Hawaii is the perfect destination to escape the winter blues. While the East Coast freezes through the winter months, the island of Maui boasts tropical waters and azure skies. It is so nice at this time of year, in fact, that even humpback whales come in their dozens to enjoy the warmer climes.
Maui is a prime whale-watching destination at this time of year and Four Seasons Maui has created a host of special experiences that allow guests to spot these majestic creatures on an itinerary that perfectly suits their preferences.
From a private whale watch led by professional photographers to sightings from any of the legendary Resort’s oceanfront vistas, the concierge team will happily design a customized itinerary for whale enthusiasts of all kinds.
“It’s hard to imagine that Maui can become even more special,” says General Manager Marc Bromley, “but every winter brings these gentle giants to the waters just beyond the Resort’s shores. It doesn’t get much better than experiencing whales up close and personal, and many of our guests return year after year to do so.”
A sunset view through the floor-to-ceiling windows
The terrace at Four Seasons Maui
Throughout the whale-watching season (December 15-May 15), Four Seasons Maui will be running a host of different experiences, most of which are exclusively available to guests staying at the resort. The full list of experiences include:
Whale Watch Photo Excursion: Embark on an Unforgettable Experience with the Cesere Brothers, Maui’s top underwater photographers and members of Keiki Kohola Project whale research team. Learn how to take photos of whales above water and other marine life below on this fully customizable private day on the ocean.
SUP HIIT and SUP Yoga: Maui’s most beautiful fitness studio is on the tropical Pacific Ocean. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy taking their HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) or yoga practice to the next level on a stand-up paddleboard, and seasonal whale sightings are common.
Ocean View Cabana: Watch whales play from the Resort’s best new vantage point, the Ocean View Cabanas. These cabanas boast prime viewing real estate and a dedicated Cabana Angel to deliver five-star services and amenities throughout the day. Binoculars are provided.
Outrigger Canoe: Join the Resort’s champion outrigger canoe team to learn the history and how-to’s of this ancient paddling sport. Guests often encounter whales on the complimentary activity, as well as turtles and other marine life.
Oceanfront Suite: Perched above Wailea Beach, the Resort is situated perfectly for spotting whales, but there is no better vantage point than from the balcony of a luxury Oceanfront Suite. This January through March, Complete Suite Package Oceanfront Suite guests will receive a $500 ocean activity credit to apply toward one of the various ways to experience the whales.
Whale Art: Guests will meet Maui’s most notable artists at the Resort’s exquisite open-air gallery, open daily. Whale lovers will enjoy Chelsea Kohl’s contemporary whale tail pop art on Saturday evenings and the Cesere Brothers’ underwater whale photography on Thursday mornings.
Kayak Whale Watch: The Resort’s onsite ocean experts, Maui Undersea Adventures, educate guests on the marine ecosystem during an intimate kayak whale watch adventure.
Classic Whale Watch: With a number of private or group options at their fingertips, the Concierge will recommend the perfect catamaran, sailboat or zodiac for guests looking for a traditional whale watch option.
Top 100 Suites: Alii Royal Suite, Four Seasons Resort Lanai, Hawaii
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