Snorkel Tours from Ala Wai Harbor

Snorkel some of Oʻahu’s top reefs without leaving town. Departing daily from Ala Wai Boat Harbor, these tours offer easy access to tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and stunning ocean views, all guided by local experts and geared toward all experience levels.

Why Choose? Walkable, beginner-friendly, and packed with marine life, these tours are the easiest way to explore Waikīkī’s underwater world.
Perfect For: Visitors looking to snorkel without the hassle of leaving the resort area— families, couples, or solo adventurers staying in Waikīkī.

Sunset & Fireworks Cruises from Ala Wai Boat Harbor

End your day with a sail into golden hour. These sunset cruises depart directly from Ala Wai Boat Harbor and offer stunning views of Diamond Head, twilight swims, BYOB options, and Friday night fireworks, all with zero beach crowds and max vibes.

Why Choose? Waikīkī offers postcard-worthy views and one of the best sunset angles on the island, with a clear shot of the western horizon from the water.
Perfect For: Those who thinks a Hawaiian sunset is better on the water, with a drink in hand and room to breathe.

Whale Watching Tours from Ala Wai Boat Harbor

From December to April, majestic North Pacific humpbacks (koholā) migrate to Hawai‘i’s warm waters  and Ala Wai Harbor puts you right at the edge of the action. Join a group catamaran or opt for a private speedboat to witness breaches, tail slaps, and maybe even a newborn calf, all set against the backdrop of Diamond Head and the Waikīkī coastline.

Why Choose? Waikīkī sits on Māmala Bay, a seasonal gathering place for thousands of returning humpback whales and one of Oʻahu’s most consistent spots for close-to-shore sightings.
Perfect For: Anyone visiting O‘ahu in winter who wants a front-row seat to one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows without having to drive an hour out to West Oahu or North Shore.

Private Luxury Yacht Charters from Ala Wai Boat Harbor

Elevate your ocean experience aboard a private luxury yacht charter in Waikīkī. With crewed service, panoramic views, and high-end amenities, these charters offer the perfect blend of comfort and exclusivity — whether you’re celebrating, relaxing, or just craving a quieter kind of adventure.

Why Choose? Sailing from Ala Wai Harbor, these luxury yachts deliver a private escape with the best views of Waikīkī, Diamond Head, and Oʻahu’s south shore, all in five-star comfort.
Perfect For: Luxury seekers, special occasions, or anyone who believes “private” and “ocean” belong in the same sentence.

Helpful Tips and Facts about the Ala Wai Boat Harbor boat tours 

🅿️ Parking Info -Paid parking is available at Ala Wai Harbor for $1 per hour (and yes they tow), and limited free parking can be found near the beach in front of the harbor. Plan to arrive early to grab a spot.

🚌 Transportation Options - Ala Wai Boat Harbor is within walking distance of most Waikiki hotels. If you are staying closer to Diamond Head side of Waikiki it is easily reachable by Uber, Lyft, or TheBus with stops just a few blocks away. Boat tours in the harbor do not supply transportation services. 

🐋 Seasonal Highlights - Visiting in winter? Don’t miss the humpback whales — they migrate through Hawaiian waters from December to April.

🌤️ Typical Weather Conditions - Calm seas, warm sun, and a light ENE trade wind make Waikiki waters smooth and swimmable year-round. Expect air temps around 78–88°F and ocean temps between 76–81°F — perfect conditions for being out on the water.

🚻 Where Are the Bathrooms? - Restrooms are located throughout Ala Wai Boat Harbor: just behind the Hawai‘i Prince Hotel, across from the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, near the Harbor Master’s Office, and close to the beach park entrance. They're all a short walk from most boat slips

🕒 Best Time to Book - Sunset cruises and whale watching tours often sell out 3–5 days in advance during peak season (Dec–April), so book early!

🧴 What to Bring - Sunscreen, towels, sunglasses, and your sense of adventure. Don’t worry, tour boats provide water and dry storage.

📷 Photo Tips - Bring your waterproof phone case — you'll want pics of Diamond Head from the water, and maybe a sea turtle selfie.