Waikiki Snorkeling: Coral Reef & Waterslide Adventure

Snorkel the reef, then slide and bounce on the water

Waikiki snorkeling activity combining a scenic cruise along the coastline toward Diamond Head, a coral reef snorkel away from crowded Turtle Canyon, and water activities including a 20-foot waterslide and floating lily pad. The boat holds a maximum of 40 guests, snorkel gear and flotation equipment are included, and sea turtles are seen on most trips. Departs from Kewalo Basin. The 2.5-hour adventure includes snacks and unlimited soft drinks.

The experience

Your adventure starts at Kewalo Basin with a scenic cruise along the Waikiki coastline toward Diamond Head. The boat stays calm in the waters near Waikiki, and you'll have time to watch for sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and humpback whales during whale season as you take in views of the shore from the water. After the cruise, the captain heads to a coral reef snorkeling site positioned away from the busy Turtle Canyon area (the spot where most of the crowds gather), so you get more room to explore.

Once at the reef, a safety briefing gets you ready, then you grab your included snorkel gear and enter the water to look for colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and other marine life in the coral habitat. Sea turtles show up on most trips, though wildlife sightings can't be guaranteed. The reef time is yours to spend however you want: snorkel as long as you like, or switch to the 20-foot waterslide, bounce on the water trampoline, or float on the lily pad. Guests rotate through the different water activities throughout the time at the reef, so there's no waiting for a turn. Snacks and unlimited soft drinks are served aboard before the boat returns to Kewalo Basin.

The group maxes out at 40 guests, which means the boat doesn't feel packed and you have actual space to move around. A live guide in English is with you throughout. Children from age 3 are welcome, making this work for families, couples, and groups. The 2.5-hour timeframe keeps the whole thing manageable: long enough to snorkel and play on the water, short enough to fit into a day with other plans.

What’s included

• Snorkel gear and life jackets.
• a 20-foot waterslide, water trampoline and floating lily pad.
• snacks and unlimited soft drinks.
• a live guide in English.
• scenic cruise along the Waikiki coastline toward Diamond Head.

Information

Lasts 2h 30m, runs every day at 10:30 and 14:00, from US$ 64.08 per person, with a live guide in English and with free cancellation up to 24 h before.

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 10:30 and 14:00Another time? ›

GroupUp to 40

Live guideEnglishOther languages ›

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Child (3 to 12 years) · Under 3: can't be booked

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Low physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Living Ocean Tours

Is this one for you?Groups of up to 40 work well here because the boat doesn't feel crowded and you have real space to snorkel, slide and play on the water without jostling for room. Families with kids from age 3 find the mix of activities (cruising, snorkeling and water play) keeps everyone engaged for the full 2.5 hours.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 12 years). Children under 3 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

Will I actually see sea turtles on this Waikiki snorkel?

Sea turtles are seen on most trips to this coral reef site, though sightings are never guaranteed because they are wild animals. The reef location away from Turtle Canyon gives you a different habitat to explore, and the odds are good, but wildlife encounters depend on the day and the season.

What's included in the snorkeling gear, and do I need my own equipment?

Snorkel gear and life jackets are included with your ticket, so you don't need to bring or rent your own. The gear is provided and fitted for you before you enter the water.

How rough is the ocean near Waikiki, and could I get seasick?

The ocean near Waikiki is generally calm, which is one reason this snorkel works for families and mixed fitness levels. If you're prone to seasickness or not used to being on boats, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about preventative measures before your trip.

Can I do the waterslide and water trampoline if I'm not a strong swimmer?

Life jackets and flotation equipment are included, and the water activities are designed for mixed abilities. The floating lily pad is a relaxation option if you want to skip the slide and trampoline, and you can spend your time however suits you best.

What time does the boat leave, and how early do I need to arrive?

The boat departs from Kewalo Basin on a set schedule. You'll need to arrive before the passenger safety briefing starts. If you're late and miss the briefing, your ticket is forfeited and refunds cannot be processed, so plan to get there with time to spare.

What happens if the weather is bad on the day of my snorkel?

In unsafe weather or heavy rain, the activity is cancelled. The operator notifies guests by email and text message as soon as a cancellation is made, so you'll know before you head to the basin.