Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
sliding—just sign up at any one of the numerous surfing schools. On world-famous Waikiki
Beach, just head over to one of the surf stands that line the sand; these guys say they can
get anybody up and standing on a board. If you're already a big kahuna in surfing, see for
the best deals on rental equipment and the best places to hang ten.
TENNIS Tennis is a popular sport in the islands. See for details on free municipal courts as well
as the best deals on private courts. The etiquette at the free county courts is to play only 45
minutes if someone is waiting.
WHALE-WATCHING Every winter, pods of Pacific humpback whales make the 3,000-mile swim
from the chilly waters of Alaska to bask in Hawaii's summery shallows, fluking, spy
hopping, spouting, breaching, and having an all-around swell time. About 1,500 to 3,000
humpback whales appear in Hawaiian waters each year.
Humpbacks are one of the world's oldest, most impressive inhabitants. Adults grow to
be about 45 feet long and weigh a hefty 40 tons. Humpbacks are officially an endangered
species; in 1992, the waters around Maui, Molokai, and Lanai were designated a Hump-
back Whale National Marine Sanctuary. Despite the world's newfound ecological aware-
ness, humpbacks and their habitats and food resources are still under threat from whalers
and pollution.
The season's first whale is usually spotted in November, but the best time to see hump-
back whales in Hawaii is betweenJanuaryandApril. Just look out to sea. You'll also find
a variety of whale-watching cruises, which will bring you up close and personal with the
mammoth mammals.
Not So Close! They Hardly Know You
In the excitement of seeing a whale or a school of dolphins, don't forget that they're protected
under the Marine Mammals Protection Act. You must stay at least 300 feet (the length of a
football field) away from all whales, dolphins, and other marine mammals. This applies to
swimmers, kayakers, and windsurfers. And, yes, visitors have been prosecuted for swimming
with dolphins! If you have any questions, call the National Marine Fisheries Service ( &
808/541-2727 ) or the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary ( &
800/831-4888 ).
Money-savingtip: Book a snorkeling cruise during the winter whale-watching months.
The captain of the boat will often take you through the best local whale-watching areas on
the way, and you'll get two activities for the price of one. It's well worth the money.
WINDSURFING Hawaii is a top windsurfing destination. World-class windsurfers head to the
wind and the waves offshore. Others, especially beginners, set their sails for Oahu's Kailua
Bay, where gentle onshore breezes make learning this sport a snap.
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