The Hawaiian word Au'au translated means as much as "to take a bath". This name has 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 Center of the Auau Channel is also available as Lahaina Roads known as Lahaina was the center of the whale industry on Maui until 1860.
The more than 15 km long canal lies between Maui in the east and Lanai to the west, is bordered by Molokai to the north and Kahoolawe protected 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 on Maui is usually offered by Lahaina or from the Ma'alaea harbor but there are also tours from Kihei or Kanaapali Beach possible. There is a choice between motorboat and sailboat tours, tours including meals, morning or afternoon tours.
If you are interested in a whale watching tour, we will be happy to help you with booking for the appropriate time period.
