The best snorkel tours in Oahu

Oahu's best snorkel is on the west side, not Waikiki. Wild Side Specialty Tours runs out of Waianae with small groups (six to eight people, max) led by marine biologists. National Geographic and Condé Nast Traveler both recommend them. Dolphins are routine, turtles are common, and humpback whales pass through in winter. If you're staying at Ko Olina, the Ko Olina Ocean Adventures catamaran is the only sail physically based at the marina, so you can walk straight from Aulani or the Four Seasons to the dock without renting a car.