Drive-Thru Kapaa Whale Watching on Kauai’s East Side

The whales are here! I’ve lived in Hawaii for over 10 years now and when I see the whales they still stop my heart a little bit – in a really good way. I don’t know exactly why this is. Maybe it is a combination of their size (a full grown humpback whale can be up to 52 feet long and weigh almost 80,000 lbs.), along with their fluidity of movement and grace. Watching the whales is one of my favorite things about living here on Kauai.

Where is the Best Spot to Whale Watch From Shore on Kauai?

I walk on the beach almost every day, and I see the whales a lot when I am walking. Lately, though, I’ve been on the phone a lot, and I’ve started parking my car at a scenic overlook in Kapaa and making phone calls while taking in the views. This is a spot that has an amazing expansive view, and there has been a lot of whale traffic recently.

This is one of the best spots for whale watching on the east side of Kauai. (The zig-zag sidewalk connects the overlook parking area to the paved trail below.)

Usually, I have company here. There is plenty of parking; people park here to walk on the trail, and often there are a few people like me, just hanging out and watching for the whales.

Directions to Kealia Overlook

The overlook is easy to find:

• If you are heading north in Kapaa, on Kuhio Highway, you will see it on the right just as you head out of town.
• If you are heading south, coming into Kapaa, you will see it just after you pass Kealia Beach, and it will be on your left.

Usually, if I spend about 20 minutes or so I see some kind of whale activity. The last few days there have been pods of whales, with adults and smaller humpbacks breaching, splashing, and spouting. It’s worth hanging out here for a while.

This is Kealia Beach, on the north end of Kapaa

If you follow the paved trail that runs in front of the overlook, you will get to Kealia Beach (or it’s a quick drive north).

Kapaa Homes Near the Kealia Overlook

If you would like to live nearby, there are many available homes in this area, close to the overlook, and to Kealia Beach.

3 bed/4 bath home near the Kealia Overlook currently listed at $639,000 (MLS# 260926)

For more information, you can reach me at (808) 936-7386 or monica@hawaiilife.com.

~ Monica