Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Welcomes Guests to Witness Whale Season

At Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, the first and only AAA Five-Diamond and Forbes Five Star resort on the Big Island that was recently awarded two Michelin keys, guests are offered a front-row seat to witness the awe-inspiring migration of humpback whales through the Pacific. From now through early spring, whale season has returned to Hawaii - an eagerly anticipated time by residents and visitors alike as it’s known to be one of the most magical times to visit the islands. Guests of the Resort are able to witness these majestic creatures through unique, limited-time experiences and programming against the stunning backdrop of the Kona-Kohala coastline.

Each year, these gentle giants make their annual migration from Alaska to Hawaii to mate, give birth, and nurture their young in the warm, protected waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Humpback whales begin arriving in Hawaii mid-fall, with successful whale watching increasing as the season progresses. The peak population of whales occurs around February, marking February through March the prime months for whale watching.

The Resort offers several unique ways to observe these magnificent creatures while creating unforgettable moments for guests of all ages. Aboard the Resort’s new 46-foot (14 metre) catamaran aptly named Alaka'i Nui, meaning “great leader,” guests can embark on a private excursion with the world-class ocean activities team and “leaders of the waves,” Alakai Nalu. The custom-built, luxurious catamaran boasts an extended range allowing guests to venture miles from the Resort to easily spot a pod of whales off the coast of Hualalai, snorkel in hidden enclaves, explore black sand beaches and more. Adventurous guests can also try whale watching from a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe or standup paddleboard.

As whale season coincides with the winter months, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is the ideal warm-weather escape for families. Enjoy engaging on-site activities such as touch tank talks where all ages can meet fascinating reef life up close and personal at the Kumu Kai Marine Center alongside the Resort’s Natural Resources team, or participate in tide pool tours, fish feedings and much more. Take advantage of the eight pools on property including King’s Pond, the Resort’s famed 1.8-million-gallon (8 million litre) swimmable aquarium with more than 1,000 fish and a resident eagle ray, or the Keiki Pool, a shallow, white-sand bottom pool designed for young children with plenty of shade and water features.

For guests who prefer staying on land, marvel at the sights from one of the Resort’s oceanfront dining options. Set to debut two new culinary concepts this season, the Resort team is excited to reopen ‘Ulu Restaurant with a fresh aesthetic, setting the perfect stage for whale sightings over a delightful meal, and a reimagined menu curated by Executive Chef Richard Polhemus and ‘Ulu Restaurant Chef de Cuisine Chris Damskey. Providing panoramic ocean views, a new second-floor sushi and omakase restaurant, Noio, will open its doors led by rising sushi Chef Nuri Piccio. The Resort is also home to Tyler Florence’s Miller & Lux Hualalai, Beach Tree, Resident’s Beach House and Hualalai Trading Company.

To celebrate Hawaii’s whale season, make a reservation here or call 808 325 8000 to book a stay.