easy
2–3 hours
Suitable for all levels; requires basic mobility for boarding and moving around the boat.
Set sail from Kihei with Kai Kanani to witness Maui’s whale migrations or catch a stunning sunset over the Pacific. These guided trips offer unmatched views and intimate marine wildlife encounters.
Kihei, on the southwestern shore of Maui, Hawaii, offers some of the most dramatic ocean scenes where the Pacific meets clear skies and volcanic coastlines. At the heart of this coastal escape is Kai Kanani, a local adventure outfitter specializing in ocean-bound trips that bring travelers face-to-face with the natural splendor of Maui’s marine life. Their Adventure Sunset Sail and Whale Watch Adventure provide distinct but equally captivating journeys along these vibrant waters.
Kihei’s coastline is framed by lava fields and dotted with coral reefs, making it an ideal vantage point for spotting humpback whales, especially each winter when these giants migrate to breed and calve. The Whale Watch Adventure aboard Kai Kanani’s vessel means slipping into the rhythm of the sea to witness these impressive creatures breach and spout, set against the expanse of the Pacific and the silhouette of Maui’s mountainous backbone.
The Adventure Sunset Sail transforms the seascape in a different way, with the sun dropping behind the islands and painting the sky in fiery hues. Guests glide past the western shores, feeling the steady ocean breeze and the gentle roll of the waves. The trip offers the chance to see local seabirds, the changing colors of the sky, and the quiet majesty of the coastline as day moves to night.
What sets Kai Kanani apart is a commitment to both genuine Hawaiian values and environmental stewardship. Their knowledgeable crew shares insights into island ecosystems and cultural history while adhering to sustainable practices, helping to preserve the fragile balance of this marine environment.
For visitors keen on marine wildlife and oceanic landscapes, Kai Kanani anchors an essential experience in Maui’s outdoor activity scene. These trips aren’t just boat rides; they’re intimate encounters with the Pacific—a chance to feel connected to one of the planet’s richest ocean habitats while enjoying the unique serenity and power of the Hawaiian seas.
Plan to arrive 15-30 minutes before departure to handle check-in and safety briefings without rush.
Evenings on the water can get cool, especially during sunset sails, so pack a windbreaker or fleece.
Use waterproof cases or bags for cameras and phones; ocean spray is common, especially near whales.
If you’re prone to seasickness, consider taking preventative medication before boarding to ensure comfort.
The waters off Maui have long been central to Native Hawaiian culture, with traditional fishing and navigation practices still honored today.
Kai Kanani follows responsible tour practices to minimize disturbance of marine life, supporting ongoing conservation efforts in Maui’s sensitive coastal waters.
Protect your skin from intense Hawaiian sun exposure during daytime sailings.
summer specific
Enhance your whale watching experience by spotting distant breaches and tail slaps.
winter specific
Keep warm against ocean breezes, especially as temperatures drop in the evening.
fall|winter|spring specific
Prevent damage from occasional ocean spray and splashes.