Whale and You
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour!
Book 14days in advance and
Get 25% OFF! with code "Earlybird25"
One of Oahu's top-rated seasonal whale watching tours
-
Adults:
$99$74 (Ages 12+) -
Children:
$69$52 (Ages 2-11)
*Children under 2 not allowed - Operation: Monday-Sunday
- Food: Poi Mochi donuts or Local Snack Included
- Soft Drink: Complimentary Coffee ,Tea or Soft drink
- Departure Location: Kewalo basin Harbor
- Departure Time: 7:00AM & 1:00PM
- Duration: 2 Hours
- Family Friendly
- Transportation: Waikiki Pick-up Included
Oahu Whale Watching Tour Overview
Experience the Magic of Whale Watching in Oahu!
Every winter, over 10,000 humpback whales migrate to Hawaii. Join the Whales and You Whale Watching Tour for a scenic cruise along the island’s Gold Coast. Enjoy expert narration, live hula, Hawaiian snacks, and real-time whale songs via underwater hydrophone. Spot wild humpback whales and learn about their behaviors from our guides. This unforgettable experience is only available from December to March—don’t miss one of the top winter activities in Oahu!
Tour Highlights
- Your journey begins with the sacred E Ho Mai Hawaiian chant, offering a spiritual welcome and safe passage.
- Set sail along Oahu’s scenic Gold Coast and witness the majestic beauty of wild humpback whales in their natural habitat.
- Savor authentic Hawaiian flavors like poi mochi donuts (AM) or local snack(PM).
- As you cruise past panoramic views of Diamond Head, keep an eye out for playful dolphins swimming alongside.
- Listen to live whale songs through our underwater hydrophone, creating a deep connection with these gentle giants.
- Throughout the tour, our expert naturalists share insights about humpback whale behavior, local marine life, and Hawaiian culture, making this an unforgettable ocean experience in Oahu.
- Enjoy a live hula performance by our talented local crew.
What's Included
- Wild Humpback Whale Watching off Oahu's Gold Coast
- We offer a complimentary return trip if no whales are seen, subject to availability and within your stay period.
- Listen to the live whale songs through an onboard underwater hydrophone.
- Marine life commentary written by a certified naturalist.
- Hawaiian cultural experience with the E Ho Mai Chant and live hula performance.
- Snacks included: Poi mochi donut from Liliha Bakery(Morning Tour) / Local favorite snack (Afternoon Tour) .
- Complimentary coffee, Tea and water.
- Bar Service Onboard. Adult beverages are available to purchase at $6 & $12
- Transportation from Waikiki
- Not Wheelchair Accessible
Itinerary
- Morning Tour: 7:00AM-9:00AM (12/1-3/31) Everyday
- Afternoon Tour: 1:00PM-3:00PM (12/15-3/31) Everyday
Click an itinerary item to see details.
Guests who select transportation will be picked up from designated Waikiki locations by our signature Turtle Trolley. Enjoy the breeze and island views on your way to Kewalo Boat Harbor.
Board our modern double-decker boat, the Ariya II, equipped with mood lighting, surround sound, and a Titanic-style front railing for panoramic views. Restrooms and shaded areas are available onboard.
We begin each Oahu whale watching cruise with E Ho Mai, a traditional Hawaiian chant asking the sea gods for a safe and abundant journey. A beautiful moment of culture and connection to start the tour.
While we set out, enjoy a locally loved snack and refreshment.
-Morning Tour: Poi mochi donut
-Afternoon Tour: Local favorite snack
*Snacks are subject to change, and do not accommodate allergies. Please bring your own snacks if needed.
Cruise along Oahu’s Gold Coast in search of wild humpback whales. Our crew will help spot whale spouts, tail slaps, and breaches near the surface. This is one of the best winter activities in Waikiki.
When conditions allow, we’ll lower a underwater microphone) into the ocean. Guests can listen to live humpback whale songs amplified through the boat’s sound system, an unforgettable experience unique to our tour.
As you watch for whales, our expert-trained crew will share interesting facts and stories about humpback, dolphins, and other sea life around the Hawaiian islands. Educational and fun for all ages!
As we head back to Kewalo Harbor, relax with a live hula performance onboard. Join the crew as we dance together, share aloha, and give thanks for the day’s journey!
As our Oahu whale watching adventure comes to a close, we return to Kewalo Harbor in Honolulu. Sit back, relax, and take in the final ocean views as we safely dock. We hope this incredible encounter with humpback whales leaves you with lasting memories and stories to share.
“A Hui Ho”! Until we meet again!.
Thank you for joining us today on a fun-filled adventure! Please don’t forget about all the sea creatures you’ve met on this adventure!
Tour Location Map
Important Information
- Tours run from December 1 through March 31 only.
- If you don’t see whales, you may rebook another tour during your stay at no extra cost (*subject to availability).
- A Minimum of 10 guests is required for the tour to operate.
- We cannot accommodate special dietary needs. Guests with allergies should bring their food.
- The tour will still operate in mild weather conditions. We will contact you if any rescheduling is necessary.
- Children must be at least 2 years old to join the tour. Infants under 2 cannot participate for safety reasons.
- Our boat and Trolley are NOT wheelchair accessible.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations or schedule changes must be submitted no later than 48 hours before the reserved departure time to qualify for a full refund. Any changes or cancellations made after the 48-hour mark will incur a 100% fee.
Reviews
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Captain Mark, Rachel, and Robert were fantastic! We were able to see two whales and hear a couple of whale songs on the hydrophone. Very awesome experience!
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
We went whale watching. It was fun to see pods of dolphins, spin jumps, and whale spouts and other sights. It was a constant process of spotting whale spouts and directing the boat to them. By the time we arrived, the whales had often just finished breathing and had re-entered the water, which made it quite a challenging experience. By the end, my eyes had gotten used to the sights and I was able to spot spouts here and there, which was fascinating. The kids also loved the Hawaiian song we sang right after we set sail, and they kept singing it even after the tour ended (lol). I wish I'd paid more attention to the lyrics. The hula at the end was also wonderful. I think it was our Japanese guide, Mei, who was very cute and friendly, and supported the tour. If I had to say one thing, I felt like the coffee, tea, and donut service before departure took an unnecessary amount of time. It would have been more efficient if the staff had provided support from the beginning.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Fantastic way to spend a couple hours! We saw some whales and a ton of dolphins. Crew was wonderful, they ended the trip with a little hula even though it started raining. Kind of shocked at how low their tips were, it’s 2025… a dollar is not enough. Get out those 20s people.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
We just love it ! The crew was excellent ! We saw dolphins and wales ! And we had a good time
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Zack, Ryan and Kaipo were absolutely wonderful. We seen so many whales 100% recommend this trip and tour!
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
I participated in Whale & You on my first trip to Hawaii. I was so happy to be able to see the dolphins so closely! I was also happy to see the whales spouting and breathing so many times. ♡ I was able to get so close so many times, and it was such a wonderful memory! Thank you, Captain Mark. ♡ The hula at the end was also amazing. 🤙 I'd love to come again. ^ ^
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Luke and Zach were awesome tour guides. We managed to follow a mama and her baby for pretty much the entirety of the trip out. Blowholes going off, tails slapping the water. Just a really good time. One thing to note, if you get motion sick, then definitely take that before coming. The waters were a little rough.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
We had an absolutely wonderful time on this tour. Truly a once in a lifetime experience that I will never forget. Cheryl (sp?) was a wonderful shuttle driver. Very nice and friendly and told us lots of fun facts. She’s family now! Also the boat crew we had were all amazing. Zach the captain, and Kaipo & Luke as our guides. They were very friendly, funny, professional, and truly did everything they could to give us the best experience possible. They gave us extra time on the water because we saw whales right at the end! They turned around and brought us to a spot where we got to see THREE amazing whale breaches right by us! It rained on us for about half of the tour but honestly I didn’t care at all. It was the best experience ever and I would do it every day if I could. Thank you Ohana crew!
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Captain Zack, Rachel and Marshall were great host and did a great job touring and going overtime to capture humpback whales.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Went on the whale watching tour in Honolulu and it was incredible! Captain Zach, Rachel and Marshall were so knowledgeable and fun. Highly recommend!! We saw a mama and baby whale, bottle nose and spinner dolphins. Love!
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
What a fantastic whale-watching tour (3/1/2025)! Captain Zack positioned us to watch a baby whale with its mamma (at a safe distance). We saw several breeches and other playful activities, while other whales were spouting and breaching nearby, too. Ryan and Aiden were super fun deckhands with awesome hula skills. Heidi brought really cool whale facts to the mix for a completely awesome afternoon on the ocean.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Did the whale watching tour and it’s the best one ever (I have done quite a few in CA and HI)! The staff (Rachel and Luke) were knowledgeable and really nice. The captain let us spend as much time out there as possible. We saw schools of dolphins and many humpback whales! And having the best ube mochi donuts for us didn’t hurt! 😁
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
What an absolutely AMAZING whale watching tour! The crew, Captain Zach, Ryan, and Kaipo were so FABULOUS! The donuts, the energy, the attention to detail, and ALOHA spirit from each one of them did not go unnoticed. The multiple whale breaches were breathtaking and the tails, blowholes. Words can’t describe this, it is a must experience it for yourself, and definitely with this crew and company! Thank you again.
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Went on the whale watching tour in Honolulu, and it was incredible! Captain Zach, Rachel, and Marshall were so knowledgeable and fun. Highly recommend!! We saw a mama and baby whale, bottlenose and spinner dolphins. Love!
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Captain Zack Ryan Kaipo The greatest crew EVER! Our tour was magnificent! We were blessed and enjoyed numerous whale sightings. However, the crew made a magical morning even more so! Thank you, all for helping make memories! I was the only single on the tour, but truly felt like Ohana! The poi ha mochi donuts were a sweet surprise! Don't wonder, go on this tour, you'll be so delighted that you did! Cheryl is a great trolley driver and made me feel welcome while pointing out sights along the way to the mGhana! Mahalo, Ohana!!💙🐋
Oahu Humpback Whale Watching Tour
Rachel, Aiden and Zach were amazing! We saw amazing breaches- they knew right where to go. I saw Zach answer multiple questions from teen guest with patience and interest. Highly recommend.
Whales and You FAQ
Q: When is the best time for whale watching in Oahu?
A: The best time to see humpback whales in Oahu is during Hawaii’s whale season, which runs from December through March. This is when thousands of whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters.Join the Adventure now!
A: The best time to see humpback whales in Oahu is during Hawaii’s whale season, which runs from December through March. This is when thousands of whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii’s warm waters.Join the Adventure now!
Q: What happens if we don’t see any whales?
A: We offer a complimentary return trip if no whales are seen, subject to availability and within your stay period.Reserve your spot today!
A: We offer a complimentary return trip if no whales are seen, subject to availability and within your stay period.Reserve your spot today!
Q: Is this Oahu whale watching tour family-friendly?
A: Yes! Children ages 2 and up are welcome on the Whales and You tour. Our guides make the experience fun, educational, and safe for families. Book your Whale watching tour!
A: Yes! Children ages 2 and up are welcome on the Whales and You tour. Our guides make the experience fun, educational, and safe for families. Book your Whale watching tour!
Q: How long is the whale watching tour?
A: The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and departs from Kewalo Boat Harbor.
A: The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and departs from Kewalo Boat Harbor.
Q: What should I wear on the Oahu whale watching tour?
A: We recommend wearing light layers and bringing a jacket, especially for morning tours. It can be breezy out on the water. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also helpful.
A: We recommend wearing light layers and bringing a jacket, especially for morning tours. It can be breezy out on the water. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are also helpful.
Q: Can I bring food or drinks on the tour?
A: Outside food and drink are not permitted. Snacks and soft drinks are included, and adult beverages are available for purchase onboard. (*This does not apply to baby food or snacks for individuals with allergies.)
A: Outside food and drink are not permitted. Snacks and soft drinks are included, and adult beverages are available for purchase onboard. (*This does not apply to baby food or snacks for individuals with allergies.)
Q: Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
A: Unfortunately, our boats and vehicles are not wheelchair accessible. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us at (808)696-4414.
A: Unfortunately, our boats and vehicles are not wheelchair accessible. If you have mobility concerns, please contact us at (808)696-4414.
Q: Do you provide transportation to the harbor?
A: Yes, round-trip transportation from Waikiki is included. You can select your pickup location when booking. Click here to see the Whales and You pickup schedule.
A: Yes, round-trip transportation from Waikiki is included. You can select your pickup location when booking. Click here to see the Whales and You pickup schedule.
Q: What is the minimum age to join the whale watching tour?
A: Children must be at least 2 years old to participate. Children under 2 are not allowed for safety reasons. Book your Whale watching tour!
A: Children must be at least 2 years old to participate. Children under 2 are not allowed for safety reasons. Book your Whale watching tour!
Q: How many guests are required for the tour to run?
A: A minimum of 10 guests is required. If the minimum is not met, we’ll contact you to reschedule or offer a refund.
A: A minimum of 10 guests is required. If the minimum is not met, we’ll contact you to reschedule or offer a refund.
Q: Will I hear real whale songs during the tour?
A:Yes! If whales are close enough, we’ll use a hydrophone (underwater microphone) to let you hear their live songs through our sound system. This is one of the most unique features of our Oahu whale watching tour.Book your Whale watching tour!
A:Yes! If whales are close enough, we’ll use a hydrophone (underwater microphone) to let you hear their live songs through our sound system. This is one of the most unique features of our Oahu whale watching tour.Book your Whale watching tour!
Q: Are there bathrooms on the boat?
A:Yes, our modern double-decker boat, the Ariya II, is equipped with a bathroom and shaded areas for comfort.
A:Yes, our modern double-decker boat, the Ariya II, is equipped with a bathroom and shaded areas for comfort.
Q: Will I also see dolphins on this tour?
A:Sometimes! While this tour focuses on whales, Hawaiian spinner dolphins are occasionally spotted swimming alongside the boat.
A:Sometimes! While this tour focuses on whales, Hawaiian spinner dolphins are occasionally spotted swimming alongside the boat.
Q: What makes Whales and You different from other whale watching tours in Oahu?
A:Whales and You is the only Oahu whale watching tour that combines cultural experiences like a Hawaiian chant and hula performance, live whale songs, and local snacks, making it a fun, immersive experience for all ages.Reserve your spot today!
A:Whales and You is the only Oahu whale watching tour that combines cultural experiences like a Hawaiian chant and hula performance, live whale songs, and local snacks, making it a fun, immersive experience for all ages.Reserve your spot today!
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