Top Oahu Whale Watching

There are a range of great whale-watching tours in Oahu. Looking at ratings and reviews given by previous customers, here are the best whale-watching tours available right now:

• Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Wildlife, Snorkeling and a Hawaiian Meal
• Oahu Whale-Watching Excursion
• Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Majestic by Atlantis Cruises
• Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu
• Whale Watching Experience in Waikiki

Whale watching in Oahu is absolutely worth it. Oahu is arguably one of the world’s best locations for spotting marine life, as every winter thousands of humpback whales migrate all the way from Alaska to Hawaii to mate, give birth, and raise their young. Catching even a glimpse of a whale can be exhilarating, and many travelers spot much more than this.

Whale-watching tours in Oahu cost from US$40 per person for a 1-hour tour with no frills, to around $1,600 per group for a research-style expedition that combines whale watching with encounters with dolphins, pilot whales, and sea turtles. Whale-watching tours in the mid-range typically come in at around $100.

The most common type of whale around Oahu is the humpback whale. Every winter, thousands of these giant mammals make the long journey from Alaska to the warmer waters of Hawaii to breed and raise their young. You may also spot other types of whales, such as pilot whales (off Oahu) as well as dolphins and other sea mammals.

The winter months are the best for whale watching in Oahu, as this is when thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawaii to breed and raise their young in the warmer waters. You can usually spot these whales from November through May, with peak season between January and March.

While there are certain spots where you can see whales and dolphins in Oahu from the shore, the best place to get an up-close view is most definitely from a boat on the sea. Most boat tour operators are based in Honolulu and know exactly where to go to see whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and more.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Oahu aside from whale watching. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Sunset Cruises

• Snorkeling

• Jet Ski Rentals

• Parasailing

• Dinner Cruises

Oahu whale-watching tour prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• Whale Watch, Dolphins, Turtles, and Sightseeing Cruise

• Whale-Watching Cruise in Honolulu

• 2-Hour Whale Watching from Oahu

• Sunset Whale Watch in Waikiki, Whales Guaranteed or Free Return

• Sunset Cruise & Whale Watching from Oahu

When comparing Oahu whale-watching tours, look at the duration of the tour. Some last longer than others, offering a better opportunity to see whales. Find out what type of watercraft you’ll be on, as smaller, faster boats have more maneuverability. Some tours include drinks and snacks in the price of the tour. If you are traveling with kids, check to see if there is a minimum age.

The best way to enjoy Oahu whale-watching tours is to dress appropriately. Be sure to pack sunscreen and sun protection—nothing ruins a boat tour faster than sunburns. Arrive early at your pickup point to ensure you get the first choice of seats, and ask your guide or captain if a particular side or area of the boat affords the best views.

Whales are typically active throughout the day, but you’ll have a better chance of spotting them in the morning hours when the water is calmer. It is also not as hot in the morning, making for a more pleasant sail. Check the weather conditions before your excursion, as you might be able to shift the day if it looks like poor weather on your scheduled date.