Waikiki: Turtle Canyon Snorkel & Luxury Catamaran Bar

Summary

Snorkeling with turtles off Waikiki then drinks under Diamond Head

You’ll snorkel alongside sea turtles at Turtle Canyon near Waikiki, guided by locals who know every current and reef. Certified lifeguards watch over you as you float or explore from a secured raft. Afterward, relax on cushioned seats with your first drink included while Diamond Head looms quietly in the distance—there’s an easy warmth to it all.

What’s the experience like?

I forgot my sunscreen — classic me. The crew on Moana’s catamaran just laughed and handed me some extra, saying it happens all the time out here off Waikiki. I liked that they didn’t make a big deal of it. The boat itself felt huge but not crowded, with these soft seats that almost swallowed you up. We set off with Diamond Head behind us and someone’s reggae playlist drifting through the air, a little salty and warm.

Our guide, Kai, showed us how to use the snorkel gear (I always forget which way the straps go), and he was patient even when I fumbled with my mask. There were two lifeguards in bright shirts actually in the water on boards — made me feel weirdly safe, like they’d spot if I panicked or swallowed half the Pacific. When we finally slid into Turtle Canyon, I could hear my own breathing echoing in the snorkel until suddenly — sea turtles, just gliding past like they owned the place. It’s quieter underwater than you’d think, except for these little clicks and pops from fish nibbling at coral.

I tried waving at one turtle (not sure why), and Kai grinned through his mask. He pointed out a rainbow wrasse darting by — “uhu,” he said softly, Hawaiian name for parrotfish. I probably pronounced it wrong later; Li laughed when I tried anyway. The raft tied to the boat was busy with kids giggling and parents pretending not to be nervous. The sun kept shifting behind clouds so sometimes everything looked silver-blue instead of postcard bright.

Back on board, everyone seemed mellow — maybe it was relief or maybe just that first free drink from the bar kicking in (Mai Tai for me). My hair felt stiff with salt but I didn’t care; there was this easy feeling of being part of something local but relaxed, not staged. I still think about that view of Diamond Head from the water — how small all our worries looked from out there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and sail Waikiki coast

• Board luxury catamaran
• Cruise along Waikiki coast
• Snorkel at Turtle Canyon
• Enjoy views of Diamond Head
• Relax at premium onboard bar

Top questions

Is snorkeling equipment included on this Waikiki turtle tour?

Yes, top quality snorkeling gear is provided for all guests.

Are there lifeguards during the Turtle Canyon snorkeling?

Yes, there are 2-4 certified lifeguards in the water on rescue boards plus crew watching from the vessel.

Does this tour include drinks or a bar?

Your first drink from the premium onboard bar is complimentary; other cocktails are available for purchase.

Is this Turtle Canyon tour suitable for beginners or kids?

Yes, there’s a large secured raft attached to the vessel for beginners and children to enjoy safely.

How many restrooms are available on board?

The catamaran has two restrooms available for guest use during the trip.

Do I need strong swimming skills to join this Waikiki snorkeling trip?

You should have basic swimming skills and at least moderate physical fitness for safety reasons.

Is pickup included in this Waikiki catamaran tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are nearby instead.

What’s included

Your day includes use of high-quality snorkel equipment, guidance from certified lifeguards both on rescue boards in the water and watching from the vessel, access to a large secured raft perfect for beginners or kids, ample cushioned seating throughout your cruise along Waikiki’s coast with Diamond Head views, two restrooms onboard for comfort—and your first round from their premium full bar is complimentary before heading back ashore.