16 Best Whale Watching Tours In Oahu

Whale watching on Oahu delivers reliable winter encounters with majestic humpbacks. The practical Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise hits the sweet spot: 2 hours, perfect timing at 8:45 AM, and less-crowded morning waters. For those wanting extra time with the whales, the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion from Ala Wai Harbor offers a solid 2.5-hour experience with knowledgeable naturalists. The West Coast Eco-Friendly Cruise stands out for its environmental commitment and excellent spotting record. Our favorite is the comprehensive 5-hour Guided Whale and Marine Life Tour – it allows plenty of time for multiple encounters and includes detailed commentary about whale behavior. Let’s look at these outstanding tours in detail.

Key Points

• The “Oahu Whale Watching Excursions” offers a 2.5-hour tour from Ala Wai Harbor, with a 4.9-star rating from 363 reviews.
• The “Unique Whale Watching Experiences” features a traditional ceremony and departs from Kewalo Boat Harbor, with a 4.8/5 rating.
• The “Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise” provides a 2-hour tour from Aloha Tower Marketplace, Waikiki, with complimentary pineapple banana bread and hot Kona coffee/tea.
• The “Eco-Friendly Whale Watching Tours” offer a 2-hour west coast cruise from Waianae Harbor, with a 4.5/5 rating from 33 reviews and complimentary refreshments.
• The “Guided Marine Life Tours” provide a 1.5-hour guided tour focusing on marine life, limited to 18 travelers, and not recommended for those with back issues or serious conditions.

Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise From Waikiki

For an early morning adventure off the shores of Waikiki, the Early Bird Whale Watching Cruise is a must-do activity.

This 2-hour tour departs at 8:45 AM from the Aloha Tower Marketplace, offering the chance to spot humpback whales and spinner dolphins.

Onboard, you’ll enjoy a naturalist guide, homemade pineapple banana bread, and hot Kona coffee or tea.

The spacious, wheelchair-accessible boat features multiple viewing levels, allowing you to take in the sights comfortably.

With a 4.5-star rating from 191 reviews, this cruise provides an informative and memorable whale watching experience, starting from $75 per person.

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Oahu: Whale Watching Excursion From Ala Wai Harbor

Experience the wonder of whale watching on Oahu with an exhilarating excursion from Ala Wai Harbor.

This 2.5-hour tour takes you out to spot the magnificent humpback whales that visit the island’s waters during the winter months.

You’ll board a small, comfortable boat and enjoy an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide providing commentary.

With a 4.9 (363 reviews) rating, this tour is a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts.

Pickup is available, and prices start from $193.88, making it a convenient and high-quality option for your Oahu whale watching adventure.

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2-Hour Whale Watching From Oahu

Though the weather may be unpredictable, the 2-hour whale watching tour from Oahu’s Pink Sails Waikiki offers an opportunity to catch a glimpse of the majestic humpback whales that visit the island’s waters during the winter months.

With a maximum capacity of 60 travelers, the tour departs from the convenient location across from the Prince Waikiki Hotel and returns to the same spot.

While sightings can vary, the crew is known for their friendliness and enthusiasm, and they’ll do their best to locate the whales. If you don’t see any, you can come back for another tour.

Priced at €48.83 per person, this excursion provides a chance to experience Oahu’s natural wonders up close.

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Oahu: Eco-Friendly West Coast Whale Watching Cruise

One of the top whale watching experiences on Oahu is the eco-friendly 2-hour west coast whale watching cruise. Priced at $107.62 per person, this tour allows you to witness humpback whales migrating to Hawaii from December to May.

Depart from Waianae Harbor on a spacious catamaran or mono-hull powerboat, and enjoy complimentary refreshments as you take in scenic views of the coastline. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, you’ll get a free cruise if no whales are spotted.

With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 33 reviews, this tour is praised for its friendly crew and the chance to see whales, turtles, and dolphins. Free hotel pickup in Ko Olina is available.

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5 -Hour Guided Whale and Marine Life Tour

This 1.5-hour guided tour in Oahu allows you to witness the magnificent marine life of the Hawaiian waters.

You’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales, dolphins, Galapagos sharks, sea turtles, and blue-footed boobies aboard the Rambo II boat. The knowledgeable and friendly crew will share educational insights about the local wildlife.

While the tour provides a memorable experience, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions due to the boat’s limited accessibility.

With a maximum of 18 travelers, you’ll want to book your spot early as these tours are likely to sell out.

Oahu: Waikiki Whale Watching Tour-Donut and Coffee Included

Oftentimes, visitors to Oahu can’t resist the allure of the island’s legendary whale watching tours. One such tour is the Waikiki Whale Watching experience, offering a chance to see humpback whales in their natural habitat.

Priced at €93.66 per person, the 2-hour tour includes a traditional ceremony, whale song listening, and a knowledgeable crew providing commentary. Light refreshments, like poi mochi donuts and coffee, are also provided.

The tour departs from Kewalo Boat Harbor, cruising around Diamond Head with the opportunity to witness whales’ tails and fins. Guests can also enjoy a hula performance on the return trip.

With a 4.8/5 rating and a guarantee of whale sightings starting December 1, this tour is a must-try for whale enthusiasts visiting Oahu.

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Whale Watch Cruise Aboard The Majestic by Atlantis Cruises

As you explore the whale watching options in Oahu, the Whale Watch Cruise Aboard The Majestic by Atlantis Cruises is a must-consider experience.

With 185 reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 2.5-hour cruise offers expert naturalist commentary and a guarantee of whale sightings.

You’ll enjoy scenic views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach from the indoor air-conditioned seating or outdoor viewing decks. The maximum of 200 travelers ensures an intimate experience.

Though not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is stroller-friendly and near public transportation.

With a 4.5-star rating, this tour is praised for its knowledgeable staff, comfortable boat, and diverse marine life sightings.

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Oahu: Waikiki Eco-Friendly Morning Whale Watching Cruise

Experience the wonders of Oahu’s marine life with the Waikiki Eco-Friendly Morning Whale Watching Cruise. Priced from $107.62 per person, this 2-hour catamaran tour departs from Kewalo Basin Harbor.

Spot humpback whales in their natural habitat and enjoy stunning views of the Waikiki coastline. The cruise includes unlimited soda, juice, and water, as well as snacks like cookies and chips.

If no whales are spotted, you can reschedule for free. With a 4.4/5 overall rating based on 102 reviews, this eco-friendly experience is a must for nature enthusiasts.

Just remember to arrive at the meeting point near Ward Avenue and Ala Moana Boulevard, and don’t forget to confirm details with the activity provider a day before your trip.

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Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

This 2.5-hour Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu provides an opportunity to spot humpback whales while enjoying a delightful island-inspired breakfast.

With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, the cruise departs at 9 AM and offers 100% Kona coffee, French toast, and a hearty loco moco.

While whale sightings aren’t guaranteed, past guests have reported high sightings. The crew receives praise for their friendliness and knowledge, though some visitors noted a lack of captain interaction.

The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and travelers can take advantage of the lowest price guarantee.

However, it’s not recommended for those with unmanageable motion sickness.

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Oahu: Whale Watching Afternoon Sailing Cruise

Set out on a captivating 2-hour whale watching cruise off the Oahu coastline. Priced from $107.62 per person, this tour allows you to marvel at the majestic Pacific Humpback whales from a safe distance.

Enjoy Oahu’s stunning landscapes as you sail on a comfortable boat or catamaran, accompanied by a knowledgeable live guide. Sip on complimentary beverages and snacks as you learn about the whales’ migratory patterns.

With a wildlife guarantee, you can sail again for free if no whales are spotted. However, reviews are mixed, so manage your expectations accordingly.

This tour operates rain or shine, making it a reliable option for your Oahu whale watching adventure.

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Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

Situated along the scenic Oahu coastline, the Oahu Whale Watching Excursion offers a captivating 2-hour cruise to witness the majestic Pacific Humpback whales.

With a 592-review badge of excellence, this tour operates from December to May, guaranteeing whale sightings.

Cruise aboard a small group catamaran or monohull and learn about the whales’ migration from expert guides.

Watch the whales swim, feed, breach, and play, while enjoying snacks and non-alcoholic beverages.

The tour includes gratuities, and you can bring your own lunch.

If no whales are sighted, you’ll receive a free tour.

With parking available and near public transportation, this excursion is a must-do for whale enthusiasts visiting Oahu.

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Oahu: Honolulu Whale Watching Cruise

Experience the captivating Oahu: Honolulu Whale Watching Cruise for an unforgettable 1.5-hour adventure along the scenic Honolulu coastline.

Priced from $47 per person, this whale-watching excursion offers the best viewing during the peak season from December to April.

Enjoy unobstructed vistas from a double-deck catamaran and keep an eye out for humpback whales, dolphins, and other marine life.

The cruise includes complimentary water, juice, and snacks, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations.

If whales aren’t sighted, you’ll get a free ticket for your next trip.

With a 3.9/5 rating based on 85 reviews, this is a must-do activity on your Oahu adventure.

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Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise (Winter Only)

If you’re looking to explore Oahu’s marine life during the winter months, the Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles and Sightseeing Cruise is a popular option.

This 1-hour tour departs from the Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats location and can accommodate up to 49 travelers. While reviews are mixed, with some disappointment over the lack of whale sightings, the cruise offers the chance to spot turtles and fish, as well as enjoy views of Waikiki.

The tour includes bottled water and allows you to bring your own lunch and alcoholic beverages. With a 3.5-star rating from 108 reviews, it may be worth considering if you have modest expectations and want a sightseeing experience.

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Oahu: Waikiki Eco-Friendly Afternoon Whale Watching Trip

Enjoy an eco-friendly whale watching adventure on Oahu’s Waikiki coastline with this 1.5-hour catamaran tour. Priced from $81.53 per person, you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales during their migration season from December to April.

Sail on a 65-foot catamaran and enjoy unlimited soda, juice, and water on board. The tour is backed by a whale sighting guarantee – if no whales are spotted, you’ll receive a free alternative trip.

With an overall rating of 4.3/5 from 55 reviews, this tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience, thanks to the knowledgeable crew. Convenient parking and easy check-in make this an ideal activity for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.

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Waikiki Whale Watching Cruise Including Coffee and Donuts

Set out on a full-day boat tour along the west coast of Oahu to witness the majesty of wild humpback whales and Hawaiian spinner dolphins.

Enjoy Polynesian culture with on-board hula and ukulele performances. Savor local treats like poi donuts and musubi, and sip complimentary coffee or tea.

Depart from and return to the convenient Kewalo Basin Harbor location. Though sightings aren’t guaranteed, you’ll have a 93% chance of spotting these majestic creatures.

With a maximum of 50 travelers, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience. However, note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Priced from $99 per person, this Waikiki whale watching adventure is a must-do for nature enthusiasts.

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Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu

Looking to experience the majestic whales of Oahu? Join the Whale Watching Cruise in Honolulu.

This 3-hour tour departs at noon from Kewalo Basin Harbor, with a maximum capacity of 100 travelers. At $45 per person, you’ll have the chance to spot whales from the upper deck of the Prince Kuhio vessel.

While motion sickness can be an issue, the crew is known for their friendly and engaging presence. Past guests have raved about the whale sightings, food, and overall organization, though some have reported cancellations or limited viewings.

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The Sum Up

Oahu offers a variety of whale watching tours to suit your preferences. Whether you want an early morning cruise, a longer guided tour, or a quick afternoon trip, you’ll find an option that fits your schedule and budget. With so many choices, you’re sure to spot some magnificent whales and enjoy the stunning Hawaiian scenery during your whale watching adventure.