What kind of whales are seen in Hawaii?

The most common whale that visitors will see in Hawaiian waters is the humpback whale. The size of the Hawaii population which migrates every year between the West Coast of the United States and Canada down to Hawaii is estimated at around 10,000. Many visitors don’t realize that there are additional whale species that can be seen in Hawaiian waters, but their sightings are much more rare. Some of these species include false killer whales, melon headed whales, short finned pilot whales, sperm whales, dwarf sperm whales, pygmy killer whales, and beaked whales. There have also been instances of whale sharks being spotted in Hawaiian waters which is a true treat. You never know what you might come across on a whale watch or boat excursion in Hawaiian waters, which is part of the adventure!

What month is best for whale watching in Hawaii?

Whale watching season in Hawaii is usually described as falling between the dates of December 15 and April 15, but it is possible to see humpback whales in Hawaiian waters in the weeks preceding or following these dates, as you will always have the early arrivers and those that like sticking around longer than others. The best months for seeing the most humpback whale activity in Hawaii are January and February, as this assures that the whales that are the late arrivals and early departures will most likely all still be in the warm Hawaiian waters. If you travel to Hawaii during these months, you will certainly see humpback whales while vacationing.

Why do humpback whales migrate to Hawaii each year?

Different humpback whale populations live throughout the world’s oceans. The Hawaiian population will spend the summer months in the North Pacific in plentiful feeding grounds. During the colder winter months they will make the 3000-mile trip down to the warmer and shallower Hawaiian waters where they can give birth and raise calves in the protection of the Hawaiian Islands. If you are lucky, you will get to see some of the newborn calves swimming alongside their mother when whale watching in Hawaii.

What Hawaiian Island is best for whale watching?

It doesn’t matter if you are vacationing on Maui, Kauai, Oahu, the Big Island, or any of the other smaller Hawaiian Islands, your chances of seeing humpback whale activity along the coasts are extremely high during whale season. That being said, the western and southern shores of Maui are described as the best region for whale watching because the waters are shallower (between 300 and 500 feet) and sheltered by Lana’i and Kaho’olawe, creating a kind of bathtub environment for mother whales and their calves. The channel between Maui and Lana’i is called the ‘Au’au channel, which translates to “Bathtub”.

How much does a whale watch cost?

The average price of a whale watch in Hawaii is between $50 - $80 depending on how long the excursion is. There are different kinds of tours you can book, including options that combine a snorkel outing or dinner cruise along with time dedicated to whale watching. Insider tip: any ocean excursion during whale season will likely include whale sightings such as spouts, tail slaps, or breaches on the way.

Do I need to book a whale watch or can I see them from land?

Depending on where you are vacationing, you should be able to see whale spouts and movements from the coastline, and if you are snorkeling you may hear whale songs. So you can “whale watch” from the beach. For a more up-close experience, a whale watch or boat excursion is recommended, often with a naturalist onboard to explain behaviors.

Discover the Best Farmers Markets on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi

From freshly picked tropical fruit and locally grown coffee to handmade crafts and delicious island-inspired cuisine, farmers markets offer a wonderful way to experience the authentic flavors and culture of the Island of Hawai’i. Also known as the Big Island, this diverse destination is home to vibrant community markets where visitors can meet local growers, sample regional specialties, and discover unique souvenirs to bring home.

Whether you are staying along the sunny Kohala Coast, exploring the charming town of Hilo, or driving through the coffee-growing hills of Kona, there is a farmers market worth adding to your vacation itinerary.

1. Hilo Farmers Market: A Must-Visit Island Favorite

Located in historic downtown Hilo, the Hilo Farmers Market is one of the Big Island’s best-known shopping destinations for fresh produce, local foods, flowers, and handmade goods. With more than 200 vendors on its busiest days, this bustling open-air market offers an impressive introduction to the island’s agricultural abundance.

Browse colorful displays of papayas, pineapples, bananas, passion fruit, and other tropical produce, or shop for locally grown coffee, baked treats, fresh flowers, jewelry, artwork, and island-inspired gifts. Wednesday and Saturday are the main market days, when the largest selection of vendors typically gathers.

Location: Downtown Hilo, at the corner of Kamehameha Avenue and Mamo Street.

Best for: First-time visitors, tropical fruit lovers, and anyone looking for a lively local shopping experience.

2. Waimea Community Market: Fresh Flavors in Paniolo Country

Set in the cooler, green uplands of Waimea, also known as Kamuela, the Waimea Community Market offers a different perspective on Big Island agriculture. The area is known for its ranching heritage, fertile farmland, and rolling countryside, creating a scenic backdrop for a Saturday morning market visit.

Explore stalls featuring locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh flowers, artisan breads, baked goods, and handcrafted items. Prepared foods make it easy to enjoy breakfast while browsing, and the relaxed atmosphere invites visitors to slow down and connect with local vendors.

Waimea’s cooler climate can be a refreshing change from the island’s warmer coastal resort areas, making this market a lovely addition to a morning drive through the countryside.

Location: Parker School, 65-1224 Lindsey Road, Waimea.

Typical hours: Saturdays, 7:30 a.m. to 1pm.

Best for: Fresh produce, baked goods, local crafts, and a taste of upcountry island life.

3. Kamuela Farmers Market: A Saturday Morning Tradition

Another excellent stop in Waimea is the Kamuela Farmers Market, held at the Pukalani Stables and Paniolo Heritage Center area. This market combines local agriculture with the Big Island’s distinctive paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy, culture.

Visitors can browse seasonal produce, plants, flowers, prepared foods, baked treats, and locally made products. It is also a great place to pick up a casual breakfast or lunch while enjoying the area's ranch-country atmosphere.

Consider pairing your visit with a scenic drive through Waimea to appreciate the island’s varied landscapes, from lush green pastures to distant volcanic peaks.

Location: Pukalani Road, Waimea.

Typical hours: Saturdays, approximately 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Best for: Food lovers, local artisan products, and travelers exploring the island’s interior.

4. Keauhou Farmers Market: A Taste of Local Kona

For visitors staying near Kailua-Kona, the Keauhou Farmers Market is a convenient way to discover products grown and made right here on Hawaiʻi Island. Located at Keauhou Shopping Center, this Saturday morning market emphasizes island-grown and island-made goods.

Depending on the season and participating vendors, shoppers may find fresh tropical fruit, vegetables, eggs, fish, macadamia nuts, baked goods, preserves, and locally grown coffee. It is an especially appealing stop for travelers who want to learn more about the island's agricultural traditions and support local producers.

Arrive early for the best selection, then continue exploring Kona’s coastline, beaches, and historic attractions.

Location: Keauhou Shopping Center, Kailua-Kona.

Typical hours: Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon.

Best for: Locally grown produce, island food products, and a relaxed morning outing near Kona.

5. Pure Kona Green Market: Coffee, Crafts, and Community

Set in Captain Cook at the Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden area, the Pure Kona Green Market is a wonderful destination for experiencing the agricultural and creative traditions of South Kona.

The market brings together local farmers, food producers, artists, and craftspeople. Visitors can shop for fresh produce, tropical fruit, locally produced Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, jams, and handcrafted gifts. Prepared foods and other treats make it an enjoyable place to spend a leisurely Sunday morning.

Kona coffee is a particular highlight. Grown on the slopes of Hualālai and Mauna Loa, this celebrated regional specialty makes a memorable souvenir for coffee enthusiasts.

Location: Amy B. H. Greenwell Ethnobotanical Garden area, Captain Cook.

Typical hours: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Best for: Kona coffee, locally made products, artisan crafts, and a relaxed South Kona outing.

6. Makuʻu Farmers Market: A Lively Sunday Experience

If your travels take you toward Puna, southeast of Hilo, make time for the Makuʻu Farmers Market. This popular Sunday market is known for its wide variety of vendors, colorful stalls, and lively community atmosphere.

Explore seasonal tropical fruits, vegetables, plants, prepared foods, baked goods, and handmade crafts. You may also discover international flavors and locally made specialties that reflect Hawaiʻi’s multicultural food scene.

With so much to browse, Makuʻu is a destination in its own right. Plan to arrive hungry, take your time exploring, and enjoy the opportunity to experience a different side of the Big Island beyond its resort areas.

Location: Keaʻau–Pāhoa Road, Puna district.

Typical hours: Sundays, approximately 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Best for: Foodies, adventurous shoppers, and travelers seeking a lively community market.

7. Hāmākua Harvest Farmers Market: Local Goodness on the Scenic Coast

The Hāmākua Coast is known for its dramatic scenery, lush vegetation, waterfalls, and small agricultural communities. A visit to Hāmākua Harvest Farmers Market in the Honokaʻa area offers a delicious reason to explore this beautiful part of the island.

Local growers and makers bring together fresh produce, prepared foods, baked goods, and other locally produced items. The market provides a welcoming community atmosphere and a chance to discover ingredients and flavors that showcase the region’s agricultural character.

Make it part of a scenic drive along the Hāmākua Coast, where you can admire the island’s greener landscapes and stop at viewpoints along the way.

Location: Hawaiʻi Belt Road near Māmalahoa Highway and Māmane Street, Honokaʻa area.

Typical hours: Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Best for: Travelers exploring the Hāmākua Coast, local food enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a relaxed Sunday outing.

8. Kona Village Farmers Market: Shopping in Downtown Kona

Conveniently located near Aliʻi Drive in Kailua-Kona, the Kona Village Farmers Market is an easy stop while exploring the historic waterfront and downtown shopping district.

The market features a mix of tropical produce, prepared foods, local coffee, crafts, and souvenirs. Its central location makes it especially appealing for visitors who want to browse local vendors without planning a separate excursion.

After shopping, continue along Aliʻi Drive to discover Kona’s oceanfront restaurants, shops, and historic sites.

Location: Near the corner of Hualālai Road and Aliʻi Drive, Kailua-Kona.

Typical hours: Wednesday through Sunday, approximately 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Best for: Convenient downtown browsing, island souvenirs, and pairing shopping with a day in Kona.

What to Look for at Big Island Farmers Markets:

One of the best parts of exploring Hawaiʻi Island’s farmers markets is discovering products that reflect the island’s rich agricultural landscape. Keep an eye out for these local favorites:

Tropical fruit: Sample papaya, pineapple, bananas, passion fruit, and seasonal specialties you may not find at home.
Kona coffee: Bring home locally grown beans from one of the island’s most celebrated coffee regions.
Macadamia nuts: Enjoy them roasted, seasoned, or incorporated into locally made sweets.
Fresh flowers and plants: Discover tropical blooms, including orchids and anthuriums, that showcase Hawaiʻi’s lush growing conditions.
Baked goods and prepared foods: Try local treats and island-inspired dishes that make market browsing a culinary adventure.
Handmade gifts: Look for locally crafted jewelry, artwork, soaps, textiles, and other souvenirs with a distinctly Hawaiian character.

Tips for Visiting Farmers Markets on the Big Island:

Go early. Morning visits generally offer the best selection of fresh produce and popular prepared foods, especially at busy weekend markets.

Bring reusable shopping bags. They make it easier to carry fruit, snacks, and souvenirs as you browse.

Carry some cash. Although payment options vary by vendor, cash is a useful backup at outdoor markets.

Ask what is in season. Availability changes throughout the year, so vendors can often recommend the freshest fruit and most interesting local specialties.

Check market schedules before heading out. Days, hours, locations, and participating vendors can change. Confirm details before making a special trip.

Make it part of your island adventure. Pair a market visit with a nearby beach, scenic drive, historic town, or coffee farm to make the most of your day.