Looking for an exhilarating wildlife experience on your next visit to Hawaii? Look no further than Honolulu’s amazing whale watching tours! Every year these majestic creatures make their way to the warm waters of Hawaii to mate and give birth, making Oahu’s coastline one of the best places in the world to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. But with so many whale watching tours to choose from, how do you know which one to book? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the top whale watching tours in Honolulu to help you make the most of this unforgettable experience.
The 6 Best Whale Watching in Honolulu
- Oahu Dolphin Snorkel Cruise Including Lunch and Activities
- Oahu Circle Island Small Group Tour in Sprinter Van
- Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
- Oahu Highlights Turtles and North Shore Small Group Circle Island Tour
- Private Oahu Vip Circle Island Tour More Than 30 Spots and 15 Stops
- Hawaii Photo Tour
The 6 Best Whale Watching in Honolulu
1. Oahu Dolphin Snorkel Cruise Including Lunch and Activities
View dolphins in their natural habitat and snorkel alongside green sea turtles on this popular Oahu morning cruise. The tour includes transportation from Waikiki hotels, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddle boards, and a complementary lunch. Optional add-ons include wet suit rentals and a USB with professional photos of the tour. Observe spinner dolphins, colorful fish, and other sea creatures before returning to the harbor. This tour is perfect for those looking to experience Hawaii’s marine life up close in a safe and fun environment.
2. Oahu Circle Island Small Group Tour in Sprinter Van
Experience the beauty of Oahu’s top sights on a small-group tour. Enjoy hassle-free round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels and let your guide take care of the driving while you relax and take in the breathtaking views. Visit the famous Hanauma Bay, witness the Halona Blowhole, and hike up the Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views of the island. Afterwards, explore the charming Haleiwa town and indulge in local flavors for lunch. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide will provide cultural insights and share interesting facts about each location. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive tour that will give you a great overview of Oahu’s beauty. The tour includes a maximum of 14 guests, hotel pickup and drop-off, live onboard commentary, food and drinks, and gratuities. Book now to take part in this unforgettable Oahu Circle Island Small Group Tour in a Sprinter Van.
3. Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour
Explore Oahu’s most popular spots all in one day on this full-day tour of the island’s iconic landmarks. Your day will start with convenient hotel pickup from selected hotels. Board an air-conditioned coach or minivan and head out to see Diamond Head, the renowned North Shore Surfing Beaches and take in views from the Halona Blowhole Lookout and Nu`uanu Pali Lookout. You’ll also get to see the Dole Plantation and its pineapples from all over the world, followed by a stop at Kualoa Ranch and various lookout points. Local taxes, lunch, gratuities, and transportation to and from your hotel are included in this tour. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover all these amazing spots in one day!
4. Oahu Highlights Turtles and North Shore Small Group Circle Island Tour
This circle island tour offers a comprehensive overview of Oahu’s landmarks and highlights, with over thirty attractions to see. You’ll enjoy a small-group setting that ensures personal attention from your local guide, with round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels included.
Take in the surf and sand at Waikiki Beach, with a special treat of free Macadamia Nut Coffee and Nuts before a local lunch. Learn about the history of Haleiwa town and discover insider info about favorite local eateries. You’ll also see filming locations for various movies and TV shows, including “Godzilla” and “Pearl Harbor.”
Visit a pineapple plantation and a macadamia nut farm, while learning about the history and culture of Oahu from your knowledgeable guide. All taxes, fees, and handling charges are included, along with bottled water and food tastings. However, food and drinks not specified and gratuities are not included. Souvenir photos are available for purchase.
Pickup and dropoff are provided at your hotel, making this tour a hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Oahu’s North Shore.
5. Private Oahu Vip Circle Island Tour More Than 30 Spots and 15 Stops
Circle the beautiful island of Oahu on a private tour with up to five passengers. This full-day tour includes round-trip transportation from Waikiki hotels, bottled water, and snacks. You will learn about Oahu’s rich history and culture from your professional guide while visiting over 30 island stops. Experience the magic of famous surfing waves and soft sand beaches and discover popular attractions such as the Dole Plantation and historic Haleiwa town. This tour also takes you to various locations famous for feature films. With insider information, you won’t hear anywhere else this is one tour you won’t want to miss. Gratuities are included, and if you need more time to explore, you can pay an additional $100 per additional started hour. Pickups outside of Waikiki will incur an additional surcharge of $100 for locations such as Ko’olina or North Shore Oahu.
6. Hawaii Photo Tour
See Hawaii’s best and most beautiful attractions during this incredible tour that’s designed with the photographer in mind. Spend 10 hours navigating breathtaking landscapes and the picturesque coast of Oahu and seeking out green sea turtles. This tour allows travelers to stop often and ensures visitors leave having captured the best images of this iconic island. Capture the stunning Oahu sunrise on film and spend 10 hours snapping photos around the island, stopping whenever you’d like. Seek out green turtles and other local wildlife and gain insider knowledge from your professional guide. Live commentary on board, photographer guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as lunch are included. The pickup point is customizable and the pickup time and location can be verified upon contact. During the tour, you will visit Sandy Beach for 45 minutes and Makapu’u Beach for 20 minutes. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable Hawaii photo tour.
The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching in Honolulu: FAQs Answered
Honolulu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Hawaii and for good reason. While the pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters are certainly stunning, what makes Honolulu an extra special destination is the opportunity to witness majestic humpback whales in their natural habitat. Whale watching tours in Honolulu are a popular activity among tourists, but with so many tour options and information available, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip. In this post, we will be answering some frequently asked questions regarding whale watching in Honolulu to help you plan your trip.1. When is the best time to go whale watching in Honolulu?
The best time to go whale watching in Honolulu is between December and April, when the humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to mate and give birth. During this time, you can expect to see hundreds of whales breaching, tail-slapping, and singing in the waters near Honolulu.2. What types of whales can you expect to see during a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
The main species of whale you can expect to see during a whale watching tour in Honolulu is the humpback whale. These gentle giants grow up to 52 feet in length and can weigh up to 79,000 pounds. During the migration season, it is common to see mothers swimming with their calves and males engaging in competitive behavior.3. What should I wear on a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
It is important to dress in comfortable and light layers while on a whale watching tour in Honolulu. The weather conditions can vary throughout the day, so it’s best to wear clothing that can be easily adjusted. Also, don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.4. How long do whale watching tours in Honolulu last?
Most whale watching tours in Honolulu last between 2-3 hours, depending on the company and excursion you choose. Some tours also offer a guarantee that you’ll see a whale during your trip, so be sure to look for those options when researching tour companies.5. Are whale watching tours in Honolulu safe?
Yes, whale watching tours in Honolulu are safe for both passengers and the whales. All tour companies in Honolulu must follow strict guidelines and regulations set in place by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to ensure the safety of both the whales and the passengers. However, it is still important to listen to the safety instructions provided by your tour guide before and during the trip.6. How close can you get to the whales during a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
Federal law requires all boats to stay at least 100 yards away from whales in Hawaii waters. Boats are not allowed to block the path of a whale or separate a mother and calf. Tour companies are also not allowed to permit passengers to swim with the whales.7. What should I look for when choosing a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing a whale watching tour in Honolulu. First, make sure the tour company is licensed by the state of Hawaii and follows all NOAA guidelines and regulations. Second, look for a company that offers a guarantee that you’ll see whales during your tour. Third, read reviews and testimonials from previous customers to ensure the company provides a quality experience.8. How much does it cost to go whale watching in Honolulu?
The cost of whale watching tours in Honolulu varies depending on the company and the type of tour you choose. On average, expect to pay between $100-$150 per person for a 2-3 hour tour. Some companies offer discounts for children or large groups, so be sure to ask.9. How can I book a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
You can book a whale watching tour in Honolulu through many tour operators, travel agencies, and online booking sites. It’s important to book in advance, especially during the peak season, to ensure availability. Booking in advance will also allow you to choose the best time and date for your trip.10. What else should I know before going on a whale watching tour in Honolulu?
Make sure to bring your camera, binoculars, and any personal items you may need during the tour, such as snacks or medication. Also, remember to be respectful of the whales and their environment. Avoid throwing any trash overboard and do not touch or feed the whales. Finally, wear comfortable shoes with non-slip soles as the deck might get wet and slippery.In conclusion, whale watching in Honolulu is an incredible experience that you’ll never forget. With a little advance planning and research, you can make the most out of your trip and enjoy the beauty and majesty of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.How to do Whale Watching in Honolulu
Honolulu is an amazing place to do whale watching. Every year during winter, humpback whales swim to these islands to mate, give birth, and nurse their young ones. It offers a unique opportunity for tourists to see these gentle giants close up in their natural habitat. If you are in Honolulu and want to do whale watching, follow these simple steps:Step 1: Choose the Best Time to go Whale Watching
The best time to do whale watching in Honolulu is from December to April. During this time, humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii for 2,500 miles to mate, give birth, and nurse their young ones. This is when you will see the highest concentration of whales in Honolulu and the best chance to see these gentle giants up close.Step 2: Choose a Reputable Whale Watching Company
There are many whale watching companies in Honolulu, so it’s important to choose a reputable one. Choose a company that has experienced captains and naturalists who can give you detailed information about whale behavior. You can read reviews online from past customers to get an idea of their reputation. Choose a company that is respectful of the whales and follows guidelines for responsible whale watching.Step 3: Decide on a Tour Type
Honolulu offers a few different types of whale watching tours. You can choose a catamaran, powerboat, sailing boat, or even a kayak. Choose the type of boat that appeals to you and your interests. A catamaran tour offers a smoother ride, while a powerboat offers a faster experience. A kayak tour can get you closer to the whales but requires a lot of paddling.Step 4: Dress Appropriately
It can get chilly on a boat, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a jacket, sunscreen, and a hat. You may also want to bring a camera to capture some amazing photos.Step 5: Listen to the Naturalist
The naturalist on the boat will give you important information about the whales and their behavior. Listen carefully to their instructions and ask any questions you may have. The naturalist will also help you spot the whales and point out their behavior.Step 6: Be Respectful of the Whales
It’s important to be respectful of the whales during your whale watching tour. Don’t make loud noises or sudden movements that could startle them. Stay at least 100 yards away from the whales and never try to touch them.Step 7: Enjoy the Experience!
Whale watching in Honolulu is an unforgettable experience. Take the time to enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch the whales in their natural habitat. Just remember to be respectful of these gentle giants and enjoy the amazing experience!Book Your Tour Now
Whale watching in Honolulu is an amazing experience that everyone should try at least once in their life. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable tour. Choose a reputable company, dress appropriately, listen to the naturalist, and be respectful of the whales. With a little effort, you can have an experience you’ll never forget.Table of Contents
