Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel: Two-Hour Boat Trip to See Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
A two-hour catamaran from Ala Wai Harbor carries you to Turtle Canyon, where lifeguard-certified guides and premium snorkel gear put you into the water with Hawaiian green sea turtles. Practical, guided, and focused on low-impact viewing, this trip is ideal for moderately fit travelers visiting Waikiki.
The Experience
Before You Go
Arrive Early and Check In
Plan to be at Ala Wai Harbor 30 minutes before departure to sign waivers and secure gear; look for the blue-and-white Three Tiki Sailing flags.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and bring a long-sleeve UV shirt for extra protection during the ride back.
Wear a Snug Mask and Fins
A well-fitting mask and fins improve your snorkel efficiency in mild currents—test fit before you enter the water.
Respect the Turtles
Observe honu from a distance, avoid touching or chasing them, and follow guide instructions to minimize stress on wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Early-morning departures often find calmer water and better visibility.
- •Look behind Diamond Head on the return trip for spinner dolphins in season.
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu)
- •Reef fish such as surgeonfish and butterflyfish
Conservation Note
Operators emphasize no-touch viewing and encourage reef-safe products; limiting boat anchoring on reefs and following guide directions helps protect delicate coral and marine life.
Turtle Canyon sits on fringing reef formed from ancient lava flows; turtles have fed in these nearshore algae beds for generations and are treated with cultural respect in Hawaiian tradition.
What to Bring
Mask & Snorkel (if you prefer your own)
A personal, well-fitted mask reduces fog and improves comfort in currents.
Reef-safe SunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the reef ecosystem—apply before boarding.
Waterproof Camera or Dry Bag
Capture turtle encounters while keeping electronics safe from spray.
Lightweight Rashguard or Cover-upEssential
Provides UV protection on the ride and some thermal cover in cooler water.
Common Questions
How likely am I to see sea turtles?
Very likely—this tour targets Turtle Canyon, a known foraging area for Hawaiian green sea turtles, and guides position the boat to maximize viewing opportunities.
Is this suitable for first-time snorkelers?
Yes; snorkel instruction and flotation vests are provided, and lifeguard-certified guides offer in-water support, but participants should be comfortable in the ocean.
What should I bring?
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a towel, swimwear, a waterproof camera or dry bag, a refillable water bottle, and any motion-sickness meds if you are prone to seasickness.
What is the cancellation policy for bad weather?
Operators cancel for unsafe conditions; this booking typically allows a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance and will cancel or reschedule when weather creates unsafe seas.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Should be comfortable swimming in open water for short intervals and able to climb a boat ladder; good balance for boarding and standing on deck.
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