Waikiki: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour & Small Group Boat

Summary

Swim close to sea turtles at Waikiki’s Turtle Canyon reef

You’ll slip into clear Waikiki waters with a small group and spot Hawaiian green sea turtles gliding around Turtle Canyon reef. Local guides keep things relaxed and safe while sharing stories (and maybe a few jokes). There’s time to float quietly among fish and turtles, then unwind on deck with a drink before heading back — salty hair guaranteed.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was how the boat felt — not crowded, just a handful of us shuffling around barefoot, sunscreen still sticky on my arms. We left Waikiki behind pretty quick, Diamond Head sort of watching over us as we motored out. Our guide, Keahi, grinned and said we’d see turtles for sure. He sounded so casual about it that I almost didn’t believe him.

I could smell the salt before I even got in. The water at Turtle Canyon was clearer than I expected — like someone turned up the brightness on everything. Keahi handed me my mask and gave a quick run-through (he called it “the turtle talk,” which made me laugh). There was this quiet moment right before slipping in, just the slap of waves against the hull and someone’s nervous laugh behind me. Then the cold hit my face and suddenly there were turtles — big ones, drifting up from below like they owned the place. One swam so close I could see little fish cleaning its shell. We all floated there, trying not to squeal or flail too much. You’re not supposed to touch them — Keahi reminded us again — but honestly, you wouldn’t want to mess up their slow ballet anyway.

After about 50 minutes (felt shorter), most of us climbed back up for drinks and sun on deck. My hair was full of salt and my hands had that weird pruney feeling but I couldn’t stop grinning. Someone spotted a dolphin fin way off near the horizon — or maybe it was just wishful thinking, but nobody argued. Keahi poured us sodas and told stories about growing up here; he made fun of how tourists always call them “tortoises.” The wind picked up a little and I watched Waikiki come back into focus as we headed in. Still think about those turtles sometimes — they move so slow it makes you want to slow down too, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Snorkel with turtles at Turtle Canyon

• Depart from Waikiki coast
• Anchor at Turtle Canyon reef
• Receive snorkel gear
• Snorkel with green sea turtles
• Explore reef with guides
• Observe other marine life
• Return to boat after snorkeling
• Relax with complimentary beverages

Top questions

Are turtle sightings guaranteed on this Turtle Canyon snorkel tour?

Yes, turtle sightings are 100% guaranteed during the tour.

How many people are on each Turtle Canyon snorkel boat?

The group size is limited to 19 passengers per boat for a more intimate experience.

Is snorkel equipment provided for this Waikiki tour?

Yes, all snorkel gear including flotation vests is included.

How long do you spend snorkeling at Turtle Canyon?

You’ll spend about 50 minutes in the water exploring the reef with guides.

Are there lifeguard-certified guides on board?

Yes, all snorkel guides are lifeguard certified for safety.

Can you touch or swim very close to the turtles?

No, touching or chasing turtles is not allowed; guests must stay at least 10 feet away.

Is transportation included from hotels in Waikiki?

No hotel pickup is included but public transportation options are nearby.

Are drinks included during the tour?

Complimentary soft drinks are available onboard after snorkeling.

What’s included

Your day includes all snorkel equipment and flotation vests, guidance from experienced lifeguard-certified crew throughout your time at Turtle Canyon reef, plus complimentary soft drinks once you’re back on deck after swimming with Hawaiian green sea turtles.