Sit back and relax as we whisk you away from the city to immerse you in the true essence of Hawaii. Throughout the day, we’ll take you to remarkable island spots like Turtle Beach and the Dole Plantation while also introducing you to some of the island’s most delicious seafood dishes.
This tour offers a glimpse into the rural side of Oahu, where you’ll learn about the unique culture and history and visit some of the island’s most sacred places. Bring your ohana (family) along on this family-friendly adventure. Children (keiki) are welcome, and infants three and under can join for free as lap children.
This adventure promises to be the perfect introduction to the island, offering a chance to get the “lay of the land” and uncover both famous spots and hidden gems. With the help of local tour guides, you’ll experience Oahu in a way that few visitors ever do.
Your journey begins as you leave the bustling city behind, and the landscape transforms into the lush, tropical paradise that is the real Hawaii. The first stop on your tour is Turtle Beach, where you’re introduced to the majestic Hawaiian sea turtle, or Honu. Watching these gentle creatures bask on the shore is a mesmerizing experience, and your guide shares fascinating insights about their behavior and habitat. It’s incredible to think that you’ll be able to come back here on your own later in your vacation, armed with newfound knowledge and appreciation for these amazing animals.
As the tour continues, you visit a variety of iconic locations, each offering its own unique charm. The Dole Plantation, with its vast pineapple fields, invites you to taste the freshest pineapple you’ve ever had. Your guide, a native of the island, peppers the tour with personal stories and local legends, making each stop more meaningful. They also point out lesser-known spots, like secluded beaches and hidden waterfalls, that you might want to revisit on your own.
Throughout the day, you traverse the island’s diverse landscapes, from the rugged North Shore to the serene windward coast. You pause to enjoy a delicious seafood lunch at a quaint seaside restaurant, sampling dishes that showcase the island’s rich culinary heritage. The local flavors and fresh ingredients are a delight, and you jot down notes about where you want to dine again later.
The tour is designed not just to show you the sights, but to immerse you in the island’s culture and history. You visit sacred places, learn about ancient Hawaiian traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the island’s spiritual significance. The guides’ passion for their home is evident in every story they tell, and their warmth and hospitality make you feel like an honored guest rather than a tourist.
As the day draws to a close and you return to Waikiki, you reflect on all that you’ve seen and learned. This tour has given you a comprehensive overview of Oahu, allowing you to plan the rest of your trip with confidence. You now know where to find the best snorkeling spots, where to watch the Honu from the shore, and which beaches to visit for a tranquil escape.
With a heart full of memories and a head full of plans, you step off the tour bus, grateful for the personalized experience and eager to explore more of this incredible island on your own. The Ultimate Circle Island Tour has set the stage for an unforgettable Hawaiian adventure, leaving you with a deeper connection to the land, the sea, and the spirit of Aloha.
1. Stop At: Diamond Head State Monument
- Description: A visit to Diamond Head Lookout will be part of the tour, as well as a stroll through the famous East Honolulu neighborhood. A breathtaking sunrise view over Maunalua Bay will greet us in the morning.
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
2. Stop At: Halona Blowhole
- Description: Explore Halona Blowhole’s natural beauty and take “postcard-worthy” photos to show off to your friends.
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
3. Pass By: Sandy Beach Park
- Description: Experience the beautiful Kaiwi Shoreline with spectacular views of Kalama Valley, Koko Crater, and the locals’ highly regarded Sandy Beach Park. Whenever big waves come along, marvel at surfers and bodyboarders getting pounded by the massive, monstrous waves.
4. Stop At: Makapu’u Lookout
- Description: Stunning images of Rabbit Island’s crater and cliffs will leave all your friends speechless! Experience firsthand why so many movies were filmed here in Oahu.
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
5. Stop At: Waimanalo Town
- Description: Take a ride along Oahu’s windward coast, from Waimanalo onward to Kualoa. During your air-conditioned shuttle tour, you’ll learn about Hawaii’s history and see waterfalls, sharp cliffs, and rainforests. We will stop here for gifts and a restroom break.
- Time Duration: 30 minutes
6. Stop At: Chinaman’s Hat
- Description: Take a trip to Kualoa Regional Park and see one of Oahu’s most iconic landmarks, “Chinaman’s Hat.”
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
7. Stop At: Laie Temple
- Description: Visit the Laie Hawaii Temple, a temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located on the northeast shore of Oahu.
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
8. Stop At: Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp
- Description: On the North Shore, there are numerous Shrimp Shacks and fruit stands where we stop for lunch. You will find more than shrimp on the menu, and guests can always bring their own lunch.
- Time Duration: 1 hour
9. Stop At: Local Fruit Stand
- Description: Visit one of North Shore’s local fruit stands. Enjoy some healthy, delicious fruits, snacks, and beverages.
- Time Duration: 20 minutes
10. Pass By: Waimea Bay
- Description: Waimea is famous for its 30-foot waves in the winter and is a top place to watch some of the world’s best and bravest surfers.
11. Pass By: Banzai Pipeline
- Description: One of the most famous beaches on the North Shore, known for its barreling waves and swells.
12. Stop At: Macadamia Nut Farm
- Description: The North Shore Macadamia Nut Farm is a must-see stop for visitors to Oahu if you want some free coffee samples, mac nuts, and a look at local landmarks.
- Time Duration: 30 minutes
13. Stop At: Turtle Beach
- Description: We go to the best snorkeling beach on the North Shore for spotting Green Hawaiian Sea Turtles and tropical fish. You can swim or enjoy the beach for a whole hour!
- Time Duration: 1 hour
14. Pass By: Haleiwa Town Center
- Description: Visit vintage farms and the surfer town of Haleiwa as you learn about Hawaii’s surf culture and big wave competition.
15. Stop At: Dole Plantation
- Description: Hawaiian pineapples are famous for their juicy sweetness. Fresh pineapple juice and Dole Whip ice cream are among the best-known Hawaiian treats. The world’s largest pineapple maze is here, and you can find gifts for your loved ones!
- Time Duration: 45 minutes
16. Stop At: Green World Coffee Farm
- Description: The Green World Coffee Farm on Oahu was established in 2013. The farm consists of a grove of over 3,000 Arabica coffee trees. They roast the coffee beans daily and provide samples of coffee and tea to sip while perusing the storefront.
- Time Duration: 30 minutes