Oahu West Coast: Snorkeling Cruise & Dolphin Watch with Buffet

Summary

Snorkel clear waters watch dolphins cruise Oahu’s wild west coast

You’ll ride a comfy catamaran along Oahu’s wild Waianae Coast with local guides who actually know these waters. Watch dolphins play nearby, snorkel over bright reefs with turtles and tropical fish below you, then rinse off and dig into a hot Hawaiian buffet with drinks as you cruise back toward shore. It’s relaxed but kind of magical — especially if you catch those quiet moments between all the excitement.

What’s the experience like?

I stepped off the bus in Waianae still half-asleep, but the air was salty and warm, and suddenly I was wide awake. Our guide — I think her name was Malia — handed me ginger pills “just in case,” she winked. The catamaran looked bigger than I pictured, all white and blue against the green hills. There were only a handful of us on this morning trip; some families, a couple from Japan snapping photos already. The crew joked around as we set out, telling us stories about the coast — apparently, these waters are still mostly untouched. You could feel that; it was quieter out here than Waikiki.

The first time someone spotted dolphins, there was this weird hush before everyone scrambled to one side of the boat. A whole pod just glided by like they owned the place (which they probably do). One of the crew said something about them being spinner dolphins — honestly, I missed most of it because I was just staring. Later we saw turtles too, their heads popping up for a breath. It’s funny how you can be surrounded by people but still feel like you’re alone with the ocean for a second.

Snorkeling itself? The water felt cooler than I expected when I slid in — not cold, just a shock after the sun. Fish everywhere, colors that didn’t look real at first. Someone pointed out a parrotfish munching on coral and I tried to remember what Malia called it in Hawaiian (I definitely butchered it when I tried to say it). She laughed though. Afterward, rinsing off under a hot shower on deck felt like such a small luxury. My hair smelled like salt even after.

The buffet hit different after swimming — kalua pig and teriyaki chicken piled up next to rice and pineapple that tasted way sweeter than back home. Four drinks included (I stopped at two mai tais because…well, ocean legs). On the way back to shore, everyone seemed quieter; maybe just full or maybe letting it sink in. Sometimes you get these little moments where Hawaii feels both familiar and completely new at once. Still thinking about those dolphins.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling cruise and dolphin watch

• Pickup from Waikiki hotel
• Travel to marina by coach
• Board 61-foot catamaran
• Cruise north along Oahu's west coast
• Spot dolphins, whales, turtles
• Stop boat for marine viewing
• Receive snorkeling gear and instructions
• Snorkel for one hour
• Rinse off in freshwater showers
• Enjoy unlimited drinks on board
• Eat Hawaiian buffet inside cabin
• Leisurely cruise back to marina
• Return to Waikiki hotel

Top questions

How long is the snorkeling cruise from Waikiki?

The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours plus transport time from Waikiki hotels.

Are dolphin sightings guaranteed on this tour?

Dolphin sightings are common but not guaranteed since they are wild animals.

Is lunch included on the Oahu snorkeling cruise?

Yes, a hot Hawaiian buffet lunch is served onboard after snorkeling.

Are alcoholic drinks included during the cruise?

Yes, up to four alcoholic beverages per person are included (beer, wine, mai tai or margarita).

What marine life can you see on this day trip?

You may see dolphins, green sea turtles, colorful fish, coral reefs and—seasonally—humpback whales.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this tour?

Yes, snorkels, masks, fins and flotation vests/noodles are provided for all guests.

Does this tour include hotel pickup from Waikiki?

Optional roundtrip transportation from central Waikiki hotels is available.

Are showers available after snorkeling?

Yes, there are six warm freshwater showers onboard plus changing rooms and restrooms.

What’s included

Your day includes optional roundtrip pickup from your Waikiki hotel to Waianae marina where you’ll board a custom catamaran with an expert local crew. Snorkeling gear is provided along with reef-safe sunscreen and ginger pills if needed. After exploring underwater life with guides close by for help or questions, enjoy hot freshwater showers before sitting down to a Hawaiian buffet lunch (dietary needs accommodated) plus up to four alcoholic or unlimited nonalcoholic drinks before heading back to shore.