Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center (Kīhei)
Kihei, South Maui
A Beachfront Whale Exhibit Center Run by NOAA
NOAA's Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary runs a visitor center at 726 South Kīhei Road, on the beach in Kīhei. NOAA describes exhibits, interactive displays and weekly programs for the whole family, and a free monthly Sanctuary Sea Chat lecture series in the center's lecture hall. It is open Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, and closed on federal holidays; the phone is (808) 879-2818.
NOAA's page does not state an admission fee or parking details for the Kīhei center (it calls the Kauaʻi and Honolulu centers admission-free), so none is given here. NOAA says whales can be seen from shore and at sea from November through April, and asks everyone to stay at least 100 yards from humpback whales; violations can be reported on 800-853-1964.
Why Roamwise recommends this
A cheap, indoor, educational stop with ocean views — a good rainy-day or whale-season add-on in Kīhei.
Best for: families, learning about humpback whales, a short midday visit.
Insider tip: it's weekdays only and closes early (2:30 PM), so plan it for the morning.
- Safety notes:
- NOAA's page gives hours but no admission or parking information for the Kīhei center; confirm by phone.
Reviews: Google MapsYelp
Local tips
- •Open Monday–Friday 9:30 AM–2:30 PM
- •closed federal holidays.
- •Admission and parking for the Kīhei center are not stated by NOAA — call (808) 879-2818.
- •Stay at least 100 yards from humpback whales.
- •Whale season is November to April.
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