Our Oahu snorkeling tours take you sailing along the laid back coast of the North Shore to the best snorkel spots in the clear tropical water near the famous Waimea Bay.

Our snorkeling groups are small and personal (16 passengers maximum on a boat that is licensed for 19). You get to enjoy a peaceful snorkel away from the crowds in beautiful clear tropical water with the guidance of professionals.

SNORKELING OAHU’S UNDERWATER PARADISE

Snorkeling Oahu’s North Shore is an adventure into an underwater paradise. The living reefs of Hawaii are host to hundreds of species of fish and other marine life. During our sail along the North Shore, we can observe sea turtles near the shore. We often encounter spinner dolphins as they come and escort our catamaran, surf the bow wave, and put on a great show as they cavort in the wake of our boat.

There is plenty of time for snorkeling and swimming once we arrive at our location. The snorkeling spots are home to sea turtles, and it is easy to come eye to eye with them while in the water. After exploring the underwater scenery, come back aboard the Ho’o Nanea for a delicious deli lunch and a cold drink.

We have all the snorkel equipment you need on board. If you have your own, you are welcome to bring it.

Do you have Hawaii snorkeling tours all year round?
No, we do not have Hawaii snorkeling tours year round. The snorkeling Hawaii tours are during the summer months (June-Sept) , and the whale watching Hawaii tours are during whale season, which is December to May. The whale watching tours do not include snorkeling.

What kind of experience do I need for a snorkeling or whale watching tour?
None! The only things you need to enjoy our sailing trips are a sense of adventure and an appreciation for the ocean. We will provide all snorkeling gear and safety instructions.

What should I bring on my Hawaii sailing, whale watching or snorkeling tour?
Be prepared for lots of fun! You should be prepared for the warm Hawaiian sun, and the occasional passing shower. Please bring a light jacket, your camera, sunscreen, a hat and your bathing suit.

Where do you sail from and where do you go?

We operate out of Haleiwa Harbor, on the North Shore of Oahu. We sail along the North Shore and out into the deeper waters. We do not circumnavigate Oahu or sail around to the West Side. This would be a very long sail with rough upwind sailing on the way home.

How far is Haleiwa from Waikiki?
It’s about 1 hour driving time from Waikiki, via H1 and H2. Please see our Contact page for more information.

Is Hawaii sailing on a catamaran different than traditional sailing?
Catamarans are smoother riding than single hulled vessels. Our 40′ catamaran, the Ho’o Nanea, is the perfect size for a Hawaii sailing adventure. The sailing catamaran is Coast Guard certified for 21 passengers, and all of our tours are a max passenger count of 19. With this intimate group, we are able to give all of our passengers customized service.

Directions

FROM HONOLULU:
Take the H1 freeway west from Honolulu to the H2 freeway north. Stay on H2 until freeway ends (8 miles) and becomes Route 99. After freeway ends, go straight through 4 stoplights then turn right at the sign indicating “North Shore”.

Follow the signs towards North Shore / Haleiwa, staying on Route 99. As you come down the hill with the ocean in view, you will reach a traffic signal where you will turn left to enter Haleiwa Town.

Go through “Historic” Haleiwa Town (1 mile) then turn left immediately after the 76 gas station on left side of road. (If you pass through a narrow bridge you missed your turn at the Gas Station).

On your right is the Haleiwa Boat Harbor. Turn right at the sign into the harbor. Stay to the right and follow the road as it curves out to the big two story building in the middle of the harbor. Park next to our sign. The catamaran will be moored at the loading dock or on her way!

FROM TURTLE BAY:
When you leave Turtle Bay Hotel, turn right (north) on 83 to the North Shore and Haleiwa town. It’s about a half hour drive (can take longer if there is a surf contest going on on the North Shore!).

There will be a traffic signal and a sign pointing you into “Historic” Haleiwa Town. Turn right and follow the road over the white, narrow bridge.

On your right will be the Haleiwa Boat Harbor. Turn right at the sign into the harbor. Stay to the right and follow the road as it curves around and out to the big two story building in the middle of the harbor. Park next to our sign. The catamaran will be moored at the loading dock or on her way!