A Sanctuary for Humpback Whales

The sanctuary encompasses the shallow, warm waters around the main Hawaiian Islands and is one of the world’s most important humpback whale habitats. Most of the North Pacific humpback whale population migrates nearly 3,000 miles to Hawaiian waters each winter to mate, calve, and nurse, then returns during spring and summer to feed in cool, nutrient-rich waters near Alaska and other northern areas. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary protects humpback whales and their habitat in Hawaii through education, outreach, research, and cultural activities. Humpback whales, or kohola, can be seen in Hawaiian waters from December to May, and mothers and calves can often be seen resting near shore while the whales’ acrobatic displays are visible from miles away. Hawaiian monk seals, or Ilio holo i ka uaua, are the most endangered seal species in the U.S., with less than 1,300 remaining, and they often haul out on sandy beaches. Five species of sea turtles are found in Hawaiian waters, and the green sea turtle is the most commonly seen. Hawaiian spinner dolphins, or nai‘a, are found close to shore during the day, where they rest and care for their young, and they feed at night in the open ocean.

Kalaoa, Hawaii · United States