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West Oahu Whale Watching and Snorkeling

Location: West Oahu, Oahu

Tour Highlights

Witness the awe of Hawaiʻi’s humpback whales on Oʻahu’s remote west coast, where small groups watch from a respectful distance as 45-ton giants breach, sing, and glide through warm winter waters followed by snorkeling in some of the island’s clearest, most vibrant reefs.

  • Watch humpback whales along the remote Waiʻanae Coast
  • Cruise on a fast 34-ft rigid inflatable boat for wide search range
  • Listen for whale spouts and the haunting male whale song
  • Observe breaches, tail slaps, and other surface displays
  • Snorkel clear west-side reefs with fish, coral, and turtles

Quick Local Tip: When your guide calls out "koholā", the Hawaiian name for whale, listen closely; locals use it instinctively, and recognizing the name onboard helps you spot blows and tail slaps faster because you will react a beat sooner.

What to Expect

Hawaii's Humpback Whales migrate to the Hawaiian Islands during the winter months Mid-December to March. The humpback whales come to the Hawaiian Islands for the purpose of calving and mating, making it a perfect opportunity to observe them!

We begin as our state of the art 34-foot rigid inflatable boat with our lifeguard certified crew departs from Waianae Boat Harbor and travels along the scenic west coast in search of recently migrated humpback whales. The agility and speed of our motorboat swiftly navigates the coast, allowing us to explore more areas and increase the chances of encountering majestic Humpback Whales in their natural habitat.

Once the whales are located, we turn off the motors, allow the whales to slowly approach the boat, and listen to the sound of their spouts breathing. Then, witness as the humpback whales get closer, slapping the water, showing their tale and humpbacks, and spraying with their spouts, and even the incredible full breach. Few people have the opportunity to see these spectacular displays. Passively observing the underwater giants, measuring 45ft long and weighing 50 tons, while in the water is one of our goals.

Also, we will listen for the males intricate "whale song," a complex sequence of moans, howls, cries, and other vocalizations that humpback whales use to communicate with each other, showcasing the deep social connections of these majestic marine mammals.

After marveling at the whales, our tour offers a 45-minute snorkeling stop along the pristine west shore of Oahu, an area renowned for its clear, calm waters and vibrant marine life. Here, you can immerse yourself in the underwater world, encountering a diverse array of tropical fish, colorful coral formations, and possibly sea turtles gliding peacefully in their natural habitat. This snorkeling adventure provides a perfect complement to the whale watching experience, allowing you to connect closely with the aquatic environment of this beautiful Hawaiian coastline.


Included

  • Lifeguard-certified crew and licensed captain
  • 34-foot rigid inflatable boat for fast and agile coastal travel
  • Guided whale watching during peak humpback season (mid-December to March)
  • Expert narration by experienced naturalists
  • Passive whale viewing in full compliance with federal regulations (minimum 100-yard distance)
  • Opportunity to hear whale song using onboard hydrophone (conditions permitting)
  • 45-minute snorkeling stop at a reef site along the west coast
  • Snorkel gear: mask, snorkel, fins, and life vest
  • Dry bags available to protect personal belongings
  • Water and light refreshments provided on board

Hawaii Whale Regulation and Information

During our whale watching excursions, we adhere strictly to protective regulations, maintaining a minimum distance of 100 yards from the whales and reducing speed when within 400 yards to avoid disturbing their natural behavior. Our boat is operated by seasoned captains and crew who are well-trained and fully licensed, ensuring compliance with all guidelines for a safety. Our tours are led by experienced island naturalists who bring years of knowledge from the Waianae Coast.
 


Duration

3 hours

Address

Waianae Boat Harbor - 5601 Farrington Hwy, Waianae, HI 96792


Cancellation Policy

NO REFUNDS for cancellations made less than 24-hours in advance. You have until 9:00 am the day before your tour date to make any cancellations. If you fail to cancel any activity and do not participate in any of your selected activities "No Show", then we reserve the right to charge the full amount of the activity to the credit card you have provided. Contact us anytime to inquire about cancellations or reschedule.