Oahu’s Circle Island Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures. Travelers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, from the iconic Diamond Head Lookout to the serene Byodo-In Temple. With included admission and convenient pickup locations, this tour provides a hassle-free way to discover Oahu’s highlights. Whether you’re seeking breathtaking vistas or a deeper understanding of Hawaiian heritage, this experience promises an enriching adventure that may just leave you eager to uncover more.
Key Points
- The Oahu Circle Island Tour is a 7-hour tour that covers major attractions on the island, including the Byodo-In Temple.
- The tour includes a 25-minute stop at the Byodo-In Temple for exploration, with admission fee covered.
- Pickup and drop-off are available at 69 locations across Waikiki, with transportation in an air-conditioned van or bus.
- The tour offers live English commentary and complimentary bottled water, with gratuities for the guide included in the price.
- The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems or wheelchair users, and certain items are prohibited.
Tour Overview
The Oahu Circle Island Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the island’s scenic highlights. Priced from $129, this 7-hour tour provides live English commentary from a professional guide.
Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a "reserve now, pay later" option. The itinerary covers major attractions like Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, Byodo-In Temple, and more, with ample photo stops and shopping opportunities.
Pickup and drop-off are available at 69 locations in Waikiki. The tour includes bottled water, temple admission, and a lunch stop. Guests should wear comfortable clothing and avoid bringing prohibited items like pets and alcohol.
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Itinerary Highlights
Major attractions on the Oahu Circle Island Tour include a photo stop at Diamond Head Lookout for 10 minutes, a drive-by of Hanauma Bay, a 15-minute photo stop at Halona Blowhole, and a 15-minute photo stop at Sandy Beach Park. The tour also visits the Byodo-In Temple for 25 minutes, Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts for 20 minutes of shopping, Kualoa Regional Park for a 10-minute photo stop, and Haleiwa for a 20-minute photo stop and free time. Lunch is included at Kahuku, and the final stop is the Dole Plantation for 30 minutes of free time and shopping.
| Attraction | Duration |
| — | — |
| Diamond Head Lookout | 10 minutes |
| Halona Blowhole | 15 minutes |
| Sandy Beach Park | 15 minutes |
| Byodo-In Temple | 25 minutes |
| Kualoa Regional Park | 10 minutes |
| Haleiwa | 20 minutes |
| Dole Plantation | 30 minutes |
Pickup and Drop-off Information
Pickup and drop-off locations for the Oahu Circle Island Tour span 69 points across Waikiki, including major hotels like the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Sheraton Waikiki, and Moana Surfrider.
The exact pickup time and details are provided 1-2 days before the tour.
Passengers will be:
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Picked up from their designated location
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Transported in an air-conditioned 15 or 25 passenger van/bus
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Dropped off at a location similar to their pickup point
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Informed of their pickup time and details prior to the tour date.
Tour Inclusions
The Oahu Circle Island Tour includes several key amenities to enhance the overall experience.
Travelers will receive complimentary bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the day. The tour is conducted in an air-conditioned van or bus, providing a comfortable journey.
Admission to the Byodo-In Temple is included, allowing guests to explore this iconic landmark. A professional tour guide will provide expert commentary and insights during the tour.
Gratuities for the guide are also covered, ensuring a hassle-free experience. With these thoughtful inclusions, the Oahu Circle Island Tour delivers a seamless and enjoyable day of sightseeing.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Although the Oahu Circle Island Tour is an excellent way to experience the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions, it may not be suitable for all travelers.
The Oahu Circle Island Tour offers a chance to experience Oahu’s natural beauty and culture, but may not suit all travelers.
The tour isn’t recommended for individuals with back problems or wheelchair users.
Recommended items for the tour include:
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Comfortable shoes
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Lightweight, breathable clothing
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Sun protection
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Water
Prohibited items on the tour include pets (except assistance dogs), alcohol, drugs, and alcoholic drinks in the vehicle.
The tour also has a minimum passenger requirement to operate, which will be confirmed 1-2 days prior to the tour date.
Exploring Diamond Head Lookout
As the tour makes its first stop, passengers are treated to a breathtaking view of the iconic Diamond Head Lookout.
Standing atop this volcanic crater, visitors can admire the sweeping panorama of Oahu’s southeast coast. The 10-minute photo stop allows guests to capture the stunning landscape, including the crescent-shaped Honolulu Harbor and the towering silhouette of Diamond Head itself.
With its unique geological formation and strategic military significance, this natural landmark is a must-see attraction on the Oahu Circle Island Tour. Guests can soak in the scenic vistas before continuing their journey around the island.
Discovering Byodo-In Temple
After departing the Diamond Head Lookout, the tour ventures to the Byodo-In Temple, a stunning replica of a 900-year-old Japanese temple nestled at the base of the Ko’olau Mountains.
Visitors are given 25 minutes to explore the serene grounds, which include:
Visitors are allotted a brief 25 minutes to wander the serene grounds, which feature sacred temples, ponds, and tranquil meditation gardens.
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The grand temple structure with intricate architecture and a massive bronze Buddha statue.
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Koi ponds teeming with colorful fish.
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Pagodas and bridges that add to the tranquil ambiance.
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A peaceful meditation garden where guests can find solace.
This stop offers a chance to immerse in Japanese culture and appreciate the natural beauty of Oahu.
Indulging at Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts
The tour then winds its way to Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts, where participants can indulge in the rich flavors of Hawaii’s famous macadamia nuts.
Visitors are given 20 minutes to explore the farm’s retail store, which offers a wide variety of macadamia nut products, from roasted and salted nuts to sweet and savory snacks.
Guests can sample different flavors, learn about the nut’s cultivation, and purchase souvenirs to take home.
This stop provides a delightful break from the sightseeing, allowing travelers to savor a quintessential Hawaiian treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Beverages on the Tour?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and beverages on the tour, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some tours may have restrictions or provide bottled water as part of the package.
What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?
If the tour is cancelled due to weather, customers will receive a full refund. The tour company will contact them as soon as possible to inform them of the cancellation and provide details on the refund process.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for Children on the Tour?
The tour does not have an age limit, but it may not be suitable for young children or wheelchair users. Participants should be able to walk and climb in and out of the van comfortably.
Can I Make Special Requests for Dietary Accommodations?
The tour does not provide dietary accommodations. Guests with special dietary needs should plan to bring their own food. The tour includes a 45-minute lunch stop in Kahuku, but this is not provided by the tour.
Is Photography Allowed at All the Stops on the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed at all stops on the tour, though some locations may have specific rules or restrictions. Travelers should check with the tour guide for guidance on appropriate photo-taking at each attraction.
The Sum Up
The Oahu Circle Island Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With convenient pickups, expert commentary, and inclusions like the iconic Byodo-In Temple, this 7-hour experience provides a comprehensive and memorable way to explore the wonders of Oahu. Whether you’re marveling at the stunning Diamond Head Lookout or indulging in macadamia nuts, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to enjoy the true essence of Hawaii.
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