Waikiki: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour Small Group Max 6

Summary

Snorkel Waikiki’s Turtle Canyon in a small group with real locals

You’ll float above Turtle Canyon’s reefs with just five other guests as local guides help you spot green sea turtles and tropical fish right off Waikiki. With all snorkeling gear provided and drinks on board, you’ll have space to relax between swims — plus a free rebooking if you don’t see turtles. It’s more personal than you expect, in all the best ways.

What’s the experience like?

I woke up still salty from yesterday’s swim and, honestly, wasn’t sure if I wanted to get back in the water so soon. But there we were — shoes off, toes pressed into the deck of this catamaran bobbing just off Waikiki. The boat was smaller than I expected, only six of us plus our guide, Kaleo. He handed me a mask and grinned, “You’ll see honu today, promise.” I could smell sunscreen and something faintly metallic from the rails. The sun felt sharp but not mean yet. I noticed an older couple nervously checking their straps; Kaleo gave them a thumbs-up and told us about his grandma’s favorite turtle legend while we motored out.

The engine cut out near Turtle Canyon and suddenly it was quiet except for water slapping hull. I slid into the ocean — colder than I thought — and let myself float. There was this weird moment where everything slowed down: my breath echoing in my ears, someone giggling behind me (maybe it was me?), and then a green sea turtle just… appeared. Not dramatic or anything — just doing its thing, munching on coral. Our guide pointed at some rainbow-colored fish darting around us; he called one a “humuhumunukunukuapua’a” (I tried saying it later — failed spectacularly). The water tasted like salt and plastic mouthpiece, but honestly? Worth it for that view under the surface.

Back on board, everyone swapped stories about what they’d seen — spinner dolphins in the distance, maybe even a whale spout (Kaleo said it was early for that). Juice boxes appeared from somewhere; mine tasted like guava and childhood summers. We sprawled on bean bags while the boat drifted back toward Waikiki’s skyline. My skin felt sticky from salt and sunblock but I didn’t care much. Still thinking about that turtle looking straight at me like I was the odd one out.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Turtle Canyon snorkeling adventure

• Board deluxe power catamaran
• Receive snorkeling briefing
• Get top-tier snorkel gear
• Snorkel at Turtle Canyon
• Spot green sea turtles and reef fish
• Watch for dolphins and whales
• Learn about marine wildlife
• Relax and enjoy Pacific views

Top questions

How many people are on the Turtle Canyon snorkel tour?

The tour has a maximum of 6 passengers per boat.

Is snorkeling gear included on this Waikiki tour?

Yes, all snorkeling equipment is provided for guests.

What happens if we don’t see turtles at Turtle Canyon?

If you don’t see turtles, you can book again for free.

Are drinks included during the snorkel trip?

Yes, local juices and soda are available on board.

Is there shade or seating on the boat?

The catamaran has a shaded cabin plus lounge nets and marine bean bags for relaxing.

Do guides provide snorkel instruction?

Yes, hands-on snorkel instruction is included before entering the water.

Is this tour suitable for beginners or kids?

Basic swimming ability is required; flotation is provided. Infants/children can ride in a pram or stroller on board but not snorkel.

Can we see dolphins or whales too?

You may spot spinner dolphins or humpback whales in season along the coast.

What’s included

Your day includes hands-on snorkel instruction from local guides, use of top-quality snorkeling equipment (with flotation), local juices and sodas served onboard, access to lounge nets and marine bean bags for relaxing between swims, plus a shaded cabin and marine bathroom for comfort throughout your small group adventure at Turtle Canyon near Waikiki.