Waikiki Sunset Boat Cruise: Dolphins, Whales & Diamond Head

Sunset, music, and wildlife off the Waikiki coast

A 90-minute sunset boat cruise departing from Waikiki that sails the coastline toward Diamond Head Crater as the sun sets over the water. The tour includes snacks and local beverages. Dolphins and Hawaiian green sea turtles are frequently spotted, and humpback whales appear in winter months. Children from age 3 are welcome, and infants sit on an adult's lap.

The experience

The boat leaves as the light starts to soften, and you're on the water for the whole descent. You'll cruise the Waikiki coastline with unobstructed views of Diamond Head Crater rising from the shore, the city lights beginning to glow, and the sun reflecting off the water as it drops. A live guide in English narrates the route, and good music plays while you settle in with a cold beverage and snacks. The cooler on board is stocked with ice if you want to bring your own drinks (21+) or extra food.

Dolphins and large Hawaiian green sea turtles surface regularly along this stretch of coast. In winter months, humpback whales move into the warm waters near Waikiki and are frequently seen from the boat. The unobstructed sightlines mean you'll have clear shots for photos as the light changes. The reflection on the water is the thing most people come back to.

What’s included

• Snacks and local beverages (juices and water).
• coolers stocked with ice for your own drinks or food.
• a 90-minute sunset cruise along the Waikiki coastline with views of Diamond Head Crater.
• a live guide in English.
• music throughout the tour.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 17:30

Book up toStart time

AgesAdult (18 and older) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (3 to 11 years) · Under 3: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 40

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 yesterday

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Charter Oahu

Is this one for you?The boat departs from Waikiki, so if you're staying in the area or without a rental car, you skip the drive to a distant harbor. The sunset happens on the water where you already are, and you're back before dark.

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Top questions

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (3 to 11 years). Under 3: they 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.

What wildlife might I see on the Waikiki sunset cruise?

Dolphins and Hawaiian green sea turtles surface regularly along the Waikiki coastline. Humpback whales are frequently spotted during the winter months when they move into the warm waters near the island.

How long is the sunset boat cruise?

The cruise runs 90 minutes from departure to return, timed to catch the full descent of the sun over the water.

What's included in the ticket price?

Snacks and local beverages (juices and water) are provided. The boat carries a cooler stocked with ice if you want to bring additional snacks or your own drinks (alcohol is BYOB for guests 21+).

Can I bring my own food or drinks?

Yes. You can bring your own beverages and snacks. Coolers with ice are provided on the boat. Alcohol is allowed for guests 21 and older (BYOB).

What can I see from the boat besides wildlife?

The cruise passes Diamond Head Crater along the Waikiki coastline and offers views of the city lights as they come on. The sunset reflection on the water is a major draw for photography.