Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel Small Group & BYOB Boat

Summary

Swim with turtles off Waikiki on a relaxed small group boat

You’ll float above reefs at Turtle Canyon alongside gentle sea turtles and colorful fish, guided by locals who know every current and coral patch. With premium snorkel gear included and space to relax on deck or floating mats, you’ll find both adventure and calm — plus snacks and BYOB options for an easygoing vibe you might not expect so close to Waikiki.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the salt in the air — not sharp, but soft and warm, almost sweet. We stepped onto the boat at Waikiki’s harbor and I could already hear someone’s playlist mixing with the sound of waves against the hull. Our guide, Keoni, handed out snorkel gear and cracked a joke about how he still can’t get used to fins on dry land (I tripped immediately after that, so yeah). There were maybe a dozen of us, all a little awkward at first but loosening up as we drifted out toward Turtle Canyon.

I’d never actually seen a Hawaiian green sea turtle before — not like this. The water was clearer than I expected, and when I slipped in (awkward again), it felt cool but not cold. Keoni pointed out the “cleaning station” where turtles just… hovered while tiny fish zipped around them. It was quiet except for muffled laughter through snorkels when one of the turtles swam right up close; I swear its eyes followed me for a second. You could hear people exhale under their masks, that weird echoey sound.

After swimming around for what felt like forever (in a good way), some folks lounged on these floating mats tied to the boat. I tried it too — honestly, lying there half-wet with sun on my face and juice in hand was almost as good as seeing the turtles. Someone shared chips from the snack stash; we talked about where everyone was from while music played low in the background. I didn’t expect to feel so relaxed out there, just bobbing along with strangers who didn’t feel like strangers anymore.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel and relax at Turtle Canyon

• Board BYOB vessel in Waikiki
• Receive premium snorkel gear
• Snorkel with certified guides
• Spot green sea turtles and fish
• Use floating platforms to relax
• Enjoy snacks, juice, and water

Top questions

How many people are on the Turtle Canyon snorkel tour?

The tour is limited to 20 guests per trip for a small group experience.

Are snacks and drinks provided on this Waikiki snorkeling tour?

Yes, snacks, juice, and water are included. You can also bring your own drinks (BYOB).

Is snorkeling equipment included in the Turtle Canyon trip?

Yes, premium snorkel gear and flotation devices are provided for all guests.

Can non-swimmers join the Turtle Canyon snorkel adventure?

Yes, there’s a swim step for easy access and floating platforms for relaxing if you don’t want to swim far.

Where does this Oahu snorkeling tour depart from?

The tour departs from Waikiki Harbor in Honolulu, Oahu.

Will we see sea turtles during this Waikiki snorkeling trip?

You’ll visit Turtle Canyon reef where Hawaiian green sea turtles are commonly spotted at their cleaning station.

What’s included

Your day includes use of premium snorkeling equipment and flotation devices at Turtle Canyon reef near Waikiki, plus snacks, juice, water onboard — and you’re welcome to bring your own drinks too. The small group size means more space to relax on deck or floating platforms while local guides keep things safe and easygoing throughout your adventure.