The Hawaiian word Au'au means as much as "to take a bath". This name developed in the Auau Channel due to the Kohola, of humpback whales that visit the shallow waters between November and May to mate and give birth to their calves. The centre of the Auau Channel is also known as Lahaina Roads since Lahaina was the centre of the whaling industry on Maui until 1860.

The more than 15 km long canal lies between Maui in the east and Lanai to the west. It is bordered by Molokai to the north and protected by Kahoolawe in the south. The channel is just under 80 meters deep and is visited by many whale-watching boats in the winter months.

Those who want to marvel at the up to 15-meter-long marine mammals up close ideally book a tour, which is usually offered from Lahaina or from the Ma'alaea harbor but there are also tours from Kihei or Kanaapali Beach available. There is a choice between motorboat and sailboat tours. Tours include meals and morning as well as afternoon tours are usually offered.

If you are interested in a whale-watching tour, we will be happy to help you with booking for the appropriate time period.