PRIVATE WAIKIKI SNORKELING BOAT TOUR
Explore the Best Spots to Snorkel in Oahu
Join us for an underwater adventure in search of green sea turtles, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, monk seals, and schools of colorful reef fish while humpback whales (seasonal) can be heard singing underwater. We aim to give you the best snorkeling experience in Oahu. Our small groups and fantastic locations are perfect for those looking to spend time enjoying Hawaii’s coral reefs. Whether you're a beginner snorkeler or have spent countless hours in the water, we can adjust your trip to fit divers of all experience levels! We look forward to having you aboard and creating memories that will last a lifetime!
The most awesome snorkeling and whale watching tour. Forrest and Tyler are friendly, accommodating, and helpful. With a small passenger size, it feels more like going out on the boat with friends. Highly recommend this company!!
$699
2 hour tour
Includes Up to 6 Guests
2 Hours Long
The tour departs from Ala Wai Harbor. Parking is available for $1/hour in the public lot
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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Snorkeling Gear (mask, fins, and snorkel)
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Towels
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Ice
BE SURE TO BRING
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Sunscreen
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Water / Snacks
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Dry Clothing
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Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling
Discover Turtle Canyon on Waikiki's longest snorkeling tour, a family adventure to remember!
Join us for an unforgettable day on the water, exploring Oahu’s vibrant underwater world with the longest snorkeling tour in Waikiki. Designed for families, couples, and curious travelers alike, our small-group adventures blend affordable luxury with the warmth of local hospitality.
Step aboard our beautiful luxury catamaran, an experience in itself, where comfort meets adventure without the high price tag. With plenty of space to relax, panoramic ocean views, and shaded seating, it’s the perfect home base for your day of snorkeling and discovery.
Snorkel side-by-side with Hawaiian green sea turtles at the famous Turtle Canyon, guided by our friendly, in-water experts who ensure your safety while sharing fascinating insights about the reef and marine life. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned snorkeler, we provide personalized instruction and all the gear you need.
This intimate ocean experience also takes you along the scenic coastlines of Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Hawaii Kai, with possible sightings of spinner dolphins, monk seals, tropical reef fish, and humpback whales during the winter season.
Want to remember the moment your family meets a sea turtle? We offer high-quality photo and video packages so you can relive the magic and share it with your loved ones.
Come explore like a local and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your ocean adventure starts here.
TOP REASONS TO CHOOSE OAHU OCEAN ADVENTURES
Personalized, Family-Owned Adventures
Expert Local Guides
Unmatched Value and Comfort
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable
Create Lifelong Memories
What to expect on a snorkel trip in Hawaii
WHERE TO GO
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We offer snorkeling at both the South and North shores of Oahu, so there’s always an option near you. Try one spot, then come back to explore the other side of the island!
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Whether you want to explore the ocean outside of Waikiki or dive off the North Shore, you'll have the chance to swim with sea turtles, reef fish, and other surprise wildlife!
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After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with meeting details and what to bring.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE BOAT & OUR CREW
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We provide a unique, exclusive experience, no large, crowded boats. Our trips are limited to six guests for personalized attention and a safer, more engaging time.
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Our experienced crew are skilled watermen and women, ready to answer questions about wildlife, ocean conditions, and snorkeling.
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We offer tours on our 42ft Lagoon Catamaran, which is perfect for exploring Oahu’s scenic coast.
EQUIPMENT
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Our crew provides your mask, fins, and snorkel, just bring a swimsuit and your sense of adventure!
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Want to document the experience? Ask us about a photo or video package.
BOAT SAFETY & SNORKEL BRIEFING
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Worried about snorkeling? Don’t be! Our crew will answer questions, ease any fears, and guide you step-by-step.
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For experienced snorkelers, we also offer advanced tips.
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On the way to the site, the crew will review boat safety and emergency procedures.
THE BOAT RIDE TO YOUR SNORKELING SITE
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Enjoy epic views of Oahu’s coastline as we head to the best snorkeling spots. White sand beaches, oceanfront hotels, and green mountains await.
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Snorkel in Waikiki for views of the skyline and Diamond Head, or head to the North Shore and catch sights of Mt. Kaʻala and the Seven Mile Miracle.
SNORKELING IN HAWAII
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At the site, our crew will help you gear up and enter the water. Each trip is guided, our diver stays with you to ensure safety and highlight marine life.
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You'll see fish, turtles, and other underwater creatures. We’ll also explain how to interact respectfully for the best possible experience.
WHAT YOU WILL SEE SNORKELING IN HAWAII
We visit the best dive sites on Oahu to maximize your chances of seeing Hawaii’s unique marine life.
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Reef Fish
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Hawaii hosts an abundance of reef fish species. Many of these are only found in Hawaii and nowhere else in the world! Common species we see include:
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Black Triggerfish – black with green face markings
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Whitebar Surgeonfish – brown with vertical white stripe
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Racoon Butterflyfish – yellow and black with a face mask
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Bluespine Unicornfish – bluish-green with a small horn
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Hawaiian Chub – grey, often near the surface
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State Fish (Humuhumunukunukuapuaha) – orange triggerfish with a yellow "V"
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Turtles
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Green Sea Turtles are a highlight. They’re curious and often feed along the reef or surface for air.
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Respectful Viewing
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Give turtles space so they feel comfortable. If they approach, stay still and observe. Never chase or touch, it's illegal and harmful. We reserve the right to remove guests who harass wildlife.
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Rare Encounters
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You might also spot eels, small sharks, eagle rays, dolphins, or Hawaiian monk seals, always a thrill!
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IS IT SAFE TO SNORKEL IN WAIKIKI?
Yes! Waikiki’s calm, clear waters are ideal for all levels. We provide quality gear, safety briefings, and expert guidance.
BENEFITS OF SNORKELING IN WAIKIKI
Enjoy warm, crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and tropical fish. Snorkeling is a relaxing, eco-friendly way to connect with Hawaii’s marine life.
BEST PLACES TO SNORKEL IN WAIKIKI
Our tours visit top spots like Turtle Canyon and hidden gems between Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay, vibrant reefs and calm waters make Waikiki a premier destination.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do you go snorkeling in Waikiki?
Our primary snorkeling destination is Turtle Canyon, located about a mile off Waikiki Beach. It's a vibrant reef system known for resident Hawaiian green sea turtles, schools of tropical reef fish, and excellent visibility year-round. Depending on conditions and your group's preferences, we may also visit hidden spots between Diamond Head and Hanauma Bay or, on request, the North Shore.
Will I see sea turtles?
Sightings are extremely likely. Turtle Canyon is named for its resident population of Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu), and most of our snorkel tours encounter multiple turtles during the trip. While we can't guarantee wildlife sightings, our success rate is very high. Please remember turtles are federally protected, keep a respectful distance of about 10 feet and never touch.
Is snorkel gear included?
Yes, all gear is included in the tour price. We provide masks, snorkels, fins, life vests, and flotation devices. We sanitize all equipment between tours. If you prefer to bring your own gear, you're welcome to do so.
How long is the snorkel tour?
Our Waikiki Snorkeling Tour is 2 hours total: approximately 30 minutes of cruising to and from Turtle Canyon, and 60-90 minutes in the water at the snorkel site. Want more time? You can extend your charter at $150 per additional hour.
What is the best time of year to snorkel in Oahu?
Oahu is a year-round snorkeling destination. The water stays warm (73-80°F) and visibility is generally excellent on the south shore, where we operate most tours. Summer (May-September) typically offers the calmest conditions. Winter months are also excellent and add the bonus of hearing humpback whale songs underwater (December-April).
Can I snorkel if I've never done it before?
Absolutely. Our small-group format (max 6 guests) means our crew can give you full, personalized instruction before you enter the water. We'll cover breathing through the snorkel, clearing your mask, and using fins. Most first-time snorkelers feel comfortable within the first few minutes. Our in-water guide stays with you the entire time.
Is it safe to snorkel in Waikiki?
Yes. The waters at our snorkel sites are calm, warm, and clear, with shore protection that keeps surf and current manageable. We provide a full safety briefing before entering the water, life vests are available for all guests, and our USCG-licensed captain monitors conditions throughout the tour. We do not operate when conditions are unsafe.
What marine life will we see snorkeling?
Common sightings include Hawaiian green sea turtles, black triggerfish, whitebar surgeonfish, raccoon butterflyfish, bluespine unicornfish, and Hawaii's state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapua'a. Rarer encounters include eagle rays, eels, reef sharks (harmless), Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and the endangered Hawaiian monk seal. From December to April, you may also hear humpback whales singing underwater.
Do you offer photos or video?
Yes. Our crew can capture high-quality underwater and above-water photos and video of your group as an add-on package. Many guests find this is the easiest way to relive the experience without worrying about waterproofing their own phone or camera. Ask about photo/video pricing when you book.
Are there sharks in Waikiki?
Hawaiian waters are home to several shark species, but encounters with humans on the south shore reef sites we visit are extremely rare. The reef sharks occasionally spotted (whitetip and blacktip) are non-aggressive toward humans. Shark attacks on snorkelers in Waikiki are extraordinarily rare. Our captain monitors conditions and adjusts plans if any concerns arise.