Waikiki Friday Night Fireworks Cruises: How to Choose
Every Friday night, a short fireworks show lights up the sky over the western end of Waikiki Beach. You can watch from the sand for free, but the best seat in the house is on the water, with Diamond Head and the city lights behind the bursts and nothing blocking your view.
When and where are the Friday night fireworks?
The fireworks are launched from a barge just offshore of Hilton Hawaiian Village. The show usually starts around 7:45 PM, shifting to about 8:00 PM in summer, and lasts roughly 10 minutes. Shows are rarely cancelled, though heavy rain or strong wind can stop them, and the schedule occasionally changes, so check the week you travel.
Most fireworks cruises time their departure so you enjoy sunset first, then position offshore for the show.
Types of fireworks cruises
Sailing catamarans
Relaxed, breezy and close to the water, often with drinks on board. Great for couples and small groups. Options include Waikiki Sailing Tours, Pink Sails Waikiki, Hawaii Nautical from Kewalo Basin and the 1,000-square-foot trimaran on the Three Tiki Sailing cruise.
Dinner cruises
If you’d like a full evening out, the Star of Honolulu combines sunset dining with the fireworks. Choose the Pacific Star buffet dinner, the 3 Star dinner cruise or the upscale 5 Star dining & jazz cruise.
Cocktail and party cruises
For a social night out, the Majestic cocktail cruise features a full-service bar and lounge, while the E-Sea Diver, Iruka Island Princess and Go Hawaii Watersports cruises are fun, budget-friendly options.
How to choose
- Couples: a sailing catamaran or the 5 Star dinner cruise
- Families: a larger, stable boat such as the Star of Honolulu or a catamaran with a shaded deck
- Groups of friends: a cocktail or party cruise
- On a budget: a two-hour fireworks cruise without dinner
Holiday fireworks cruises
Waikiki also hosts special shows on holidays. Look for the 4th of July fireworks cruise and the New Year’s Eve fireworks cruise, which sell out early.
Tips for your fireworks cruise
- Book a Friday early in your trip so you have a backup if weather intervenes.
- Bring a light jacket; it gets breezy on the water after dark.
- Take motion-sickness medication beforehand if you are prone to it.
- Turn off your flash and use video or burst mode for fireworks photos.
- Arrive at the harbor early; parking near Kewalo Basin and Ala Wai can be tight on Friday evenings.
Browse all Friday night fireworks cruises at discounted prices, or call (808) 856-3500 for help choosing.
