For the best views of Oahu’s technicolour coral reefs, talc-white beaches and ancient volcanoes, take to the water on a boat tour from Waikiki.
An afternoon tour in a glass bottom boat (Photo: Getyourguide.com)
Located on the south shore of Honolulu, Waikiki was once a playground for royalty. Today it’s Hawaii’s most famous spot, famed for its Insta-friendly beach and sterling surf scene. But half the fun awaits out in the Pacific Ocean. Before the sun dips below the horizon, hop aboard a catamaran or glass-bottomed boat to explore the best of it. There are dozens of boat tours to choose from, so we’ve selected five of the best Waikiki boat tours based on customer reviews, value for money and itinerary.
Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki
For those who are short on time, this one-hour tour offers an exhilarating introduction to the Pacific Ocean from the comfort of a glass-bottom boat. Led by a local guide, the Haleiwa Queen cruise offers up sparkling views of live tropical reefs, playful sea turtles and dolphins, schools of tropical fish and one of Hawaii’s most famous shipwrecks. There’s plenty to see on dry land too, from jungle-coated mountains to coffee plantations. Tour prices include the tour, boat ride and a bottle of water. From £34.65 per person
Friday Night Waikiki Fireworks Catamaran Cruise
An evening boat tour to see the famous fireworks (Photo: Viator.com)
Waikiki’s Friday night fireworks are renowned. You could hotfoot to the Hilton for a front row seat, but one of the best ways to enjoy them is from the water. This two-hour catamaran trip offers superb views of the Waikiki coastline lit up by catherine wheels, firecrackers and rockets, and the twinkling ocean. A premium sound system sets the mood and cocktails, beers, wine and soft drinks are available from a cash bar to keep the party pumping. From £55.71 per person.
Book at Viator.com
Moana’s 2-hour Guided Turtle Adventure at Wakiki
Travelling with little ones needn’t mean missing out on an open-seas adventure. This two-hour tour offers an accessible and comfortable way for families to explore Oahu’s colourful coral reefs and rich marine life. Previous customers have spotted octopus, starfish and plenty of turtles. The trip takes place aboard a comfortable catamaran, which is kitted out with snorkels, masks and an onboard bar. Tour times are flexible too, with an option to pick either a morning or afternoon slot. From £70.73 per person.
Book at Viator.com
Eco-friendly Whale Watching Cruise
Humpback whale watching aboard a luxurious catamaran (Photo: Getyourguide)
This action-packed two-hour tour gives travellers the chance to see humpback whales frolicking in their natural habitat. Set aboard a luxury double-deck catamaran, customers will get to explore some of Hawaii’s smaller islands and islets that are particularly popular with families of humpback whales. If you don’t spot any, you can book another tour for free too. Tour prices include the cruise and tour, as well as unlimited soda, juice and water. From £93.22
Book at Getyourguide.com
3-hour Waikiki Snorkel and Sailing Adventure with Lunch
Oahu is famed for its colourful coral heads, rainbow runner and bright yellow tang – and this half-day tour gives travellers the best chance of getting up close to them. The tour takes place aboard Gold Coast Catamaran, a 48-passenger boat, and sets sail from Waikiki. During the trip, guests are invited to don a snorkel mask and fins and hop off the boat to explore the best of the Pacific Ocean. Tour prices include the tour, snorkelling equipment, unlimited soda and juices, and a light lunch. From £140.31
Book at Getyourguide.com