Waikiki: Snorkel Cruise, Waterslide & Wildlife Sighting

Summary

Snorkeling off Waikiki with sea turtles playful slides and Diamond Head views

You’ll cruise from Waikiki toward Diamond Head with local guides, snorkeling above coral reefs and maybe spotting sea turtles or dolphins along the way. There’s time to slide into the Pacific or float in the sun before snacks and soft drinks onboard bring everyone together for laughs—and a few stories to take home.

What’s the experience like?

We pushed off from Kewalo Basin just after noon, the sun already warming my shoulders and that salty breeze tangling my hair. The boat crew—locals, all of them—joked about who’d spot a turtle first as we drifted out toward open water. I kept glancing back at Honolulu’s skyline shrinking behind us, but honestly, it was the water below that pulled my attention. It’s this impossible blue you don’t really believe until you’re floating right in it.

Anchored just off Waikiki, our guide handed me a mask and said, “Don’t worry if you’re new—just breathe slow.” I hesitated for a second (I’m not exactly an expert swimmer), but the water felt warmer than I expected. Slipping under, I caught flashes of yellow fish darting around coral—tiny electric movements. Someone shouted “honu!” and sure enough, a sea turtle glided by like it owned the place. My mask fogged up from smiling too much.

I didn’t think I’d actually use the big waterslide but…well, peer pressure’s real when everyone else is laughing their way down. The rush landing in the Pacific is something else—salty splash in your nose, sun on your face. After that, I just sprawled on one of those floating lily pads with a can of pineapple soda and let my legs dangle in the water. There were snacks too (chips mostly), nothing fancy but somehow perfect after swimming.

On our way back along the coast toward Diamond Head, someone spotted dolphins riding our wake. The crew got almost as excited as we did—one guy even tried to mimic their squeaks (not close). Sunlight hit the waves at this angle that made everything look softer for a minute or two. Still think about that view sometimes when I hear seagulls now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkeling and wildlife cruise in Waikiki

• Cruise from Kewalo Basin to snorkeling site
• Snorkel among tropical fish and coral reefs
• Use waterslide, water trampoline, and lily pad
• Enjoy snacks and soft drinks on board
• Cruise along Waikiki coast toward Diamond Head
• Watch for sea turtles, dolphins, and whales

Top questions

Is snorkeling gear included on this Waikiki cruise?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided for you during the tour.

Are snacks and drinks available on board?

Yes, snacks and unlimited soft drinks are included throughout the cruise.

Can beginners join this Waikiki snorkeling cruise?

Absolutely—the crew helps swimmers of all skill levels feel comfortable in the water.

How long does it take to reach the snorkeling site from Kewalo Basin?

The boat reaches the snorkeling site just off Waikiki after a short cruise from Kewalo Basin.

Are there chances to see sea turtles or dolphins?

You might spot sea turtles year-round and dolphins or humpback whales during winter months.

Is there an age restriction for this tour?

The minimum age to join is 3 years old.

What other activities are offered besides snorkeling?

You can try out a 20-foot waterslide, relax on floating lily pads, or enjoy a water trampoline.

Is life jacket use mandatory?

Life jackets are available for everyone; use is encouraged especially for less confident swimmers.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at Kewalo Basin harbor, all snorkeling gear and life jackets, access to a two-story waterslide and floating lily pad platform, plus unlimited soft drinks and simple snacks while cruising along Waikiki’s coast toward Diamond Head before heading back ashore together.