Maui’s Gateway to Whale Watching
From December (and maybe even as early as September) to about mid May is the six month whale watching season in Hawaii, the Pacific Whale Foundation even guarantees you to see whales on their tours during November and May. Maui is the premier spot in the island chain to search for Humpback whales (99% most likely the whales to be seem), they are drawn each year to Maui because the shallow waters (except off the north shore) are around 300-600 feet deep. Off the waters of West Maui and South Maui are most likely where the whales will be found because of the wind protection that the West Maui Mountains and Haleakala provide, their wind shielding capabilities create the calm and clear waters the Whales desire so much.
One of the things I must point out is due to strict regulations and respect for the creature, the boats will not approach the whale when it is 100 yards or closer. If the whale does approach the boat, the captain will turn off the engine and let the whales pass by and clear the area before moving on. However this situation is very rare, a majority of the sightings will occur in the distance when the whales are breaching.
The Humpbacks make their annual journey from the upper pacific northwest, leaving their summer homes just off the coast of Alaska and Northern Canada. Although Hawaii is the primary winter breeding grounds, the Humpbacks have been known to also migrate to locations off of southern Mexico almost South America and spots around the Philippines. Also an interesting little fact is that the whales that migrate towards the Philippines will move northwards to areas just off of Russia!
On occasion, during winter and spring you can sometimes see the whales from shore. The best viewing location are from Maui’s south and west shores, the areas include Makena, Wailea, Kihei, Ma’alaea, Olowalu, Lahaina, Ka’anapali, and Kapalua. As of late, sightings have become more common off the North Shore, in places like Ho’okipa and Kuau. Hana on a rare occasion also offers very good whale sightings.
Interestingly enough, the mother whales will not eat during their winter stay here; the female adults will lose up to 1/3 of their body weight during their stay in the islands. The reason the adults don’t eat is because there is nothing for them to eat! Since the the main food source they rely on does not thrive in warm waters, by default the whales are unable to because their is nothing for them!
Tours can be charted from either the Lahaina or Maalaea Harbor, the preference is yours.
Listings by the Sayles Team
Lower Village Wailea Ekahi: Unit 18D
Man am I excited about our newest listing in the Wailea Ekahi Complex! It is a beautifully remodeled unit with fantastic upgrades bumping the unit up into the $1.8 million range. The kitchen is one of my favorite rooms in the house because of the lovely backsplash, simple elegance, and custom finishes. The lanai is one of the most serene parts of the condo, overlooking the deep blue Pacific and onto West Maui. The 2 bedroom, 2 bath floor plan features two spacious master suites providing for additional privacy.
Special properties like Wailea Ekahi 18D rarely become available. This iconic condo is situated in the heart of the lower village just steps away from Keawakapu Beach. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the sound of the ocean from your private lanai year round. The sunset view from this residence is quite spectacular. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to own one of the most delightfully remodeled units in all of Wailea Ekahi.
The Ekahi community was the first oceanfront complex in all of Wailea, and is famous for it’s low density, mature landscaping, and tranquility. The private beachfront pavilion and 4 pools are a great place to relax and soak in the Maui sun. Membership at all 3 Wailea golf courses also available with this unit. Finely appointed and being offered fully furnished.
Third Row Ho’olei: Unit 75-5
One of the best views in the entire neighborhood for $3,150,000. This beautiful town home is in absolute immaculate condition. Fully equipped with a modern electronics package, and being offered completely furnished by the sellers. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets year round! Relax with the comfort and ability to “lock and go” while at the same time enjoy the comforts of a condominium designed to feel like a stand-alone residence.
The Maile floor plan seamlessly blends indoor/outdoor living that flows throughout the entire residence. Interior appointments include a private elevator, a gourmet Studio Snaidero kitchen with Wolf and Sub Zero appliances abundant. On-site amenities include one of the most impressive pools in the Wailea Resort, a vast pavilion area, and a state-of-the-art fitness facility. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to own your perfect piece of paradise.
Largest Model Available: Unit 116
Villas 116 is located next door to unit 117, so it has pretty similar views. Looking towards makai will be the deep ocean blues with the occasinal breeze, towards mauka will be the majestic Haleakala and her lush greenery. The golf front acreage bordering the yard and lanai area is the perfect calming setting to enjoy a morning cup of coffee or a sunset dinner. The villa is listed for $1,160,000.
Contact a South Maui Real Estate Specialist
We’d like to extend an invitation to you to stop by our on-site Ho’olei real estate information office, which is open daily, before the reservation desk, from 9:00AM–5:00PM.
Our team has been blessed with the opportunity to have been part of this luxurious community since its infancy stages back in 2005. We’ve been in the in house sales team for the past 9 years. It truly brings a smile to my face when I see first time guests, return visitors, and full-time residences who embrace and wholeheartedly love their Maui lifestyle.
Mahalo,
Anthony Sayles
(808) 280-6532