While Oahu is home to popular cosmopolitan locations such as Waikiki, there is also plenty of natural scenery to go around. The island offers visitors an array of opportunities to explore the rugged terrain while witnessing an incredible array of wildlife. Wildlife watching on Oahu is an enriching experience that can be enjoyed by all ages. From tropical rainforests to crystal-clear waters, Oahu is home to an abundance of flora and fauna that is a delight to the eyes. The island is also home to several unique species that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, providing added interest for nature enthusiasts. Going Oahu wildlife watching is a great way to immerse yourself in a pristine natural environment.
It may be no surprise that some of Oahu’s most fascinating wildlife is located beneath the ocean’s surface. Oahu is surrounded by crystal-clear waters that are home to several marine species. One of the most popular marine-based wildlife watching activities on Oahu is whale watching. From December to May, visitors can observe humpback whales as they migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and give birth. While you may spot some whale spouts from the shoreline, the best way to get an up-close view of these gentle giants is by embarking on a whale watching boat excursion.
Even outside of whale watching season, a boat trip is still a great way to experience some of Oahu’s marine-based wildlife. Spinner dolphins, giant sea turtles, and a variety of other sea creatures can often be seen alongside the boat. And if that’s not quite close enough, consider joining them in their underwater world by donning a snorkel and mask. Whether at an offshore location or from the shoreline, snorkeling on Oahu will reveal a vibrant underwater world teeming with tropical fish.
Oahu offers a variety of conservation areas that are good for land-based Oahu wildlife watching, including birding. Oahu is home to a variety of endemic birds that can be found throughout the island’s wetlands, forests, and coastlines. James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge on the island’s north shore is a great place to spot species such as Hawaiian coot and Hawaiian stilt birds. Ka’ena Point Natural Area Reserve on the island’s western coast offers beautiful scenery as well as the best bird watching Oahu has to offer, including the opportunity to see Laysan albatrosses and wedge-tailed shearwaters.
Whether it is land-based or marine-based, wildlife watching on Oahu is an exciting activity that allows you to connect with nature in a place where natural beauty is abundant! Contact us to learn more!
