Watch humpback whales from a dramatic coastal overlook while a professional drone captures cinematic aerial footage. This cliffside experience blends guided whale education with unforgettable photos and video.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You arrive at a windswept cliff above the Pacific, the ocean stretching flat and blue toward the horizon, and the salt air pushing at your jacket. On clear winter mornings the surface seems to hold its breath — then a tower of water and whale flesh cuts the calm as a humpback breaches, seawater spraying like a thrown cloak. The guide scans the line where sea meets sky, and the drone operator lifts a humming eye into the air to capture the moment from above.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires short coastal walks on uneven ground and standing for extended periods.
Wildlife
History
Maui’s coastline served traditional Hawaiian fishing communities and later 19th-century whaling operations; modern protections reflect a shift to conservation and tourism stewardship.
Conservation
Operators follow NOAA viewing rules and FAA drone guidelines; staying on trails and minimizing disturbance helps protect both whales and fragile coastal ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Whale Watching and Drone Photoshoot Experience today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring layered wind protection
Coastal overlooks can be windy and cool even on sunny days — a windproof jacket and hat make viewing comfortable.
Carry binoculars and a telephoto camera
Binoculars help spot distant blows; a camera with a 200mm+ lens gets usable close-up frames when whales surface.
Charge devices and bring storage
Drones and cameras consume power and memory quickly — bring a full battery and spare SD card if you want copies of the shoot.
Follow distance and drone rules
Guides operate within NOAA and FAA guidelines — keep behind marked lines and don't approach whales to avoid harassment.
Windproof jacket
Blocks coastal gusts and keeps you comfortable during long observation periods.
winter
Binoculars
Essential for spotting blows, tail slaps, and distant behavior before the drone captures footage.
Telephoto camera or phone lens attachment
Helps capture close-up images of whales when the drone isn’t used or conditions limit aerial shots.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Direct sun and reflected glare off the water can be intense during any season.
summer