Snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles from Hilton Hawaiian Village
Board a comfortable catamaran from the Hilton Hawaiian Village pier and snorkel at Turtle Canyon among green sea turtles and coral gardens. This 2.5-hour eco-conscious cruise includes lifeguard-assisted water entry, provided snorkel gear, and optional lunch.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early for Check-In
Plan to be at the Port Waikiki kiosk 15 minutes before departure to collect wristbands and gear; parking validation is available for morning sails.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply mineral-based, reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect coral and reduce the need to apply while on the water.
Stay With the Group
Follow the crew’s instructions for where to enter and exit the water — they provide in-water assistance and know the safest entry points around the reef.
Bring a Small Dry Bag
Keep your phone, keys, and a light layer in a dry bag; there’s limited storage aboard and space on deck to relax between swims.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kaimana Beach (near Sans Souci) for a quieter shore snorkel and turtle sightings when the boat traffic is low
- •Ala Moana’s Magic Island lookout at sunset for a panoramic coastal view and local fishing spots
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle (honu)
- •Reef fish (e.g., surgeonfish, butterflyfish)
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize respectful viewing — do not touch or chase turtles and use reef-safe sunscreen; staying off coral helps preserve fragile reef ecosystems.
Waikiki’s shoreline formed on eroded lava flows and coral growth; honu were long-valued in Hawaiian culture as symbols of guidance and longevity.
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects coral and is required etiquette for Hawaiian reefs.
Mask or prescription snorkel mask
Personal fit improves comfort and reduces fogging compared with rental gear.
Quick-dry towel and swim layerEssential
Useful for staying warm after swims and for sitting on deck.
Small dry bagEssential
Keeps phone, wallet and extra layers dry and secure aboard the catamaran.
Common Questions
Are life vests and snorkel gear provided?
Yes — reusable snorkel equipment and required flotation vests are provided; staff will fit gear before entering the water.
Can beginners participate?
Yes — the cruise is suitable for all fitness levels and crew provide in-water assistance for less experienced snorkelers.
Is lunch included?
Morning departures include an optional lunch; check your booking selection — afternoon sails usually do not include lunch by default.
When is the best time to see whales or turtles?
Turtles are present year-round; humpback whales are most commonly seen from December through March during the breeding season.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness; participants should be comfortable in the water and able to climb a ladder from a low freeboard into the boat.
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