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    Pacific Whale Foundation

    4.3 (614 reviews)
    Closed 6:00 am - 8:00 pm

    Services - Pacific Whale Foundation

    Community Service/Non-Profit

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    Betsy P.

    Took the 5 hour trip with friends (Nov '25) & had a fantastic day! The crew all were very nice, super friendly & engaging, thorough, & on point with safety. We had a full boat of 110 people, but it never felt overcrowded, & there was plenty of seating for all. On top of it, we had Perfect weather! Lake Maui all day! We enjoyed the tour with the naturist at Molokini, again thanks to the great crew. Our second stop was gorgeous too, & a sweet turtle put on a show. So impressed! 10/10 will go again. ​

    Nice store
    Inverleith F.

    We have been to the islands many times and have had the worst luck at really seeing whales...until now! With our naturalist Aaron and Captain Aaron, we had the best experience so far. The added benefit of a knowledgeable naturalist was that we learned about these amazing creatures and how special their migration is to the warm waters of Maui. We were on an aluminum flat board which seated 47ish. I loved it being cozy. When we were able to start seeing the whales, it was very special. We saw a mama with a newborn, a pod competing and just an overall perfect day. I highly recommend Pacific Whale Fountain for your whale watching experience. Parking is paid at $3 per hour.

    Brooke R.

    OMG! This was SO MUCH FUN! I would do this everyday if I could. We had such a good time. The crew was so awesome! They gave us fun facts about what we will be seeing. They provide the snorkel gear and floating devices for you as well as wet suit tops to rent. Breakfast and lunch was provided. Simple yummy snack breakfast, fruit, croissant and banana bread and for lunch burgers/hot dogs and sides. They served 1 free alcoholic beverage and then you can purchase more. The experience was amazing. They have a blue foam platform in the water for people to lay on to look over the ledge to see in the water if you don't feel comfortable just swimming out in the ocean. They have lifeguards out there with you as well. We saw so many fish and we got to see the coolest turtle swim up and swim in front of us! I could go on and on about how awesome this was but I'll just recommend you to do it so you can see it for yourself!!! (Kids were also out there doing this as well, fun for everyone)

    Kauwela K.

    If you're looking for more than just another boating experience head over and support Pacific Whale Foundation (Pacwhale eco adventures!!) The Foundation itself provides educational events for adults and youth alike with opportunities for community to get involved with beach clean ups and harbor clean ups, and etc. The eco tour experience is also filled with educational information as all their staff is educated marine naturalist. The experience for our wiki wiki molokini tour was so magical. Food was filling and staff was helpful. The vessel "ocean spirit" my favorite of the fleet, was a joy to be on. A much needed experience

    Sandi I.

    Took the sunrise whale watch and although early it was well worth it. The sunrise was beautiful with LOTS of whale activity. The captain was wonderful in finding great spots to view the wait. The crew/marine biologists were gracious, knowledgeable and helped us all understand the beautiful humpback population in the waters of Maui. Make sure you give plenty of time to get there. Even early in the AM. the traffic on Maui is slow. We had to arrive for a 6:15 check in for a 7 am departure. I love that the money spent on this trip helped a foundation that supports these majestic animals. If I had more time, I would have spent time in the shop. Lots of great stuff! Loved this trip!!

    Humpback whale
    Andreas G.

    We did the small Groupe whale watching tour on the pacific explorer. I believe it's at most 30 people and you'll have great views even without leaving your seat. We were lucky and had an amazing day for whale watching and were able to follow a small group of whales with a calf for quite a long time. They got pretty close to the boat a few times. Great explanations by the naturalist on board. They also provide water and you can buy drinks or snacks if you want. Great experience overall.

    Lots of whales for hours and hours.

    Whale watch Dec. 3rd 2025 was incredible. Captain Joe, with his uncanny ability to stick with the pod was unreal.

    Molokini Crater
    Serena S.

    We went from Ma'alaea harbor out to Molokini Crater and then to Coral Gardens/Turtle Town for a wonderful snorkel trip on the vessel Ocean Guardian. It's early for whale season but we saw a few blows and tails from humpback whales! The wind came up a bit and we had some chop for snorkeling at Molokini crater, but Coral Gardens was calm and perfect: we even saw a turtle and a spotted moray eel! Visibility was fantastic at both locations! The food was delicious as was the tropical Mai tai and Maui Brew Co beer. The crew all were fantastic and we learned a lot from the naturalists while also feeling safe in the water. If you think you might get sea sick, take Dramamine the night before as it will last 24 hours and help you sleep while not making you sleepy on the boat (never puke in the heads/toilets on the boats... it's not cool and you will regret it, vomit off the back of the boat or into a crew provided bucket as nature intended!). We did not get sick but at least one passenger did, as is to be expected of land humans! Don't forget to tip your crew (bring cash)!

    Exterior of ship. Docked in Lahaina, Maui.
    Claudia W.

    We don't do a lot of package tours just because of the crowding. We looked at several options in depth before deciding on a turtle swim snorkel trip. In Maui that we felt comfortable with. Pacific Whale Foundation caught our eye as it is dedicated to protecting not only whales but the entire oceanic eco system . They also offered some trips on smaller boats. We ended up on Ocean Spirit, a sailing ship. Our turtle swim experience carried about 25 people the day we went out-not overwhelmingly crowded but enough to have cheerful , adventuresome conversation. The staff, led by Captain Chris, and aided by Desmond, Danielle and others, was amazing. The cruise was five hours. The time flew by. The boat journeyed north along the beautiful Hawaiian coastline. We snorkeled in two separate areas. Sea life was abundant with all sizes of turtles the stars of this particular show. Food was abundant, as were alcoholic drinks once snorkel gear was handed over. It felt a little like the old west: hand over your gun or you can't order a drink. Turtle bonding, beautiful vistas, supportive staff, and lots of food and drink ps were enjoyed by all. Clearly Pacific Whale Foundation in Maui , Hawaii, has an important mission, and delivers a ton of fun doing it. Thanks to all.

    Spinner dolphins bow riding  our boat !  Playful cestaceans
    Ang P.

    Beautiful calm breezy day on a three hour cruise with the marine scientists on board. We were able to see male female battle groups, watch 25 or more spinner dolphins bow ride with us, and watch mother whales and calves swim by numerous times. The amazing thing is that whales came within 25 feet of us while we were not moving! We were the ones trying to stay a safe distance but the whales came to us. Scientists utilized a hydrophone which we used to communicate with whales on this cruise! Then we used a this hydrophone to listen to the whale songs ! Very cool!!! Did you know whale songs made it to the top 200 hits list ? lol A rare day at sea with less than half passenger capacity and extremely calm productive cesatacea viewing trip. Nearly 75 percent of whales recorded during peak times off the shorelines of three islands were observed solely off Maui today during the kickoff of the statewide annual humpback whale counts this year. The Hawaiian Islands are a national marine sanctuary for humpback whales since it is the only state where about 5000 of the North Pacific stock of 7000 humpback whales come each winter (December through April, more or less) to breed, calve, and nurse their young. Please support the whale foundation and book a cruise that supports Marine Sciences and Conservation.

    Shirley N.

    The three of us had a great time yesterday on the Ocean Spirit Honolua Bay snorkel sail. Our original Lanai snorkel Dolphin watch was canceled due to not enough people. So the day before I got a phone call with a heads up. Switch or cancel I asked hubby. He said switch. Being a non swimmer I could have gone either way. We checked in at the office at 6:15am for the 7am scheduled sailing. Personally 45 minutes is more than enough time. We parked 1/4 mile away in one of the suggested parking lots. Most other nearby street parking & lots limit 3 hours. We paid for 8 hours at $15. Once onboard the Ocean Spirit we were warmly greeted by Captain Cruz with the crew of Desmond & John. They all displayed the Aloha spirit. Once we were out of the harbor Captain Cruz provided us with what to expect on our 5 hour excursion. As there were only 16 of us it made for a relaxing experience. We were served breakfast- danish roll, fruit & frittata, water & coffee. Afterwards we were asked what size fins & wet suit. Also given goggles. Then Captain Cruz explained how to wear the goggles & how to expel water from the snorkel. I asked him if they had the viewing box as I'm a non swimmer. He said he'll teach me how to snorkel. True to his word I had my first snorkel lesson. It was kismet that our initial Lanai snorkel trip was canceled, and we were rebooked on the Honolua snorkel trip. What made my lesson possible was the small passenger load of 16. It provided me my very first snorkel experience. We went to two snorkel spots at Honolua Bay. Plenty of fish, coral, and my favorite, the turtles. The second spot was the elusive octopus. Hubby said he couldn't spot any. After a BBQ lunch of grilled chicken, hotdogs, pulled pork with Mac cheese, three bean salad, & grilled pineapple, they released the sail. We started to sail back toward the harbor. Beverages were available - I had a local beer & a vodka cranberry. I couldn't taste the alcohol. Later we were served chocolate chip cookies. All in all a great trip.

    Humpbacks visiting Maui

    Excellent whale watching tour out of Ma'alaea harbor today. the crew and naturalists were great as always, but the highlight was getting "mugged" by a mother humpback whale, her calf and male escort. The whales circled around and under the boat, not once, not twice, but three times. We always love getting out on the water with Pacific Whale Foundation, but this was an experience to remember.

    Chloe B.

    I would like to say the positives out way the negatives on every trip. I've been cruising with PWF for years. Snorkeling, sunset cruises, stars with Harriet, and more. I do say they try ti accommodate special diets but they literally forgot the lunch (or the caterers did). This happened more than one occasion. The crew is usually friendly and will help you were you need. Sometimes, onboarding is hectic and doesn't make sense. Overall, a good company with a good cause. Hopefully, they'll be better with special diets in the future.

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    Amazing ! We had the best sunset whale watching tour. We were able to see mama and her baby. I would definitely recommend

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    Pacific Whale Foundation Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Pacific Whale Foundation

    Which is better for kids (7&9)? Lanai snorkel and dolphin watch…

    Molokini is very crowded these days so I would recommend Lanai, but only if you are good sailors. The afternoon crossing from Lanai can be rough sometimes. Honolua Bay is… Read more

    We are members and cruise with PWF every time we are in Maui, Am a bit concerned about assigned seats and not being able to move about if you see a whale at front back right or left side- typically Pre Covid everybody moves about....and masks?

    We went in February 2021 (also members) and got great seats! And yes, we were able to move around when a whale was seen. We didn't, particularly, but other people definitely did, and the crew is doing a great job of still making sure everyone… Read more

    What is the seating like for the sunset dinner cruise? (not the premium option)

    We had seating for two couples at the front of the boot. We had the table for ourselves and enjoyed it. The food was great and the view was breathtaking. We did receive two drinks per person. The tour wasn't sold out, thus I believe we had better… Read more

    How many (total) people can fit on your boat? If it is a smaller vessel, how is the whale watching experience as it relates to people who sometimes get seasick? Thanks in advance!

    The boat is very large that they take you out on. It has outside and inside seating and restrooms available. The waters really aren't rough so the ride is nice. I'd suggest wearing sea bands or getting the motion sickness patches from your doctor… Read more

    Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

    Review Highlights - Pacific Whale Foundation

    The crew all were fantastic and we learned a lot from the naturalists while also feeling safe in the water.

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    Habitat For Humanity

    Habitat For Humanity

    (19 reviews)

    $

    I've shopped at Habitat For Humanity Restore Shop several times. If they have what your looking…read morefor, you can score big time because their prices are very reasonable. My most recent purchase there was a floor lamp with ceramic pole. I had to replace the lamp socket on it but still a good deal. That's probably why it was donated. Anyway, they usually have a good assortment of light fixtures, tables, chairs and small appliances. The sort of stuff that people upgrade from time to time. They also are a good source of building materials that are left over from jobs the contractors finish. It's hit or miss whether you find the type or quantity of materials you need, but it's still a good place to check if you're about to start a project. We were there recently, to drop off a couple boxes of floor tile and some used copper tubing. I hope someone can use it. There's a small parking lot beside the building. Be really careful there because you might not have much time to react when someone backs out without looking. I had to use my horn, first time in years!

    My little thrifting heart was happy to stop here during our recent trip to Maui to visit my…read morehusband's family. We brought his nephew along and found some decent things for his apartment - a mid century side table for $50. They had so many huge furniture decor pieces and prices were pretty reasonable. Also tons of art and housewares. Our local family didn't even know this place existed but now that they do, they've told us they will be coming back. Definitely check this place out if you are looking for furniture and/or home decor on the island.

    Maui Fishpond - Our lead tour guide, Vene Chun, began his career with us as a fishpond wall builder.

    Maui Fishpond

    (10 reviews)

    Beautiful local cultural experience! Loved the chanting and…read morehistorical significance of the fish ponds and how the rocks are blessed

    Maui's best kept secret, Maui fish pond to most people driving by is what appears is a pile of…read morerocks off the beach, what you don't know is the story...... oh what a story. The longtime keeper of the Maui Fish Pond is Uncle Kimokeo, he is a life long Maui resident who has dedicated himself to preserving the Fish Pond for future generations. You see the Fish Pond was built in the 1600's to create a safe haven for the local fish to spawn and grow. Uncle Kimokeo has maintained the Fish Pond walls using stone high atop Haleakala rebuilding the wall stone by stone. Uncle Kimokeo says he's is entrusted to preserve the Pond and the culture. To listen to him explain all the cultural lore was amazing. He took us out on a Double hull Canoe north and basically had the whole boats singing and chanting Hawaiian songs giving thanks for the permission on the water. The Maui Fish Pond takes out groups daily by appointment for a donation 69.00, consider your donation as a write off as the foundation is a non profit corp. these monies supports all of the upkeep, programs and Youth programs the foundations supports. Contact the Maui Fish Pond association and give back to your local hosts. This was an awesome way to emerge myself in the community. Thank you ( Mahalo) uncle Kimokeo Mauifishpond.com Kimokeofoundation.org

    Hawaii Nature Center - Maui Nature Adventure Camp offers week-long adventures. Scholarships may be available for  Maui families.

    Hawaii Nature Center

    (4 reviews)

    So, an old website told us that this little nonprofit hosts a Rainforest Walk every day at 11:30…read moreand 1:30 for 20 bucks a pop. Sounded cute, so we called to make a reservation. But the exceedingly nice girl on the phone informed me that they didn't have set times for hikes anymore due to a decrease in attendance and tour guides could be called in if you make a reservation in advance (keep this in mind if you want to bring a group here). There was however, a little pamphlet that we could pick up at their main office to take us on a self guided hike, which was basically the same thing as the tour, she said. Also, they no longer charge $20, but they do have a 10 dollar suggested donation for upkeep of the trails and such. Sounds good! I said. When we got there, we were greeted by the same sweet girl from the phone. Although the place looked swamped with the arrival of a mass of little campers there to stay at their facilities for the night, she was very patient with Mom and I and answered all of our questions - even led us to the head of the trail! The trail was probably about a mile and half long. Up and down some minor hills (maybe to much for grandma to handle FYI). Along the way there are little numbers placed on the trail that correspond with the laminated sheet that they give you to tell you about all of the different types of plant life (which are native species, which were introduced, uses the natives had for the plants, etc) that exist in the rainforest. The sheet also fills you in on some Hawaiian history! Very educational. Bring someone literate! It's fun if you have someone read the sheet at each number. Careful! You might learn something.

    The Hawaii Nature Center, located in the Iao Valley State Park, is a non-profit organization…read morededicated to fostering awareness, appreciation, and understanding of Hawaii and its natural environment, and providing a educational experience for visitors to the Islands. Iao Valley is the site of one of the most famous and bloody battles that changed Hawaiian history forever. On this site, In 1790, King Kamehameha I destroyed the Maui army in his effort to unite the Hawaiian Islands. The valley is still a sacred burial ground for the ancient kings and their people. The Nature Center offers guided hikes through the Iao Valley for a small fee. After crossing Iao Stream by bridge, the tour passes by an ancient village site, a live taro patch, and numerous indigenous, Polynesian-introduced, and recently-introduced exotic plants, including wild coffee trees and giant banana plants. The hike continues through the rainforest to the base of the majestic, 2,250' high Iao Needle pinnacle. The Iao Valley is the wettest spot on Maui, and the second wettest in all the Hawaiian Islands. Wear sturdy shoes, bring a light jacket, a hat, and lots of insect repellent. The mosquitos here are voracious. You can get a bite to eat at the snack bar at the Visitor's Center. Surprisingly, it is run by the owner's of the excellent Cafe O'Lei, and serves up gourmet-quality light fare.

    Run & Walk For Whales - The finisher medal

    Run & Walk For Whales

    (1 review)

    Recently, I had completed a 10k for the run and walk for whales in Maui. This non-profit promotes…read moreconservation programs, volunteering, ocean advocacy, educating the public through service learning, ongoing scientific research, and protection of whales and ocean life. That was a mouthful, and I bet there's more that I didn't cover lol. ALL the proceeds not a portion but ALL, from the registration, donations, and merchandise in store go to the foundation. Also what I thought was a pretty sweeet incentive was that any walker and runner that registered was offered 40% off a whale excursion from the run till April! I have to go back and make my reservation! As for the running and walk course...it was not ideal. I believe by mile 1.5 you can see the Maalea harbor in the distance and if you have 20/20 vision you just might see a whale breaching. That's the last exciting thing you will see for a while. Although, I walked by the kealia wildlife refuge center which was beautiful. There were times I felt the course was too close to the highway. The only barrier that protected us were the plastic orange cones separating us from the cars speeding by. The volunteers were wonderful, engaging, and had such positive energy during the times you felt depleted from the hot sun. The medal compared to last year was a little disappointing. It was a sticker with a very small picture of a whale tale placed onto a thin piece of metal. I completed the 10k with the speed of a turtle. It's not how you start, but how you finish! Runners and walkers were rewarded with snacks, and music once it was over. I would definitely do this run again if the course had better views of the ocean :)

    Pacific Whale Foundation - nonprofit - Updated May 2026

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