Back to list

Waikiki Whale Watching Tour in Honolulu (Oahu)

Three Tiki Sailing • 95 Holomoana St • Honolulu, HI 96815

View on Map

A large whale and a smaller whale swim underwater side by side in clear blue water, illuminated by sunlight streaming from above.

Three people and a child stand on a boat deck overlooking the ocean, with a city and mountain visible in the distance under a sunny sky.

A whale’s tail fin rises above the surface of blue ocean water, creating splashes as the animal dives.

A person holding a small octopus with both hands on a boat, with the ocean and a distant shoreline visible in the background.

View Gallery

Starting at

$77.99

Total Price: $79.55 (USD)

Book Now

INSTANT CONFIRMATION

Oahu Whale Watching from a Sailboat

Details

Map

FAQs

Select Tickets

Overview

Make a splash with whale watching in Honolulu on this 2-hour Waikiki cruise. Watch humpback whales leap, tail-slap, and sing while naturalists share marine insights. Scenic views of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline complete this unforgettable ocean adventure.

up to 2 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

Seasonal whale sightings from December to April; peak months are January–March.
Hear live whale songs through an onboard hydrophone system.
Watch whales breach, tail slap, and dive in Hawaiian waters.
Spacious trimaran featuring 1,000 sq. ft. of deck space, shaded seating, and open viewing areas.
Enjoy scenic views of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline.
Onboard naturalists share whale facts and ocean ecology insights.
Whale sightings guaranteed—if no one on board sees a whale, ride again free (subject to availability).
BYOB-friendly with bottled water and cooler with ice provided.
Departs from Ala Wai Harbor in Waikiki; arrive 30 minutes early.

Description

Get front-row views of migrating humpback whales aboard the Hokulani, a spacious 40-foot trimaran offering smooth sailing off the Waikiki coast. This seasonal Waikiki whale watching tour runs from December through April, when pods of North Pacific humpbacks travel through Hawaiian waters for calving and mating.

As whales breach, tail slap, and dive above the surface, the onboard hydrophone captures their melodic songs happening under water. These sounds are amplified through a 1500-watt surround sound system, letting you listen in on the real-time calls of these marine giants—a rare and memorable experience.

The trimaran offers shaded seating, clean restrooms, and ample deck space for unobstructed views. Departing from Ala Wai Harbor—just minutes from central Waikiki—the cruise is led by a knowledgeable crew and onboard naturalists who share insights into whale behavior, migration, and marine conservation.

Guests are welcome to bring their own beverages; bottled water and a large cooler with ice are provided. With guaranteed whale sightings or a free re-ride offered, this is one of the most trusted and memorable whale watching tours on Oahu.

Promotional Images (12)

A sailboat with blue and white striped sails is on the water near a city skyline with tall buildings and mountains in the background.

A humpback whale breaches the surface of calm ocean water, with droplets splashing around, under a partly cloudy sky.

A humpback whale breaches the surface of the ocean, with water spraying around its body against a backdrop of clouds and distant land.

A whale breaches vertically out of the ocean, with water splashing around it under a partly cloudy sky.

A baby humpback whale swims near the surface of clear blue water, with an adult humpback whale visible below it.

Waikiki Whale Watching Tour is located at Three Tiki Sailing • 95 Holomoana St • Honolulu, HI 96815

Attractions

Hotels & Lodging

Frequently Asked Questions about Waikiki Whale Watching Tour

Where is the meeting point?

The cruise departs from Ala Wai Boat Harbor at 95 Holomoana Street, next to the Prince Waikiki Hotel. Check in 30 minutes before departure.

What is included with my ticket?

Admission includes a 2-hour whale watching cruise, bottled water, BYOB cooler with ice, onboard naturalist commentary, and a re-ride if no whales are spotted.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Yes, guests may bring their own food and beverages. A large cooler with ice and bottled water is available. Glass containers are not permitted.

What happens if we don't see whales?

If no one on board sees whales during your trip, you will be offered one complimentary re-ride on based on availability.

Is the tour suitable for children?

Yes, the tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages.

Are pets allowed on the tour?

No, pets are not permitted on board. Only ADA-certified service animals are allowed.

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities are not included in the ticket price. A customary tip of 15–20% is appreciated for excellent service.

When is whale season?

Whale watching season in Honolulu runs from December through April, with peak activity typically in January, February, and March.

Is there parking available onsite?

Yes, paid parking is available at Ala Wai Boat Harbor. Arrive early to secure a spot.

Is the vessel wheelchair accessible?

The boat is not wheelchair accessible. Boarding requires stepping onto the vessel with minimal assistance.

Is there space onboard for extra gear?

Limited storage space is available. Compact bags are recommended to keep the deck clear and comfortable for everyone.

Are there restrooms onboard?

Yes, the vessel is equipped with two restrooms.