Waikiki: AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling

If you’re dreaming of swimming alongside Hawaiian sea turtles just off the coast of Waikiki, the AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling tour might be just what you’re looking for. This 3-hour experience promises the chance to see sea turtles at a 99% encounter rate, snorkel in the vibrant waters of Turtle Canyon, and enjoy breathtaking views of Waikiki from the ocean. While it’s a quick trip, it packs a lot into a manageable window—perfect for travelers short on time but eager to connect with Hawaii’s marine life.

We love the ease of access—since the tour departs from near Waikiki hotels, it’s ideal for those wanting a hassle-free adventure without a long boat ride. Plus, the fact that underwater photos and dry bags are included adds a nice touch of value for those wanting to remember their underwater encounters. That said, it’s worth noting that the activity is geared toward basic snorkeling, so if you’re looking for advanced diving, this might not be the tour for you. This experience is best suited for families, beginners, and anyone craving a quick, authentic taste of Hawaii’s underwater world.

Key Points

• High encounter rate: Almost everyone gets to see sea turtles, making it a reliable choice.
• Short and convenient: Perfect for travelers with limited time or looking for a quick ocean adventure.
• All-inclusive gear: Snorkeling equipment, photos, dry bags, water, and snacks make it easy and fun.
• Scenic views: Enjoy the sights of Waikiki and Diamond Head from the water.
• Supportive guides: Experienced guides tailor instructions to your skill level.
• Weather-dependent: Be prepared for possible cancellations or rescheduling due to weather conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Introduction to Waikiki’s Underwater Treasures

When considering a snorkeling trip in Waikiki, convenience and marine encounters are top priorities. The AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling tour hits the sweet spot by offering a well-rounded experience that balances ease, excitement, and value. We appreciate that this tour is designed for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike, with guides providing full support to ensure everyone feels comfortable in the water.

Two main aspects stand out about this tour. First, the remarkably high encounter rate with sea turtles, which is said to be 99%. That kind of certainty is rare and means you’re quite likely to have that memorable moment of swimming alongside one of Hawaii’s most iconic creatures. Second, the scenic backdrop of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the ocean horizon, makes for a stunning experience even above water.

However, a possible consideration is the weather dependency. Like most outdoor marine activities, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so it’s wise to keep an eye on the forecast and be flexible with plans.

This tour appeals primarily to families, beginner snorkelers, and travelers wanting a quick yet memorable aquatic adventure. It’s an experience that blends ease with authenticity, perfect for those wanting a taste of Hawaii’s marine life without the hassle of long boat rides or complicated gear.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from several Waikiki locations starting early in the morning (around 7:00 am). The pickup process is smooth, with designated spots at major hotels, from the Waikiki Beach Marriott to Prince Waikiki, making it easy to join without additional transport worries. Travelers are advised to wait at the meeting points 10 minutes prior to pickup times, ensuring a punctual start.

Once on board, the transportation to Kewalo Basin Harbor takes about 10-15 minutes, where the actual snorkeling begins. The boat ride itself is brief, keeping the focus on the water. We liked how the guides emphasize safety and comfort, especially for beginners or younger participants. Rental wetsuits are available for $15, which can be worthwhile if you tend to get cold easily or plan to stay in the water longer.

The highlight of the tour is snorkeling at Turtle Canyon, a renowned spot where sea turtles are common, and the encounter chance is 99%. This area is filled with colorful tropical fish and vibrant coral, offering a lively underwater landscape. The guides support snorkelers of all levels, providing full instruction and assistance, making it a great choice for those new to snorkeling.

While swimming, you can look upward to enjoy spectacular views of Waikiki’s skyline and Diamond Head, adding a visual dimension to your underwater adventure. Many reviewers note that “the scenery from the surface is stunning” and “seeing Diamond Head from the water is a real highlight.”

After the snorkeling session, the boat returns to harbor, and the tour includes underwater photos and a dry bag. The photos are a thoughtful bonus, capturing your marine moments without extra effort, and the dry bag keeps your belongings safe during the water.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $125, this tour offers a lot of value. The full package includes hotel round-trip transportation, snorkeling gear, guided support, underwater photos, dry bags, bottled water, and snacks. These inclusions make it a straightforward, all-in-one experience that minimizes extra expenses and logistical worries.

The main additional cost might be the wetsuit rental at $15 if you’re sensitive to cooler water. It’s also recommended to bring sunscreen, swimwear, and a towel, as these are not provided. For children under 9, a life jacket is recommended, especially for those less confident in the water.

The tour does not include large luggage or pets, which is standard for water-based trips, and it’s wise to arrive at the harbor if you choose to self-arrange your transportation.

The Experience on the Water

Once on the boat, the atmosphere is relaxed yet professional. Guides are fluent in both Japanese and English, ensuring clear communication. Many travelers appreciate that support is tailored to different skill levels, so even beginners feel comfortable.

As you float in the water, the diversity of marine life becomes apparent. Expect to see colorful tropical fish darting around coral heads, and with a little patience, the chance to spot sea turtles gracefully gliding by. Several reviewers mention that “the encounter rate is astonishingly high,” making it a reliable spot for turtle sightings.

The scenic views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, and the city skyline from the water offer a different perspective of the island’s beauty. The experience is not just about the underwater; the panoramic vistas make it memorable.

Many visitors mention the quality of the underwater photos, with some noting, “It’s a gift to have professional-looking pictures of your time with the turtles.” The dry bags are appreciated, especially for keeping valuables safe during snorkeling.

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The Return & Overall Value

After roughly 2 hours of snorkeling, the boat heads back to harbor. The included snacks and bottled water help rehydrate and refuel after the swim. The entire experience wraps up within three hours, making it a manageable half-day activity that leaves plenty of time for other sightseeing.

In terms of value, at $125, the tour covers nearly everything you need: gear, photos, transportation, and support. Compared to other options, especially those that might charge extra for photos or gear, this package feels comprehensive. Many travelers find the high encounter rate with turtles, combined with the scenic backdrop, justifies the price.

Final Thoughts: Is It for You?

This snorkeling tour is ideal if you seek an authentic, accessible, and efficient way to see Hawaii’s marine life. It’s particularly good for families with children, first-time snorkelers, or travelers on a tight schedule who want that classic Hawaiian experience—swimming with turtles amid vibrant fish and coral.

While it’s not suited for people with serious health concerns, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, the tour’s emphasis on safety and support makes it welcoming for most beginners. The inclusion of photos and dry bags adds extra value, ensuring you’ll have mementos of your trip without paying extra.

If scenic ocean views and high turtle encounter rates appeal to you, this trip offers a friendly, well-organized introduction to Hawaii’s underwater world. It balances convenience and adventure in a way that captures the essence of Waikiki’s marine beauty.

FAQs

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, including pickup, snorkeling, and return time.

Where does the tour depart from?
You can choose from several Waikiki hotels for pickup, including Waikiki Beach Marriott, Hyatt Regency, and others. If not using pickup, meet at Kewalo Basin Harbor pier A.

Is snorkeling suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour welcomes snorkel beginners, with guides providing full support and instructions.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, towel, sunscreen, and optionally, a wetsuit for $15.

Are photos included?
Yes, the tour provides underwater photo data as a complement to your experience.

Is there any age restriction?
Children under 5 are not suitable, and for children under 9, a life jacket is recommended.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled due to poor weather conditions, so check forecasts and stay flexible.

Is this a good value?
Considering gear, photos, transportation, and the high encounter rate with turtles, most travelers find the price reasonable for what you get.

The Sum Up

For those wanting a convenient, fun, and high-probability encounter with Hawaii’s iconic sea turtles, the Waikiki: AM Paradise Honu Snorkeling tour offers excellent value. It’s perfect for families, snorkel novices, and travelers short on time but eager to see the marine life that makes Hawaii special. You’ll enjoy stunning ocean views, supportive guides, and the chance to make lasting memories—plus, you get photos to relive the moments later.

While weather can influence the day’s plans, the overall experience strikes a great balance between comfort and adventure. If you’re after an authentic, accessible, and scenic underwater experience near Waikiki, this tour is worth considering. It’s a small investment for a big splash of Hawaiian marine magic.

You can check availability for your dates here: