks sing complex songs that can last up to 20 minutes
- Each whale's tail fluke pattern is unique, like a fingerprint
Stay at Island Goodes During Whale Season
Book the Hilo Bay Room for the best chance to spot whales from your private lanai. Our oceanview accommodations put you front and center for Hawaii's most magical wildlife experience.
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