Waikiki Sunset Cruise: DJ Party, Full Bar & Diamond Head Views

Summary

Waikiki sunset cruise with DJ, drinks, city lights and Diamond Head glow

You’ll board a two-deck powerboat for a Waikiki sunset cruise with live DJ beats, a full bar (first drink included), and wraparound seating for perfect views of Diamond Head and Honolulu’s city lights. Watch for dolphins or sea turtles as you dance under LED lights or just relax with new friends — there’s no rush here, only good energy.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so giddy just stepping barefoot onto the boat — shoes off, toes on cool deck, the sky already melting into that pink-gold haze over Waikiki. There’s something about seeing Honolulu from the water that makes it all feel new again. Our guide (I think his name was Kimo?) greeted us with this big grin and handed out drink tickets right away. The air smelled like salt and sunscreen and someone’s fruity cocktail. I’m not sure what I was expecting from a Waikiki sunset party cruise, but it wasn’t this weird mix of calm and anticipation — like everyone’s waiting for something to start.

The DJ started spinning just as we passed Diamond Head — honestly, I almost missed it because I was busy trying to pronounce “Leahi” (Li laughed when I tried; probably butchered it). The music wasn’t too loud at first; you could still hear people talking, laughing, the slap of waves against the hull. Then the lights kicked in — not blinding or anything, just enough for people to start moving. There were locals celebrating birthdays next to tourists taking a million skyline photos (guilty). At some point I caught a glimpse of spinner dolphins in the distance — or maybe they were just shadows? Hard to tell after my second mai tai.

Night settled in so gently you barely noticed until Honolulu turned into this glittering line behind us. I liked how nobody seemed rushed — people danced if they wanted or just leaned back on those wraparound seats with their drinks. The crew kept things light; someone told me winter is when you might spot humpback whales out here, which made me wish I’d booked this party cruise in January instead of July. Still, there was plenty to look at: city lights flickering on the water, Diamond Head glowing quietly behind us. I still think about that view sometimes when I hear certain songs now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waikiki Sunset Cruise and Sightseeing

• Board luxury two-deck powerboat
• Enjoy first complimentary drink
• Listen to live DJ music
• View Diamond Head at golden hour
• Cruise along Waikiki coastline
• See Honolulu city lights
• Spot spinner dolphins and sea turtles
• Dance under synced LED lights

Top questions

Is there a live DJ on the Waikiki sunset cruise?

Yes, there is a live DJ onboard playing music throughout the cruise.

Does the Waikiki party cruise include drinks?

Your first adult drink is included with your ticket; additional drinks are available for purchase at the full bar.

What landmarks will I see during the sunset party cruise?

You’ll see Diamond Head and the Honolulu coastline as part of the route.

Are shoes allowed on this Waikiki boat tour?

No, shoes are not allowed on this tour; guests go barefoot onboard.

Is transportation included for the Waikiki sunset party cruise?

No hotel pickup is included; public transport options are nearby and rideshares are recommended due to limited parking.

Can you spot wildlife during the Waikiki sunset cruise?

You may see Hawaiian spinner dolphins or sea turtles; humpback whales are possible during winter months.

Is this Waikiki sunset party cruise suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What age do you have to be to join this party cruise?

This tour is adults-only; guests must be 21 years or older.

What’s included

Your evening includes boarding a luxury two-deck powerboat with wraparound seating and open bow access, one complimentary adult drink from the full bar, live DJ music through a top-notch sound system, LED lighting for nighttime dancing vibes, plus scenic views of Diamond Head and Honolulu’s coastline before returning to shore after dark.