7 Best Waikiki Sunset Cruises Worth Booking
Have you ever wanted to experience Waikiki from a whole new angle? Then why not take an unforgettable sunset cruise tour?! These incredible cruises will allow you to relax and appreciate the stunning beauty of Oahu from a unique perspective.
But with all of the different sunset cruise options available, which one is right for you?
We’ve done the hard work for you and compiled a list of the best sunset cruise tours in Waikiki and Oahu. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening out or an exciting adventure with your friends and family, we have a tour that’s perfect for you.
This list will include luxury and budget-friendly options, so you can find the perfect sunset cruise for any occasion. Our listed tours feature comfortable boats, experienced captains, beautiful sights, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Also, these tours offer you an opportunity to spot some wildlife. You might even see some humpback whales if you’re lucky to visit between December and May!
Why should you trust us? We’ve spent several hours researching and gathering consumer feedback on the best sunset cruise tours in Waikiki. Most importantly, we’ve tested many of the tours on the island of Oahu. We know all about their services and what makes each tour unique. So, all you have to do is look at our list and choose the one that’s right for you. Enjoy!
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Don’t have time to read about all the tours on this list? No worries—we have shortlisted our three favorite sunset cruise tours in Waikiki here to make things easy for you.
1. Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise
- Dinner cruise in Waikiki with a three-course menu
- Overall amazing experience
- Offers a luxury feel at a great price
2. Polynesian Canoe Sunset Sail
- Cultural & educational activities
- Hula dancing
- Light refreshments and dinner cruise in Honolulu
3. Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise
- Luxury 53-foot catamaran
- Two tasty tropical mixed drinks included
Without further ado, let’s dive into the best sunset cruise tours in Oahu!
1. Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise
Operated by: Star of Honolulu Cruises and Events
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1 Aloha Tower Dr, Honolulu, HI 96813, Pier 8
Star Casual Sunset and Show Cruise is one of the most popular dinner sunset boat tours on the island of Oahu. This tour takes you on a beautiful voyage along the Waikiki coastline, with gorgeous views of Diamond Head in the background.
Guests will enjoy a three-course crab, steak, and chicken dinner, live Hawaiian entertainment, and a complimentary mai tai drink. This 2-hour cruise is perfect for couples or families looking for a fun evening with breathtaking sunset views.
What’s included:
- Dinner
- Mai tai
- Coffee
- Tea
- Live Hawaiian music
- Polynesian Show
Why we love this tour: This tour offers a unique combination of live entertainment, great food, and stunning views of Waikiki’s skyline and the famous Diamond Head. We took this tour in February of this year and were completely blown away!
The staff was incredibly friendly and accommodating, and the live music and Polynesian show were a nice touch. The crab, steak, and chicken dinner was one of our favorite things about this cruise since many tours we have been on do not offer this option.
Also, the ship is quite nice (for a sunset cruise), with plenty of room to accommodate larger groups. The best part of this tour was the sunset, a gorgeous pink-orange hue!
Cons: Two hours didn’t seem like enough time, especially if you are one of the last tables to get your food. This happened to us (totally our fault since we were the last ones to board), and we were still eating during sunset. We had to leave our food to watch the sunset on the deck, which was a bummer, but we came back after and finished eating.
Tip: Always pay attention to the check-in time. We showed up five minutes before departure and almost missed the boat! Most tours will ask you to check in 30 minutes before departure.
2. Polynesian Canoe Sunset Sail
Operated by: Kamoauli
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96813, Pier D Slip 106, Across from Kewalo Basin Park
Sailing aboard a traditional double-hulled canoe is one of Waikiki’s most unique and incredible experiences. The Polynesian Canoe Sunset Sail will take you around the island, offering breathtaking views of Waikiki with perfect sunset views.
This tour is best for those looking to learn more about Hawaiian culture, legends, and myths as you sail around the coast. Guests can also participate in traditional taro preparation and hula dancing.
This tour reminds me of attending a luau on Oahu with all the cultural experiences that it offers.
What’s included:
- Cultural & educational activities
- Learn about and participate in a traditional sunset ‘oli ceremony
- Refreshments and dinner
- Live slack key guitar
- Ukelele and Hawaiian folk music
- Hula dancing
Why we love this tour: The educational aspect of this tour is one of the best things about it! You will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Hawaiian culture and traditions. What better way to end the evening than with dinner, drinks, music, and hula dancing under the stars?
Cons: This tour is a bit pricier than the others on this list, but the experience and educational value make it worth it!
3. Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Operated by: Hawaii Nautical
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814, Honu Olani is at Slip F28
The Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise is a luxury 53-foot catamaran that takes guests on a relaxing journey along the coastline of Waikiki to Diamond Head Monument. You will enjoy breathtaking views of the Honolulu skyline, Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
Upon arrival at Diamond Head, guests will enjoy a gorgeous sunset over the ocean with spectacular views of Oahu’s South Shore. This is the perfect tour for families or couples looking for a romantic evening in Oahu!
What’s included:
- Two alcoholic drinks
- Unlimited nonalcoholic drinks
- Pupu appetizers
Why we love this tour: We booked this cruise for our anniversary, and it was one of the best experiences we’ve ever had! The staff onboard were incredibly friendly and accommodating. We went on a cloudy day, and the team compensated by trying to find whales and dolphins for us to watch.
Luckily enough, we saw some baby whales right before sunset. The pupu platter was also a great inclusion, and there was more than enough for everyone.
Cons: Not a lot of seats on the outside of the boat, so if you don’t get there early enough, you may have trouble finding a seat. Many people didn’t mind at all, since you were either taking photos or enjoying the gorgeous views. Also, we were okay with sitting on the floor. You are on a boat, after all!
Tip: This is a no-shoes activity, so wear easy-to-remove shoes like flip-flops. Shoes will be kept at the pier for the duration of the tour.
4. Sunset and City Light Tour Catamaran
Operated by: Oahu Catamaran’s LLC
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1025 Ala Moana Blvd Pier A Slip 0, Honolulu, HI 96814
Enjoy an unforgettable sunset and city lights tour aboard a forty-foot catamaran! This two-hour cruise offers stunning views of Waikiki and the twinkling city lights. The catamaran can hold up to 49 passengers, but they limit it to 25 passengers to ensure everyone has plenty of space.
What’s included:
- Bottled water
- Soda
- Cheese
- Crackers
- Fruit
- Veggie platter
Why we love this tour: We love that this tour is budget-friendly but still offers an unforgettable experience! The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the views are fantastic. Also, while this tour has a capacity of 25 people, there is plenty of space and room to move around, so you won’t feel crowded.
Cons: No alcoholic beverages are served on this tour. So be sure to BYOB if you are 21 or over.
5. BYOB Sunset Cruise off the Waikiki Coast
Operated by: Living Ocean Tours
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1125 Ala Moana Boulevard Slip B-01, Honolulu, HI 96814
The BYOB Sunset Cruise is much cheaper than traditional sunset cruises. This 1.5-hour tour will take you around the coast of Waikiki, offering stunning views of the city and beautiful Hawaiian sunsets.
During our tour, we cruised for about 20 minutes toward Diamond Head and saw whales in the distance. The captain happily stopped for us to whale watch after someone spotted the whales.
As we got near Diamond Head, a pod of 100 spinner dolphins followed our boat.
We then made our way toward the sunset, but unfortunately, it was overcast, so we didn’t see the sunset over the horizon, but we still had a decent pink sky after the sunset. This was out of the crew’s control, so we can’t blame them.
What’s included:
- Light refreshments
- Snacks
Why we love this tour: Being on this boat reminded me of the movie Titanic, which was thrilling! I certainly loved taking photos with the gorgeous Diamond Head in the background. Talk about breathtaking! Plus, the crew was extremely friendly and accommodating.
Cons: This tour is BYOB, so be sure to bring drinks if you prefer an adult beverage.
6. Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail
Operated by: Moana Sailing Company Inc.
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Meeting Point: 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
The Moana’s Sunset Cruise is another popular, affordable sunset cruise in Waikiki. This two-hour tour is fun for all ages, offering stunning views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach. You’ll sip on your favorite cocktails while watching the sunset over the horizon.
This catamaran has a maximum of 45 passengers, but there is plenty of room to move around and a vast open space for lounging.
As a note, this is another barefoot sail, so plan accordingly, as you will be required to leave your shoes at the pier.
What’s included:
- Alcoholic Beverages (First round is complimentary, $6 per drink after)
Why we love this tour: This cruise is budget-friendly and includes a complimentary drink. The crew is knowledgeable and friendly, the music is excellent, and the views are stunning.
Cons: No snacks are served on the cruise, so plan accordingly.
7. Small Group Yacht Sunset Cruise from Oahu
Operated by: MANA Cruises
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Meeting Point: Ko Olina Marina, 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707
Experience the beauty of a Hawaiian sunset aboard a luxury 46-foot yacht on this small-group tour. While not in Waikiki, the Mana Cruise departs from Ko Olina Marina and takes you around Oahu’s western coast, giving you stunning sunset views and a chance to spot some wildlife and beautiful mountains.
This tour is perfect for couples or small groups looking to spend quality time together while enjoying the evening in style! A maximum of six people are on board, so you won’t be surrounded by a large crowd.
During the tour, your friendly skipper will share information about Hawaiian culture and history as you sail around the coast.
Upon arrival at the sunset spot, guests will be served a delicious dinner with a chef’s tasting menu with short rib steak, seared ahi, salad, local herbed chicken, sweet and spicy yellowfin sushi spoon, and fried rice.
This is one of the best tours for those who would prefer a dinner sunset cruise.
What’s included:
- Prepared tasting menu
- Hosted bar with unlimited spirits, sparkling wines, and beers
- Unlimited nonalcoholic beverages
Why we love this tour: This sunset cruise is one of the most romantic things you will do on the island! The captain is incredibly knowledgeable about the area and the sights you will pass. The team goes above and beyond to ensure you have a great time, and the food is also outstanding.
Above all, we love that it’s a very small-group tour with a maximum of six people, allowing for a more intimate experience.
Cons: This tour is somewhat expensive, but that’s to be expected with the luxury nature of the cruise. However, it’s worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Side of Oahu has the Best Sunsets?
The sun sets in the west, so the western side typically has the most beautiful sunsets in Oahu. The North Shore, Waikiki, and Diamond Head are great places to watch the sunset.
How Much Does an Average Sunset Cruise Cost?
It depends on the cruise. Some cruises may cost as low as $56, while more luxurious options can range up to several hundred dollars per person. The most expensive option on this list is $235.
What Should I Wear on a Sunset Cruise in Hawaii?
We recommend wearing whatever makes you the most comfortable. If you get cold easily, remember to bring a light jacket or hoodie, especially if it’s windy! Finally, depending on your chosen cruise, you may be asked to leave your shoes at the pier.
Depending on the cruise, I usually wear a dress, pants or shorts, and a tank top. If it’s a windy day, I wear a long dress or pants to avoid embarrassing moments.
For men, Cody usually wears shorts and a T-shirt. Most of these cruises are casual. You are on a boat, after all!
Things to Keep in Mind When Booking a Sunset Cruise in Waikiki
- While these tours are sunset cruises, the tour companies cannot guarantee that you will see a perfect sunset due to weather conditions that are out of their control. After all, Mother Nature is unpredictable! We have been on sunset cruises multiple times in Oahu and only had this issue twice. We were still glad to see some dolphins and whales to compensate.
- Be sure to arrive early for check-in. These tours depart on time!
- If you get motion sickness, take the necessary medication prior. Always ask the crew for help if needed. The crew will also tell you the best place to sit if you are prone to motion sickness.
- Finally, don’t forget your camera! You’ll undoubtedly want to capture the beautiful sights you’ll experience!
Final Thoughts
Cruising off the Waikiki Coast is a fantastic experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic sunset cruise or just a fun evening on the sea with friends, many options are available to fit your taste and budget.
We hope this list has helped narrow your search for the perfect sunset cruise in Waikiki.
Mahalo for stopping by! Happy Sailing!