If you’re dreaming of spending a couple of hours surrounded by the beauty of Hawaii’s underwater world, this snorkel tour in Waikiki is worth considering. It’s marketed as a chance to get close to wild Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and explore reef life, and it seems to deliver that promise well, especially for those keen to see Hawaii’s endemic marine species.

What we really like about this experience is how accessible it is—offering both snorkelers and those who prefer to just ride along, soaking up the sun and the views. Plus, the boat crew is made up of certified divers, lifeguards, free divers, and surfers, so you’re in capable hands when it comes to safety and local expertise. That said, one thing to keep in mind is that it’s not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or older folks over 75, so it’s more tailored to adults or older teens looking for a straightforward, nature-focused outing.

This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable in the water and want a relaxed, scenic experience with a good chance of wildlife sightings. If your main goal is to see turtles and vibrant coral reefs without a huge time commitment, this two-hour trip can fit perfectly into a busy Hawaii itinerary.

Key Points

Accessible Experience: Whether you snorkel or just ride along, you’ll encounter Hawaii’s marine life comfortably.
Wildlife Encounters: Swim with wild Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and spot colorful reef fish.
Expert Crew: Certified, experienced guides ensure safety and help you spot the best sights.
All Necessary Equipment: Masks, fins, snorkels, and lifejackets are included—just bring your towel and sunscreen.
Flexible Options: Tours run in the morning and afternoon, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
Price for Value: At $85, it’s a reasonable price for a chance to explore Hawaii’s underwater environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What the Tour Involves: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

The tour kicks off near suite 103 in Waikiki, where a crew member will check you in, usually wearing a blue shirt. The group size tends to be manageable, creating a friendly atmosphere where guides can give personalized tips. Once onboard, you’re likely to spend around two hours out on the water, a perfect window for beginners or those wanting a quick, rewarding adventure.

Planning more time in Waikiki? We've covered other experiences worth considering.

The Boat and Equipment

The vessel is well-equipped with masks, fins, snorkels, and lifejackets, all provided for your comfort and safety. The crew emphasizes the importance of bringing a camera, towel, swimwear, and biodegradable sunscreen—the latter being a smart choice to protect marine life from harmful chemicals.

The Marine Environment

Expect to explore the coral reefs and marine life from beneath the water. The tour guides are familiar with Turtle Canyons, a shallow area where large green sea turtles come to visit, making it one of the highlights. As one reviewer said, “Watching angelfish dart in and out of coral caverns while swimming through schools of tropical fish is simply mesmerizing.”

The Wildlife

The real stars are the wild Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, which actively visit the shallower regions during the day. Guides can point out the cleaning stations where turtles often come to rest and get checked out by smaller fish. Many reviewers have found the sight of these gentle giants to be a real highlight—”The turtles are huge and graceful, and swimming alongside them felt almost surreal,” one said.

More Great Tours Nearby

Snorkel vs. Ride-Along

If snorkeling isn’t your thing, you might prefer to stay onboard, soaking in the sunshine and watching marine life from the deck. The tour’s flexible nature allows you to choose your level of activity, making it suitable for a range of comfort levels.

The Experience From Start to Finish

The adventure begins in the morning or afternoon, based on your booking. After check-in, you’ll quickly be aboard the boat, where safety instructions and gear fitting happen. Once on the water, the crew will guide you toward the best spots for seeing turtles and fish.

You can expect active wildlife throughout the day, so patience can be rewarded with fantastic sightings. The crew’s expertise shines here—they know where to look and can help you spot angelfish, tropical fish, and large green turtles. The boat’s design allows for great views from the deck if you prefer not to snorkel but still want to enjoy the scenery.

The Duration and Flexibility

The tour lasts about two hours, making it a manageable outing even if you have a tight schedule. The activity is available rain or shine, though the operators reserve the right to cancel if weather conditions aren’t safe for snorkeling. This is worth noting because Hawaiian weather can be unpredictable, but most reviews mention that the crew does their best to make the experience memorable regardless of conditions.

The Value of the Tour

At $85 per person, including all necessary gear and safety equipment, this experience offers a lot for a relatively short time. Considering how much time you might spend trying to find these creatures independently or paying for multiple excursions, this feels like a good deal. Plus, the free cancellation policy and the option to reserve and pay later add flexibility—a big plus when planning a trip to Hawaii.

The Downside

One drawback is that food and drinks are not included, so if you’re hungry or thirsty afterward, you’ll need to bring your own or plan to grab a bite nearby. Also, if you’re traveling with children under 12, this tour isn’t suitable, which might be disappointing for families eager to introduce younger kids to snorkeling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults and older teens who are comfortable in the water and want to see Hawaii’s unique marine creatures up close. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate scenic, wildlife-focused excursions and want a straightforward, no-fuss adventure. If you’re looking for an hour or two of relaxation combined with the thrill of spotting turtles and colorful fish, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a relaxed yet informative way to encounter Hawaii’s marine life, this snorkel tour offers genuine value. The chance to swim with wild green sea turtles, explore coral reefs, and enjoy stunning views makes it a highlight for many visitors. It’s especially suited for those who want a balance of adventure and comfort, with knowledgeable guides leading the way.

While it’s not a deep-sea expedition or a full-day marine safari, this tour strikes a good balance for a short, impactful experience. It’s a great way to tick off a must-see Hawaii activity without breaking the bank or requiring extensive planning.

Ready to Book?

Waikiki: Snorkel Tour with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, the tour is recommended for ages 12 and up, mainly because of safety considerations and the activity level involved.

Do I need prior snorkeling experience?
Basic swimming skills are required, but you don’t need to be an expert. The crew is experienced and will give instructions to help everyone feel comfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera, towel, swimwear, and biodegradable sunscreen. The tour provides masks, fins, snorkels, and lifejackets.

Can I stay on the boat if I don’t want to snorkel?
Yes, you can choose to ride along and enjoy the views and sun from the deck—no pressure to snorkel if you’re not comfortable.

What happens in bad weather?
The activity takes place rain or shine. The provider may cancel if conditions make snorkeling unsafe, but most trips go ahead regardless of light rain.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, including check-in, gear fitting, and time on the water.

Is food or drinks included?
No, but iced water is provided. You’ll need to bring your own if you want snacks or beverages.

This snorkel tour in Waikiki offers a straightforward, friendly way to connect with Hawaii’s vibrant underwater world, especially if you’re eager to see the iconic green sea turtles. It’s a practical choice for travelers who value expert guidance, safety, and stunning marine encounters—all wrapped into a short, enjoyable outing.