If you’re planning a vacation to Hawaii, one of the most memorable experiences you can have is getting out on the water. Today, I am going to talk about boating in Hawaii; I will focus on Oahu and the Big Island because these two islands offer the best options. Whether you’re interested in fishing, day cruising, or snorkeling, these islands have something for everyone. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the best boating options available.
Discover the Beauty of the Hawaiian Islands from the Water
One of the most enchanting ways to experience Hawaii’s natural beauty is from the water. The island’s dramatic coastlines, lush green mountains, and pristine beaches take on a whole new perspective when viewed from a boat. Here are some top boating destinations and activities you shouldn’t miss:
- Sunset Cruises
- Imagine sailing along the coast, the warm Hawaiian breeze in your hair, as the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. Sunset cruises are a popular choice for visitors looking to relax and take in the breathtaking views. Many operators offer sunset cruises, complete with drinks, appetizers, and even live music. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind, a sunset cruise is a must-do.
- Whale Watching Tours (Seasonal Dec. – April)
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Adventures
- The waters around Hawaii are teeming with vibrant marine life, making it a paradise for snorkelers and scuba divers. Many boating tours offer snorkeling and diving excursions to some of the best spots, such as Molokini Crater off Maui or Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island. Explore colorful coral reefs, swim with tropical fish, and maybe even encounter a friendly sea turtle or dolphin.
- Fishing Charters
For those who enjoy fishing, Hawaii offers excellent deep-sea fishing opportunities. Charter a boat and head out to the open ocean to try your hand at catching big game fish like marlin, tuna, and mahi-mahi. Experienced captains and crews provide all the necessary equipment and guidance, ensuring a thrilling and rewarding experience.
Main Harbors on Oahu
Oahu boasts the most harbors in Hawaii, providing a wide array of choices for your boating activities. The four main harbors you can launch from are:
- Ala Wai Boat Harbor: Located near Waikiki, this is one of the most popular harbors, offering easy access to numerous boating activities. It’s perfect for those staying in the Waikiki area and looking to enjoy a day out on the water without traveling too far.
- Ko Olina Marina: Situated on the western side of Oahu, Ko Olina Marina is ideal for those seeking a more tranquil experience. This harbor is well-known for its calm waters, making it a great starting point for family-friendly day cruises and snorkeling trips.
- Kewalo Basin Harbor: Located just west of Waikiki, Kewalo Basin Harbor is a hub for fishing charters and day cruises. It’s a convenient option for those wanting to explore the waters off the southern coast of Oahu.
- Heeia Boat Harbor: Located on the east side of Oahu, Heeia Boat Harbor is the gateway to the Kaneohe Sandbar, a popular destination for boating, picnicking, and snorkeling. The sandbar offers stunning views and clear, shallow waters ideal for a relaxing day on the water.
Main Harbors on the Big Island
The Big Island, also known as Hawaii Island, is excellent for boating and probably the best place for all types of boating. The three main harbors you can launch from are:
- Honokohau Harbor: Located on the Kona Coast, this harbor is perfect for deep-sea fishing and scuba diving excursions. The clear, deep waters off the coast are ideal for spotting big game fish and exploring underwater reefs.
- Keauhou Harbor: This smaller harbor is known for its calm waters and is a favorite spot for snorkeling and kayaking. It’s also the launching point for many manta ray night snorkel tours, a must-do activity on the Big Island.
- Kawaihae Harbor: Situated on the Kohala Coast, Kawaihae Harbor is the gateway to some of the best fishing and diving spots on the island. The nearby reefs and wrecks offer incredible opportunities for scuba divers to explore.
Types of Boating Activities
- Fishing Charters: Both Oahu and the Big Island are renowned for their deep-sea fishing opportunities. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced angler, fishing charters offer a chance to catch marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, and more. Most charters provide all the necessary equipment and expert guidance to ensure a successful and enjoyable fishing trip.
- Day Cruises: If you’re looking to relax and take in the breathtaking views, a day cruise is an excellent choice. These cruises often include stops at scenic spots, swimming, and even dolphin or whale watching, depending on the season.
- Snorkeling and Scuba Diving Tours: The waters around Oahu and the Big Island are perfect for snorkeling and scuba diving. Many day cruises offer snorkeling as part of the package, allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter diverse marine life. On the Big Island, some of the best snorkeling spots include Kealakekua Bay and Honaunau Bay. For scuba divers, the Kona coast is famous for its pristine reefs and underwater lava tubes.
Seasonal Considerations
- Winter Months: During the winter, the north shores of Oahu and the Big Island experience larger swells and more challenging conditions, making them less suitable for casual boating activities. However, this is the prime season for big wave surfing, attracting spectators from around the world.
- Summer Months: The south shores, including areas around Waikiki and Kona, tend to have calmer waters during the summer, making them ideal for all types of boating activities. This is the best time for snorkeling, day cruises, and family-friendly excursions.
- Wind and Waves: The trade winds can affect boating conditions year-round. It’s important to check the weather forecast and consult with your charter company to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Cost of Boating in Hawaii
We get a lot of calls from clients who want to either fish or go on a day charter, and the cost to do this varies. Short cruises on Oahu that just venture maybe a half-mile offshore are very common. They usually have sailing catamarans that go along the shore, and some moor and you can go snorkeling. These cruises can range from about $69.00 per person to $130 and have up to 50 people on board. These cruises are available pretty easily, and you can often just add them to your itinerary when you get here. Oahu is the hub for commercial, touristy-type cruises like this. They even have glass-bottom boats and the Atlantis submarine. They all pretty much take the same route right offshore.
While we haven’t talked about Maui in detail, the same is true for the Kaanapali area. Very similar cruises are available there to get out for a couple of hours. Sometimes these are called “booze cruises,” as they often include drinks. On Friday nights, there are fireworks cruises you can take. The boat cruises out, and you can watch the fireworks that go off from the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
One of the biggest challenges we get is when our clients want private experiences on a boat. This is more expensive. Typically, a 4-hour private cruise will cost from $1,200 to $1,800 or more depending on the type of boat. Full-day private charters can cost up to $6,000. There are ways to save money on private charters by shopping around or giving us a call. We have resources on Oahu and the Big Island that may be able to get you a good deal.