Fun Humpback Whale Museum/Learning Center That Tourists Often Miss

For tourists vacationing along the southern coast of Maui (resorts in Kihei and Weilea), there is a free and fun marine museum/learning center that is worth checking out.  Located along Kihei’s popular beach road, South Kihei Road, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is a hidden gem that most tourists (and even locals) drive right past.

The National Marine Sanctuary’s Learning Center has undergone a recent redesign and is now about the size of a high school gymnasium.  Inside the learning center you will find a bunch of professional displays on marine life found in the Hawaiian Islands, especially the humpback whales.  Tour the exhibits and hold whale bones, brush your hands through whale baleen (substitute for teeth), examine Hawaiian sea turtle shells, watch underwater videos, and speak with marine naturalists on staff. A special “45-Ton Whale Talk” is even hosted every Tuesday and Thursday at 11:00 am, where staff will teach you all about the humpback whales that visit our Hawaiian Islands each winter.

The education center is open to the public Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.  Located at 726 S. Kihei Road, be sure to keep an eye out for a gated entrance on the beach side of the road. Like I mentioned above, this museum/learning center is a fantastic option for a quick 30-minute cultural adventure the children will especially enjoy.  And hey, it’s no more than 10 minutes away from your resort!

Lastly, while visiting, be sure to ask about the ancient Hawaiian fish pond that sits directly in front of the Marine Sanctuary.  Many efforts have been made by the state to preserve this rock formation that was built centuries ago by the ancient Hawaiians.  Learn how the fishing pond works and even go snorkel around in it if you want!

[Photo source: Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary]