Woman-Owned Snorkeling & Wildlife Tours on Oʻahu

Experience Hawaiʻi’s Wild Coast with a Female-Owned, Marine Biologist-Led Companywomen-owned business marine biologist ecotourism

Wild Side Specialty Tours is a locally owned, woman-owned small business based on Oʻahu’s west coast. Founded by marine biologist and captain Victoria (Tori) Davis, Wild Side was built on the belief that the ocean is more than a backdrop for recreation—it is a living ecosystem worthy of curiosity, respect, and protection.

For more than two decades, we have shared Hawaiʻi’s extraordinary marine wildlife through small-group ocean safaris, guided snorkeling adventures, and educational wildlife encounters designed to foster genuine connection with the natural world.

Meet Founder & Marine Biologist Capt. Tori Davis

For Capt. Tori, the ocean has never simply been a workplace. Tori (Cullins) Davis

As a marine biologist, captain, researcher, and educator, she has spent decades studying and documenting Hawaiʻi’s marine wildlife. Her work has contributed to long-term research efforts involving dolphins, whales, seabirds, monk seals, marine debris, and other wildlife found along Oʻahu’s west coast.

Wild Side grew from a desire to share these encounters in a way that benefits both guests and the animals that call these waters home.

Today, that same philosophy guides every safari.

Why Representation Matters on the Water

For generations, maritime careers—from commercial fishing and vessel operations to marine research and captaincy—have been fields where women have often been underrepresented. While that is changing, seeing women at the helm still isn’t something many people expect.

For some guests, choosing a woman-owned business is simply a way to support local entrepreneurship. For others—especially young women and girls interested in science, conservation, or maritime careers—it can be powerful to see firsthand that these paths are possible.

At Wild Side, we believe diverse perspectives strengthen conservation, education, and the connections people form with the natural world. Every day on the water is an opportunity not only to discover Hawaiʻi’s remarkable wildlife, but also to inspire the next generation of ocean advocates, scientists, and explorers.

What Makes Wild Side Different?

Small Groups

Our shared tours are intentionally limited in size, allowing for a more personal experience and greater flexibility on the water.

Marine Biologist & Naturalist Guides Kimberly Jeffries, Kim Jeffries, NatGeo

Our crew includes marine biologists, naturalists, photographers, and wildlife professionals who help guests understand what they are seeing—not just see it.

Ethical Wildlife Encounters

We follow wildlife viewing regulations and prioritize the wellbeing of the animals we encounter.

Citizen Science & Research

Wild Side contributes wildlife observations and photo-identification data to ongoing research efforts, helping expand understanding of Hawaiʻi’s marine ecosystems.

Wildlife Beyond the Typical Tour

Depending on conditions and season, guests may encounter dolphins, sea turtles, pilot whales, false killer whales, sperm whales, manta rays, seabirds, and other remarkable wildlife.

Our Most Popular Ocean Safaris

  • Best of the West (3 Hours)

    A shorter, well-paced safari ideal for families and first-time guests.

  • Wildlife in Depth (6 Hours)

    An extended safari offering more time and range for deeper exploration offshore.

  • West Oʻahu Sunset Wildlife Safari (3 Hours)

    A day-to-dusk safari blending wildlife encounters, golden-hour light, and the changing rhythms of the ocean.

Ready to Experience Hawaiʻi’s Wild Side?

Join a small-group ocean safari led by marine biologists and naturalists on Oʻahu’s spectacular west coast.

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