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Skip to main content
Adventure Collective Logo
Adventure ExperiencesLocal ExpertsLocationsAbout
Menu

The Adventure Collective

The Adventure Collective Discover, plan, and share your outdoor adventures with our global community of explorers.

Add as a preferred

source on Google

Explore Adventures

  • All Adventures
  • Boat Charters
  • Water Activities
  • Fishing
  • Land Adventures
  • Motorized Land
  • Winter Sports

Explore Adventures

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  • Wildlife & Nature
  • Camping & Overnight
  • Climbing & Mountaineering

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Pau Hana Sunset Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor, Big Island

Pau Hana Sunset Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor, Big Island

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  4. Pau Hana Sunset Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor, Big Island

Adventure Brief

Set sail from Kawaihae Harbor on a two-hour sunset cruise that offers scenic views of Hawaii’s Big Island, complimentary refreshments, and a romantic setting. Perfect for those looking to unwind and capture memorable moments at sea.

2 hours
easy
Family Friendly

Keep the Adventure Going

More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders

No Experience Required

Embark on the Pau Hana Sunset Cruise from Kawaihae Harbor and discover the serene beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island from the water. Operated by Ocean Sports Cruises, this private two-hour boat tour takes you aboard a luxurious catamaran designed for comfort and style. Whether you prefer lounging with a complimentary drink or taking the helm yourself under expert guidance, this cruise offers a unique way to experience the island's spectacular coastline. As the sun dips below the horizon, vibrant colors paint the sky, creating unforgettable photo opportunities that capture the true essence of island paradise. The romantic ambiance combined with light snacks ensures a relaxing and memorable evening, perfect for couples or small groups seeking tranquility away from the crowds. This adventure is ideal for all skill levels, welcoming first-time sailors and seasoned adventurers alike. Positioned in Waimea, near the Big Island's west coast, it’s accessible from the larger city of Kailua-Kona, making it a convenient choice for visitors looking to add a special evening activity to their Hawaii itinerary. Whether you want to soak in the stunning views, enjoy the marine breeze, or capture the perfect sunset shot, the Pau Hana Sunset Cruise promises an unforgettable experience that highlights the natural charm and aloha spirit of Hawaii.

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Trip Details from the Operator

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, children are welcome aboard as long as they are supervised and comfortable on boats.

Absolutely! Under expert supervision, guests are invited to steer the catamaran for a hands-on experience.

Yes, complimentary drinks and light snacks are provided to enhance your relaxing experience.

Key Highlights

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; no strenuous activity required.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Spinner dolphins
  • Humpback whales during winter months

History

Kawaihae Harbor has historically been an important port for native Hawaiians and later for international trade on the Big Island.

Conservation

Ocean Sports Cruises emphasizes eco-friendly touring practices and encourages use of reef-safe sunscreens to protect Hawaii’s marine environment.

Related Adventures & Guides

  • See other trips from Ocean Sports Cruises
  • Explore more Kailua-Kona adventures
  • Browse more boat charters experiences

Operated By

Ocean Sports Cruises

Set sail from Kawaihae Harbor on a two-hour sunset cruise that offers scenic views of Hawaii’s Big Island, complimentary refreshments, and a romantic setting. Perfect for those looking to unwind and capture memorable moments at sea.

About Ocean Sports Cruises

Ocean Sports Cruises is a Waikoloa Village, Hawaii-based operator specializing in whale watches, snorkel adventures, and sunset cruises along the Kohala Coast.

The company runs departures from Anaeho'omalu Bay and Kawaihae Harbor, operating stable catamarans with experienced crews and naturalist-guided interpretation during humpback season (December–March).

Trips include early-morning and late-morning whale watches, Pau Hana sunset cruises, and three-hour snorkel whale watch adventures that combine coastal sailing with guided snorkeling, picnic snacks, and onboard hydrophones to hear humpback song.

Ocean Sports Cruises offers a whale-spotting guarantee: if a whale is not seen, customers may ride again until a sighting occurs on qualifying trips. Safety protocols, life jackets, and trained crew are standard; vessels are suitable for families and photographers seeking marine wildlife encounters.

On snorkel whale watch trips, guests receive briefings, guided snorkel tours, and complimentary snacks and drinks. Sunset cruises provide two-hour experiences with beverages, light snacks, scenic viewpoints, and optional casual sailing at the helm under crew supervision.

Departures vary by trip and harbor; specific options include Pau Hana Sunset Cruises and Wake Up With the Whales, as well as snorkel-integrated excursions from both Anaeho'amalu Bay and Kawaihae Harbor.

The operator focuses on responsible wildlife viewing within the National Marine Humpback Whale Sanctuary, emphasizing respectful distances, educated narration, and memorable coastal experiences for visitors seeking authentic Hawaiian marine encounters.

Reservations are offered online and by phone. Seasonal schedules run primarily December through March for humpback season, with multiple daily departures depending on trip type and harbor, and weather conditions.

Humpback whale surfacing near tropical shoreline and resort coast
Passengers on boat viewing Hawaiian coastline from catamaran deck

Departure Ports

Anaehoʻomalu Bay & Kawaihae

Multiple harbor departure options

Season

December–March

Peak humpback whale season

Family Friendly

Yes

Life jackets and guided snorkeling

Tours Offered

11

Whale watches, snorkel, and sunset cruises

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Book a Waikoloa Whale Watch or Snorkel Adventure

Reserve a spot for Pau Hana sunset cruises, early-morning whale watches, or three-hour snorkel whale watch adventures — seasonal trips run December–March.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Boarding

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before departure to ensure a smooth boarding process and settle in comfortably.

essential

Bring a Light Jacket

Evenings on the water can get breezy; a light jacket will keep you comfortable during the cruise.

info

Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect your skin and marine life by applying reef-safe sunscreen before boarding the boat.

essential

Secure Your Valuables

Keep electronics and personal belongings safe and dry, preferably in waterproof bags or cases.

warning

Recommended Gear

Light Jacket or Windbreaker

Keeps you warm and comfortable against ocean breezes during the evening cruise.

summer

Essential

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protects your skin and Hawaii’s marine ecosystem during time on deck.

summer

Essential

Waterproof Phone Case

Helps protect your phone from sprays and enables safe photography on the water.

Camera with Zoom Lens

Ideal for capturing distant scenic views and marine wildlife during the cruise.

Waimea Things To Do
Waimea Boat Tour
  • Read our Kailua-Kona travel guide