Waikiki: AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling

If you’re heading to Oahu and love the idea of snorkeling close to Waikiki, the AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling tour might be just what you’re after. It promises a quick, engaging adventure with a high chance of swimming alongside sea turtles and colorful tropical fish, all while soaking up some of Hawaii’s most iconic views.

What really draws us to this experience is its remarkably high encounter rate with sea turtles (99%)—that’s a huge perk for anyone hoping to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures. Plus, the fact that it’s conveniently located off Waikiki’s coast means you won’t have to spend hours on a boat to get the action started. On the flip side, some might find the 3-hour duration limiting if you’re craving a full-day adventure. Still, it’s perfectly suited for those who want an efficient, scenic, and family-friendly snorkeling outing.

This tour is best suited for beginners and casual snorkelers, thanks to the full support from experienced guides and inclusive equipment. If you’re traveling with kids, especially those over 5, this could be a fantastic way to introduce them to ocean snorkeling with the security of professional guidance. It’s also a good pick for travelers with tight schedules looking for a memorable yet manageable underwater experience.

Key Points

• High Sea Turtle Encounter Rate: Nearly guaranteed at 99%, making it a prime choice for turtle lovers.
• Short and Convenient: Just 3 hours and close to Waikiki, perfect for fitting into a busy day.
• All-Inclusive Support: Snorkeling gear, underwater photos, dry bag, snacks, and water included—no hidden costs.
• Beginner Friendly: Guides support all skill levels, making it accessible for first-timers.
• Scenic Ocean Views: Enjoy the sights of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the water—an experience for the eyes as well as your snorkel.
• Family Friendly: Suitable for children over 5, especially with the recommendation to bring a life jacket for kids under 9.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

When you book this tour, your adventure begins with a pick-up from several Waikiki hotels early in the morning—most pickups are scheduled around 7:00 to 7:35 AM. This early start gets you on the water with plenty of daylight left for snorkeling. If you prefer to make your own way, you can check in directly at Kewalo Basin Harbor pier A at 7:40 AM.

Once you meet your guide, the group heads out on a boat toward the snorkeling site—off the coast of Waikiki, near the renowned Turtle Canyon. This spot is famous for its nearly 100% encounter rate with sea turtles, so it’s a prime location for turtle sightings. As one review notes, “The encounter rate was remarkably high, which made the experience very memorable.”

The boat ride itself is short, typically just a few minutes, which means you spend more time in the water than on the journey. When you arrive at the snorkeling site, you’ll get a quick briefing from your guide tailored to your skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or trying it for the first time, support is there.

Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon is a highlight. The water is usually calm, and the visibility can be quite good, giving you a clear view of the vibrant underwater world. Expect to see sea turtles, tropical fish, and corals—a true treasure for nature lovers. Several reviews mention how surreal and close-up the turtle encounters are, which is often the main reason travelers book this tour.

The guides are attentive, helping beginners put on gear and guiding them to the best spots. Due to the tour’s popularity, some reviewers note the experience can get crowded, but the high encounter rate keeps it exciting.

Once you’ve had your fill of snorkeling, your guide will help you surface and dry off with some snacks, bottled water, and the chance to review your underwater photos—a nice touch that ensures you leave with memories to cherish. The underwater photo data and an original dry bag are included, offering a practical way to carry your valuables and keep your gear dry on the boat.

The tour wraps up with return transportation, bringing you back to your hotel or designated pickup point. All in all, it’s a well-paced, compact experience that balances adventure and scenery, allowing you to enjoy the best of Waikiki’s marine life in a manageable timeframe.

What Makes It Valuable?

The price of $125 per person might seem a bit steep at first glance, but when you consider the inclusion of snorkeling equipment, professional guides, underwater photos, dry bag, snacks, and water, it adds up to solid value. Plus, the tour’s high success rate with turtle sightings makes it a worthwhile investment for wildlife enthusiasts.

The short duration is a bonus if you’re on a tight schedule; it gives you a taste of Hawaii’s marine wonderland without taking up your whole day. The scenic views from the water, especially of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, are an added bonus, giving you a fresh perspective on these iconic sights.

For those new to snorkeling, the support from guides is reassuring. Many reviews praise the team for their attentiveness and patience, making the experience accessible for beginners and kids over 5 years old. However, it’s recommended to bring seasickness medication if you tend to get queasy on boats, as a precaution.

The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind, allowing you to reserve without stress. It’s an excellent option for travelers who want a low-pressure, enjoyable marine adventure.

The Downsides? A Few Considerations

While the experience is generally well-received, there are a couple of points worth noting. Some reviews mention that the boat can get crowded, which might reduce the feeling of exclusivity or privacy. If you’re someone who prefers quieter, less populated waters, this could detract slightly from the experience.

The duration of three hours is short, so if you’re after an all-day adventure or more extensive marine exploration, this might not be enough. Also, wetsuit rental is available for an additional $15, which can be worthwhile if you feel cold, especially in cooler months.

Lastly, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to weather conditions. It’s always good to stay flexible and check the weather forecast in advance to avoid disappointment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This snorkeling adventure is ideal for beginners or those with limited time who want a comfortably paced, scenic experience. It’s a great pick for families with children over 5, especially since guides are supportive and geared towards all skill levels.

If spotting sea turtles is a top priority, this tour offers one of the best chances on Oahu, thanks to its high encounter rate. Travelers who enjoy photos and keepsakes will appreciate the included underwater images and dry bag.

While it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with back or heart issues, or those over 70, it’s a fun and accessible option for most other travelers who want to enjoy Hawaii’s waters without a full-day commitment.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel round-trip transfers are included from several Waikiki hotels, making it easy to start your day hassle-free.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen are recommended. Bringing seasickness medication might also help if you’re prone to motion sickness.

Can children participate?
Yes, children over 5 are generally suitable, but for kids under 9, it’s advised to bring a life jacket.

What if the weather is bad?
The activity may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather, so it’s best to check the forecast and confirm with the tour provider.

How long is the actual snorkeling?
While the total tour lasts about 3 hours, the time spent snorkeling will be a good chunk of that, with most of it spent in the water enjoying the marine life.

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
Support is available for beginners, but comfort in the water is recommended. Wetsuits are optional but can help if you’re cold.

What gear is provided?
All snorkeling equipment—mask, snorkel, fins—are included, along with underwater photo data and a dry bag.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Yes, especially for families with children over 5 who are comfortable in the water, thanks to the supportive guides and inclusive equipment.

If you’re after a short, scenic, and wildlife-focused snorkeling tour off Waikiki, this experience hits many marks. The high turtle encounter rate makes it especially appealing for wildlife enthusiasts, while the scenic views and all-inclusive support ensure a comfortable, memorable outing.

It’s perfect for those who want a quick escape into Hawaii’s underwater world without fuss or complication. While it might not satisfy those seeking a longer or more secluded adventure, it offers a reliable, friendly introduction to the magic beneath the waves of Waikiki. For anyone eager to see sea turtles in their natural habitat, this tour is definitely worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: