Afternoon at McGarret – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour

If you’re a fan of Hawaii Five-0 or simply love seeing the most memorable spots of Oahu’s filming scene, this tour promises an engaging way to combine scenery, insider stories, and authentic TV history. From visiting the famous McGarrett’s House to snapping photos at Diamond Head, the experience is designed to bring the island’s Hollywood fame directly to you.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who mix humor and insights effortlessly. Second, the chance to visit actual filming locations that bring the TV series to life. Lastly, the personal touch of meeting Cousin Flippa — a genuine highlight for fans.

A potential drawback might be the price point—some travelers feel it’s a bit steep for what’s included, especially if they’re not die-hard fans. However, for those craving a behind-the-scenes experience paired with scenic views, this tour hits the right note.

This experience suits Hawaii Five-0 enthusiasts, TV show fans, or anyone interested in a relaxed, insightful day exploring Honolulu’s iconic spots with a friendly guide.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations give fans a real sense of the Hawaii Five-0 series.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with stories, facts, and humor.
• The tour includes a visit to Diamond Head with an admission ticket.
• Meet-and-greets with cast members like Shawn Mokuahi Garnett add a personalized touch.
• Comfortable transportation and hotel pickup make the journey smooth.
• The lunch at McGarrett’s House allows a relaxed meal in a scenic setting.

An Inside Look at the Tour Experience

How the Tour Unfolds

The tour kicks off with a convenient hotel pickup in Honolulu, making it easy to start the adventure without fuss. Traveling in a comfortable van that hosts a maximum of 10 guests, the small group size ensures personalized attention and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

The first stop is the Diamond Head State Monument, a stunning lookout point that’s iconic on Oahu. Here, you’ll get a brief but scenic 15-minute visit to absorb breathtaking views, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the landscape that frames the city.

Following this, the tour heads to the Hawaii Film and Sound stage, where you get a glimpse behind the scenes of Hawaii Five-0 and other productions filmed here. The guide shares fun facts and anecdotes, making the experience more immersive.

Visiting McGarrett’s House

One of the main highlights is the visit to McGarrett’s House estate. Reviewers consistently praise this part — many describe sitting on the famed back porch, “just to be in the house from Hawaii Five-0,” as truly surreal.

You’re welcomed by the owner and, on certain days, even have the chance to meet Shawn Mokuahi Garnett, who plays Cousin Flippa. Many reviewers mention how friendly and engaging Shawn is, taking the time to chat, answer questions, and pose for photos, which makes the experience extra special for fans.

The interior and backyard views are particularly noteworthy. One reviewer highlights the “leisurely and well-spent” time at the house, emphasizing the relaxed atmosphere and scenic vistas where many scenes are filmed.

Lunch and Meet-and-Greet

A unique aspect of the tour is the lunch served at McGarrett’s House. The menu offers choices like The Beefy McGarrett, McGarrett Chicken, or Veggie McGarrett sandwiches, along with chips and drinks. Reviewers describe the lunch as “very tasty” and “fresh,” providing a nice break mid-tour.

If you’re lucky, you’ll get to dine while chatting with Shawn, who adds humor and behind-the-scenes insights. For those not interested in the food, a snack option is also available, making sure no one leaves hungry.

Broader Filming Locations

Beyond McGarrett’s estate, the guide points out other filming sites around Honolulu, adding context about how these locations are used in different episodes. Several reviewers appreciated the storytelling and additional facts shared during the drive, which further enriched their understanding of the show’s connection to real Oahu.

The Small Group Advantage

With just up to 10 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate vibe, allowing everyone to ask questions and enjoy personalized interaction. Reviewers frequently mention how friendly guides like Shawn and Eric enhance the day, sharing stories and humor.

Transportation & Accessibility

The seamless pickup and drop-off service make it convenient, especially if you’re staying in busy Honolulu hotels. The van is described as comfortable, with bottled water, soda, and snacks provided, making the four-hour experience pleasant and relaxed.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $239 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest activity in Honolulu, but the value lies in its authenticity and personalized touches. Many reviewers consider it a “must-do” for fans and highlight the unique opportunity to see inside McGarrett’s house and meet cast members.

Some note the tour’s novelty as a recent addition, with a few suggesting it could be more polished or include more scenes from the show. Others feel that the special cast interactions and scenic stops justify the cost, especially when paired with the storytelling and insider perspective.

Practical Considerations

• Booking in advance is recommended — most book around 86 days ahead.
• The tour runs rain or shine, with a full refund if canceled due to bad weather.
• The small group size (max 10) ensures a more personal experience but may limit availability during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This Hawaii Five-0-themed tour offers a delightful mix of sightseeing, showbiz history, and personalized engagement. If you’re a dedicated fan, the chance to step inside McGarrett’s house, meet Cousin Flippa, and visit filming sites is priceless. The guides’ stories and friendly attitude turn what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

For those interested in Hawaiian scenery, the stops at Diamond Head and the scenic drives add to the appeal. However, if your main goal is pure adventure or extensive filming site exploration, you might find the focus a little narrow. Still, the small group size, attentive guides, and unique access make it a worthwhile choice.

It’s particularly suited for TV series lovers, photo enthusiasts, or those who want a relaxing, engaging day with insider stories. The tour balances entertainment with sightseeing, and the added bonus of lunch and casual meet-and-greet makes it a well-rounded outing.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers seamless hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately four hours, giving ample time to visit multiple locations without feeling rushed.

Can I meet cast members?
Yes, depending on the day, you might meet Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa) during the visit to McGarrett’s House, and some reviews mention friendly interactions.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging atmosphere.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a lunch option is available at McGarrett’s House, with sandwich choices like Beefy McGarrett, McGarrett Chicken, or Veggie McGarrett. Snacks and drinks are also provided.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photos, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The tour is mostly outdoors, so be prepared for different weather conditions.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but the main focus is on filming locations and TV series stories, which might appeal more to adult fans of Hawaii Five-0.

To sum it up, the Afternoon at McGarrett – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour offers a rich, personalized experience that combines scenic views, behind-the-scenes access, and a touch of TV history. It’s a perfect pick for fans wanting to live a bit of TV magic and explore Honolulu’s iconic spots with passionate guides.