In Hawaiian culture, the Koholā (whale) tail symbolizes strength, power, and respect for the ocean. They also represent the connection between humans and nature, as the koholā are seen as spiritual guardians of the ocean.
Every year, from December through May, it is estimated that two-thirds of the entire North Pacific koholā (humpback whale) population travels more than 3,000 miles from the Gulf of Alaska to Hawaiʻito breed, calve and nurse their young.
To the delight of residents and visitors alike, the koholā put on a show with breaches, splashing, and tail slaps viewable from the shores of Maui. The shallow Auʻau ChannelbetweenMaui, Moloka'i and Lānaʻi is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world.
