Whale watching in Oahu is remarkably straightforward and well-organized. From December through May, humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters, and tour operators have mastered the art of tracking them. Tours depart regularly from Ala Wai and Kewalo Basin harbors, typically running 2-3 hours.
I’m particularly fond of the mid-sized boats (24-65 passengers) for their intimate feel and maneuverability. The best operators combine marine education with Hawaiian cultural insights – you’ll learn about whale behaviors while listening to their haunting songs through hydrophones. My favorite tours are those offering “whale sighting guarantees” with a free return if no whales appear.
Let’s examine the most reliable whale watching tours Oahu has to offer.
Good To Know
- Take a 2-3 hour whale watching tour departing from various harbors around Oahu during the peak whale migration season from December to May.
- Experience educational and entertaining tours with knowledgeable guides, hydrophone technology, and opportunities to see whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.
- Choose from a variety of tour options, including private cruises, catamarans, sunset watches with guaranteed sightings, and combined whale watching and coastal swimming excursions.
- Enjoy onboard amenities like complimentary meals, cultural performances, and accessibility features for a comfortable and memorable experience.
- Book early, prepare for motion sickness, and research different tour companies to find the best fit for your preferences and needs.
Favored Oahu Whale Watch Excursion! (2 Hour Tour! Ala Wai Harbor)
The Favored Oahu Whale Watch Excursion offers a captivating 2-hour tour from Ala Wai Harbor in Waikiki.
With 1,686 total reviews and a 90% recommendation rate, this tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Passengers board the newly renovated Lahaina Princess, a multi-level boat that provides comfort and ample space for up to 90 guests.
The expert captain and experienced crew offer live narration, educating guests about the behaviors of majestic Humpback whales, including breaches and tail slaps.
Passengers can enjoy stunning views of Oahu’s coastline, including Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Monument, while listening to the whales through an underwater hydrophone.
The tour operates during whale migration season, from December to May, and comes with a guarantee – spot a whale or go again for free.
With a convenient location, flexible cancellation policy, and positive customer feedback, this Oahu whale watch excursion is a highly recommended experience.
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Honolulu Whale-Watching Tour – Oahu
For those seeking a captivating whale-watching experience in Honolulu, the Honolulu Whale-Watching Tour – Oahu provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales up close.
This 2-hour excursion, departing from the Pink Sails Waikiki, offers a chance to spot not only whales but also dolphins and green sea turtles. With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, the tour provides an intimate encounter with the local marine ecosystem.
The tour’s educational component allows guests to learn about the area’s ecology from knowledgeable guides. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic coastal views of Oahu while sailing.
The tour boasts a 4.5-star rating from 651 reviews, earning it a Badge of Excellence. However, some guests have reported issues with overcrowding and not seeing whales, despite the guaranteed sighting policy.
Booking early and avoiding peak heat are recommended to ensure a seamless experience. The Honolulu Whale-Watching Tour – Oahu promises a memorable encounter with the ocean’s majestic creatures.
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Oahu Whale-Watching Cruise With Breakfast or Lunch Option
Offering an enticing whale-watching experience, the Oahu Whale-Watching Cruise With Breakfast or Lunch Option departs from the Aloha Tower Marketplace in Waikiki.
The 2-hour morning tour, priced from $75 per person, boasts 193 reviews and a Badge of Excellence. Passengers can expect onboard exhibits, a naturalist guide, and a complimentary breakfast of homemade pineapple banana bread with Kona Blend coffee or tea.
While the cruise promises whale sightings, some reviews mention inconsistent experiences, with variable viewing opportunities and unclear communication from the crew.
The boat can accommodate up to 999 travelers, and accessibility is provided for wheelchair users, stroller-pushers, and service animals. Confirmation is received upon booking, and COVID-19 guidelines may affect the experience.
Travelers recommend exploring other whale-watching companies based on individual reviews, as some found the cruise relaxing and well-organized, while others felt it didn’t meet their expectations.
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Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion
Though humpback whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, the Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion offers a chance to spot these majestic creatures during their annual migration from December to May. This half-day, 2-hour cruise departs from Kewalo Basin in Honolulu and accommodates a maximum of 49 travelers aboard a catamaran or monohull. The tour includes complimentary snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and gratuities.
Onboard, knowledgeable crew members provide expert insights into whale behavior and migration patterns. Binoculars are provided to enhance whale-watching opportunities. While whales are the primary focus, there’s also a chance to spot dolphins during the cruise.
The experience is offered with a guarantee – if no whales are sighted, guests can return for a free tour.
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from over 600 reviews, the Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion is a popular choice for those seeking an up-close encounter with these magnificent marine mammals. Operated in all weather conditions, this tour is a must-do activity for visitors to Oahu during the peak whale-watching season.
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Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu
Departing from Ala Moana Boulevard in Honolulu, the Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise provides travelers with an opportunity to spot migrating whales, dolphins, and sea turtles while indulging in a delectable breakfast.
The 137-reviewed tour runs for an average duration of 3 hours, starting at 9:00 AM. Accommodating up to 100 guests, the cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
The breakfast menu includes 100% Kona coffee, Island Fresh Sweet Taro Bread French Toast, and Captain John’s Island Loco Moco.
With an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 from 137 reviews, customers praise the amazing whale sightings, delicious breakfast, and friendly crew.
However, some report issues with breakfast preparation and service, as well as disappointment when whales weren’t spotted. Guests are advised to take motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness.
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West Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion
The West Oahu Whale Watching Excursion provides travelers with an opportunity to spot migrating humpback whales during the peak season from December to early May.
Aboard a spacious catamaran, this tour accommodates up to 24 guests, offering unobstructed views and a comfortable experience. The knowledgeable guides share educational insights about the whales and their behavior, enhancing the overall experience.
With a guarantee of sightings and a free repeat tour if no whales are seen, the excursion ensures visitors have the chance to witness the majestic creatures breaching, playing, and feeding.
Along With the whale watching, the tour includes refreshments, snacks, and a complimentary lunch.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it does allow service animals, and infants can sit on laps.
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Waikiki Whale Watching Coffee and Donuts Hear Whales With Under Water Microphone
This Waikiki whale watching tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the wonder of these marine giants up close. Priced from $99 per person, the full-day boat tour departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor in Honolulu, providing round-trip transportation from Waikiki.
Guests can expect to see wild humpback whales and Hawaiian spinner dolphins, while enjoying on-board entertainment like hula performances and the traditional E Ho Mai ceremony.
The tour includes coffee, tea, and snacks such as poi donuts or musubi, plus additional products available for purchase. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the crew works diligently to provide a memorable experience.
Reviewers praise the effort, even when whales aren’t spotted. However, some note issues with organization, sound systems, and limited snorkeling time.
With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 46 reviews, this Waikiki whale watching tour offers a chance to witness the ocean’s majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
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Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise (Winter Only)
While the Waikiki whale watching tour offers a unique opportunity to see humpback whales and Hawaiian spinner dolphins, the Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise provides visitors with a broader marine life experience.
This 1-hour tour in Oahu allows travelers to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and occasionally humpback whales, while also offering scenic views of Diamond Head and South Shore landmarks.
Aboard the glass-bottom boat with spacious decks and shade cover, guests can enjoy complimentary bottled water and alcoholic beverages, as well as bring their own food.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 49 travelers and is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller owners, and those with service animals.
Though some guests report limited marine life visibility, the crew is praised for their professionalism and knowledge.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this cruise offers a convenient and versatile way to explore Oahu’s diverse marine ecosystem.
Read our full review: Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise (Winter Only) Review
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Honolulu Private Whale-Watching Cruise – Oahu
Embarking on a private whale-watching cruise along the southern coast of Oahu provides travelers with an exclusive opportunity to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration.
Departing from Waikiki, this customizable tour offers morning or afternoon options, allowing guests to tailor the experience to their preferences. The knowledgeable captain shares insights into the whales’ migration habits, heightening the educational aspect of the adventure.
Throughout the cruise, guests may spot not only whales but also dolphins, sea turtles, and even a monk seal, offering a diverse marine life sighting.
While the seating may cause some discomfort, the overall experience is highly recommended, with 95% of travelers providing positive feedback. The included light refreshments and gratuities add to the convenience, making this a well-rounded private whale-watching excursion.
Priced at $795 per group of up to 6 people, the tour provides a unique and personalized way to explore Oahu’s coastal waters and wildlife.
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Hawaii: Honolulu Whale-Watching Catamaran Tour – Oahu
Moana’s Waikīkī Whale Watching Exploration offers a family-friendly catamaran cruise along the Honolulu waterfront at Kewalo Basin Harbor. Recommended by 90% of travelers, this tour provides the opportunity to spot migratory humpback whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and other marine life against the scenic backdrop of the Waikīkī coast, Koʻolau Range, and Diamond Head.
The comfortable catamaran accommodates a maximum of 47 guests and features amenities like restrooms and refreshments, including alcoholic beverages available for purchase.
While customer reviews are generally positive, highlighting the crew’s friendliness and helpfulness, experiences with whale sightings have been mixed. Some guests reported seeing multiple whales breaching and mothers with calves, while others had fewer sightings.
The tour also faced occasional cancellations due to maintenance issues, leading to complaints about communication. The overall 4.5-star rating and positive feedback on the relaxing atmosphere and Hawaiian music suggest Moana’s Waikīkī Whale Watching Exploration is a worthwhile option for those seeking a whale-watching adventure in Oahu.
Read our full review: Hawaii: Honolulu Whale-Watching Catamaran Tour – Oahu Review
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Whale Watch in Waikiki With Guaranteed Sightings or Free Return
Sunset Whale Watch in Waikiki guarantees a sighting of these majestic creatures or offers a free return, making it a highly recommended option for those seeking a whale-watching adventure in Oahu.
With a 4.8 rating from 12 reviews, this tour provides a remarkable experience led by passionate and knowledgeable captains. The tour can accommodate up to 45 travelers and departs at 4:45 PM from the Living Ocean Tours dock.
Onboard, guests can enjoy restroom facilities and even purchase alcoholic beverages. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems.
Priced at $45.37 per person, the tour offers a significant discount from the original $56.72, ensuring a Lowest Price Guarantee. Guests can also take advantage of the flexible “Reserve now and pay later” option.
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Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu
The Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu offers an opportunity to maximize the chances of spotting whales in Hawaii. The cruise departs at 12:00 pm from 1009 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, and takes passengers along the Waikiki coast for optimal whale viewing.
Aboard the Prince Kuhio vessel, visitors can see whales swim, play, feed, and breach, while learning about these marine mammals from on-board guides. The open decks provide excellent vantage points for spotting whales.
With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, the cruise is stroller accessible but not wheelchair friendly. Guests with severe motion sickness may want to reconsider.
Pricing starts at $45 per person, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours prior. Reviews of the cruise are mixed, with some praising the friendly crew and whale sightings, while others note cancellations and lack of sightings due to weather.
Passengers are advised to bring motion sickness medication, sunglasses, and a light jacket.
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5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise With Pick-Up and Drop-Off
For those short on time in Honolulu, the 1.5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise offers a convenient way to maximize the chances of spotting these majestic marine creatures.
Departing from Kewalo Basin Harbor, this guided tour takes guests on a relaxing catamaran cruise with the opportunity to see whales in their natural habitat.
The tour includes pickup from select Waikiki hotels, snacks, bottled water, and all fees and taxes. Travelers can also bring their own alcoholic drinks and food.
While wheelchair accessibility is limited, the tour is stroller-friendly and allows service animals. With a maximum of 135 guests per tour, the intimate experience provides ample opportunity for whale sightings, though some past visitors reported mixed results.
Regardless, the tour offers beautiful views of Diamond Head and the chance to spot dolphins, making it an ideal activity for nature lovers short on time in Honolulu.
West Oahu Whale Watching & Sunset Cruise
Departing from Waiʻanae Small Boat Harbor on Oahu’s west side, the West Oahu Whale Watching & Sunset Cruise offers travelers a unique opportunity to spot Hawaii’s magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat.
This 2.5-hour excursion also includes the chance to snorkel with sea turtles.
The tour includes round-trip transportation from select Waikiki and Ko Olina hotels, as well as snacks, bottled water, and a provided lunch. Guests will receive all necessary gear, including life vests, snorkel equipment, and sun protection.
With a maximum group size of 25, the experience provides an intimate setting to observe the incredible marine life.
While weather and wildlife conditions may affect return times, travelers can expect to see a variety of species, from humpback whales and spinner dolphins to sea turtles.
Though some have noted discomfort on the boat and lengthy travel times, the West Oahu Whale Watching & Sunset Cruise offers a scenic and memorable way to take in Oahu’s coastal wonders.
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Waikiki Sunset Whale Watch, Music, BYOB!
After departing from Kewalo Basin Harbor near Waikiki, the Waikiki Sunset Whale Watch, Music, BYOB! tour provides travelers with a unique opportunity to witness humpback whales and experience Oahu’s stunning coastal scenery at sunset.
Priced from $83.40 per person, this 13-reviewed, 100% recommended tour accommodates a maximum of 25 travelers. Guests can expect to see dolphins, enjoy mesmerizing sunset views, and enjoy a fun atmosphere.
The tour includes complimentary bottled water, coffee, tea, and snacks. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, except those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
Reviewers praise the friendly crew, amazing dolphin sightings, and lively music during the cruise. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the Waikiki Sunset Whale Watch, Music, BYOB! tour offers a memorable way to cap off a day in Oahu.
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Waikiki Whale Watch (Semi-Private Boat Tour)
Although the Waikiki Sunset Whale Watch, Music, BYOB! offers a lively sunset experience, the Waikiki Whale Watch: Semi-Private Boat Tour provides a more intimate encounter with Oahu’s marine life.
This tour, rated 5.0 based on 7 reviews, takes a maximum of 6 travelers on a semi-private boat to spot whales off the coast of Waikiki.
The tour includes essential amenities like bottled water, life vests, soda, and snacks. Guests should arrive 10 minutes prior to the 6:00 PM departure time and park in the nearby 700 ROW area.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, most visitors can participate.
The tour returns to the original meeting point, providing a convenient start and end to the whale watching experience.
With its small group size and focus on the marine environment, the Waikiki Whale Watch: Semi-Private Boat Tour offers a unique and immersive way to witness the wonder of whales in Oahu.
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Private Whale Watching and Dolphin Excursion
This private whale watching and dolphin excursion in Oahu provides an intimate, personalized experience for guests to observe these magnificent marine creatures. Priced from $247.50 per person, the tour departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor and travels to prime whale and dolphin viewing locations around the island.
The excursion includes bottled water, snacks, and an iced cooler for personal items. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is open to most travelers, with infants allowed to sit on laps.
Reviewers provide mixed feedback, with some disappointed by limited whale sightings, while others still enjoyed the scenic boat ride and beautiful ocean views. The captain’s knowledge and boat cleanliness also received varied ratings.
However, the private nature of the tour allows guests to customize their experience and avoid large crowds. With a flexible cancellation policy and option to reserve now and pay later, this excursion offers a unique opportunity to potentially spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
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Whale Watching and Sunrise Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu
For those seeking a more family-friendly whale watching experience in Oahu, the Whale Watching and Sunrise Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu offers a delightful alternative.
This tour departs from the Kewalo Basin Harbor, with the vessel Prince Kuhio accommodating up to 125 travelers. Priced from $91.56 per person, the experience includes a homemade breakfast, as well as coffee, tea, soda, and bottled water. Alcoholic beverages are also available.
The cruise guarantees whale sightings, and the crew provides motion sickness medication for those who need it. The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and those with strollers.
Based on 5 reviews, the tour has an impressive 4.6/5 overall rating, with highlights including seeing humpback whales and a mother-calf pair.
With a generous 24-hour cancellation policy, this whale watching and breakfast cruise is an excellent option for families and groups visiting Oahu.
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Private Whale Watching and Coastal Swimming Tour Honolulu
A private whale watching and coastal swimming tour in Honolulu offers a luxurious and customizable journey aboard a power catamaran. Guests can choose their own music and activities, spotting humpback whales and swimming or snorkeling with turtles.
The tour includes bottled water, soda, and use of snorkeling equipment. The shaded cabin provides comfort, and alcoholic beverages are allowed (BYOB with coolers). Parking is available at $1.00 per hour.
The tour departs from Hawaii Ocean Charters, located at 1125 Ala Moana Blvd. Participants should navigate to C Dock upon arrival, near the bathrooms and volleyball courts.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and near public transportation. Participants should have no serious medical conditions, as snorkeling may be challenging for those with limited swimming experience.
The private tour is priced from $749.00 per group of up to 6 people. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is offered.
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2 Hour Waikiki Whale Watching in Honolulu
The 2 Hour Waikiki Whale Watching in Honolulu offers travelers an opportunity to spot whales, dolphins, and turtles aboard a modern trimaran.
Located near most Waikiki hotels, the tour departs at 8:00 am with a maximum capacity of 35 travelers. The spacious boat is equipped with a hydrophone to enhance the experience by capturing the sounds of whale songs.
Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable crew, who provide informative commentary about the marine life. With a 4.8/5 rating and 96% recommendation, this tour is a popular choice for those seeking a memorable whale watching adventure in Oahu.
Included amenities such as bottled water, a cooler for BYOB, and clean onboard restrooms contribute to the overall comfort and enjoyment.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and accommodates service animals. Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Spot Whales in Oahu?
The best time to spot whales in Oahu is during the winter months, typically from December through April. This is when humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and calve.
Are the Whale Watching Tours Suitable for Young Children?
Whale watching tours can be suitable for young children, but it’s important to consider the child’s age, attention span, and ability to sit still for extended periods. Some tour operators offer kid-friendly activities and accommodations to ensure a enjoyable experience.
What Is the Policy on Cancellations or Rescheduling Due to Weather?
Most whale watching tour operators offer flexible cancellation and rescheduling policies in case of inclement weather. Customers can typically receive a full refund or reschedule their tour if it’s cancelled due to unsafe conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Whale Watching Tours?
You can usually bring your own food and drinks on whale watching tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or prefer you purchase refreshments from them.
Are There Any Special Accommodations for Participants With Disabilities?
Most whale watching tour companies in the area offer accommodations for participants with disabilities, such as wheelchair-accessible vessels and assistance getting on and off the boats. Visitors should inquire about specific needs when booking their tour.
The Sum Up
Oahu offers a variety of whale watching experiences, from two-hour tours to private excursions with additional activities. Whether you want a quick trip or a more immersive experience, there’s an option to suit your preferences. With scenic harbor views, the chance to spot humpback whales, and potentially other marine life, these tours provide a memorable way to appreciate Oahu’s natural beauty and wildlife.