OAHU
Oahu’s best days out.
The 15 most popular whale watching cruises on Oahu right now. The ones worth putting on the itinerary, with what each costs, how long it runs and who you book with.
A 2-hour Oahu whale watch from Ala Wai Harbor in Waikiki, with onboard narration, a hydrophone, BYOB snacks, and big views.
Most Popular“We didn’t see any wales, thank you for the voucher to go again! the Captain was very funny and the crew was nice! over all it was a nice two hour tour.”
Oahu luxury catamaran: whale and dolphin spotting, hidden-reef snorkeling, Hawaiian buffet with drinks, and optional Waikiki pickup.
“Overall an amazing experience! The staff was the absolute best. They were very knowledgeable and attentive to everyone. Excellent service, will definitely be back again and recommend this experience to friends!”
Waikiki whale watch from Pink Sails: 2 hours off Oahu for humpbacks, dolphins, and turtles, plus free return if no sightings.
“The staff were knowledgeable, entertaining, and very helpful. One of our party became seasick, and they were attentive and kind.”
Waikiki catamaran whale watch with a full premium bar, expert narration, and a free re-ride if humpbacks don’t show.
“Water can be pretty choppy so be prepared. Crew was fantastic and we were able to spot several whales! I highly recommend!”
Early Bird whale watch from Waikiki on the Star of Honolulu. Four decks, live narration, and pineapple-banana bread breakfast at Aloha Tower.
“I feel a little deceived because reviews on this cruise said we would have to get briefly in the water to get on and off making me think it was a different cruise and smaller boat. I have already been on the star of Honolulu and thought it was quite boring. Didn't see any whales…”
2-hour Waikiki whale watch on a roomy trimaran from 1 Holomoana St. BYOB with bottled water, whale sightings guaranteed or free return.
“Crew was personable and easy to approach and ask questions. Saw lots of whale and dolphin activity. Very concerned with safety first and making a “Whaley” good day.”
2.5-hour Maunalua Bay whale cruise from Pier 6 with a naturalist, multi-deck comfort, and a free return trip if no whales show.
“Very comfortable and well equipped boat. Very friendly and helpful staff. The naturalist on board was quite knowledgeable and contributed greatly to the enjoyment of the trip.”
Waikiki whale cruise on the Ocean Intrigue catamaran: see humpbacks, dolphins and turtles from open decks for $39 (90 minutes).
“Great value for money! Saw the same whales as the other tours and it was 1/2 as much ($50). Very comfortable and safe!”
Honolulu whale watching and breakfast cruise from Ala Moana: Kona coffee, chef-made loco moco, Diamond Head views, and a chance at humpbacks.
“The chef canceled on the morning of the trip because they were sick. They bought pastries and juice. We were told we’ll receive a partial refund but it’s almost a month later and I have not received anything and none of my emails/calls received a response. I give 2 stars because they tried really hard…”
2-hour whale watch from Waikiki with open-air decks, an underwater viewing room, snacks, and a free rebooking if whales don’t show.
“Friendly staff! Saw lots of whales this day even though the weather wasn’t great. The captain followed the whales from a distance so we could see them safely”
2-hour Waikiki catamaran cruise with whale-spotting narration, premium bar, and a re-ride guarantee during whale season.
“Amazing trip! Extremely friendly and fun staff. One of the best adventures of our vacation!”
Oahu whale watching cruise with humpbacks near Waikiki and Diamond Head at sunset, plus snacks and a free return if none.
“Captain Jason was great, really focused on finding whales for us! We had a great time, saw another dolphins and a Humpback Mom and Calf!”
Small-group (18) 1.5-hour North Shore whale hunt from Haleiwa on a fast Zodiac-style boat, with local guidance and chances at whales, sharks.
“The experience and opportunity to be that close to marine life was exhilarating! We felt secure and entertained!”
Waikiki sunset whale watch with whales guaranteed or free return, Diamond Head views, double-decker boat, and snacks plus soda.
“Had a great sail and saw a couple of whales! No breaching but a couple of tails. It was really choppy and the crew was great checking on everyone to make sure they were doing ok. Always nice to spend time on the water with knowledgeable people!”
A 1.5-hour humpback whale cruise near Honolulu from Ala Moana Pier E, with snacks, binoculars, and a fun crew plus shuttle pickup.
“This experience was amazing, apparently it’s whale season! We did encounter a whale, and a large sea turtle. The captain and his crew were super kind and helpful!”
From Waikiki to the North Shore, and every way to spend a day on the island.
