This is as real as it gets, full-size wild dolphins, no tanks, no tricks, just you in the open ocean swimming alongside some of the ocean’s most intelligent and powerful animals. Guided by a local captain who knows every curve of Oʻahu’s west coast, this small-group tour takes you offshore for an unforgettable encounter with nature in its rawest, most breathtaking form.
Quick Local Tip: West Oahu’s pelagic dolphins often travel in loose, fast-moving pods. When the captain slows the boat and you see birds circling or surface ripples ahead, be ready, as these are reliable signs the pod is about to rise right in front of you.
Meet your crew at the Waianae Boat Harbor on Oahu’s west side, where you'll board a comfortable Robalo powerboat and head out into the calm, open Pacific. As the shoreline fades, anticipation builds—this stretch of ocean is a hotspot for marine life, especially Hawaiian spinner and bottlenose dolphins. With guidance from a local marine expert, the boat is positioned for an ethical and respectful encounter. When conditions allow, you’ll slip into the water and witness these intelligent creatures in their natural environment, a rare and moving experience.
You may also spot other remarkable species such as pilot whales, Hawaiian monk seals, and, on rare occasions, the massive whale shark filtering plankton just below the surface.
After the dolphin encounter, the tour continues to a nearby reef known for its exceptional water clarity. West Oahu’s dry climate means minimal runoff, creating ideal snorkeling conditions. Once anchored, you’ll explore a vibrant underwater world filled with green sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral formations, each moment revealing something new beneath the surface.
On the return cruise, stretch out on the deck with a BYOB drink, soaking in the coastal views and reflecting on the day’s highlights. As the sun dips toward the Waianae Mountains, the boat eases back into harbor, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Oahu’s marine magic.
Guests are expected to follow eco-friendly practices during the tour to help preserve Hawaii's marine ecosystem. Regulations prohibit swimming with resting Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in the shallow bays of Hawaii, but we head out to deeper waters to swim with pelagic species such as Bottlenose, Rough-tooth, and Spotted dolphins. West Oahu is one of the only remaining places in Hawaii where you can snorkel alongside dolphins in the wild. Our commitment to environmental stewardship is paramount, and all our tours adhere to eco-friendly practices.
Waianae Small Boat Harbor - 85-491 Farrington hwy, Waianae, Hawaii 96792
If you cancel at least 48 hours prior to the tour date and time, you will receive a full refund. Cancellation within 48 hours will be subject to full charge.
Captain Ali and Joanna were amazing! My wife and I’s first time in Hawaii and swimming with dolphins and these girls made it such a smooth, safe, and enjoyable process! Joanna was so cool and made sure we stuck by her every step of the way. So glad we went with Adventure Tours, I highly recommend their services!