10 best spots to observe or snorkel with humpback whales

Snorkeling with humpback whales is most likely a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Renowned for their acrobatic breaches, haunting songs, and impressive migrations, these whales are found in oceans all over the world. Weighing up to 40 tons, humpback whales are not only remarkable for their size, but also for their complex behaviors and intricate social structures. These incredible animals have been around for 20 million years.

Here are ten of the best spots around the world to encounter humpback whales.

Best spots for humpback whale snorkeling

1. Tonga

Tonga, a Polynesian kingdom of more than 170 South Pacific islands, is renowned for its pristine waters and vibrant marine life. The Vava'u group of islands is particularly famous for humpback whale sightings but also offers great snorkeling.

Best season:

The best time to snorkel with humpback whales in Tonga is from July to October when the whales migrate to the warm waters to mate and give birth.

2. Silver Bank, Dominican Republic

Located in the Caribbean Sea, Silver Bank is part of the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can legally swim and snorkel with humpback whales.

Best season:

Visit between January and April for the peak season when humpback whales gather in large numbers for breeding and calving.

3. Moorea, French Polynesia

Moorea, known for its stunning landscapes and crystal-clear waters, offers a perfect backdrop for snorkeling with humpback whales. The island’s lagoon provides a safe and serene environment to encounter these gentle giants.

Best season:

The prime time for whale watching in Moorea is from August to October, coinciding with the humpback whale migration.

4. Silver Bank, Dominican Republic

Silver Bank, located in the Caribbean Sea, is part of the Sanctuary for the Marine Mammals of the Dominican Republic. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can legally swim and snorkel with humpback whales.

Best season:

Visit between January and April for the peak season when humpback whales gather in large numbers for breeding and calving.

5. Réunion Island

Located in the Indian Ocean, Réunion Island offers a unique blend of French and Creole cultures along with exceptional marine biodiversity. The island’s waters are a seasonal home for humpback whales, but also offer great snorkeling all year round.

Best season:

The optimal time for snorkeling with humpback whales in Réunion Island is from June to October, during their annual migration.

Best spots for humpback whale watching

6. Hervey Bay, Australia

Hervey Bay, located on the east coast of Australia, is considered one of the best places in the world to interact with humpback whales. The bay’s calm waters make it an ideal nursery for whale calves.

Best season:

Plan your trip between July and November when the whales are in the bay to nurse their young and socialize.

7. Maui, Hawaii, USA

Maui is renowned for its whale-watching opportunities. The island’s warm, shallow waters provide a perfect habitat for humpback whales during their winter migration. It’s also a fantastic spot for marine life in general and offers great snorkeling.

Best season:

The peak season for humpback whales in Maui is from December to April, with the highest concentration of whales observed in February and March.

8. Alaska, USA

Alaska’s icy waters and stunning landscapes provide a dramatic setting for encountering humpback whales. The Inside Passage and Glacier Bay are particularly popular spots for whale watching.

Best season:

Visit between June and September to experience the peak season when humpback whales come to feed in Alaska’s nutrient-rich waters.

9. St. Lawrence Marine Park, Québec, Canada

This protected marine park is home to a vast range of species, including beluga whales, minke whales, blue whales and of course humpback whales.

Best season:

Between May and October is usually the best time to spot several of these whale species in this area.

10. Baja California, Mexico

The Sea of Cortez has an incredible biodiversity for all marine life enthusiasts. On top of various fish species, you might encounter seals, manta rays, dolphins, and more while snorkeling in this area. You can also organize a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales but also blue and gray whales or even orcas!

Best season:

Between December and April, whales gather here to give birth and breed, so this is the period when you will maximize your chances of an encounter.

With this list, we hope you will have the chance at least once in your life to encounter a humpback whale! When planning your trip, always consider the best season for whale sightings to maximize your chances of a successful and memorable adventure.