Waikiki Marine Life Tour

Spot humpback whales and vibrant marine life on a 1-hour Waikiki glass bottom boat cruise.

Getting started

Get to the Hawaii Glass Bottom Boats dock in Waikiki and check in near the main entrance. After a quick ticket validation, step aboard the Haleiwa Queen for a brief introduction from the crew before departure.

What to expect

This sightseeing cruise along Oahu’s South Shore offers a look at Hawaii’s underwater world through glass-bottom viewports. During whale season (November–May), witness migrating humpback whales as they pass through Hawaiian waters.

Features

• Glass-bottom boat: Observe live tropical reefs and a notable shipwreck, all visible beneath your feet for a clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor.

• Marine wildlife: Spot sea turtles, eels, reef sharks, dolphins, and schools of tropical fish as you cruise along the coastline.

• Whale watching (Nov–May): Experience the thrill of seeing humpback whales—sometimes even hearing their songs—during their annual migration.

• Family-friendly: Children aged 0–2 ride free, making this cruise accessible for families with young kids.

Waikiki Marine Life Tour

Discover the stunning marine life of Oahu’s South Shore on this 1-hour guided tour that includes a front-row view of humpback whales from a glass-bottom boat, no snorkel needed. This sightseeing adventure takes you along Waikiki Beach and past Diamond Head, offering breathtaking views of coral reefs, tropical fish, dolphins, and sea turtles. The tour also covers the sunken shipwreck off the coast of Oahu, providing unique insights into marine life beneath the surface. With audio guides available in English, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese, this experience is accessible to a wide range of audiences. Guests can expect an engaging 60-minute journey that includes stops at key landmarks such as Diamond Head State Monument (built in 1924) and the Waikiki Aquarium (established in 1916), both of which offer educational exhibits on marine life. The tour also provides convenient access to Waikiki Beach, where visitors can relax before or after their marine adventure.

Witness Humpback Whales

Your tour stops at the humpback whale habitat off Oahu’s South Shore where you will witness these majestic creatures in their natural environment. The whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii between December and May, spending their time feeding and breeding in the warm waters of the Pacific. These marine mammals can reach up to 50 feet in length and weigh as much as 40 tons. Visitors are often amazed by the powerful tail slaps that humpback whales perform, which can be heard miles away underwater. The tour provides a rare chance for guests to observe these incredible creatures without needing to snorkel or dive, making it an ideal experience for all ages. This unique opportunity allows you to watch whales in their natural habitat while also enjoying the stunning coral reefs and tropical fish that inhabit the waters around Oahu.

Explore Diamond Head State Monument

Your tour stops at Diamond Head State Monument where guests can marvel at one of Hawaii’s most iconic landmarks. The crater, which is 760 feet high with a diameter of 1,520 feet, was formed by volcanic activity approximately 300,000 years ago. Visitors will have the chance to explore the craggy cliffs and lush vegetation surrounding the summit, offering panoramic views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The hike up to the top takes about an hour and provides a unique perspective on Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural significance. This landmark is not only a geological wonder but also holds historical importance as it was used for military purposes during World War II.

Waikiki Marine Life Tour

• Experience marine wildlife at Waikiki Beach
• 60-minute cruise along Oahu’s South Shore
• Audio guides available in English, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese
• Witness humpback whales off the coast of Hawaii (December to May)
• Explore Diamond Head State Monument with panoramic views
• Discover sunken shipwreck off Waikiki Beach
• Visit Waikiki Aquarium for educational exhibits on marine life
• Relax at Waikiki Beach before or after your tour

Perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, and wildlife lovers, this guided tour provides an immersive experience of Oahu’s South Shore. The 1-hour format allows you to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat, explore Diamond Head State Monument with panoramic views, and discover the sunken shipwreck off Waikiki Beach, giving you a comprehensive understanding of Hawaii's marine life while enjoying the stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks.