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Waikiki Friday Night Fireworks Cruise: Sunset Sights & Oceanfront Views

Set out from Kewalo Basin for a 60–120 minute evening cruise along Waikiki, timed to catch Diamond Head at sunset and the weekly Friday fireworks launched off the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Expect ocean breeze, onboard restrooms, and limited parking—arrive early.

Honolulu, Hawaii•

1–2 hours

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

The boat slips out of Kewalo Basin as the last light softens across Waikiki — the city lights begin to blink, Diamond Head sharp against a cooling sky, and the ocean breathes against the hull. On Friday nights the water draws the crowd: you feel the city recede and the Pacific take the lead.

Before You Go

Arrive 15 minutes early

Boarding is prompt; arrive early to complete waivers and secure your preferred seat on Lokahi.

Bring photo-friendly layers

Evenings on the water get windy—pack a light jacket to stay comfortable during sunset and after the fireworks.

Carry valid ID for alcohol

If you plan to purchase alcoholic beverages onboard, bring a government ID (21+).

Use rideshare or taxi

Harbor parking is limited and metered; rideshare avoids the $2/hr lot fee and walking from distant spots.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Stand on the lee side of the upper deck for calmer viewing and better photo angles of Diamond Head.
•Scan the water early in the season (Dec–May) for spouts from migrating humpback whales beyond the fireworks zone.

Wildlife

•Spinner dolphins
•Green sea turtles

Conservation Note

Nighttime events can disturb sea life and increase light pollution; use reef-safe sunscreen, dispose of waste responsibly, and follow crew instructions to minimize impact.

Waikiki’s public fireworks are a long-standing weekly display launched offshore from the Hilton Hawaiian Village; Kewalo Basin itself evolved from a working marina into a mixed recreational harbor in the 20th century.

What to Bring

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Light wind jacketEssential

Blocks evening ocean breeze and keeps you warm after sunset.

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Reef-safe sunscreenEssential

Protects skin without harming reef ecosystems during daylight boarding or pre-cruise time ashore.

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Valid government IDEssential

Required on board if you intend to buy alcoholic beverages (21+).

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Motion-sickness medication

Useful for guests prone to seasickness on choppy evenings.

Common Questions

Where do we meet for the cruise?

Meet at Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor, Pier B Slip B-1; the boat is called Lokahi and check-in opens 15 minutes before departure.

How long is the cruise and when are the fireworks?

Cruises run roughly 60–120 minutes; the itinerary times the trip to be offshore for the Hilton Hawaiian Village Friday night fireworks.

Are there restrooms and drinks on board?

Yes — there are restrooms aboard and alcoholic beverages are available for purchase; bring ID if you’re 21 or older.

Is this suitable for children and people with medical issues?

Minimum age policies vary (check operator notes); it’s generally family-friendly but not recommended for people with serious heart conditions or pregnancy—consult operator guidance.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

1–2 hours

Location

Honolulu, Hawaii

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; ability to step on and off the boat and stand for portions of the cruise is helpful.

Free cancellation available

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