Located in Ma'alaea, the Pacific Whale Foundation's new Ocean Science Discovery Center has a superb view of Ma'alaea Bay, where humpback whales mate and give birth throughout the winter and green sea turtles munch contentedly on limu (seaweed).
The Center is dedicated to giving visitors and residents a comprehensive view of the fascinating marine life that's found in Hawaii, through free daily programs, special talks and slideshows, and a plethora of events and activities for adults and children.
The Center features a free exhibit where visitors can explore the ecology of tidepools, listen to whale songs, examine whale baleen and barnacles, find out about the latest sea turtle research, and learn about monk seals, coral reefs, sharks and other ocean life. A naturalist is on hand every day to answer questions about the ocean, including the best places to snorkel and the best viewing spots for watching whales from shore.
During the winter, the Center offers a free multimedia presentation titled Why Whales Do That. The show focuses on the intriguing mating and reproductive behaviors of humpback whales, and includes amazing video footage and slides of whales in Hawaii and other parts of the Pacific. This program is offered twice daily.
To learn more about the Ocean Science Discovery Center, visit www.osdcmaui.org. For more information about Pacific Whale Foundation, visit www.pacificwhale.org.
