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Hula’s Catamaran Saturdays

April 27 @ 1:30 pm - 5:00 pm.

The group will be escorted to the board which will set sail at 3pm for a 90-minute ride along the shore of Waikiki Beach.

Or you can choose to meet at the catamaran on the day of sail between 2:30pm – 2:45pm. However, refunds will not be issued in the event you don’t show up by sail time @ 3:00pm sharp.

Swimming allowed depending on weather and ocean conditions at the discretion of the Captain for everyone’s safety. Mai Tai and Beer is available for purchase on board and is  CASH ONLY !

Click here for more information and to purchase tickets.

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Open Daily Noon – 2am 11am – 2am on Sundays

2nd floor of the Waikiki Grand Hotel 134 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

There’s no head like Diamond Head

Unbelievable views Handcrafted Cocktails Tasty Beach Bites

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Enjoy handcrafted cocktails and delicious food while experiencing the spectacular views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.

Upcoming Events

Open Mic Night

April 22 7:00 PM

Live Music w/ Darin Cumpston

April 23 6:00 PM

Live Music w/ Phil Schneider

April 24 6:00 PM

Live Music w/ Kalau

April 26 6:00 PM

Hula's Catamaran

April 27 2:00 PM

Live Music w/ Johnny the 3rd

April 27 6:00 PM

Live Music w/ Tad Jennings

April 28 6:00 PM

April 29 7:00 PM

April 30 6:00 PM

May 01 6:00 PM

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The Gathering Place for Explorers since 1974

Learn about the history of one of the longest running LGBTQ+ bars in the world.

About Hula’s

Honolulu, Waikiki, and Oahu Gay Guide and Photo Gallery

When you think of gay-friendly, stunningly beautiful, tropical getaways, Hawaii leaps immediately to mind. And the capital city of Honolulu , with its vibrant though rather heavily developed Waikiki beachfront, contains the heart of the state's gay scene. This dramatically situated city on the island of Oahu has several gay bars, a great dining scene, and proximity to many notable attractions. Here's a gay guide to Honolulu through pictures.

Queen's Surf gay beach, Waikiki

By far the most popular gay beach in Hawaii, and one of the most scenic and well-known in the world, Queen's Surf Beach is a relatively secluded stretch of sand in the heart of Waikiki, but along a section with no direct hotel frontage - this accounts for the fact there's more privacy and fewer families here than to the north or south. The beach here draws a mostly gay-male crowd, although certainly not exclusively so, as plenty of lesbians and straights seeking seclusion tan their hides here, too.

Queen's Surf is easy to reach - it's just a short walk along the beachfront south of where Kapaluhu Avenue intersects with Kalakaua Avenue at the beach (not far from Hula's gay bar). The approximate street address is 2715 Kalakaua Ave. , across from Honolulu Zoo and the northwest edge of Kapiolani Park, and just north of Waikiki Aquarium. There's a small covered pavilion along the grassy area behind the beach that has restrooms and a snack bar, and plenty of GLBT folks also lie along this grassy section. A bit farther northwest along the beach, you'll also find a nice-size volleyball court

There's no nudity along here, and it's far too centralized to qualify as cruisy in any racy way, but that's not to say this isn't an excellent spot to mingle, make new friends, and find out what's on during the evening. As the day progresses and the sun sets, many of the beachgoers here walk over to nearby Hula's gay bar for some post-beach socializing and hobnobbing. It's a very congenial scene, not particularly attitude-y or stuffy. All shapes and sizes congregate here, including plenty of tourists just working on their tans.

Waikiki and Diamond Head at sunset, viewed from Pu'u Ualaka'a State Wayside

Just as the sun sets at Pu'u Ualaka'a State Wayside, you're treated to a lovely view southeast toward Diamond Head Crater and Waikiki.

Shangri La, the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art (DDFIA)

You may not automatically associate Honolulu with Islamic art, or even necessarily with iconic heiress and philanthropist Doris Duke (1912-1993), but Shangri La  decorative details, and architectural pieces from throughout the Middle East and North Africa.

Doris Duke built the elegant, largely open-air mansion on 5 acres overlooking the surf below Diamond Head in the late 1930s. Upon her death, she willed her former home to be managed as the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art (DDFIA), with the intention of promoting "the study and understanding of Middle Eastern art and culture." The estate is open to the public by tour only, and it takes a little effort to get here, but a guided walk through this fanciful homage to Islamic artwork is worth doing (and paying for - the cost of admission is $25).

Guided tours of Shangri La take visitors through the entry courtyard, the ornately decorated foyer, past a central courtyard and vintage powder room (complete with a fabulously retro Mylar ceiling), into a living room with a fully retractable wall that instantly converts it to an open-air parlor, through the dining room, out to the lanai, past the 75-foot saltwater pool, and through the exceptionally stunning Turkish and Baby Turkish rooms. Guides here tend to be extremely well-versed in the life of Doris Duke, her collection, and her dedication to Islamic art (she was not, by the way, a practitioner of Islam but rather of ardent aficionado of the Islamic aesthetic).

Tours (lasting 2.5 hours) of the mansion are administered through the Honolulu Academy of the Arts, which has a helpful Shangra La information page with details on buying tour tickets . The tours leave the Honolulu Academy of the Arts ( corner of Beretania and Victoria Sts. , 808-532-8700; purchase tickets over the phone by calling 866-DUKE-TIX) by 15-minute minivan ride, and only guided tours are permitted. They're offered Wednesday through Saturday, three times per day, and advance reservations are a must.

Hula's Bar & Lei Stand, the famed gay nightclub in the Waikiki Grand Hotel

Hula's Bar & Lei Stand

A traditional Hawaiian Kama'aina breakfast at Ihilani's Naupaka Terrace

Among the handful of excellent restaurants (including Azul for contemporary seafood, and Ushio-Tei for authentic Japanese fare) at southwestern Oahu's JW Marriott Ihilani Resort , the open-air Naupaka Terrace is well-regarded for its expansive breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffet spreads as well as first-rate a la carte fare. Sunday's champagne brunch is another favorite meal, during which you might try such Hawaiian specialties as the Kama'aina breakfast (pictured here), Loco Moco, banana-macadamia-nut pancakes, scrambled eggs with Kalua pork, and Puna papaya with lime. The Kama'aina breakfast mixes Hawaii's local and Portuguese traditions and features a pair of eggs cooked as you like them (I like mine sunny-side up), over Lup Chong Jasmine fried rice with bacon, slightly spicy Portuguese sausage, traditional breakfast link sausage, and green onions. It's especially tasty if you shake a few (or a few dozen, in my case) drops of Tabasco sauce on the entire spread. Also in this photo, note the plate of delicious grapefruit segments, topped with fresh mint and Hawaiian sea salt.

USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

The USS Arizona (parking at Arizona Memorial Place, off Hwy 99, the Kamehameha Highway - it's well-signed, 808-422-0561), which commemorates the devastating surprise air attack on Pearl Harbor by Japanese forces in 1941, hardly needs an introduction. Many consider it the one attraction on Oahu that simply mustn't be missed, and indeed, a good case could be made for this. Visiting the Arizona is free and involves watching an excellent short (23-minute) movie about the attack and then boarding a boat for a trip out to the memorial site (built atop the sunken Arizona battleship, whose gun towers still poke out of the water). It's a poignant experience and one that takes a little bit of planning to avoid long lines.

A few things to keep in mind - the longs can be very long, especially in the afternoons, on weekends, and during the busier times of the year in Hawaii. You can avoid lines, sometimes entirely, if you arrive very early in the morning (the park is open daily from 7 am until 5 pm), especially on Sunday mornings.

The set-up is as follows: accessible on foot from the parking area is the newly opened (in 2010), $58 million open-air visitor center, which contains moving exhibits that document not only the attack but also the role of Hawaii in World War II and life on the island at this time. When you show up, you'll be handed a ticket, which is good for an assigned time to watch the movie, which is shown in a theater at the visitor center. When the movie ends, you exit the theater and immediately board a boat, which makes the short trip across the harbor to the Memorial. On arrival, passengers disembark from the boat onto the Memorial platform and are free to explore it, take pictures, and observe the wall listing the names of 1,177 crew members who perished during the attack (all told, 2,402 U.S. military personnel died during the attack, which took out several other ships and occurred in two different waves).

After exploring the Memorial, passengers are whisked back by boat to the visitor center. There you're free to explore the exhibits, walk the grounds, shop in the very well-stocked bookstore, or plan visits to the USS Bowfin Submarine, which is right next door, or tour the USS Missouri, which lies just southwest of the Arizona , docked at Ford Island. You can buy tickets for the Bowfin and Missouri at the USS Bowfin Museum .

Diamond Head Beach - Lighthouse Beach Gay Section

Although it's neither as popular nor as gay-identified as Queen's Surf Beach at the southeast end of Waikiki, the secluded Diamond Head Beach (just off 3300 Diamond Head Road , below the lighthouse , and requiring a bit of a hike down to the sand) does have a bit of a gay following. Some visitors sunbathe in the nude here (this is technically illegal but often overlooked - still, it's prudent to wrap up quickly if you spot authorities patrolling).

This is beautiful, remote stretch of sand, which is also known as Lighthouse Beach, is free from the overcrowding that's common around the bend in Waikiki. There's limited parking along the road, which winds around the southern base of Diamond Head crater, between the southeast end of Waikiki (near Kapiolani Park) and the Kahala area (home to Kahala Hotel & Resort and Doris Duke's Shangri La). Once you find a parking spot, walk back toward Waikiki, and you'll find a narrow lane just north of the lighthouse leading down to the beach (there are a few parking spots along this lane, too). Given how difficult the parking is here, you might want to walk from Waikiki - it's about a half-mile walk from the southeast end of Waikiki's beachfront, or a 1.5-mile walk from the more central intersection of Kapahulu Avenue and Kalakaua (near Hula's gay bar and Queen's Surf Beach).

Bacchus Waikiki, a trendy gay wine bar and lounge on Lewers Street

Bacchus Waikiki

Waikiki Beach at night, from the jetty by the Outrigger Reef Hotel

A view of Waikiki beach and its string of high-rise hotels at night, from the groin (jetty) that extends from the Outrigger Reef on the Beach Hotel (it's to the left of the Halekulani Hotel, the property pictured here on the very left - the Reef is one of the most luxurious of the several Waikiki hotels that make up the gay-friendly Outrigger chain).

Hammerhead shark in marine pool at JW Marriott Ihilani Resort

One of the most interesting aspects of staying at Oahu's gay-friendly JW Marriott Ihilani Resort is the chance to interact with marine life, including the hammerhead sharks (as shown here) that swim around the resort's marine pools. Guests are always welcome to observe the sharks in this pool, and other marine life (sea urchins, stingrays, sea cucumbers, etc.) in a neighboring pool, and for a fee, guests can also participate in interactive feeding and marine programs at the resort.

Surfing and Paddle-Surfing off Waikiki, near the Royal Hawaiian Resort

Many companies and hotels give surfing and paddle-surfing lessons (and also rent a variety of boats and water crafts) along Waikiki Beach. Here's a group of participants testing their look at both surfing and paddle-surfing out in the waves near the Royal Hawaiian Resort on Waikiki. Honolulu has its own gay surf club, whose contact information is listed with GayHawaii.com's resource page.

Waiola Shave Ice, just off Kapahulu Avenue

Just a short drive or slightly longer walk northeast from Honolulu's little gay epicenter around Kapahulu and Kalakaua avenues, you'll find a slew of inexpensive, funky eateries that form something of an offbeat Restaurant Row along Kapahulu, with Waiola Shave Ice  (3113 Mokihana St., just off of Kapahulu Ave., 808-735-8886) one of this area's definitive must-tastes. The bare-bones bakery and ice-cream shop is most famous for doling out some of the city's best shave-ice treats.

These icy, sweet confections are cousins to the sno-balls of New Orleans and Italian Ices of New England, but they have their own distinctive flavor in these parts. You can get a fairly basic one with any number of sweet syrups, but more interesting are the treats that locals tend to favor, such as the one topped with condensed milk, mochi, and red azuki beans (an employee of Waiola, pictured here, spoons azuki beans onto my soon-to-be-devoured Azuki Bowl).

The store's original location is at 2135 Waiola Street (808-949-2269) and is every bit as popular.

ABC Store at Lemon and Paoakalani, a block from Hula's

The ubiquitous ABC Stores you see all over Honolulu (and all throughout Hawaii, for that matter) have an interesting history - you can read about the chain's humble origins on their website. There are nearly 80 stores throughout the Pacific Rim, mostly on Hawaii but also on Guam and Saipan. There's even a branch in Las Vegas, which makes sense given the close ties between Hawaii and Sin City (lots of Hawaiians vacation there, and vice versa). The ABC Store pictured here is at the corner of Lemon Road and Paoakalani Avenue , right by the fab Hotel Renew and a block from Hula's gay bar. So while there certainly aren't any ABC Stores with a specifically gay mission, this one arguably draws more "family", because of its location, than any other ABC Store in Hawaii.

For the un-initiated, ABC Stores are, at their most basic, extremely well-stocked gift-convenience stores carrying a wide range of snacks, souvenirs, touristy doodads, and both fun and necessary miscellany (everything from contact lens solution to chocolate-covered macadamia nuts). Some of them have full delis and sell cosmetics, liquor, and even clothing). Spend a little time traveling around Honolulu and the rest of the state, and you'll come to find these prolific shops indispensable.

Pu'u 'Ualaka's State Wayside viewing platform

Majestic views aren't especially hard to come by in Honolulu, what with the soaring vistas enjoyed from the trail up to Diamond Head, and some fine vantage points had from different hotel high-rises throughout Waikiki. But few places in the city offer a more dazzling perspective on Honolulu, Waikiki, and Diamond Head than the viewing platform at Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside , which is just a 10-minute drive from downtown off Round Top Drive . This is the spot in Honolulu to watch both sunrise and sunset.

The park opens at 7 each morning and closes at 6:45 pm (it's open till 7:45 pm from late spring through Labor Day). There are restrooms here but no other facilities, and temperatures at the park are generally a good 10 degrees cooler than in town. You get here by taking north from downtown (you can access it from S. Beretania Street) and following it up the hill until you reach Round Top Drive. Take a left onto Round Top, and just follow it as it winds its way up the hill - you'll eventually come to signs for the parking area for Pu'u 'Ualaka'a. From the parking area, it's just a quick little stroll to a viewing platform (pictured here) that takes in pretty much the entire city, from Pearl Harbor and the airport to the west all the way across downtown and over to Diamond Head and beyond to the east. It's a quite romantic perch to wind down a day of exploring the city.

Fusion gay bar, on Kuhio Avenue

Fusion Waikiki

Gay Catamaran Cruises, offered by Hula's gay bar

Catamaran cruises are a favorite way to tour the waters off Waikiki. Honolulu's Hula's gay bar offers these cruises. The trip takes place on Saturdays at 2 pm - just call the bar or check out the cruise webpage for details. Nude sunbathing is permitted onboard, and mai tai cocktails are served. These excursions are a great way to meet fellow GLBT visitors to Honolulu.

Chai's restaurant

Downtown honolulu skyline, viewed from pu'u 'ualaka'a state wayside.

View looking south over downtown Honolulu, from Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside.

Waikiki Beach, outside the Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Crescent-shaped Waikiki Beach , with its inviting golden-sand beaches and turquoise waters, plus an iconic view of Diamond Head volcano in the background, is one of the world's great locales for swimming, surfing, and relaxing in the sun. This image is taken from outside Starwood's glitzy Royal Hawaiian Resort, which underwent an impressive makeover in 2008 - the view is southeast, with Diamond Head in the background. This part of the beach, which is fronted by numerous high-rise resorts, tends to be quite crowded - gays and lesbians tend to congregate farther southeast (toward Diamond Head), at Queen's Surf Beach, and also well around the point at Diamond Head Beach.

Puka Dog gourmet hot-dog stand, on Kuhio Avenue

Ever since culinary raconteur Anthony Bourdain featured it on TV's No Reservations, Puka Dog ( Hawaiian Town Center, 2301 Kuhio Ave. , 808-924-7887) has been a darling of quirky nibblers. This has led quite a few visitors to this somewhat glorified gourmet hot-dog stand to gush effusively about Puka's strange and-not-so-little frankfurters, and others to protest about excessive hype, high prices, and bland buns. So here's my take on Puka - for a bit more than you'd normally pay for a hot dog, you're treated to a memorable, reasonably tasty treat. It's probably not going to change your life, and at several bucks a dog, you likely won't find it worth eating here every day, but for an occasional dose of flavorful street food, Puka Dog hits the spot.

Puka Dog began on Kauai - the Waikiki version, which is little more than a humble stand at the fringes of the otherwise drab Waikiki Town Center, opened in 2007. Much is made of the propriety means by which the Puka Dog preparers pierce the buns, but really, the buns - at least as flavor and texture go - aren't anything all that special. More noteworthy are the Polish sausage dogs (veggie dogs are also available, but really, if you don't eat meat, this probably isn't worth the bother), that's then doused with garlic-lemon "secret sauce" (which comes in any of four flavors: mild original, spicy jalapeno, hot chili pepper, or hot hot habanero). I ordered mine hot habanero and was not felled by a bolt of lightening - in fact, I found the sauce pleasantly piquant but not especially hot. So for all but the most coltish condimentarians, I suggest going this route.

Next, you choose a relish for your Puka Dog - wimps can opt out at this point by requesting simple ketchup and mustard (why would you do this? just go home if you're not willing to play along in the proper spirit). If you've made it this far, opt for one of the tropical relishes, such as Polihale Sunset (papaya) or, my own personal favorite, coconut. I finished mine with a bit of lilikoi (passion fruit) mustard. Consider ordering an accompaniment of fresh-squeezed lemonade (good, but a bit too much sugar added? seemed too sweet). Compared with other only-in-Hawaii culinary experiences, such as Liliha Bakery and Waioloa Shave Ice, Puka Dog is indeed a tad overrated, but it's still a worthy notch in the belt of any inveterate Honolulu food explorer.

Reef on the Beach hotel, part of the gay-friendly Outrigger brand

Having completed a multi-million renovation in 2009 that took several years and including a top-to-bottom overhaul, the Reef on the Beach ( 2169 Kalia Rd. , 808-923-3111) hotel now ranks among the gay-friendly Outrigger brand's most alluring and appealing accommodations - indeed, it's safe to call this the Outrigger's flagship hotel (although the nearby Outrigger Waikiki is also very impressive). The Reef has some notable features, including the beloved Shore Bird Restaurant and more modern and upscale Ocean House Restaurant).

The Outrigger is at the west end of Waikiki Beach, directly fronting the golden sands. The completely rebuilt high-rise has rooms with both direct and angled ocean views, and amenities that include free in-room WiFi, free long-distance calls within the U.S. and Canada, a slew of notable shops, a library containing noted Hawaiian literary works and artifacts from the Bishop Museum, access (for a fee) to Outrigger eco-sail and snorkel tours and catamaran rides, body treatments and massage at the Serenity Spa, and close proximity to the many retailers and shops at Waikiki Beach Walk.

Honolulu Zoo, in Kapiolani Park at Kapahula Avenue (by Hula's gay bar)

Next to Kapiolani Park, and across from two of Waikiki's most prominent gay hangouts - Queen's Surf Beach and Hula's gay bar, the Honolulu Zoo ( 151 Kapahulu Ave. , 808-971-7171) is a popular and easily accessed attraction. The 42-acre habitat may not be the largest zoo you'll ever see, but it is notable for its giraffe, zebra, and red-footed tortoise enclosures, and it also offers visitors a chance to see the rather elusive state bird, the nene.

In Between gay bar, off Lewer Street by the Waikiki Joy Hotel

In Between gay bar

Hotel Renew, on Paoakalani Avenue near Waikiki beach and Hula's

On a relatively quiet street corner just a block from Waikiki's golden-sand beaches and also a very short walk from Hula's gay bar and Queen's Surf gay beach, the hip and trendy Hotel Renew ( 129 Paoakalani Ave. , 808-687-7715) doesn't look all that snazzy from the outside. But this 72-room midsize property has an artful, minimalist aesthetic and a smart, knowledgetable staff - it's one of the best hotels in Waikiki for design-minded visitors seeking a sleek, luxurious, but understated hotel.

Guests at this very gay-friendly hotel are greeted with complimentary beverages and scented cold towels on arrival. The pet-friendly, eco-conscious property has free Wi-Fi throughout, a hip little bar and lounge area, and rooms with 32-inch flat-screen TVs, iPod docks, in-room safes, Kimono robes, and - on request - in-room spa services. There's a particularly gay-popular ABC Store next door, if you're short on batteries, sundries, or macadamia nuts.

JW Marriott Ihilani, view of ocean and grounds from guest room

A view of the lush grounds and oceanfront, taken from a guest room's private lanai at the elegant JW Marriott Ihilani Resort & Spa, about 25 miles west of Honolulu.

Irifune Japanese Restaurant, on Kapahula Avenue

Irifune ( 563 Kapahulu Ave. , 808-737-1141) might just be the best of the several impressively good and foodie-favored hole-in-the-wall eateries along Kapahulu Avenue's de-facto Restaurant Row. This low-frills, relatively affordable Japanese-seafood place is justly famous for one particular dish, garlic ahi (available in a variety of ways, from tempura to stir-fried), but you'll all sorts of tasty bits here. The campy decor and less-than-sleek aesthetic account for a curious clientele of local characters, budget gourmands, and adventuresome tourists. It's along the same stretch as such local restaurant stalwarts as Aloha BBQ, Waiola Shave Ice, and Rainbow Drive-In.

Bamboo Hotel & Spa, part of gay-friendly Aqua Hotels

A stylish and hip member of Honolulu's gay-friendly Aqua Hotels brand, the Bamboo Hotel & Spa (2425 Kuhio Ave., 866-971-2782) is just a five-minute walk from Waikiki Beach and very close to the gay bars Angles and Fusion.

Kahala Hotel & Resort, and Dolphin Quest encounter

A short drive around Diamond Head Crater from Waikiki in the beautiful and peaceful Waialae neighborhood, Kahala Hotel & Resort ( 5000 Kalaha Ave. , 808-739-8888) is an elegant, luxury property (formerly part of the Mandarin Oriental brand, and now independent). It's a good choice if you're seeking a posh Honolulu hotel experience but would rather not be set smack in the middle of bustling (and sometimes very crowded) Waikiki. The 338-room resort has a full slate of amenities, including restaurants, a quite impressive spa, and an enviable setting on a picturesque and relatively uncrowded section of beach. The hotel is close to the gay-popular section of Diamond Head Beach, and also to Doris Duke's Shangri La.

Kahala most notable asset might just be that it's also home to Honolulu's Dolphin Quest dolphin encounter . These opportunities for visitors to interact with dolphins take place at the hotel's 26,000-square-foot natural lagoon (pictured here, along with one of the resident dolphins), in which six Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins reside. Dolphin Quest offers wide range of programs, and these are open to both hotel guests and nonguests.

Shangri La's public beachfront

No matter how important you are, or how secluded and private your estate is, Hawaii's beaches and shorelines are - by law - open to the public. You can clear evidence of this law if you tour Doris Duke's famed estate, Shangri La, where these Honolulu teenagers frolic on the rocks below the estate, with Diamond Head crater in the background.

Azuki Bowl from Waiola Bakery and Shave Ice, on Kapahulu Avenue

A close-up of an Azuki Bowl (a shave-ice sundae with topped with condensed milk, mochi, and red azuki beans), served at the delightful Waiola Bakery and Shave Ice stand in Waikiki.

Royal Hawaiian Resort, a Starwood Luxury Collection property

Following a massively ambitious renovation by the gay-friendly Starwood hotel group, Waikiki's vaunted (and uber-pink) Royal Hawaiian Resort ( 2259 Kalakaua Ave. , 808-923-7311) reopened in January 2009 as part a Starwood Luxury Collection property. The 529-room property with an enviable setting on Waikiki Beach blends contemporary elements and style with the hotel's grand, old-world character, making it one of the most desirable accommodations on the island of Oahu, and a favorite among trendy GLBT visitors. The resort's swanky pool area is one of the prettiest in Honolulu.

USS Missouri Battleship museum, at Ford's Island in Pearl Harbor

The last battleship constructed by the United States, the USS Missouri fought in several prominent World War II campaigns (Iwo Jima, Okinawa) and following a modernization even took part in the 1991 Gulf War. Since 1998, it's been docked at Ford Island , just southwest of the sunken USS Arizona, in Pearl Harbor and open to the public as a museum. You can purchase tickets to visit the USS Missouri from the USS Bowfin Submarine Museum , which is next to the USS Arizona Visitor Center. Visitors of the Missouri can take audio tours of the ship, too - just rent an iPod with a preloaded Guide2Go tour, which has fascinating video and audio material (including interviews with veterans). This is a fun and informative way to tour the ship, and to do so at your own pace.

The photo of the USS Missouri here was taken from the platform of the USS Arizona Memorial, facing south. In the lower right, you can see a few remnants of the sunken Arizona poking out of the water, and you can also detect discoloration in the water that's a result of the oil that continues to leak very slowly from the wreckage. The ball-shaped white buoy on the lower right marks where the very stern of the Arizona lies beneath the water's surface.

Liliha Bakery and 24-Hour Coffeeshop, Honolulu

Hawaiians revere their bakeries, and in an unassuming neighborhood in northwestern Honolulu, Liliha Bakery and Coffeeshop ( 515 N. Kuakini St. , 808-531-1651) has been attracting a loyal contingent of devotees since it opened in 1950. The big draw here are the coco puffs (no, not the treacly cereal but rather ethereal chocolate-cream puff pastries, also available filled with green-tea cream), but you'll also find astoundingly good turnovers, doughnuts, chantilly cakes, and more. The bakery is open pretty much all the time but Monday (i.e., 24 hours from 6 am Tuesday morning until Sunday evening at 8 pm), and adjacent to the bakery counter is a long coffeeshop/diner section that's always packed with colorful locals noshing on such delicacies as pancakes, Portuguese sausage and eggs, Spam-and-egg sandwiches, grilled mahimahi, saimin (served with, yes, more Spam and green onions), burgers, banana cream pie, and plenty of other home-style treats, of both traditional Hawaiian and American origin. There's a reason this place is an Oahu institution among both working-class Joes and discerning foodies.

Queen's Surf Beach snack bar and restroom facilities

Just behind the sand at Queen's Surf gay beach in Waikiki, adjacent to the tree-shaded green lawn that also draws plenty of GLBT sunworshipers, there's a pavilion containing a snack bar and public restrooms. There's also an outdoor shower (to the right, in this picture), which is helpful for cleaning sand off yourself before donning flip-flops or shoes.

Puka Dog, up close and personal (and topped with coconut relish)

Here's an up-close image of a genuine Puka Dog, topped with coconut relish and "hot hot habanero" garlic lemon secret sauce. That's some big bun happening there.

Max's Private Club, a gym and gay bathhouse on the edge of Waikiki

Max's Gym and Bathhouse

USS Arizona Memorial, a wall of remembrance honoring the dead

At northwest end of the USS Arizona Memorial interior platform, a wall lists the names of all 1,177 crew who died when the hulking battleship was felled during the infamous Japanese air raid that paralyzed the U.S. Navy base at Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. More than 2,400 lives were lost in the attack, which saw the destruction of 188 aircraft, four battleships (plus damage to four more), and several other ships.

Diamond Head Crater, viewed from Waialae-Kahala neighborhood

A view of the southeast side of Diamond Head State Monument volcanic crater (a very popular hiking venue), as well as Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park at the base of the crater, looking northwest from Doris Duke's former estate, Shangri-La, which is now a center for Islamic Art opened to the public. This is also the splendid view many residents of Honolulu's Waialae-Kahala neighborhood enjoy, as well as guests at the Kahala Resort. The stretch of sand you see in the very distance, where the coast bends around Diamond Head, is the gay-popular Diamond Head Beach.

Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial Visitor Center, which opened in 2010

The new Pearl Harbor Visitor Center at the USS Arizona Memorial, from which you can catch a tour boat back and forth to the memorial itself. The impressive new, $58 million facility opened in 2010 and contains fascinating exhibits - the two key ones are "Road to War" and "Attack." With dramatic interactive story boards, photos, signage, and audio and video, these exhibits provide a powerful and unforgettably stirring (at times even disturbing) look at the attack as well as the world events leading up to it. Touring the visitor center and grounds is free, and here you can purchase tickets to tour the memorial and other ships.

Rainbow Drive-In, on Kapahulu Drive, great spot for "plate lunch" meals

For a chance to sample Hawaii's classic "plate lunch" meal, a cheap and filling set meal that includes a main entree, two scoops of rice, and a scoop of either macaroni salad or cole slaw, try the iconic Rainbow Drive-In ( 3308 Kanaina Ave., at Kapahulu Dr. , 808-737-0177). The restaurant has been around since 1961 (the owners previously had similar drive-in establishments around town dating back to World War II). Complete plate lunches cost between $5 and $7, and Rainbow has even cheaper fare at breakfast.

Typical entrees for the main dish include fried chicken, mahimahi, barbecue steak, Portuguese sausage, corned beef hash, and chili (there are also daily specials, like Shoyu chicken and teriyaki ahi); for a little extra, you can order additional sides, such as gravy, a hamburger, or the dreaded state delicacy, Spam. If you're in for breakfast, try sweet-bread French toast or fried rice and eggs. Rainbow also serves plenty of other state favorites, from saimin (a ramen-like noodle dish), and Loco Moco (a dish developed on the Big Island in the town of Hilo, consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger, fried egg, and brown gravy). Grab dessert just down the block at Waiola Bakery and Shave Ice

Hotel Renew Bar and Cafe

The trendy, sleek bar and cafe at the Waikiki's Hotel Renew is a pleasant spot to meet up with friends.

Shangri La, pool and playroom view

A view of Shangri La's pool and play room. Tours of Doris Duke's Shangri La are given by the Honolulu Academy of Arts. Visitors cannot enter the grounds of Shangri La on their own, although here you can see an aerial image of the property, which is located at 4055 Papu Circle.

Waikiki Joy Hotel, part of the gay-friendly Aqua Hotels brand

Just a short walk from the beach and near such gay bars as the In Between, Angles, and Fusion, the upscale but reasonably priced Waikiki Joy Hotel ( 320 Lewers St. , 808-923-2300) is one of a few properties in Hawaii's popular Aqua hotel brand that's well-regarded among gay and lesbian travelers.

Honolulu Waterfront at Night, from Fort DeRussy north beyond Ala Wai Harbor

Looking north from the groin (jetty) by the Outrigger Reef Hotel in Waikiki. The view takes in Fort DeRussey Beach Park and hotels to the right, the Hilton Hawaiian Village in the center, and the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor and downtown Honolulu waterfront beyond that, to the left. Here's the view from the same spot, but looking south at the Waikiki skyline.

Royal Hawaiian Resort pool, Waikiki

The glamorous pool and lanai at Starwood's trendy Royal Hawaiian Resort, one of the iconic hotels of Waikiki. Just beyond the palm-shrouded pool, with its dozens of private cabanas, you'll find one of the most alluring stretches of golden sand in Waikiki.

Town Restaurant, in the Kaimuki neighborhood

Town Restaurant Honolulu

Queen's Surf lawn, behind the gay beach

In addition to the golden sand sunning area at Waikiki's scenic Queen's Surf gay beach, there's a verdant, palm-shaded lawn behind the promenade and next to the snack bar and restrooms pavilion. This expansive stretch of lawn is also major draw for gay sunbathers, although typically not as crowded as the beach below the promenade.

Ono Hawaiian Foods, on Kapahulu Avenue

Not to be confused with the mainland fast-food chain Ono Hawaiian BBQ, the quirky, homespun restaurant on Kapahulu Avenue known as Ono Hawaiian Foods ( 726 Kapahulu Ave. , 808-737-2275) has been doling out fantastic, completely authentic, traditional Hawaiian favorites since it opened nearly 40 years ago. In this modest dining room that fits in well with the other low-keyed, no-frills eateries along Kapahulu you can sample such regional delicacies as Kalua pig, butterfish or squid luau, salt meat watercress, lomi salmon, poi, beef stew, tripe stew, and more. For value and the chance to try a few different things, order one of the four combo plates, which include a nice mix of specialties. There's nothing touristy about the menu here, although plenty of food-loving visitors in-the-know have been coming to this hole-in-the-wall eatery for years.

Shangri La, view of a ceiling

A look at one of the ornate ceilings inside a room at Doris Duke's legendary Shangri-La estate, in Honolulu.

Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside, looking west toward Honolulu International Airport

Looking southwest from Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside, you can see the western side of downtown Honolulu, the Lower Punchbowl area, Sand Island, and Honolulu International Airport.

Waikiki Beach Walk shops and restaurants, by the Embassy Suites Honolulu

After a dramatic renovation along the once dowdy Beachwalk and Lewer streets between Kalia Road and Kalakaua Avenue , the Waikiki Beach Walk shopping and dining district is looking pretty spiffy. The collection of mid-price to upscale galleries, boutiques, and restaurants - which includes outposts of popular chains like Roy's, Ruth's Chris Steak House, and Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf - adjoins the elegant and very gay-friendly Embassy Suites Honolulu is a block from the beach. Also close by is the Outrigger Reef Hotel, a handsome beach-front resort that also underwent a major transformation in recent years. If it's been a while since you visited Waikiki, you're unlikely even to recognize this part of the neighborhood, which now looks far better than it has in decades.

Waikiki Wave Hotel, part of Aqua Hotels

One of the more luxurious members of Honolulu's gay-friendly Aqua Hotels brand, the Waikiki Wave ( 2299 Kuhio Ave. , 866-971-2782) is just a five-minute walk from Waikiki Beach and very close to the gay bars Angles and Fusion.

JW Marriott Ihilani Resort, 25 miles west of Waikiki

The JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa, which is on the southwest coast of Oahu about 25 miles from Waikiki, is one of the most luxurious properties in Hawaii. If you're seeking seclusion but still wish to be within striking distance of the gay scene, luxe shops and restaurants, and fascinating cultural attractions of Honolulu, this is an excellent base.

Queen's Surf Beach, viewed from slightly farther southeast

Another vantage point of the gay-popular Queen's Surf Beach, this one taken from a bit southeast of the main action, the grassy lawn, and the snack bar and restrooms pavilion, looking north toward the busiest stretch of hotel development along Waikiki Beach.

Ocean House Restaurant, Outrigger Reef on the Beach hotel

It's generally a given that restaurants overlooking the water deliver on the view but generally not as well on the food. A happy exception to this adage is the Ocean House Restaurant (808-923-2277), on the ground floor of the gay-friendly Outrigger Reef resort in Waikiki. This open-air restaurant with dazzling views of the ocean turns out consistently good contemporary American and Hawaiian Regional cuisine - nothing overly adventuresome or necessarily haute gourmet, but reliably excellent and fresh. For a romantic meal overlooking the water, this is one of the top spots in Waikiki.

Again, the food and wine here both tend toward straightforward and unsurprising, but that's not to say the presentation and quality of ingredients fall anything short of excellent - standouts include Kahala-style fire-roasted pork spareribs with Maui gold-pineapple barbecue sauce, ahi-and-Maui-onion tartare, pan-seared kampachi with a ginger vinaigrette, and Hapu'upu'u (local sea bass) with sauteed bananas, macadamia nuts, Frangelico sauce, and Jasmine rice.

Diamond Head, viewed from Shangri La's grounds and gardens

Diamond Head State Monument, viewed from the grounds of Doris Duke's famed Shangri La estate.

Hokondo Waikiki Beachside Hostel, a gay-friendly hostel close to the beach

If you've just managed to afford a plane ticket to Hawaii and not much else, and finding a cheap, gay-friendly place to stay is an issue, consider staying at the rock-bottom-priced Hokondo Waikiki Beachside Hostel ( 2556 Lemon Rd. , 808-923-9566 or 866-478-3888), which has a terrific location just two blocks from the beach (very close to the gay section at Queen's Surf), and not even a block from Hula's gay bar. Waikiki Beachside Hostel has private rooms (with shared baths) as well as small (two- to four-person) and large (eight-person) dorms rooms (which are available both co-ed and female-only).

Rates vary according to the accommodation you choose, beginning around $26 per person for a bunk in one of the larger dorm units to about $70 for a private unit. Rooms are generally quite clean and although basic, they do have cable TV, lanais, phones (with free local calls), Wi-Fi, basic Continental breakfast, and full kitchens. There's also a coin-op laundry, lockers and storage rooms, an outdoor lounge with barbecue grill, daily housekeeping, and all the other niceties you need for a fun trip. If you're not planning to spend a ton of time in your room, this place is a great find - there's no curfew, and the front desk is staffed 24/7. Although Waikiki Beachside Hostel gears itself toward youth (i.e., 18 and over), and most guests tend to be in their 20s, there's no max age limit - all are quite welcome. As hostels go, this is a very nice one and popular one, and definitely a good bet for GLBT visitors to Honolulu

Gun Towers from the USS Arizona, visible from the memorial platform

Still visible from the platform of the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor are a few parts of the sunken battleship, including the truncated and severely rusted gun towers pictured here. At the lower left-hand side of the photo, you can still see evidence of oil leaking very slowly from the wreck and creating a slick on the water.

Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki's main shopping and hotel thoroughfare

Kalakaua Avenue is the main drag through bustling Waikiki, threading its way southeast from central Honolulu, where it crosses Ala Wai Canal and initially forms a busy stretch (pictured here, close to the Waikiki Beach Walk retail and dining development) of high end boutiques and shopping centers before joining with and running parallel to the beach, where it's lined with high-rise hotels Traffic runs one-way, in a southeasterly direction, until Kalakaua intersects with Monsarrat Avenue at Kapiolani Park and the Honolulu Zoo.

Diamond Head Crater at sunset, viewed from Pu'u 'Ualaka's State Wayside

Looking down at Diamond Head Crater at sunset from Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Wayside park.

Counter at Liliha Bakery and Coffeeshop, northwestern Honolulu

The long counter at Liliha Bakery and Coffeeshop buzzes with activity 'round the clock - it's a fine place to mingle with longtime locals and enjoy no-nonsense breakfast, lunch, and dinner fare (plus tantalizing sweets from the bakery section of the establishment).

DFS Galleria Waikiki, off Kalakaua Avenue

Big spenders won't want to miss the ultra-luxe DFS Galleria Waikiki ( 330 Royal Hawaiian Ave., off Kalakaua Ave. , 808-931-2700) along the relatively recently swank-tified Kalakaua Avenue (a block north of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel). This posh shopping mall with branches in such far-flung destinations as Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Sydney, Saipan, San Francisco, and New York contains plenty of gay-fave shopping brands, including Cartier, Chloe, Calvin Klein, Vera Wang, Bulgari, Armani, Marc Jacobs, Swarovski, Dunhill, Emilio Pucci, Fendi, Tumi, and Paul & Joe. The mall is open daily from 9 am until 11 pm.

Velvet Video adult bookstore and arcade, next to In Between gay bar

Just above the cozy and cruisy In Between Waikiki gay bar, the Velvet Video ( 2155 Lau'ula St., 2nd floor , 808-924-0868) is one of Honolulu's most popular adult video arcades - a reliable spot to pick up gay porn (in the form of magazines and DVD/movies), plus various toys and trinkets.

Embassy Suites Honolulu - Waikiki Beach Walk

The twin-towered Embassy Suites Honolulu - Waikiki Beach Walk (201 Beachwalk St., 800-EMBASSY) is an excellent, gay-welcoming lodging option that's a block from the beach and adjacent to the many shops and restaurants of the handsomely revitalized Waikiki Beach Walk. An attractive pool and sundeck, pictured here, separates the hotel's two towers.

Roy's Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine, at the Waikiki Beach Walk

Adjacent to the gay-friendly Embassy Suites Honolulu at the Waikiki Beach Walk shopping and dining district, there's a popular outpost of the famed chain of upscale Hawaiian eateries, Roy's Fusion Cuisine ( park at the Embassy Suites, 201 Beachwalk St. , 808-923-7697. Known for chef Roy Yamaguchi's assertively bold and creative European-meets-Pacific-Rim cooking, Roy's turns out a consistently inventive mix of favorites, and many feel the Hawaiian members of the chain are the best. Longtime classics include the Lakanilau roll (seared Kobe beef wrapped around Yuzu crab with tempera asparagus and avocado) and blackened ahi tuna with a spicy soy-mustard-butter sauce.

Volleyball court, on Waikiki Beach near Queen's Surf gay section

Just a short walk west of Queen's Surf Beach's gay section, there's a volleyball court overlooking the Waikiki action. This court is also a very short stroll from Hula's gay bar.

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Waikiki, on Kuhio Avenue

Of course Waikiki has a branch of the popular and rapidly expanding chain L&L Hawaiian Barbecue (808-924-7888). This outpost of the cheap and simple plate-lunch and barbecue restaurant is at 2280 Kuhio Avenue, a couple of blocks from Angles and Fusion gay bars.

Sunset over Waikiki, viewed from upper floor of Embassy Suites Honolulu

Sunset over Waikiki, viewed from an upper floor at the Embassy Suites Honolulu - Waikiki Beach Walk.

Interior of USS Arizona Memorial

A view of the interior platform of the USS Arizona Memorial, which sits directly above the sunken battleship that it honors.

Kapi'olani Park, in Waikiki, with a view toward Diamond Head

A tranquil 300-acre preserve of verdant lawns, massive banyan trees, and pleasant picnic groves, Kapi'olani Park at the southern end of Waikiki, just beyond where the main drags of Kalakaua Avenue, Monsarrat Avenue, and Kapahulu Avenue meet. It's famed for its knockout views of Diamond Head Crater, and a walk through this beautiful swath of nature offers a wonderful contrast from the busy beach scene (including gay-popular Queen's Surf Beach) that lies just to the west of it. The park is home to a number of attractions, from tennis courts and recreation fields to the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Shell concert amphitheater. The park is named for Queen Kapi'olani, and having been established in 1876, it's the oldest public park in the state.

Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab (closed)

Note: Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab has closed, but Sam Choy's Seafood Grille & Hapa Bar remains an excellent choice

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Matador Original Series

The Ultimate LGBTQ Guide to Honolulu

T he Honolulu LGBTQ community truly embodies the aloha spirit — one of love, friendship, and acceptance. In fact, same-sex and bisexual relationships have been present and widely accepted in Hawaiian culture dating back to ancient times. The term aikāne defines such relationships in the Hawaiian language, and māhū refers to a “third gender” alongside male and female.

Today, Hawaii is known for its welcoming culture and is home to many LGBTQ-friendly establishments, events, and festivals, including October’s PRIDE festival , which brings an impressive parade and parties all weekend long. Your trip to Oahu will be hotter than the Waikiki sun with this comprehensive guide to the best places to experience Honolulu’s unique queer culture, from bars to restaurants, nightlife to daytime, and adventures and places to stay.

Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand

Photo: Hulas Bar And Lei Stand /Facebook

Known as the “gathering place for explorers,” this friendly gay bar is a welcoming destination for everyone. The long windows open to a gentle Waikiki breeze and stellar view of the Pacific for an oceanfront dining experience. In the evening, live music, a large dance floor, and drink specials keep the aloha spirit flowing. Be sure to check the site for upcoming events . including weekly catamaran cruises.

Where: 134 Kapahulu Ave.

Scarlet is the quintessential hub of Honolulu’s LGBTQ community and the epitome of the welcoming culture of the islands. Locals say there is truly never a bad night at Scarlet. With shows every Friday and Saturday night, renowned queens and kings take the stage for the Fresh Fish Drag Revue and beats that keep clubgoers dancing until the wee hours of the morning.

Where: 80 S. Pauahi St.

Conveniently located right next door to Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand , Lulu’s is an LGBTQ-friendly restaurant and bar featuring basic American fare with an island twist. Order the Aloha Burger with pineapple, teriyaki sauce, and grilled onions or opt for the Adulting Mac n’ Cheese with bacon crumbles for a true indulgence — you won’t be disappointed. The restaurant turns into a nightclub on Monday night for industry night, and locals from all around the island congregate for dancing and drink specials until 2:00 AM.

Where: 2586 Kalakaua Ave.

Wang Chung’s Karaoke Bar

Photo: Wang Chungs Karaoke Bar /Facebook

Wang Chung’s is a close-knit Waikiki gay bar tucked into the back of the Stay Hotel lobby. This lively hideaway’s menu is full of creative cocktails, pizzas, and comforting bites, and its famous Sunday drag brunches guarantee a good time. And for those who wish to show off their vocal abilities, the mic is always passed around for daily karaoke.

Where: 2424 Koa Ave.

For an intimate bar experience, pull up one of a dozen or so seats at In Between. Referred to as the “friendliest gay bar in Waikiki,” this no-frills hideaway bar features happy hour until 8:00 PM. Bartender Sabrina’s rotating selection of dessert shots are delicious and include creations such as apple butterbeer and orange creamsicle.

Where: 2155 Lauula St.

Blazing Saddles

Cowboy boots are more than welcome at Blazing Saddles, Hawaii’s only LGBTQ western dance club. Blazing Saddles prides itself on being a non-profit organization committed to providing a safe, fun, and friendly environment where all are welcome. There’s no cover charge, but donations are gratefully accepted. Each night is filled with live music, refreshments, and dancing. Go early for free dance lessons starting at 6:30 PM.

Where: 404 Kapahulu Ave.

This casual, natural-wood-adorned gay bar hosts myriad community events, including monthly catamaran cruises, trivia, live music, and other entertainment in a setting where respect and inclusion are championed. Don’t miss nightly drink specials such as $4 Margarita Mondays, Wednesday “Airport Double” $3 doubles, and Flirty Friday’s two-for-one happy hour from 5:00 to 8:00 PM.

Where: 408 Lewers St.

Hawaii is known for its beaches and surrounding mountains, and no vacation to the islands would be complete without thorough relaxation on the sand or a muddy hike or two. While not all of the beaches, hikes, and adventures listed here are specific to the LGBTQ community, these landmarks are safe spaces for all featuring some of the best views and traditional Hawaii vacation experiences Oahu has to offer.

Hike Koko Head Crater Trail

Photo: itsflowingtothesoul /Shutterstock

The infamous Koko Head Crater, otherwise known as nature’s StairMaster, is an unmissable hike just south of Waikiki. This trail leads straight up retired tracks with rewarding panoramic views of the coastline and mountains from the top. It is recommended to begin hiking later in the day — after the noontime heat — and be sure to take time at the top to enjoy an unforgettable sunset.

Kaimana Beach

Kaimana Beach, known as Kaimanas to the locals, is the go-to beach on the edge of Waikiki next to the Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel . The reef blocks the big waves, creating a calm pool for swimming and wading. There is a lifeguard on duty and showers to rinse off sand before heading to the bar for a cold one.

Where: 2863 Kalakaua Ave.

Photo: Circumnavigation /Shutterstock

One of the most unique and secluded beaches on Oahu, Polo Beach is known as a friendly, welcoming, and popular nude beach perfect for those looking for the no-tan-lines life. It is located off of Farrington Highway across from Dillingham Lodge, next to the Polo Club in Mokuleia. Head down the access path and to the far right for the nudist area. There are no services or amenities in the area, so be sure to pack plenty of water, snacks, and SPF.

Where: Farrington Highway, Mokuleia

Hawaii is no longer known for just resort-studded beaches. In Waikiki, smaller boutique hotels now dot the famous coastline. Bright and minimalist interiors are peaceful while hotel bars and pools allow guests to join the vibrant Honolulu social scene at each of these carefully curated chain and independent hotels.

The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

Photo: The Surfjack /Facebook

Featuring the iconic “Wish You Were Here” pool, the Surfjack Boutique Hotel and Swim Club is a favorite hotel for both visitors and stay-cationers alike. Even if you don’t happen to have a room, come lounge at the weekend pool parties, gay-friendly and welcoming to all.

Where: 412 Lewers St.

The Laylow, Autograph Collection

Mid-century modern meets Hawaiian charm at The Laylow, Autograph Collection, a welcoming and LGBTQ-friendly hotel in the heart of Waikiki. Here all guests receive a gift basket chock-full of local kine snacks and a pair of Laylow’s signature “slippas” upon arrival, a true sign of Hawaiian hospitality. Before heading out on the town, sip flower-adorned craft cocktails at the bar, a place to see and be seen in Waikiki.

Where: 2299 Kuhio Ave.

‘Alohilani Hotel

Photo: Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach /Facebook

Nearly every room of the ‘Alohilani Hotel offers ocean and Diamond Head Views from private lanais. And if you are visiting in October, the fifth-floor pool deck hosts the annual Lei Magazine Pride Pool Party, during which you can join hundreds from the Honolulu LGBTQ community for festivities. Outside of this event, The hotels Swell Pool and Bar has a great cocktail list, saltwater infinity pool, and cabanas for a chill but luxurious lounging experience. And weekly Sunday pool parties are open and welcome to all.

Where: 2490 Kalakaua Ave.

Aqua Skyline at Island Colony

The General Manager and many of the front line staff are LGBTQ members at this ultimate gay hotel, a proud partner of many LGBTQ organizations in Honolulu. For gay travelers, being located walking distance from many of the most popular LGBTQ bars and restaurants means no boredom will ensue. Rooms come complete with kitchenettes for a home-away-from-home feel.

Where: 445 Seaside Ave.

The Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel

A partner of the International LGBTQ Travel Association since 2010, Hilton hotels are known to be welcoming to LGBTQ travelers. This hotel is famous for its panoramic views and quintessential Hawaiian hospitality, warmly greeting travelers of all kinds. Located just one block from the beach and steps from many iconic gay bars in Waikiki, the hotel serves as the perfect launchpad for any big gay vacation. For those who enjoy a late-night snack after a night out, the classic all-day and all-night diner M.A.C 24/7 is all-too conveniently located off of the lobby.

Where: 2500 Kuhio Ave.

Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach

Photo: Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach /Facebook

Home of Gay Island Guide’s monthly Super Slyde Pool Party, the fun never stops at Hyatt Centric. Floor-to-ceiling windows in each room offer views of iconic Waikiki Beach amongst contemporary decor. The lounge pool features private cabanas and a tapas-style eatery for small bites between play. And this LGBTQ-friendly hotel is a proud partner of Honolulu PRIDE Festival.

Where: 349 Seaside Ave.

ARTafterDARK at Honolulu Museum of Art

Photo: Honolulu Museum of Art /Facebook

Organized by a dedicated group of young volunteers, this welcoming, must-attend event falls on the last Friday of each month. Live music, art, craft cocktails, and small plates are inspired by a monthly theme, and each courtyard features a unique experience led by a local band or artist.

When: Last Friday of each month

Aloha Bears Booze Cruise

Every second Sunday of the month, the Aloha Bears host a 1.5-hour-long open bar booze cruise along Waikiki. The cruise is open and welcome to all. The ticket includes lunch and a few more cocktails afterward at Bacchus . Tickets are available for purchase in advance online, and sailors meet at Bacchus before walking over to the boat together.

When: Second Sunday of the month

Hula’s Catamaran

Hula’s World Famous LGBTQ catamaran ride cruises along the waters of Waikiki every Saturday at 2:00 PM. Mai tais and beer are available for purchase onboard. It is recommended that tickets be purchased a couple of weeks in advance and can be obtained online for $25. The group meets outside of Hula’s Bar & Lei Stand .

When: Every Saturday

SuperSlyde Pool Party

Photo: Gay Island Guide /Facebook

Known as “The Best Pool Party in Hawaii,” the monthly Gay Island Guide SuperSlyde Pool Party at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach brings together everyone from all aspects of the community for sun and fun. Top DJs, special guests, and local entertainers keep the party going well into the night.

When: Monthly

The Aloha Classic

This LGBTQ-friendly pick-up-style football tournament brings together seasoned players and newbies alike for a weekend of fun, football, and shenanigans. The festivities begin with an opening party on Thursday, February 13, and end with the Recovery Beach Barbecue in Waikiki on Monday, February 17.

When: February

Honolulu PRIDE

Photo: Honolulu Pride /Facebook

While most cities celebrate PRIDE Month in June, Hawaii opts for October — one of the best months of the year to visit Hawaii when the rush of the summer is over, and the holiday excitement has not yet arrived. This one week in October culminates with a Pride Parade down Waikiki’s Kalakaua Avenue where hundreds of floats from Pride supporters, companies, and organizations let their freak flags fly. The parade ends at the Waikiki Shell for Pride Fest with live music, dancing, vendors, food, and beverages to continue the celebration. PRIDE 2019 was the largest of the festival’s 28-year history with over 30,000 spectators and over 30 cultural, social, and educational events hosted by LGBTQ Legacy Foundation sponsors, partners, and the community.

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Trending now, the former trump hotel waikiki is now a gorgeous luxury hilton property, discover matador, adventure travel, train travel, national parks, beaches and islands, ski and snow.

PLEASE NOTE: We operate RAIN or SHINE. It's officially rainy season, so please plan accordingly!

NA HOKU 2 & NA HOKU 3

Sailing adventures in hawaii, sailing adventures in honolulu, hawaii.

Na Hoku 2 departs from Kewalo Harbor

Sailing Adventures in Waikiki, Hawaii

Na Hoku 3 departs directly from Waikiki Beach

THE BIG YELLOW CATAMARAN ON WAIKIKI BEACH!

• Most Popular!
• Users All ages
• Hour Glass 1 hour

Diamond Head Sail (WAIKIKI)

Explore Diamond Head on this fun-filled sailing adventure! Set sail on the high seas and enjoy complimentary beverages of all kinds, great views of Waikiki, and maybe a splash or two!

• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Sunset Sail (WAIKIKI)

Navigate the seas of joy aboard our Waikiki sunset sail! Our Sunset Sail tour is a fun and wild 90-minute sail where all drinks are complimentary!

SAIL FROM KEWALO BASIN HARBOR

• Hour Glass 90 minutes

South Shore Open Sail (HARBOR)

Embark on a high-seas journey with complimentary drinks, breathtaking Waikiki views, and the possibility of a refreshing splash or two!

Sunset Sail (HARBOR)

Sail into the sunset with this Waikiki adventure cruise! Come enjoy a perfect sea breeze and a Maitai while shaking your hips to great music. Drinks are complimentary!

Friday Night Fireworks (HARBOR)

Enjoy complimentary beers and cocktails while you experience The Hilton’s Friday night fireworks display from a big yellow and red catamaran!

ABOUT NA HOKU 3 & 2 CATAMARANS

NA HOKU 3 is our brand new catamaran located in front of Duke’s Restaurant, departing directly off of the sandy shores of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Oahu.

NA HOKU 2 has retired from the beach and is now located at Kewalo Basin Harbor Slip F23!

Our breezy adventure cruises include complimentary drinks and will take you to the most beautiful spots, where you can marvel at Diamond Head or see an amazing Hawaiian sunset. With seating for up to 49 guests, including a splash action net area, get ready for some fun – you will likely get splashed! Sail beautiful seas while singing along to great music and sipping on our famous cocktails! You can even enjoy a beer from our sponsors, Pacifico and Modelo! Our team is at your service to keep you smiling all day!

Our catamarans are both USCG Certified Vessel.

RATED 4.5 STARS ON TRIPADVISOR!

They have this operation dialed in. It is short but very sweet. The open bar and fun, yet competent, staff makes for good times on the water. The views are great, they have good music going, and it is fun meeting other folks on board. Definitely check it out!

What a wonderful experience! The crew was friendly and fun. The drinks were tasty and plentiful. The sunset was gorgeous and the moonrise was a terrific bonus. I highly recommend!

This was a great experience. This sail is very calm and relaxing and a completely different experience from the trade wind sails, where you expect to get tossed around and get wet. The crew was very friendly and attentive. The sunset was gorgeous, even though it was overcast all day. My wife and I now prefer this sail over the trade winds sails we have done in the past. Great sail!

My friend was visiting me on the island and we both loved this experience! The crew is so refreshing and fun! It was a mix of young and old! It was a great time! Would definitely recommend!

This is the best deal in Waikiki. Was there for a week and went on this cruise three times. ~$30 for one hour sail with open bar. So, you can sit in a hotel bar and nurse one drink or be on the ocean enjoying amazing views, listen to lively music and chug down multiple drinks. No brainer. Shout out to Dustin for the amazing sailing experience.

This was a total blast! The guys running the boat were friendly and entertaining. The sites were phenomenal. The sea life is gorgeous. And the drinks were very good. I booked a second trip, can’t wait to sale again!

ENJOY YOUR TRIP.

Our policies.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Guests will receive a full refund only with a minimum 24-hour notice of cancellation. Full refunds are also issued in case of operator cancellation due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances.

During the slower seasons and typically the morning sails, tour cancellations can occur due to a minimum requirement of 6 booked guests. In these rare situations, guests are always given the option to rebook or refund. If you are concerned about your tour, please call with any questions.

Guests wishing to rebook or reschedule must give 24 hours notice. Contact us by phone directly to cancel or inquire about a cancellation. No-shows and guests canceling within 24 hours of departure will be charged full price .*Groups of 20 or larger are required to give 72-hour notice to cancel or modify bookings.

Gather your sailing buddies and join us for a classic ‘Day Sail’. Our Day Sail is the best way to explore Waikiki paradise. Soak in the sun, sip some Mai Tais and get a feel of the island aboard our Catamaran. 

Share the # Aloha

Vacation sun just shines a little different ☀️ 📷: @eyatheplaya ...

Views from the Kepoikai II 📷: @kumari_arianna ...

You might have fun sailing with us 🤭💙🤙🏾 ...

Ready to hit the waves 🌊 ...

Priceless. 📷: @_janeth06 ...

Grab your bestie and come visit us 📷: @edie_hallworthh ...

Vacation views 📷: @valeriecazz ...

Everyone is welcome on the Kepoikai II! All ages! Fun for the whole Ohana 💙 📷: @kumari_arianna ...

These are the days you will remember ✨ ...

LEGEND Comment your favorite Capt Biggie story! 📷: @ne.foley ...

She’s a beauty ...

Let’s SAIL 🍍 📷: @ carissa.june ...

Tag us on Facebook & Instagram !

Use #SailKepoikai to be featured!

Tag & Like Us!

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TRUSTWORTHY?  OUR CLIENTS BELIEVE SO.

"Great staff. Cruise out to sea, have some drinks, get a nice view of Waikiki, and jump off the Catamaran into the ocean. It was a good day!"

–  Lily K.   Long Beach, CA

"We just went yesterday and had a fabulous time. The deck crew and captain are so fun and friendly. The cruise is just the right length and has just the right amount of excitement for all ages. I couldn't recommend this experience enough!"

–  Jessie M.   Corvallis, OR

"Hands down the best boat in Waikiki! Been on the yellow boats before but none compares to the Kepoikai. Staff are awesome and very friendly. What can go wrong with $30 boat ride for an hour and $2 drinks beer and mai tais. Will be back again."

–  Eli O.   Honolulu, HI

"I love this boat! Jay, Zak and everyone is so great. They always treat me and my friends great. I've taken this ride many times. They are very knowledges about points of interest also."

–  Anne C.   Long Beach, CA

"Great boat with an awesome crew and captain. Cheapest Mai tai's on the island and an overall laid back experience. We did the sunset cruise and had a great time, a must if in Waikiki. BRING A Towel and clothes to get wet."

–  Lauren C.   Ellicott City, MD

"Beautiful! Awesome views, great atmosphere, helpful staff, great price! Capitan Jay is the man. And $2 drinks, you can't go wrong! Watch your head boarding from below at the beach and after that you're home free for an amazing ride!"

–  Steve P.   Waipahu, HI

For an experience of a lifetime!

Don’t miss out on this trip of a lifetime book the early bird rate today with prideone travel and cruises for this extravagant gay group cruise. we will sail the islands of hawaii round trip from majestic honolulu, as we party on norwegian’s spectacular ship, pride of america as a special bonus prior to boarding the pride of america, we will spend a few days in honolulu for an exclusive pre-cruise getaway., the aloha gay group cruise is an independent group sailing on norwegian’s pride of america. you get all the amenities of being on a large cruise plus the personalized services of a small group booking. we have an unforgettable itinerary planned and we look forward to seeing you aboard the pride of america in 2021, about the pride of america.

As the only large US-flagged cruise ship, Pride of America offers extraordinary Hawaiian vacations to four of Hawaii’s most popular islands.   Our Aloha Gay Group Cruise was created to enhance the on-board experience of this one of a kind vessel.

7 Days in Port

With Freestyle Cruising and our unique 7-day Hawaii vacation, you have the privilege of two overnights stays in both Maui and Kauai. As well, you have the option of visits to Oahu and the Big Island of Hawaii. You’ll be immediately drawn into this relaxing atmosphere, as you explore cascading waterfalls, active volcanoes, colorful sand beaches, and historic sites.

Make your reservation, today!

PrideOne Travel and Cruises is a gay owned full service travel agency. We use our years of experience to put togehter memorable travel experiences for all our clientele. Don’t miss out – book your Aloha Gay Group Cruise today!

Choose Your Offer!

• Book a Studio and an Inside Stateroom and choose one free offer.
• Book an Oceanview Stateroom or Balcony and chose two free offers.
• Best of all, cruise in a Suite and enjoy all five free offers.

Copyright 2019 © All rights Reserved. Aloha Gay Cruise, Powered by PrideOne Travel and Cruises

Sunrise Sail

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 hours
• Clock Times: 5:45 a.m.
• Info Info: CHECK IN 30 minutes prior to departure
• User Ages: All ages

Waikiki Sunrise Cruise

Whether it’s the end of your night or you’re starting off your day, come experience the tranquility and beauty of Mamala Bay and the Waikiki Coast as a new day dawns. There’s nothing like watching the sunrise from the best vantage point in the world — the waters of Oahu! As with all of our trips, bring the beverages of your choice to enhance your sailing experience. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime Waikiki experience.

• Chevron down Cancellation Policy

Full refund available with at least 24 hours’ notice of sail departure. Customers will also receive a full refund for any cancellation made by the company due to weather, maintenance, or other unforeseen circumstances. Rescheduling available at no charge up until two hours prior to departure.

Related Sailing Charters

• User All ages
• Hour Glass 1 hour

Friday Fireworks Cruise

Welcome aboard the Mana Kai on our Friday night fireworks cruise. The spectacular night view of Honolulu city with the surrounding Ko’olau mountain range is breathtaking.

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Sunset Sail

We have the most beautiful sunsets in the world, and on this cruise, you have a clear view to enjoy it  from the water on the Mana Kai.

• Clock 11:15 a.m.

Marine Life Sail

Come aboard the Mana Kai catamaran and enjoy the ocean breeze and pristine Hawaiian waters as we search for dolphins, turtles, whales, and many other types of marine life!

• Sells Out Fast!
• User Ages 4+
• Clock 2:30 p.m. , 8:30 a.m.
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Waikiki Turtle Snorkel Adventure

This is the best way to start your day, or spend your afternoon! Come snorkel with us at Turtle Canyon, a green sea turtle cleaning station.

Quick Details

• Clock Schedule: 5:00pm - 6:30pm (Oct - Feb) , 5:30pm - 7:00pm (Mar - Sept)
• Users Ages: All Ages (21+ Only on Fridays)
• Clock Check-in Time: 4:30pm (5:00pm in Mar-Sept.)

Sunset Sail

Sunset catamaran sail from waikiki.

Our most popular trip for the fun-loving crowd, the sunset sail often turns strangers into fast friends in an hour and a half. Sit back, relax and bask in Oahu’s magnificent sunset together. We provide beverages including wine and a variety of domestic and premium local beers, along with non-alcoholic drinks. Ask about our famous holokai cocktail—guaranteed to make you smile.

All drinks are included on this lively cruise! Strangers become fast friends on this one, whether you’re cruising solo or with a crew! We provide juice, soda, bottled water, wine, champagne, and a variety of hard seltzers, domestic and premium local beers from Maui Brewing, as well as our famous “Holokai Hooch” cocktail. So sit back, have a drink, make some new friends and enjoy an amazing sunset!

While all of our activities are family friendly, Friday night Sunset Cruises are reserved for 21+ only.

5:00 PM departure Oct – Feb 5:30 PM departure Mar – Sept

The Holokai departs from the beach for all of our sails, so be sure to bring footwear that you can easily slip on and off! The specific beach for arrival and departure changes depending on the tides to ensure a safe boarding, so keep in mind that the departure spot may change and might not always be right outside the hotel. The walk down to the beach may take from 5 to 10 minutes, a maximum of 0.3 miles down to the boat.

Any guests with mobility issues or are a slower walker will have to let us know after or before you book, so we can make the appropriate accommodations.

For large parties of 9 or more, please call our reservations line to book.

• 1.5 Hour Sail
• All Inclusive Drinks || Open Bar
• Motion Sickness Aid
• Reef Safe Sunscreen
• Validated Parking at Embassy Suites Hotel ($8 for 4 hours)
• Dry Storage

Things to Bring:

• Sunglasses/Eyewear
• Longsleeve (weather dependent)
• ID (21 and over)
• Submit Online Pre-Arrival Waiver

PRE-ARRIVAL WAIVER FORM

All guests boarding the Holokai Catamaran must complete an online waiver form prior to check-in. Guests will not be permitted to board without a signed waiver. All guests 17 years of age and younger must have a waiver completed by a parent or guardian over the age of 18. Guests 17 years of age and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over the age of 18 on all tours.

Related Charters

• Clock 9:00am - 11:30am , 12:00pm - 2:30pm

Turtle Canyon Adventure Sail

This morning sail takes you to Turtle Canyon, where you’ll get to swim around Waikiki’s most pristine coral reefs and get up close to turtles, tropical fish and other stunning marine life.

• Clock 3:00pm - 4:30pm

Tradewind Sail

See Oahu from a different perspective at a great value! We’ll follow the trade winds blowing from the northeast, for a spectacular view from the boat as you pass the Waikiki Natatorium War Memorial and Diamond Head Lighthouse.

WAIKIKI SUNRISE CRUISE

$99 / person

(3 pe rson  minimum)

Start your day exploring the coast of Waikiki 

Enjoy a beautiful early morning and watch the sun rise above Diamond Head Crater and the stunning island of Oahu as we look for amazing wildlife like Hawaiian green sea turtles and spinner dolphins. Many people spend the first few days of their trip waking up before the sun, why not make the best of it!

Waikiki Sunrise Cruise

Begin your day at the same time as the beautiful Hawaiian sun! If you are on vacation, take advantage of how easy it is to wake up early from  jet lag and join us for a sunrise cruise! Watch the light from the sun dance across the water along the Waikiki coastline. This adventure is a 2.5-hour tour that runs from Ala Wai Harbor toward Hawaii Kai and back. Relax as you take in the beauty of Waikiki from the water with your friends or family and create memories that will last forever.

Many guests have been lucky to encounter green sea turtles, Hawaiian monk seals, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, and humpback whales (in the winter). During your charter, you will have the opportunity to snorkel at the famous Turtle Canyon if you would like to! There you can witness green sea turtles having their beautiful shells cleaned by schools of blueline surgeonfish, or relax and swim right in front of Waikiki Beach with a gorgeous white sandy bottom as you enjoy the soft morning light at sunrise. 

$119 per person 2.5 hour tour 6 people max

The tour departs from Ala Wai Harbor. Parking is available for $1/hour in the public lot 

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Snorkeling Gear (mask, fins, and snorkel) 

BE SURE TO BRING

Water / Snacks

Dry Clothing

PRIVATE SUNRISE  CHARTERS AVAILABLE

Contact us to learn more 

Explore the best spots to snorkel in Oahu

Join us for an underwater adventure in search of green sea turtles, Hawaiian spinner dolphins, monk seals, and schools of colorful reef fish while humpback whales (seasonal) can be heard singing underwater.   We aim to give you the best snorkeling experience in Oahu. Our small groups and fantastic locations are perfect for those looking to spend time enjoying Hawaii’s coral reefs. Whether you're a beginner snorkeler or have spent countless hours in the water, we can adjust your trip to fit divers of all experience levels! We look forward to having you aboard and creating memories that will last a lifetime!

"Spending a morning on the ocean with Forrest and his crew was a unforgettable experience.  He offered a private experience at a affordable rate and I could not be more happy to give him the 5 stars he so deserves.  He went above and beyond expectations trying his best to find us turtles and dolphins.  To our surprise, he granted us both along with the most comfortable snorkeling experience I have ever had.  I'm so grateful I live here because this will be my go to call to bring guest out again and again.  Thanks Forrest for making our day magical."

STEPHANIE A. Yelp, July 2022

 WHERE TO FIND US 

Ala Wai Boat Harbor

1 Holomoana St,

Honolulu, Hawaii

We'll meet you at the first dock in the harbor.

 PARKING 

​Public parking is available in this area for $1/hour. Be sure to avoid permit-only parking spots.

Want to capture the Hawaiian Sunrise? We can take high-quality photos and videos of your group in the crystal clear waters of Hawaii so you can share your adventure with everyone.

What to expect on a snorkel trip in Hawaii

WHERE TO GO

We offer snorkeling at both the South and North shores of Oahu. That way you   know there is always a snorkeling option near you. Try one spot and then if you   love it, join us for a new experience on the other side of the island!

Whether you want to explore the ocean outside of Waikiki or dive off the   beautiful North Shore, you will have the chance to swim with sea turtles, reef   fish, and other surprise wildlife!

After booking you will receive a confirmation email with details on exactly where to meet us and what to bring for your adventure.  

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE BOAT & OUR CREW

​Our top priority is to provide our guests with a unique and exclusive experience. We want you to be able to ditch the large crowded boats that take up to 30+ people snorkeling together. Instead, our boat only takes a maximum of six people. That way we can give each person individual attention, leading to a safer and more engaging experience.

Each of our crew members is an experienced waterman/woman and is experienced and knowledgeable about Hawaii’s ocean life. We will be there to answer your questions about the animals, conditions, and snorkeling.

We offer trips on both our 21ft Boston Whaler and our more luxurious 42ft Lagoon Catamaran. Both boats are perfect for enjoying the waters along Oahu’s scenic coast.  

​Once on board, the crew will provide each person with a mask, fins, and snorkel. All you need to bring is a swimsuit and be ready for fun!

If you are wanting to document your adventure, ask us about adding on a photo  or video package for your trip!  

BOAT SAFETY & SNORKEL BRIEFING

​How do you snorkel? Is snorkeling scary for non-swimmers? How long do you need to hold your breath for snorkeling? What will I see when snorkeling in Hawaii? What’s the point of snorkeling? Don’t Worry! Our crew is there to help answer your questions and curb any fears you might have before getting in the water.

The team can also go over more advanced snorkeling techniques for those who have had ample practice snorkeling prior to the trip.

On our way to the snorkel site, the crew will also go over the safety features of the vessel and emergency procedures. We want you to have the safest and most enjoyable time aboard.  

THE BOAT RIDE TO YOUR SNORKELING SITE

​As we drive out to the best snorkeling sites in Oahu you can enjoy the epic views! Oahu is one of the most beautiful islands in Hawaii. The coastline boats have beautiful white sand beaches, luxurious oceanfront hotels, and luscious green mountains.

Join us for snorkeling in Waikiki where you can enjoy views of the Downtown skyline and Diamond Head Crater. Check out our sunset or fireworks cruise here .

Or take a cruise down the quieter side of the island and watch Mt. Ka’ala and the famous Seven Mile Miracle of surf breaks on the North Shore on the way to snorkeling.  

SNORKELING IN HAWAII

​Once we arrive at our site the crew will help you get ready to hop in the water. Our trips are guided snorkel tours. There will be a diver in the water with you to ensure your safety but also point out any interesting wildlife.

Upon entering the water, you will be greeted by fish, turtles, and other underwater creatures. Our crew will explain the best ways to interact with the wildlife we are viewing so that you can have the best snorkel possible.  

WHAT YOU WILL SEE SNORKELING IN HAWAII ​ Of course, we can never guarantee exactly what might swim by on your snorkel but we have chosen the best dive sites on Oahu to give you the highest chances of seeing everything Hawaii has to offer!

​Hawaii hosts an abundance of reef fish species. Many of these are only found in Hawaii and nowhere else in the world!

​Common species we see include:

​Black Triggerfish – all-black fish with an intricate green pattern on the face.

Whitebar Surgeonfish – Shallow reef fish sort of brown in color with a white stripe of bar running vertically just behind the head.

Racoon Butterflyfish – Yellow and Black fish with a black mask across its face.

Bluespine Unicornfish – All blueish, green with a small horn on the front of its head.

Hawaiian Chub – All grey fish are often found swimming at the surface.

State Fish (Humuhumunukunukuapuaha) – A triggerfish often living just above the reef. Mostly orange with a yellow “V” along its back.

​Green Sea Turtles are some of the most exciting animals we might encounter on our snorkels! The turtles are often curious of people and hang out along the reef where they eat seaweed and get their shells cleaned by small reef fish.

While they often spend time along the bottom, every few minutes they have to come up for air where we can get a closer look!

HOW CLOSE CAN I GET?  We always want to give the wildlife their space and view them from a respectful distance. Giving the turtles a few feet of space often lets them feel more comfortable and they will likely spend more time with us. If they come up closer to us, we will stay still and watch them until they are ready to swim away. We never chase or harass wildlife!

DO NOT TOUCH THE TURTLES   Not only is it illegal, but touching the turtles can disturb their behavior and cause them to be fearful of humans in the future.   If you cannot follow the rules we reserve the right to remove you from the water.

To learn more about sea turtles and the best ways to interact with them read our friends blog .

More rare encounters​

​Sometimes we get extra lucky and encounter eels, small sharks, eagle rays, dolphins, or Hawaiian monk seals! These species are never guaranteed but always super exciting if they swim by.

• 866-482-9775 and 808-892-2082

THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in moscow.

• Boat Rentals
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
• River Rafting & Tubing
• Parasailing & Paragliding
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Speed Boats Tours
• Submarine Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• District Northern (SAO)
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Sup Academia

2. Flotilla Radisson Royal

3. Moscow River Boat Tours

4. Sup-Club

5. Akvanavt Diving Centre

6. Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

7. CheapRussia Tours

8. Kite School Kiteclass

9. SUP Center

10. Erwin. Reka

12. Easy Russia Tour Guide

13. Lovely Russia Tours

14. Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre

15. Alfa Centr

16. Diving Club Divers

17. Sup Outdoor

18. MORE MOSCOW

20. Soho Sailing Style

21. Diving Center Crocodile

22. Mosparokhodstvo

23. Dive-Project

25. Kosinskiy Children Marine Club

26. Kayak Moscow

27. DIVECLUB CHE

28. FLOW Moscow

29. Moswake

30. Morskiye Volki

What travelers are saying.

• CheapRussia Tours
• Easy Russia Tour Guide
• Lovely Russia Tours
• MORE MOSCOW
• Insider Moscow Tours
• Flotilla Radisson Royal
• Moscow River Boat Tours
• Capital River Boat Tours - Moscow Centre
• Diving Center Crocus City Oceanarium

Gay Moscow Moscow City Guide

Moscow invariably hits the headlines for all the wrong reasons. And though the Russian capital isn’t particularly LGBTQ-friendly (Vladimir Putin’s annual shirtless photoshoot notwithstanding), we don’t think you should miss out on the most intriguing of Moscow points of interest because of it. Homosexuality is legal, although a vaguely-worded 2013 law prohibits the promotion of ‘non-traditional’ relationships. As such, gay travellers are advised against overt displays of their sexuality. That said, the vast majority of visits remain trouble-free, even for visitors who frequent the city’s less-than-secret gay bar and club scene.

Feel like getting away? Take a trip planned just for you, and let us do all the work. Discover Trip Design

The best hotels in Moscow

The historic exterior of the Hotel Metropol , facing the internationally-celebrated Bolshoi Theatre and close to many of the other main things to do in Moscow, is nothing compared to its sumptuous interiors. Its decor recalls the no-expense-spared philosophy of the grand imperial era that climaxed at the turn of the 1900s. Marble detailing, decorative plasterwork, and a breathtaking stained-glass roof enclosing the vast dining hall is the result. Though the hotel is large – with 365 rooms, there is a different bed for every day of the year – each room is uniquely shaped in the art deco style, ensuring a personal feel. The rooms at the Russo-Balt Hotel are also individually decorated, but in the earlier art nouveau style of swirling floral motifs, blown-glass chandeliers, and richly carved woods. Stand out features include a pillow menu and breakfasts which incorporate produce from the hotel’s private farm.

Rooms at the PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel have a more playful, contemporary look, combining bare brick with sleek pieces of modern furniture, all within the large public spaces of the nineteenth-century edifice. Each features a small fridge and capsule coffee machine. As a self-declared design hotel, rest assured that any stay at Akvarel Hotel will be an elegant one, with every detail considered from the moment you step across the threshold. The chic mid-century design flows effortlessly from the lobby bar and summer terrace to the rooms, each of which has been custom-styled with fanciful furnishings. A little further away, on the Third Ring Road in the Basmanny district, is the three-star Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy . The modern building features quirky in-room works of art and the offer of complimentary coffees at reception. The carpeted interiors give this stay a homely ambience, which marries well with breakfast – which is served in your room.

Photo: Crew

- Gay Moscow - Moscow

Opposite the Bolshoi Theatre in the heart of Moscow, this historical hotel features a pool and gym. It offers free parking, as well as free WiFi throughout the property.

Book on Booking.com

PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel

PR Myasnitsky Boutique Hotel features some rooms with Myasnitskaya Street views. A rich breakfast is served in the Market Place restaurant, located nearby.

Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy

Situated conveniently in the Basmanny district of Moscow, Boutique Hotel Baumanskiy is located 6 km from Olympic Stadium, 7 km from The Kremlin and 7 km from Zaryadye Park.

Russo-Balt Hotel

Housed in an elegant building dating back to 1876 with a private garden, this central Moscow hotel serves an elegant breakfast, prepared from organic products from the private farm.

Akvarel Hotel

Hotel Akvarel is located in the heart of Moscow’s historic centre. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel. Teatralnaya Metro Station is a 7-minute walk away.

Brick Design Hotel

Featuring free WiFi, Brick Design Hotel offers accommodation in the centre of Moscow in the 19th-century historical building. Chistye Prudy Metro Station is 300 m from the hotel.

Villa Kadashi

Villa Kadashi Boutique Hotel is set right in the heart of Moscow, an 11-minute walk from Zaryadye Park. Around 1 km from The Kremlin, the property is also close to Saint Basil’s Cathedral.

Discover more hotels like this in Moscow

View on Booking.com

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Moskva River & Grand Kremlin Palace

Gay rights and the situation in russia.

The UK Foreign Office reports that "Homosexuality is legal in Russia, but there is still intolerance among some sections of the population. Be careful about public displays of affection. In June 2013 a law banning the promotion of ‘non-traditional sexual relations’ entered into force, but the definition and scope of prohibited activity is vague. Foreign nationals convicted under this law could face arrest and detention, fines and deportation. There have been reports that instances of harassment, threats and acts of violence towards the LGBT community have increased following the introduction of the law." (read more here)

The US State Department reports that " Discrimination based on sexual orientation is widespread in Russia. Harassment, threats, and acts of violence targeting LGBT individuals have occurred." ( read more here )

The best advice is for gay travelers to act and dress conservatively at all times. For safety, gay couples should not bring attention to their relationship in public, for example, by holding hands, even in tourist areas, hotels or restaurants.

Be aware that hooking up with guys via dating apps has risks . There have been cases of homophobic people using these apps to lure gay men to meetings at which they are attacked and robbed.  Police are unlikely to offer any assistance.

Having said this,  most tourist visits are trouble-free , and Moscow has a relatively low crime rate. Like all other big cities, it is best to avoid darker, off-the-beaten-track streets or alleys.

Spasskaya Tower, St. Basil Cathedral - Red Square

Understandably, Russia's gay scene is low profile and rather discreet. Gay public displays of affection is not very common, but this cosmopolitan Russian capital city may be gayer than you might think.

Although Moscow doesn't have a dedicated 'Gay District', the city's gay nightlife has become more visible in recent years. Many bars and restaurants host gay nights.  'Gay-popular' bars  and  dance clubs  can be found all around the Kremlin - Central Station MSK being the most notable one. There are several  Saunas  for men with themed parties, drag shows, etc.

In 2006, Moscow launched its first LGBT Pride. This annual event has been regularly banned since then, but the local LGBT community continue their flight for equal rights.

Skyscrapers in Moscow International Business Center

Getting around moscow.

Central Moscow is best explored on foot, but because of the long distances, it's easiest to use the famous Metro system which is comprehensive, has some great architecture and is relatively cheap. Singles start at RUB55 but it is advisable to get a prepaid smart card to save on costs (this applies on all public transport).

Every large street in the city is served by at least one bus route. Most Moscow buses and trolleybuses operate from 5:30am to 1am, although night routes have been introduced recently. Most buses are not on schedule, and the average waiting time can be from 5 minutes to 40 minutes in the evenings.

The taxi service in Moscow has changed dramatically. New technology and service platforms displaced many private drivers. Now you can get a taxi using your smartphone, tablet or computer in 5-15 minutes. It is cheaper and safer now than before. Commercial taxi services are also available.

Most visitors will require a visa to enter Russia. You can find a useful list of visa-exempted countries here . Getting a visa is quite a complex process. It is best to plan your visit including hotel stays well in advance.

After booking your hotel (through any online system), you will need to contact the hotel to obtain an official invitation for your period of stay. You will need to repeat this for every hotel you book, so you have official invitations to cover your entire period of stay. Once you have received your invitations, then apply via a visa service company or  do it online here .

Whilst in Russia, you must carry your passport at all times, not a copy. There is a good chance that any tourist might be stopped by a police officer. If you are unable to produce your passport when requested, then you will incur a fine. It is equally important to keep a copy of your documents in your hotel in case you lose your originals.

It is also a very good idea to keep the contact number for the Moscow Embassy of your country stored in your phone.

Where to Stay in Moscow

Some of the best and most popular hotels in Moscow are located within its central districts. Tverskoy is great for sightseeing, the theatres and gay nightlife.

The latest hotel deals in Moscow are listed on the Gay Moscow Hotels page .

Things to See & Do

Red Square (Krasnaya Ploshchad) - the heart of Moscow and the city’s most famous tourist spot.

The Kremlin (Moskovsky Kreml) - a huge site with The Diamond collection in the Armoury and several amazing churches.

Tverskaya Street - Moscow's most fashionable street, with several prestigious boutiques, restaurants and cafés.

St. Basil's Cathedral - located to the south of Red Square, this cathedral (1555-61) is beautiful inside and out.

Tretyakov Gallery - one of the world's greatest museums.

Kolomenskoye Park - popular weekend destination for locals, containing a large collection of churches and buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries.

State Museum-Reserve Tsaritsyno - a beautiful reserve in the southern part of Moscow, with the largest palatial ensemble in Russia.

Bolshoi Theatre - world-famous theatre with regular shows.

Novodevichy Convent - built in the early 1500’s and has remained nearly intact for centuries, this is one of Moscow’s best-preserved historical complexes.

Don't get involved with drugs in any way. Russia has some of the harshest penalties in the world.

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