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Top Oahu Whale Watching

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Oahu offers a front-row seat to the annual migration of humpback whales from Alaska to Hawaii. From December to May, the magnificent marine mammals make the long journey south to breed and give birth in Oahu's warm waters. Oahu whale watching tours provide opportunities to see the whales up close and learn about their behavior and biology. As you watch the whales swim, breach, and play from your boat's outdoor deck, or through its indoor viewing windows, keep an eye out for other marine wildlife, such as green turtles and dolphins.

73 results

Best Seller
2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki
4.6
(1,700)

2-Hour Oahu Whale Watch from Ala Wai Harbor, Waikiki

Enhance your chances of spotting whales in Hawaii. Discover the lives of the magnificent mammals on this whale-watching boat tour departing from Waikiki. Enjoy stunning views and photo opportunities while traveling along Oahu's coastline and get insights into whale behavior, including their breaches, flukes, and tail slaps, from the crew.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$49
2-Hour Whale Watching from Oahu
4.6
(674)

2-Hour Whale Watching from Oahu

Every year during the winter months, humpback whales travel to the warmer waters of the Pacific to give birth to their calves. Embark on a whale-watching tour from Honolulu and observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. You can also see other wildlife like dolphins and green sea turtles while you sail.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$51
2 Hour Waikiki Whale Watching in Honolulu
4.8
(79)

2 Hour Waikiki Whale Watching in Honolulu

Experience the joys of whale watching in Honolulu during this tour that guarantees sightings. Hop onto a modern trimaran boat, equipped with a hydrophone to listen to whale songs underwater. Enjoy unobstructed views, spacious seating, and protective shade while your staff shares their whale knowledge. Plus, this tour is conveniently located near most Waikiki hotels, and you are welcome to bring your own drinks or snacks.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$79
Oahu Whale Watching Excursion
4.5
(602)

Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

Go whale-watching off the coast of Oahu on this excursion from Waikiki or Ko Olina. During the months from December to May, pods of humpback whales migrate through Hawaii's warm waters, and this tour guarantees whale sightings. With a small group of people, watch the gentle giants swim, feed, breach and play around your boat. In the rare event that you don't see any whales, you will be allowed to do the tour again for free. Snacks are included.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$83
Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu
4.2
(139)

Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

Don't miss out on seeing whales because you're busy eating breakfast. This whale watching and breakfast tour allows you to take it easy and enjoy your morning meal while cruising toward Diamond Head crater. There, with luck, you'll watch migrating whales swim, play, feed, and breach while sipping a cup of coffee. Other marine life such as dolphins and sea turtles will also likely make an appearance.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$96
Special Offer
Sunset Cruise & Whale Watching from Oahu
4.0
(21)

Sunset Cruise & Whale Watching from Oahu

Experience the breathtaking beauty of nature with our Sunset Whale Watch excursion. Join us for an unforgettable journey as we set sail into the golden hues of the evening sky, where you'll have the chance to witness majestic whales gracefully gliding through the waters against the backdrop of a stunning sunset. Embark on this magical adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$61
$55
Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise
4.7
(1,840)

Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Cruise

Settle in for an afternoon cruise aboard the Haleiwa Queen, a 50-foot power catamaran that departs conveniently from Honolulu’s harbor. Learn about Hawaii past and present from the friendly crew as you venture into the open Pacific Ocean to look for dolphins, sea turtles, and even migrating whales. As a bonus, look beneath the water’s surface at fish and coral reefs through unique magnifying view portals.
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
from
$41
Whale Watch Cruise Aboard The Majestic by Atlantis Cruises
4.4
(187)

Whale Watch Cruise Aboard The Majestic by Atlantis Cruises

Pick a spot on the open-air decks or by the indoor viewing windows and glide past Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach in search of whales. A naturalist joins you on board to provide commentary and point out any other spotted marine life, such as sea turtles, porpoises, and Hawaii spinner dolphins. If you don't see whales during the cruise, receive a complimentary return trip.
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  • 2 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$98
Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast of Oahu
4.9
(952)

Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast of Oahu

Discover the beauty of Oahu's coastal scenery—and spot its marine life, including pods of dolphins—on this half-day swimming and snorkeling boat tour. Following pickup from your hotel, head to your catamaran and hop aboard. After you set sail, embark on a swimming or snorkeling session to see fish, octopuses, and more wildlife in its natural habitat.
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  • 4 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$177
Special Offer
Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Snorkeling, Wildlife and Hawaiian Meal
4.7
(1,139)

Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Snorkeling, Wildlife and Hawaiian Meal

Sail on a catamaran down Oahu's western coast during this cruise from Ko Olina. Glide through the unspoiled waters on this side of the island in search of dolphins and whales, then dive in for a snorkeling experience in a hidden local spot rich with marine life. Enjoy a Hawaiian buffet, including alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, before heading back to shore. Choose from three daily departure times.
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  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$174
$148
Special Offer
Sunset Whale Watch in Waikiki, Whales Guaranteed or Free Return
4.8
(13)

Sunset Whale Watch in Waikiki, Whales Guaranteed or Free Return

Maximize your chances of seeing whales in the wild during your time in Hawaii. This sunset whale-watching tour departs from Honolulu and takes you out onto the ocean for the chance to see the majestic mammals as they travel by on their winter migration. If you don't see any whales, you can take a second tour at no additional cost.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$57
$45
Special Offer
Oahu Dolphin Watch with Turtle Snorkel & Water Slide
4.5
(1,582)

Oahu Dolphin Watch with Turtle Snorkel & Water Slide

View dolphins in their natural habitat and swim within safe viewing distance to turtles and green sea turtles on this popular Oahu snorkel cruise from Honolulu. Sail into waters home to spinner dolphins, and then glide alongside colorful fish. Snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddle boards are available onboard to help you get the most of this outing. Hotel transport included.
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  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$189
$170
Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii
4.8
(4,181)

Turtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii

Share the warm Hawaiian waters with green sea turtles, tropical fish, and more on a 2-hour snorkel excursion from Waikiki. No need to wear your flippers and mask on the plane, as all necessary gear is provided. Under the careful guidance of a tour leader, discover the vibrant sea life of Turtle Canyons. Above water wildlife sightings may include spinner dolphins, flying fish, and - in winter months - humpback whales.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$86
Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise from Waikiki
4.4
(194)

Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise from Waikiki

See humpback whales during their annual migration in the waters off Oahu on a whale-watching cruise from Waikiki. Enjoy great photo ops of the massive mammals, as well as views of Honolulu, Diamond Head and the Kahala Gold Coast. Plus, keep your eyes peeled for other marine life like Hawaiian spinner dolphins, porpoises and sea turtles.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$75
Swim with Sharks Cage-Free from Oahu
4.9
(852)

Swim with Sharks Cage-Free from Oahu

Leave your preconceptions about sharks at the door and get up close to these sleek creatures on this unique ocean experience. Head out from Haleiwa, on the North Shore of O’ahu, and spend roughly half an hour swimming with the sharks living in the area. Don’t worry, though: even if you aren’t swimming in a cage, you’re still in safe hands, with a guide on board and a safety diver swimming with each group.
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  • 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$150
Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu
4.1
(18)

Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu

Maximize your chances of spotting whales in Hawaii. This whale-watching cruise takes you out onto the sparkling waters off Waikiki in search of the magnificent mammals. With luck, you can see whales swim, play, feed, and breach in their natural habitat. Large open decks offer optimal viewing platforms.
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  • 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$45
1.5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise With Transportation
3.9
(34)

1.5 Hour Whale Watching Cruise With Transportation

Before heading to Honolulu, prebook this Honolulu Whale Watching Cruise to enjoy a short time on the water in search of humpback whales in their natural environment. Your chances of seeing the whales are better with a guide who knows how to navigate the water well. Plus, the catamaran has a double deck for relaxing while you wait and watch.
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  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$47
West Oahu Whale Watching Excursion
4.6
(56)

West Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

Maximize your chances of spotting humpback whales as they migrate through the warm waters of Oahu from December through early May. This whale-watching tour takes you out onto the water in a spacious and comfortable catamaran to witness the humpback whales breach, play, and feed around you. Sightings are guaranteed, or you can repeat the tour for no extra cost.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$109
Moana’s Waikīkī Grand Guided Turtle Snorkel & Sailing Adventure
4.7
(880)

Moana’s Waikīkī Grand Guided Turtle Snorkel & Sailing Adventure

Discover all the vibrant marine life that calls Turtle Canyon’s reefs home—and enjoy an accessible way to snorkel and explore—on this family-friendly catamaran trip. Make your own way to the Kewalo Harbor, and hop aboard your well-appointed catamaran: snorkels, fins, masks, and more are all provided on board. Once you make it to the reefs, dive in, spot sea turtles and other marine life, and admire the underwater scenery.
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  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$85
Likely to Sell Out
Wild Dolphin Watching and Snorkel Safari Off West Coast of Oahu
4.9
(658)

Wild Dolphin Watching and Snorkel Safari Off West Coast of Oahu

Cruise along west Oahu’s pristine shoreline to see the spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), and other marine creatures that frequent the Waianae Coast. Your 32-foot USCG vessel is led by a lifeguard-certified crew of marine biologists and naturalists, maximizing your chances of spotting Hawaii’s underwater wildlife. Plus, with snorkeling gear included, you can choose to swim alongside tropical fish and sea turtles, too.
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  • 3 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$194
Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise
3.7
(109)

Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise

Explore Oahu's wildlife-rich waters on a sightseeing cruise that conveniently departs from Honolulu. Get a fresh perspective on Diamond Head and other South Shore landmarks as you stretch out on the spacious decks or under a shade cover. The seasoned crew helps spot dolphins, sea turtles, and occasionally humpback whales—plus, you can peer through magnifying glass portholes for a look underwater.
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  • 1 hour
  • Free Cancellation
from
$41
West Oahu Green Sea Turtle and Dolphin Snorkel Sail with Lunch
4.5
(303)

West Oahu Green Sea Turtle and Dolphin Snorkel Sail with Lunch

Sail along the Leeward Coast of Oahu on this morning cruise. Snorkel with an expert guide and watch for spinner dolphins on this family-friendly adventure off the scenic southwestern coast of the island. This excursion, complete with spectacular scenery and fun water activities includes breakfast and lunch
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  • 3 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$163
Special Offer
Whale Watching from Waikiki, Oahu on Glass Bottom Boat
5.0
(3)

Whale Watching from Waikiki, Oahu on Glass Bottom Boat

Enjoy unique underwater views from our glass-bottom viewing room, while the hydrophone lets you listen to the enchanting songs of these majestic creatures.
... More
  • 2 hours
  • Free Cancellation
from
$55
$52
Waikiki Friday Night Fireworks Boat Cruise
4.9
(20)

Waikiki Friday Night Fireworks Boat Cruise

Cruises are offered all day and night in Hawaii, but one of the best times to go on one is at sunset. This Waikiki Sunset Cruise takes you on the water to see the city, Diamond Head, and the ocean all at sunset. Plus, music, snacks, and soda provide a relaxing environment as you cruise.
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  • 1 hour 45 minutes
  • Free Cancellation
from
$65
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People Also Ask
Q:Is whale watching in Oahu worth it?
A:

Whale watching in Oahu is absolutely worth it. Oahu is arguably one of the world’s best locations for spotting marine life, as every winter thousands of humpback whales migrate all the way from Alaska to Hawaii to mate, give birth, and raise their young. Catching even a glimpse of a whale can be exhilarating, and many travelers spot much more than this.

Q:How much do whale-watching tours in Oahu cost?
A:

Whale-watching tours in Oahu cost from US$40 per person for a 1-hour tour with no frills, to around $1,600 per group for a research-style expedition that combines whale watching with encounters with dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles. Whale-watching tours in the mid-range typically come in at around $100.

Q:What kinds of whales are in Oahu?
A:

The most common type of whale around Oahu is the humpback whale. Every winter, thousands of these giant mammals make the long journey from Alaska to the warmer waters of Hawaii to breed and raise their young. You may also spot other types of whales, such as pilot whales (off Oahu) as well as dolphins and other sea mammals.

Q:What months are best for whale watching in Oahu?
A:

The winter months are the best for whale watching in Oahu, as this is when thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to breed and raise their young in the warmer waters. You can usually spot these whales from November through May, with peak season between January and March.

Q:Where are the best places to see whales and dolphins in Oahu?
A:

While there are certain spots where you can see whales and dolphins in Oahu from the shore, the best place to get an up-close view is most definitely from a boat on the sea. Most boat tour operators are based in Honolulu and know exactly where to go to see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and more.

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