Whale Watching
Humpback whales start to arrive in Hawaii's waters around the end of November. Kayaking allows you to be on the same level as the whales and experience their beauty up close. This method of whale watching is environmentally friendly as the kayaker powers the entire trip. Ron Bass' Maui Sea Kayaking offers kayaking with whales in a small group of four. The company was established in 1988 and focuses on tailoring the trip to each group.
Ron Bass' Maui Sea Kayaking
P.O. Box 106
Puunene, HI 96784
(808) 572-6299
maui.net
Snow Covered Peaks
The highest peaks in Maui turn white with snow starting in November and continue throughout the cooler seasons. Haleakala is one of those snow-covered peaks. Although Haleakala is a shield volcano, that doesn't stop the snow from forming. It's a unique view on an island that has an average year-round temperature of about 80 degrees. Besides viewing Haleakala from afar, you can hike up to the peak. The Haleakala National Park offers guided hikes to several areas within the park. Remember to take pictures and show them to your family and friends. They will not believe you took the photos in Maui.
Haleakala National Park
P.O. Box 369
Makawao HI 96768
(800) 248-7375
nps.gov
Snorkeling
Maui is a great place to snorkel. In November, the water temperature is 77 degrees and sea life flocks to the warm waters. From green sea turtles to sunken ships, snorkeling offers something for everyone. Beginners or intermediate snorkelers should try Honolua or Mokule'ia Bay. According to pacificislandtravel.com, "due to drainage if it's been raining this area will have low visibility. There's usually a lot of turtles, octopus, turkey fish, parrot fish, surgeon fish, and trumpet fish. Occasionally eagle rays are seen." Maui hosts snorkel spots for all three levels of snorkelers. If you prefer a guide and organized snorkeling, try Maui Eco Tours. The company offers snorkeling with an environmental focus for a reasonable price. Tour lengths vary and transportation to the location is by kayak.
Maui Eco Tours
125 Kio Loop
Kihei, HI 96753
(808) 891-2223
mauiecotours.com
Diving
Diving off the coast of Maui is an extraordinary experience. In November, the average high air temperature remains around 85 degrees. So, water activities continue to be the highlight of Maui even in November. And most of the dive sites in Maui are easy to access and range in difficulties. Many dive sites are near rocky coastlines. Avoid high waves and dive during clear, calm water. You can always check with the local dive shop for up-to-date information on the weather and conditions. Makena Landing and 5 Graves area is best dived during early morning. According to pacificislandtravel.com, the area contains "a high concentration of turtles, sometimes Eagle and Manta rays. There are lots of the regular reef fish. There are caves along the shoreline where white tip reef sharks sometimes sleep (if the divers would leave them alone)." This location is best for intermediate divers and snorkelers. It possesses a rocky entrance and exit area. Maui possesses several great dive locations. The Maui Dive Shop in Maui guides and transports divers to diving locations in the area and offers diving expeditions and diving certifications.
Maui Dive Shop
1455 South Kihei Road
Kihei, HI 96753
(800) 542-3483
mauidiveshop.com
