Waikoloa & Kona: Catamaran Sunset Sail with Drinks

Summary

Barefoot sunset sailing waikoloa cocktails sea turtles views

You’ll step barefoot into Waikoloa’s gentle surf before boarding a catamaran with local drinks in hand. Cruise past black lava fields and coconut groves as you watch for sea turtles and volcanic peaks in the distance. As sunset falls over Anaeho'omalu Bay, you might catch that legendary green flash—or just find yourself quietly smiling at how good it feels to be out there.

What’s the experience like?

Li grinned at me as we lined up on the sand at Anaeho'omalu Bay—she handed off her sandals to the crew and said, “Shoes off, worries off.” I wasn’t sure if I was supposed to laugh or just nod, but it kind of set the tone. The water was cooler than I expected when I stepped in (just a few steps, but still), and my toes dug into that salt-and-pepper sand while we waited for the tender boat. There was this faint smell of plumeria somewhere—maybe from someone’s hair oil?—and a couple of kids were chasing each other near the coconut trees. It felt like everyone was just quietly excited, you know?

Once we boarded The Spirit of Aloha catamaran (it’s big, but not crowded), our captain did a quick intro—he pointed out Mauna Kea in the distance, which looked almost unreal against the sky. The deck had this warm texture underfoot from being sun-baked all day. Someone handed me a cocktail (I picked something with lilikoi) and it tasted both sweet and tart; honestly, I could’ve had three. There were little bites to eat too—nothing fancy, but good enough that people kept going back for more. We cruised along the Waikoloa and Kohala-Kona shoreline, and every so often someone would shout “turtle!” and half of us would rush over to one side. Not sure if I ever actually saw one or just shadows in the water.

The main keyword here is sunset sail Waikoloa—I mean, that’s what everyone’s here for. When the sun started dipping low, everything got quiet except for some clinking glasses and wind through the sails (which are this wild orange color). Our guide told us about the “green flash” and everyone squinted at the horizon like we were about to win a prize. Did I see it? Maybe. Or maybe I wanted to believe I did. Either way, that last bit of light on the Pacific felt different—kind of soft around the edges—and even now when I think about it, there’s this weird calm that comes back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Waikoloa Catamaran Sunset Sail

• Walk from Hilton Waikoloa Village
• Board catamaran at Anaehoomalu Bay
• Store shoes for barefoot cruise
• Enjoy cocktails and nonalcoholic drinks
• Sail along Kona-Kohala coastline
• View rugged lava fields and turquoise sea
• Spot sea turtles in blue waters
• See volcanic peaks on clear days
• Watch sunset and look for green flash
• Return to Anaehoomalu Bay

Top questions

Is barefoot boarding required for this Waikoloa sunset sail?

Yes, all guests board barefoot from Anaeho'omalu Bay; shoes are stored safely during the cruise.

Where does the catamaran sunset cruise depart from?

The cruise departs from Anaeho'omalu Bay (A-Bay), near Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Are drinks included on this Kona-Kohala sunset sail?

Yes, complimentary local beer, signature cocktails, wine, and nonalcoholic beverages are included.

How long does the Waikoloa sunset catamaran sail last?

The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours; timing may vary with weather conditions.

Can children join this Waikoloa catamaran sunset tour?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult; alcohol is only served to those 21+.

What should I wear for this sunset sailing trip?

Wear casual clothing that can get wet during beach boarding; shoes will be stored during the cruise.

Is transportation provided to Anaeho'omalu Bay?

No hotel pickup is included; public transportation options are available nearby.

Will we see sea turtles on this sunset cruise?

The area is known for frequent sea turtle sightings but they cannot be guaranteed.

What’s included

Your evening includes barefoot boarding from Anaeho'omalu Bay onto a 54-foot catamaran, unlimited local beer, signature cocktails or wine plus nonalcoholic drinks throughout the sail, light hors d'oeuvres served onboard as you cruise along Waikoloa and Kohala-Kona’s coastline before returning to shore after sunset.