What is the meeting point?

Check-in is at Kewalo Basin Harbor: 1125 Ala Moana Blvd Slip B-01, Honolulu, HI 96814; arrive 15 minutes early.

How long is the tour and how much time is in the water?

Total trip time is about 2 hours with roughly 1 hour of guided snorkeling at the reef.

Is snorkeling suitable for kids?

Yes—families are welcome; a basic swimming ability is required and flotation vests are provided.

Can I bring my own gear?

Yes, you can bring personal masks or fins; operators supply standard snorkel kits if you prefer.

When are turtles most likely to be seen?

Turtles are commonly spotted year-round at the cleaning station, with morning trips often offering calmer water and better viewing.

Are there safety or conservation rules?

Yes—do not touch or chase turtles, avoid standing on coral, use reef-safe sunscreen, and follow guide instructions at all times.

Snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Turtle Canyons, Oahu | Snorkel | Boat Tour

Waikiki’s Turtle Canyons sits just off the coast of Honolulu, Hawaii, a shallow coral reef nicknamed a 'cleaning station' where Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) congregate. This two-hour boat snorkel from Kewalo Basin Harbor puts visitors into warm Pacific water with guides who know the currents, reef contours, and turtle behavior. The departure point is 1125 Ala Moana Blvd Slip B-01, Honolulu, HI 96814, where crews run a brief safety talk before a 10–20 minute cruise out along the Waikiki coastline. What makes Turtle Canyons special is its combination of accessible snorkeling and reliable wildlife viewing: out on the reef you’ll float above coral gardens, volcanic rock outcrops, and the slow, deliberate movements of green sea turtles as they rest and feed. The guides provide masks, fins, flotation vests and in-water accompaniment, so even families with nervous swimmers can share the experience. Expect colorful reef fish—wrasses, butterflyfish and surgeonfish—and if luck favors you, fast-moving spinner dolphins or flying fish in the blue beyond. The boat itself is custom-built for day trips, carrying up to forty guests while keeping gear stowed and decks clear for entry and exit. Onboard, volunteers or crew offer a snorkel demo, then lead small groups into the water for roughly an hour of guided snorkeling. Light refreshments are served during the return cruise, giving you time to decompress and review photos on your camera or phone. Photography is a highlight here—surface shots of turtles, wide reef landscapes, and closeups through a waterproof housing are all possible in the bright Hawaiian light. For visitors, Turtle Canyons is a practical choice: it’s close to Waikiki lodging, family-friendly, and offers a high chance of encountering honu without venturing far from shore. Local culture reveres the green sea turtle as 'honu', a creature woven through Hawaiian stories and a symbol of longevity; guides often share respectful viewing practices so wildlife is not disturbed. This trip is rated for swimmers with basic ability; the crew does not permit alcohol on snorkeling excursions. If you’re planning logistics, allow time for check-in at Kewalo Basin Harbor and bring reef-safe sunscreen, a waterproof camera, and a lightweight towel. Whether you want a brief ocean escape between hotel days or a centered wildlife encounter to remember, this guided snorkel to Turtle Canyons offers a manageable, high-reward window into Oahu’s marine world. Plan for multiple daily departures—check-in is typically 15 minutes prior and boats often run 9:30 AM, 12:30 PM and 3:00 PM seasonally—so mornings can be glassier and better for photos. Operators typically limit trips to forty passengers to reduce reef impact. Wear reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral, and rinse gear after salt exposure. Booking ahead during high season keeps your preferred time slot secure. Enjoy.

About Explore Hawaii Tours and Activities

Explore Hawaii Tours and Activities is a Honolulu-based tour operator offering curated ocean and cultural experiences in Waikīkī and nearby Oʻahu venues.

The company features evening cruises and cultural events designed for visitors who want front-row views of Waikīkī fireworks and authentic Polynesian performances. Featured offerings include Atlantis Cruises - Friday Fireworks & Cocktail Cruise, a two-hour Friday night cruise with live music, hula, a welcome drink, anchoring off Waikīkī Beach for fireworks, then a coastal return; E Sea Diver - Waikiki Friday Fireworks Cruise, a sunset sail with Diamond Head views, drinks, snacks, live music, and waterfront fireworks viewing; and the Mauka Warriors Luau Fireknife Competition 2025, a one-night-only Coral Crater event showcasing Polynesian warriors spinning flaming knives with music and fiery spectacle.

Tours are marketed to travelers seeking memorable Waikīkī evenings that combine coastal scenery with entertainment. Each trip summary advertises live music, refreshments, and prime viewing of Honolulu’s Friday night fireworks or a special luau competition. The business promotes small-group hospitality on scheduled departures in Honolulu and public event nights at Coral Crater.

For planning purposes, travelers should review each trip description for duration, start times, and included amenities. The operator’s Honolulu location positions it close to Waikīkī piers and Coral Crater event grounds, making the listed cruises and luau easily accessible to visitors staying in the city. Evening cruise options highlight Waikīkī shoreline scenery, sunset views, and onboard amenities like drinks and live music. The Coral Crater luau offers a one-night seasonal spectacle in 2025. Advance reservations recommended.