Board from Waikiki Beach: Scenic Sunset Sail on the Hwea

If you’re dreaming about unwinding after a day of exploring Honolulu, a sunset cruise aboard the Hawea might just be the perfect way to wind down. This 1.5-hour sail on a stylish 50-foot catamaran offers a serene escape from the busy beaches and bustling streets of Waikiki. While I haven’t personally been on this exact cruise, I’ve dug into reviews and details to help you decide if it’s the right evening activity for your Hawaiian trip.

What we love about this experience is its blend of spectacular views and relaxed atmosphere—watching the sunset over Diamond Head from the water is truly breathtaking. Plus, the option to upgrade to premium cocktails and VIP boarding adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. That said, a possible consideration is that you won’t get hotel transfer included, so planning your arrival is key. It’s best suited for those wanting a calm, scenic evening with a splash of elegance and plenty of opportunities for photo ops.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a peaceful way to enjoy Hawaii’s natural beauty, or just want a memorable finish to your day, this cruise is a solid choice. Now, let’s break down what makes this experience stand out — and what’s worth knowing before you book.

Key Points

• Beautiful sunset views over Diamond Head provide iconic Hawaii photo opportunities.
• Relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere makes it suitable for all ages and keeps it intimate.
• Upgrade options include all-inclusive cocktails and VIP boarding, adding extra value.
• Convenient 1.5-hour duration fits well into most evening plans.
• No hotel transfers included, so plan your transportation accordingly.
• Highly praised crew with knowledgeable guides and friendly service.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

Sailing in Style on a Sleek Catamaran

You’ll be on Hawea, a beautifully handcrafted 50-foot catamaran that exudes comfort and elegance. The vessel is well-maintained, spacious enough to not feel crowded, and designed to provide a smooth, relaxing ride. We loved the way the boat’s design emphasizes both style and function, making it enjoyable even if you’re not a seasoned sailor.

What to Expect on the Cruise

The cruise is set to last approximately 90 minutes, usually in the evening to catch the sunset. You’ll depart from Waikiki Beach, with the exact meeting point depending on your booking choice. The ride along the Honolulu Coast offers views not just of Diamond Head but also of the city lights flickering on as night falls, creating a unique contrast of land, sea, and sky.

Sunset over Diamond Head

This is undoubtedly the highlight. You won’t just see the sunset — you’ll witness it from the water, with the iconic Diamond Head crater serving as your backdrop. The sky often fills with vibrant shades of gold, pink, and orange, making for incredible photos and memories. Several reviews noted how stunning the sunset views are, with many mentioning that it’s an ideal way to end a day on island time.

Relaxing Atmosphere and Music

The onboard music adds to the ambiance—think laid-back tunes that set the mood without overpowering the experience. It’s a peaceful, uncrowded environment where you can unwind, chat, or simply take in the views. The crew keeps the vibe friendly and professional, which many reviews highlighted as a real plus.

Drinks and Upgrades

Included in the standard ticket price ($68), you get a complimentary beverage—often a local cocktail or a refreshment of your choice. For an upgrade to Hawea Premium, you’ll enjoy all-inclusive handcrafted cocktails throughout the sail and a keepsake flask to remember your trip. Reviews consistently praise the quality of drinks and the friendly bartenders, making the cruise feel like a floating cocktail lounge.

Why the Reviews Love It

The glowing reviews consistently mention friendly, knowledgeable staff and spectacular scenery. Travelers from around the world—Australia, the UK, the US, Germany, Ireland—appreciate the mix of good value, professionalism, and stunning views.

One reviewer from Australia said, “Great music, reasonable priced drinks, and perfect weather,” and others pointed out how the crew stayed out longer to capture the sunset, which added a special touch. Many reviews also note how uncrowded and intimate the cruise feels, making it a comfortable experience for couples, friends, or even small families.

Whale spotting was mentioned as a bonus, thanks to the crew’s attentiveness, which adds an unpredictable thrill to the cruise.

The Practical Side: What You Need to Know

The ticket price of $68 per person is quite reasonable for the experience offered—especially considering the quality of the views, the boat, and drinks. The cruise is designed to be relaxing rather than adventurous, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a mellow, scenic evening.

Timing and Duration: The sail usually departs in the evening and lasts about 1.5 hours, fitting easily into most evening plans. Remember to arrive at least 30 minutes early to check in, especially given Waikiki’s traffic and busy parking.

Transportation: The meeting point may vary, and note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport—walking, taxi, or rideshare.

Weather Considerations: Rain or shine, the cruise goes on. It’s wise to check the weather forecast, but reviews indicate that even overcast days still offer lovely sunset views.

What to Bring: Sunscreen, a towel or swimwear if you plan to dip in water, drinks if you’re bringing your own (though alcohol isn’t permitted on board without a purchase), and a camera to capture the jaw-dropping scenery.

The Value of the Experience

While $68 isn’t a bargain-basement price, it’s a fair value for a scenic, well-organized sunset cruise aboard a beautiful boat. The reviews repeatedly mention good service and excellent views, which elevate it beyond a simple boat ride. The upgrade option offers all-inclusive cocktails and a souvenir flask, making it a good deal for those wanting a little extra indulgence.

Compared to other local options, this cruise seems to keep crowds manageable, maintaining an uncrowded and relaxed environment that many travelers appreciate. The boat’s sleek design and the crew’s professionalism add to the overall sense of quality.

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Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This experience is well-suited for couples seeking a romantic evening, friends wanting to unwind together, or small families looking for a peaceful, scenic activity. It’s not overly adventurous or active, making it ideal if you prefer to sit back and enjoy the views. It can also be a lovely way to celebrate a special occasion or simply mark the end of a day exploring Oahu.

If you’re craving a peaceful, picturesque way to experience Waikiki’s coastline and Diamond Head, this cruise delivers. It’s not a party boat, so if you’re after loud music and high-energy festivities, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

What time does the cruise usually depart?
Most cruises depart in the evening, around sunset, but exact times can vary depending on the booking.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed and family-friendly environment suggests it can be enjoyed by all ages. However, check with the provider if traveling with very young children.

Are drinks included in the standard ticket?
Yes, a complimentary beverage is included with your ticket. Upgrades offer unlimited cocktails and all-inclusive drinks.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for most evening schedules.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel transfers are not included; you’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point.

What should I bring?
Sunscreen, a towel or swimsuit if you plan to swim, drinks if you prefer bringing your own, and a camera for the views.

Final Thoughts

The Scenic Sunset Sail on the Hawea in Waikiki offers a beautifully crafted way to experience some of Hawaii’s most iconic sights—Diamond Head and the sunset—on a comfortable, well-run boat. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize relaxation, stunning scenery, and good company. The experience’s affordability combined with the positive reviews about the crew, scenery, and drinks makes it a solid choice for anyone wanting an elegant yet unpretentious evening on the water.

If you’re after a peaceful, picture-perfect moment to close out your day in paradise, this cruise fits the bill nicely. Just remember to plan your transportation, arrive early, and bring your camera—you won’t want to miss capturing these unforgettable views.

Enjoy your trip, and happy sailing!

You can check availability for your dates here: