Exploring Oahu’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage has never been easier than with the Circle Island Day Trip. This immersive tour showcases the island’s iconic landmarks, from the breathtaking Makapuu Lookout to the captivating Halona Blowhole. Indulge in a mouthwatering shrimp plate lunch that celebrates local flavors, then discover the charming Leonard’s Malasadas bakery. With a mix of must-see sights and unique experiences, this daylong adventure promises an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Hawaii.
This experience made our article of Top 10 Lunch Experiences In Oahu.
Key Points
- The Oahu Circle Island Day Trip includes a visit to a local Hawaiian cafe for a traditional shrimp plate lunch.
- The tour highlights iconic landmarks, wildlife encounters, and opportunities to sample local Hawaiian specialties like macadamia nuts and malasadas.
- Guests have the chance to explore Oahu’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and enjoy the Hawaiian spirit.
- The 8-hour tour departs from Waikiki and includes stops for souvenir shopping and bakery visits.
- Cancellation policy offers a full refund for bookings canceled up to 24 hours in advance.
Tour Overview
This Oahu Circle Island Day Trip is a comprehensive tour that takes visitors on an 8-hour journey around the island.
Priced from $118 per person, the tour is available in English and Japanese. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour requires a minimum of 4 guests, or it may be rescheduled or refunded.
Highlights include visiting iconic landmarks, encountering Hawaiian sea turtles, and sampling local specialties like macadamia nuts, Kona coffee, garlic shrimp, and malasadas.
The tour provides an immersive cultural experience with stories connecting to Hawaiian spirit.
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Experience Highlights
The Oahu Circle Island Day Trip offers visitors a chance to explore iconic landmarks and enjoy Hawaiian culture.
This tour includes close encounters with Hawaiian sea turtles at Puaena Point and opportunities to sample local specialties like macadamia nuts, Kona coffee, garlic shrimp, and malasadas.
Throughout the journey, cultural stories connect guests to the Hawaiian spirit.
From the dramatic Makapu’u Lookout to the serene Kualoa Beach Park, this comprehensive tour showcases the island’s natural beauty and rich heritage, providing an authentic taste of Oahu’s wonders.
Itinerary Details
The Oahu Circle Island Day Trip begins with pickup from designated Waikiki locations. The itinerary includes several stops along the way:
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Treasures and You: Guests can browse for souvenirs.
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Leonard’s Malasadas: Visitors get to sample the famous Hawaiian bakery.
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Halona Blowhole Lookout: Guests can witness the ocean’s natural display and snap photos.
Next, the tour heads to Makapuu Lookout for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and lighthouse.
Lunch is served at Hawaiian Island Cafe, featuring Kalua Pork, Haupia, and Poi (except on Sundays and Mondays).
The day continues with visits to a macadamia nuts farm, Kualoa Regional Park, and Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp for the iconic garlic shrimp.
Treasures and You: Souvenir Browsing
As the tour departs Waikiki, the first stop on the itinerary is Treasures and You, a shop where guests can browse an array of Hawaiian souvenirs.
From vibrant aloha shirts to intricate wood carvings, the selection caters to all tastes and budgets. Guests can peruse handcrafted items, such as colorful leis, ukuleles, and shell jewelry.
The knowledgeable staff is on hand to provide recommendations and assist with purchases. This stop offers a chance to immerse in local culture and pick up memorable keepsakes before continuing the circle island adventure.
More Great Tours NearbyLeonards Malasadas: Famous Hawaiian Bakery
After visiting the souvenir shop, guests make their way to the renowned Leonard’s Malasadas, a beloved Hawaiian bakery.
This iconic institution is famous for its freshly fried, sugar-coated pastries. Guests can choose from a variety of flavors, including:
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Traditional – a classic Portuguese-style donut
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Cinnamon sugar – coated in cinnamon and sugar
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Haupia – filled with creamy coconut custard
Savoring these warm, fluffy malasadas is a quintessential Hawaii experience.
Guests leave with a satisfying taste of local culture and a smile on their face.
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Halona Blowhole Lookout: Ocean Display and Photo Opportunities
From the Leonard’s Malasadas stop, the tour continues to the famous Halona Blowhole Lookout.
This stunning vantage point offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and a chance to witness the dramatic natural phenomenon of the blowhole. Visitors can watch as waves crash against the rocks, resulting in powerful plumes of water shooting skyward.
It’s an ideal spot for taking photographs and capturing the raw beauty of Oahu’s coastline. The Halona Blowhole Lookout is a must-see during the Circle Island tour, providing an up-close encounter with Hawaii’s natural wonders.
Makapuu Lookout: Views of Pacific Ocean and Lighthouse
The tour then proceeds to the stunning Makapu’u Lookout, which commands sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Makapu’u Lighthouse.
The stunning Makapu’u Lookout commands sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic Makapu’u Lighthouse.
Visitors can take in three key highlights at this scenic overlook:
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Panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the lighthouse perched atop the rocky cliffs.
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Opportunities to spot whales and other marine life in the waters below (during the whale watching season).
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Easy access to the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, a popular hiking route offering stunning ocean panoramas.
This stop allows guests to enjoy Oahu’s natural splendor.
Puaena Point: View Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles
At Puaena Point, visitors can witness the remarkable sight of Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat.
These gentle creatures bask on the shore, occasionally dipping into the calm waters. Guests have the opportunity to observe the turtles’ behavior and snap photographs from a safe distance.
The tranquil setting allows for a peaceful encounter with these endangered species. Travelers should exercise caution and follow any instructions from the guide to avoid disturbing the turtles.
This stop offers a chance to appreciate the beauty of Hawaii’s marine life in an authentic, sustainable manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Request a Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch Option?
Yes, visitors can request vegetarian or gluten-free lunch options for the Oahu Circle Island Day Trip. The tour provider should be contacted in advance to accommodate any dietary requirements.
Is There an Option to Join the Tour Midway or Leave Early?
The tour does not offer the option to join midway or leave early. Participants must commit to the full 8-hour itinerary. Any changes to the schedule would need to be coordinated directly with the tour provider prior to the event.
How Are the Tour Pickup and Drop-Off Locations Determined?
The tour provider offers designated pickup locations in Waikiki. Customers must contact the supplier to confirm their specific pickup time and location. At the end of the tour, guests are dropped off at their original pickup points.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t include any additional fees or taxes. Customers are responsible for any personal expenses like souvenirs or extra food purchases during the stops along the tour.
What Is the Policy for Guests With Mobility or Accessibility Needs?
The tour operator accommodates guests with mobility or accessibility needs. Guests should contact the provider in advance to discuss their requirements and make any necessary arrangements. Additional assistance or equipment may be available upon request.
The Sum Up
The Circle Island Day Trip on Oahu offers an immersive exploration of the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From savoring local cuisine to witnessing Hawaiian sea turtles, this experience provides a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant island. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas or a deeper connection with Hawaiian traditions, this tour is a must-do for visitors to Oahu.
📍 This experience made our list of the 10 best Lunch Experiences in Oahu
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