Escape the crowds on a private 2-hour charter from Kewalo Basin that targets dolphins, green sea turtles, and seasonal humpback whales while tracing Oahu’s southeastern coast. Small groups, knowledgeable crews, and front-row views of Waikiki and Diamond Head make this an efficient ocean safari.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A low-slung charter eases away from Kewalo Basin and the city slides aft: Waikiki high-rises shrink, Diamond Head keeps watch, and the ocean opens with a different kind of scale. On this two-hour private run along Oahu’s southeast coast, the sea becomes an active character—dolphins weaving just off the bow, turtles drifting like slow ships, and in season humpbacks rising to announce themselves.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal fitness required; stable footing and the ability to board a small vessel are sufficient
Wildlife
History
Diamond Head is a tuff cone formed by a single explosive eruption roughly 150,000–200,000 years ago; the shoreline was long used by Native Hawaiians for fishing and voyaging.
Conservation
Maintain respectful distances and follow crew guidance to avoid disturbing whales and dolphins; use reef-safe sunscreen and avoid disposing of trash overboard.
Reserve your spot on the Private Whale Watching and Dolphin Excursion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Hawai’i requires reef-safe products to protect coral; apply before boarding and reapply as needed.
Prep for motion
If you get seasick, take medication before boarding and sit mid-boat where motion is least noticeable.
Pack light snacks and water
The operator supplies bottled water and ice chests—bring spill-proof containers and easy-to-eat snacks.
Keep binoculars ready
Binoculars help identify distant blows and pods without needing to lean over the rail during approaches.
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects skin and the local coral ecosystems while spending time on deck.
Light windproof jacket
Wind and spray on the open deck are common, especially early and late in the season.
winter
Binoculars
Improves distant spotting of blows, flukes, and small dorsal fins without crowding the rail.
Non-slip deck shoes
Low-profile shoes with grip make boarding and moving on wet decks safer.