Behind the Lens Series- Whales in Wailea

February marks one of the most magical times of year in Maui — a season when the warm waters of the Hawaiian Islands become home to thousands of migrating humpback whales. In my latest video, Behind the Lens: Whales in Wailea, Maui, I had the privilege of witnessing these gentle giants in their natural element. I found a mama and a calf and they remained in the same place for more than 20 minutes.

Every winter, humpback whales travel thousands of miles from their summer feeding grounds in Alaska to the warm, sheltered waters around Maui. February sits right in the peak of this migration, making sightings frequent and dramatic. This year, photographers, locals, and visitors alike are treated daily to breaches, tail slaps, and other spectacular behaviors just offshore in Wailea.

What makes this time so special for photographers? The light this time of year — rich, golden, and directional — combined with the frequent whale activity creates ideal conditions for dramatic, heart-pounding shots. Whether you’re shooting with a long telephoto lens or capturing wide panoramas of Wailea Bay, every moment feels like you’re part of the story.

While watching whales is breathtaking on its own, turning those encounters into compelling photos takes a little planning:

• High shutter speeds are your best friend — those breaches happen fast.
• Use a telephoto lens (200mm+) to frame the whales without disturbing them.
• Shoot in bursts so you catch every nuance of the whales’ movements.
• Be patient. Whales surface after long dives, giving you brief — but dramatic — windows for the perfect frame.

As you watch the video, notice how gentle the mama is with her calf and tells its own story — a reminder that the ocean’s rhythms and the whales’ migrations are ongoing, living subjects for photographers who are willing to get out early and stay inspired.

Wailea’s coastline isn’t just beautiful — it’s uniquely positioned along one of the best whale-watching corridors around Maui. During whale season (roughly December through April), humpbacks gather in the Auʻau Channel, where deeper water meets gentle swells — perfect for resting, calving, and play.

From a photography standpoint, this combination of wildlife, light, and proximity to the shore makes Wailea Bay one of Hawaii’s most rewarding locations to shoot. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a passionate hobbyist, being here during whale season provides countless opportunities for unforgettable imagery.