The View From the Water
Part of the magic of a Waikiki sunset cruise is seeing Oahu from a whole new angle. As you glide along the coast, famous landmarks, glowing skies, and even sea life pass by. So what exactly will you see out there? Here is a look at the scenery that makes these cruises so special.
Iconic Landmarks
From the water, Oahu’s most recognizable sights line up beautifully along the shore:
- Diamond Head, the famous volcanic crater rising above the coast.
- The Waikiki skyline, with its beachfront hotels and high-rises.
- Long stretches of golden beach and swaying palms.
- The Honolulu coastline fading into the distance.
Seeing these landmarks from offshore gives you a postcard view you simply cannot get from the beach.
The Sunset Itself
The star of the show is, of course, the sunset. Out on the open water with a clear view to the west, you watch the sun sink into the Pacific and the sky shift through gold, orange, pink, and purple. The colors reflect on the calm ocean, and as the light fades, the Waikiki shoreline begins to sparkle. It is a slow, gorgeous transition from day to night.
Wildlife Along the Way
The ocean often adds a few surprises. Depending on the day and season, you may spot Hawaiian spinner dolphins, green sea turtles, seabirds, and flying fish. In the winter months, from about November to May, humpback whales pass through Hawaiian waters and are sometimes seen from sunset cruises. Any wildlife should always be enjoyed from a respectful distance.
A Feast for the Eyes
A Waikiki sunset cruise treats you to Diamond Head, the glowing skyline, a breathtaking sunset, and the chance to spot dolphins or turtles along the way. It is Oahu at its most beautiful, all from the deck of a boat. Bring your camera, settle in, and enjoy the show as the island lights up at dusk.