When you hear “5-star tour,” what comes to mind? Most people think, “That must cost more.” It sounds premium. But that’s not what it means. It’s a Google rating. Every tour company has one.
It’s measured “out of 5,” and it reflects how people rated their experience after the fact. You’ll see a range—3.9, 4.1, 4.3. Once you cross “4.4,” you’re generally looking at something worth your time.
The Real Magic Is Happening Out on the Water
Every now and again, you come across something rare—a 5-star rated tour. That’s 5 out of 5. Full marks. That doesn’t happen often, especially when there are hundreds—or even thousands—of reviews behind a tour.
1. Turtle Canyon Snorkeling Adventure by Living Ocean Tours
What happens when you’re choosing between two or three tours that all have 5-star ratings? Now the rating doesn’t separate them anymore. You’re no longer asking, “which one is better?” You’re asking, why are they all rated the same—and what’s actually different?
For Living Ocean Tours, their crew is what keeps their rating at five stars. A good crew reads people quickly. Within the first minute, they know who’s confident and who’s unsure.
On their Turtle Canyon tour specifically, you’ll hear things like, “I’ve got you,” or “stay close, I’ll show you where the turtles are.” That changes how you experience the day. You relax… and once you relax, you enjoy what you’re seeing.
Another big hit? The inflatable slide attached to the side of the boat. I heard a girl say she had gone on it 40 times.
Most importantly, people mention seeing many turtles, dolphins, flying fish, and even whales during the right time of year.
Price-wise, their Turtle Canyon Tour runs for 2 hours and costs $79, which is longer and more affordable than other tours.
Ultimately, when you know your tour is the best, you don’t have to worry about comparing it to other 5-star-rated tours.
2. Turtle Canyon Snorkel Tour by Island Splash Tours
Island Splash Tours is usually the second tour operator I mention. That’s because I often hear the same question: “Living Ocean is fully booked—who else can I check with?” That’s where Island Splash fits in, and I’m comfortable pointing people in their direction.
Their Turtle Canyon tour is a bit shorter than Living Ocean’s—about 20 minutes less. But it costs $4 less. So you’re trading a little time for a slightly lower price.
Beyond that, how a boat looks often becomes the deciding factor. People don’t always think about it upfront, but once you’re on the water, the space, the layout, how it feels to move around… it all matters.
Honestly, it’s hard to go wrong when you’re choosing between two 5-star tours.
My advice? Do Living Ocean on Saturday and Island Splash Tours on Sunday. That way you don’t miss out. You get to see how they compare for yourself.
3. Turtle Canyon Oahu Snorkeling, Lunch Snack + Waikiki Shuttle by Turtles & You
This third tour offers you a little more than snorkeling, and at a higher price. Here, you get 2 hours on the water, with roughly 45 minutes at Turtle Canyon, swimming alongside green sea turtles and reef fish.
But before you even get in the water, there’s a traditional Hawaiian chant. Then, during the trip, the crew performs a live hula. Those moments change the atmosphere of the tour. It’s not just about getting in the water, snorkeling, and moving on—it feels more like a structured experience with moments built in.
The boat itself adds to that. It’s larger, with two decks, more space to move, and a bathroom on board. There’s also a bar, so you can grab a drink if you want something extra during the cruise.
At $100 per person, it sits above the other tours in price. So this isn’t about finding the cheapest option. It’s for someone who wants snorkeling, but also wants something happening before and after the swim. The 5-star rating is still there—but the reason people choose it is slightly different.
4. Waikiki Turtle Snorkeling Adventure by Pink Sails Waikiki
5. Morning Catamaran Snorkel & Sail Tour by Ko Olina Ocean Adventures
Here we have a morning tour. That’s difference one. Difference two and three? They serve lunch—and the price shows that.
This one runs out of Ko Olina, not Waikiki. You check in at 8:00 a.m., board at 8:30, and spend three hours on the water. So you’re starting earlier, finishing earlier, and covering a different stretch of coastline.
Once you reach the snorkel spot, you get about 45 minutes in the water with a guide. They stay with you, point things out, and keep everyone comfortable. You can expect to see reef fish, turtles, and—on good days—rays moving through.
Back on board, you will be served a hot buffet-style lunch. People sit, eat, and relax while the boat cruises the coastline.
Additionally, the boat itself is bigger. Two decks. More room to move. And there’s a bathroom onboard, which matters on a three-hour trip. You can stay upstairs for the views or sit lower where it’s calmer.
So who is this for?
Someone who wants more than just “get in, snorkel, get out.”
Someone who doesn’t mind paying more for time, space, and food.
Or someone staying in Ko Olina who doesn’t want to drive into Waikiki.
You’re paying more… but you’re also getting a longer trip, a guided snorkel, and a proper meal on the water.
What to do in Oahu Island FAQs
What are the top things to do in Honolulu Waikiki for first-time visitors?
For first-timers, the top things to do in Waikiki usually include walking Waikiki Beach, hiking Diamond Head, taking a snorkeling cruise, and exploring local shops and restaurants along Kalakaua Avenue.
Are there free things to do in Honolulu Waikiki?
Yes. Some of the best things to do in Honolulu Waikiki cost nothing at all. You can relax on Waikiki Beach, watch the sunset over the Pacific, hike Diamond Head (small entry fee for non-residents), or explore Kuhio Beach and its evening hula shows.
What are the best evening activities in Waikiki?
Popular evening things to do in Waikiki include sunset catamaran cruises, beachfront dining, live music along the strip, and the Friday night fireworks display.
Do you need a car for things to do in Waikiki?
Not necessarily. Many things to do in Waikiki are within walking distance of major hotels. For activities outside the immediate area—like North Shore tours or Pearl Harbor—shuttles are widely available.
What outdoor activities are popular in Waikiki?
Outdoor things to do in Honolulu Waikiki include surfing lessons, snorkeling tours, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking Diamond Head, and boat cruises along the coastline.
