Mauna Kea Sunset Coastline Cruise

Duration: 1.5 Hours
Power Boat: Olohana
Departure : Waimea, Kawaihae Harbor
Adult Starting at: $99
Child Starting at: $79
Close to Location: Nearby Mauna Kea Resorts

What You Will Experience

Enjoy a breathtaking sunset cruise along the Kohala Coast aboard Olohana, a 41-ft luxury powerboat. Savor light bites as the sun sinks into the Pacific and watch for dolphins or whales in season.

What to Expect

Unwind in true island style on our Mauna Kea Sunset Cruise, departing from Kawaihae Harbor aboard Olohana — a 41-foot luxury powerboat designed for comfort and ocean adventure.

Cruise the Kohala Coast as the sun dips toward the horizon, revealing sweeping views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai — and on especially clear evenings, Haleakalā rising across the channel on Maui.

Dolphins are often spotted playing nearby, and during winter months, humpback whales may grace the waters. Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply enjoying a peaceful evening on the ocean, this relaxing coastal escape is the perfect way to close out your day in Hawai‘i.

Highlights

Golden Hour on the Water: Cruise the Kohala Coast as the sun sinks toward the horizon, illuminating the ocean and island peaks in warm evening light — a picture-perfect time to be on the water.
Scenic Coastal Views: Glide past lava cliffs, sea caves, and secluded coves while enjoying panoramic views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai — and, on clear evenings, Haleakalā on Maui.
Wildlife Encounters: Watch for spinner dolphins playing in the wake, and during winter months, keep an eye out for breaching humpback whales.
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a peaceful, uncrowded setting with personal attention from your crew — perfect for couples, families, and friends.
Relaxation & Light Bites: Savor light refreshments and the gentle rhythm of the ocean as day turns to twilight — island bliss, pure and simple.

What's Included

1.5-hour luxury powerboat cruise aboard Olohana
Professional captain and friendly local crew
Light snacks and cold non-alcoholic beverages (juice, soda, and water)
Comfortable shaded seating and open deck for sunset viewing
Stunning coastal views of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Hualālai — and on clear days, Haleakalā on Maui
Frequent sightings of dolphins, and whales in season (December–March)
Restroom on board

About The Boat

Get ready for an unforgettable ocean adventure as we set off from Kawaihae Harbor on our custom-built 41′ RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) Olohana — designed for comfort, speed, and an up-close experience with the stunning Hawaiian coastline!

Adult (13+): $99 Each
Child (4-12): $79 Each
Infant (0-3): FREE

Satisfaction Guaranteed

Meeting & Pickup Location

Meeting location

Waimea, departing from Kawaihae Harbor

Kawaihae Harbor
Waimea, HI 96743

Arrival Time: Please arrive 20 minutes before departure to allow time for check-in and boarding.

Location: Kawaihae Harbor South — look for the “Check-In” sign near the Hawai‘i Nautical loading area.

Check-In Process: Meet your captain and crew, complete a brief safety orientation, and get comfortable aboard Olohana before setting out along the coast for your sunset cruise.

Parking: Free parking is available at Kawaihae Harbor South. We recommend arriving early to secure a spot and not leaving valuables in your vehicle.

Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

The Mauna Kea Sunset Cruise is approximately 1.5 hours, including boarding and return.

We depart from Kawaihae Harbor, conveniently located just minutes from Mauna Kea, Hapuna Beach, Mauna Lani, and Waikoloa resorts.

Yes! This cruise is great for guests of all ages and provides a smooth, comfortable ride along the coast.

Dolphins are often spotted year-round, and from December through March, humpback whales can frequently be seen breaching offshore.

Light bites and cold non-alcoholic beverages (juice, soda, and water) are provided on board.*

Yes. Olohana is equipped with a clean, private marine restroom for guest use.

Comfortable resort-casual clothing is ideal. We recommend a light jacket or sweater for cooler evening breezes.

Olohana boards directly from a dock, providing easy, step-on access for most guests, though it may not accommodate all mobility devices.

Swimsuit and towel
Reef-safe sunscreen (no sprays, please apply before boarding)
Sunglasses and a hat for sun protection
Reusable water bottle (to help reduce plastic waste — water provided on board)
Light cover-up or rash guard for sun protection before/after the snorkel session
Optional: Camera or waterproof phone case for photos… don’t forget to tag us @hawaiinautical!

If your tour is cancelled due to the captain’s discretion and/or weather, then you will receive a full refund or option to re-book your tour on another date based on availability. Guests cancelling their tour reservations 48 hours or more prior to departure are eligible to receive a full refund or can elect to re-book the tour on another date based on availability. Trip Protection is now available. For a small fee Trip Protection can be added to any booking allowing cancellation up to just 1 hour prior to departure! Trip Protection can be purchased at check-out. Guests who are not purchasing Trip Protection and cancelling their tour reservations less than 48 hours prior to departure are not eligible for a refund and will forfeit 100% of their payment.

Private Charters

Discover an unforgettable private ocean adventure along the stunning Kona Coast. This exclusive charter blends five-star comfort with the natural beauty of Hawai‘i’s waters. Explore pristine snorkel sites like Pawai Bay’s lava arches and Makalawena’s secluded beaches—home to vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and graceful sea turtles. Keep an eye out for spinner dolphins year-round and breaching humpback whales in winter.

With personalized service, premium amenities, and a commitment to ocean stewardship, Hawaii Nautical delivers a luxury yacht experience that’s both indulgent and eco-conscious. Perfect for families, couples, or friends seeking an intimate and unforgettable day on the Big Island’s crystal-blue waters.

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