Waikiki Sunset Sailing: 2-Hour Catamaran Swim & Sail

Sail into the Waikiki sunset and swim in the open ocean as day turns to night.

A 2-hour sunset sailing activity on a catamaran in Waikiki where you swim in the ocean and watch the sunset from the water with an experienced guide. The boat departs as the sun begins to set, so timing is fixed around that window. Swimming is optional, and you'll want a camera: the light changes fast and the colors are the whole point.

The experience

The Waikiki coastline is the backdrop for this sunset sail, and you're on the water instead of watching from shore. A catamaran carries a small group out as the light starts to shift, and for two hours you're anchored in the open ocean with nothing between you and the horizon. An experienced guide leads the activity, and the crew handles all the sailing. Your job is to watch the sky change and decide when to jump in. Swimming is optional, so you can stay on deck if you prefer, but the water is there and it's part of why people book this one.

The colors happen fast once the sun drops. Golden light turns to pink, then deep purple, and the whole Waikiki coastline glows behind you. Bring a camera: the phone version never quite captures it, and the moment doesn't hold still. Wear sunscreen and bring a light layer. The ocean wind cools down as the sun sets. If you swim, the water is clear and open. Snorkeling gear isn't provided because visibility drops in the evening hours, but the swimming itself is the draw.

Check-in requires your first and last name for Coast Guard compliance, and filling out waivers ahead of time speeds things up. A link comes via SMS after you book. Refreshments are available for purchase on the boat. Public transportation reaches the departure point, so you don't need a rental car to get there. Infants sit on an adult's lap, and the activity isn't recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, though a moderate fitness level is all you need for the sailing and swimming itself.

What’s included

• Two-hour catamaran sailing on the Waikiki coastline.
• experienced guide leading the activity.
• sunset views from the open ocean.
• optional swimming in the water.
• crew handling all sailing operations.
• refreshments available for purchase on board.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except FridayDeparts at 16:30Last departure this season: 31 Jan 2027

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (4 and older) · Infant (under 4): free

GroupUp to 140

Live guideEnglish

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

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 today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended with heart problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Pink Sails Waikiki

Is this one for you?Book this one if you want to watch the Waikiki sunset from the water instead of the beach, with the option to swim in the open ocean as the light changes: the catamaran puts you in the middle of it instead of watching from shore.

Traveler reviews

4.73★★★★★★★★★★

625 verified traveler reviews

5 ★553

4 ★32

3 ★9

2 ★8

1 ★23

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Infant (under 4): free.

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.

What time does the Waikiki sunset sailing depart?

The catamaran departs as the sun begins to set, so the exact departure time shifts with the season. Book through checkout to confirm the time for your date, since sunset happens earlier in winter and later in summer.

Can I swim during the Waikiki sunset sail, or is it just sailing?

Swimming is optional on this 2-hour activity. You can jump in the open ocean whenever you want, or stay on the catamaran and watch from deck. Both are part of the experience, and the crew is there either way.

Is snorkeling gear included on the sunset sail?

Snorkel gear is not provided on this tour because visibility in the water drops during sunset hours, so snorkeling isn't practical. The swimming itself is what people come for, not underwater viewing.

What should I bring on the Waikiki sunset catamaran?

Bring a camera (the light changes fast and the colors are the whole point), sunscreen, a towel, and a light sweater or jacket: the ocean wind cools down as the sun sets. Leave alcohol at home. BYOB is not allowed.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation to the Waikiki departure point?

Public transportation options are available near the departure point, so you can get there without a rental car. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included with this activity.