Oahu: Circle Island Tour With Lunch & Waimea Waterfall

Oahu’s natural beauty beckons visitors to explore its enchanting landscapes. The Circle Island Tour offers a chance to witness the island’s stunning diversity, from the iconic Diamond Head Crater to the lush Waimea Valley. Indulge in a delightful lunch and marvel at the captivating Waimea Waterfall, all while enjoying the island’s rich cultural heritage. This adventure promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover Oahu’s most breathtaking wonders.

This experience made our article of Top 10 Lunch Experiences In Oahu.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Oahu tour covering iconic natural wonders like waterfalls, tropical gardens, and panoramic viewpoints.
Exploration of Waimea Valley’s diverse flora, including over 5,000 species of plants and vibrant flowers.
Visits to renowned sites like Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, and Pali Lookout for stunning vistas.
Opportunity to learn about Oahu’s unique cultural heritage at the Valley of the Temples and Byodo-in Temple.
Inclusion of a variety of local cuisine options, including sautéed shrimp, Chicken Katsu, and Veggie Chow Mein, with pickup and drop-off services.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Oahu’s Natural Wonders

While exploring Oahu’s stunning natural landscapes, the tour takes visitors to some of the island’s most breathtaking waterfalls and tropical gardens.

At Waimea Valley, guests can marvel at over 5,000 species of tropical flowers and plants. The tour also visits the iconic Halona Blowhole, where powerful waves create dramatic displays of water shooting into the air.

At the Pali Lookout, guests can enjoy panoramic views of the island’s lush, mountainous terrain. Throughout the journey, the tour provides opportunities to take in Oahu’s natural beauty and learn about its unique ecosystem.

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Discovering Waimea Valley’s Floral Diversity

As visitors explore Waimea Valley, they’ll be struck by the sheer diversity of tropical flora on display.

With over 5,000 species of plants, this lush, green oasis boasts an impressive array of vibrant flowers, towering trees, and unique botanical specimens. From delicate orchids and heliconia to giant ferns and towering palms, the valley offers a captivating glimpse into Hawaii’s rich natural heritage.

Guests can stroll along the tranquil trails, marvel at the Waimea Waterfall, and enjoy the valley’s serene beauty, gaining a deeper appreciation for Oahu’s remarkable biodiversity.

Iconic Sites and Scenic Vistas

The Oahu Circle Island Tour takes visitors to a variety of iconic sites and scenic vistas that showcase the island’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

The tour includes stops at:

The tour includes stops at Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, and Pali Lookout, showcasing Oahu’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Diamond Head Crater, an ancient volcanic cone with panoramic views
Halona Blowhole, a dramatic natural wonder where ocean waves spout through lava rock
Sandy Beach, known for its powerful shorebreak and stunning coastline
Pali Lookout, offering breathtaking vistas of verdant valleys and the sparkling Pacific Ocean.

These landmarks provide a memorable glimpse into Oahu’s diverse landscapes and leave lasting impressions on visitors.

The Valley of the Temples and Byodo-in Temple

On the tour, visitors explore the Valley of the Temples, a peaceful area known for its Byodo-in Temple.

This 19th-century Buddhist temple, a replica of an 11th-century temple in Japan, stands as a serene sanctuary amidst the valley’s lush greenery. Visitors can wander through the temple’s tranquil gardens, ring the large brass Peace Bell, and marvel at the impressive 18-foot Buddha statue.

The tour also includes a visit to the nearby Oahu Cemetery and Memorial Park, where Japanese, Chinese, and Hawaiian influences blend in a unique cultural landscape.

This stop offers a chance to learn about the island’s diverse heritage.

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Chinaman’s Hat and Sunset Beach

After exploring the tranquil Valley of the Temples, the Oahu Circle Island Tour continues to two iconic coastal destinations – Chinaman’s Hat and Sunset Beach.

The tour visits the picturesque Chinaman’s Hat, a tiny islet off Kualoa Regional Park’s coast, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.

Next, the group ventures to Sunset Beach, one of the world’s premier surfing destinations, known for its massive waves during the winter months.

Here, visitors can:

Snap photos of the iconic Chinaman’s Hat
Watch surfers ride the powerful North Shore waves
Stroll along the pristine white sand beach
Admire the stunning natural scenery

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The Historic Dole Plantation

Next, the Oahu Circle Island Tour takes visitors to the historic Dole Pineapple Plantation.

Here, guests can explore the heritage of Hawaii’s pineapple industry. They’ll learn about the plantation’s history and see the world’s largest maze, shaped like a pineapple. Visitors can ride the Pineapple Express train and sample fresh pineapple.

The Plantation’s gardens showcase over 60 varieties of pineapple.

After the plantation, the tour continues to other iconic sites, including the Byodo-In Temple and the Pali Lookout, offering stunning views of Oahu’s lush landscapes.

The Dole Plantation provides a unique glimpse into Hawaii’s agricultural past.

Culinary Delights: Shrimp, Chicken, and Veggie Chow Mein

The Oahu Circle Island Tour offers a delightful culinary experience, with a choice of nine different sautéed shrimp plates, including the beloved garlic shrimp.

Alternatives are available, such as Chicken Katsu and Veggie Chow Mein, catering to various dietary preferences. The lunch also includes fresh lemon and steaming rice, complementing the main dishes.

Plus, the tour stops at local shrimp trucks, providing more food options for the hungry traveler. This diverse culinary offering ensures that every palate is satisfied, enhancing the overall enjoyment of the Oahu adventure.

Transportation and Accessibility

The Oahu Circle Island Tour provides pickup and drop-off services from Waikiki, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. However, the tour may not be suitable for all travelers. Here’s a breakdown of the transportation and accessibility details:

| Accessibility | Yes | No |

| — | — | — |

| Children under 3 | | ✓ |

| Mobility impairments | | ✓ |

| Wheelchair users | | ✓ |

| Large bags allowed | | ✓ |

| Suitable clothing/shoes recommended | ✓ | |

Participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as the tour involves some walking. Large bags are not allowed, so travelers should pack light.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Those With Dietary Restrictions?

The tour offers some dietary alternatives like chicken katsu and veggie chow mein, but those with specific dietary restrictions may need to contact the tour provider to discuss accommodation options prior to booking.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

No, bringing your own food and drinks is generally not permitted on the tour. The tour provides a lunch option, and there are additional food stops at local shrimp trucks during the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers Available for the Tour?

The website doesn’t mention any discounts or special offers available for this tour. However, they do offer a reserve now and pay later option, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How Long Does the Bus Ride Take Between Each Stop?

The duration between each stop on the tour varies, as the itinerary covers multiple destinations across the island. Though the total tour lasts 10 hours, the actual time spent traveling by bus between locations is not specified.

Is There a Possibility to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

There’s no option to customize the tour itinerary. The tour follows a set schedule and route designed to showcase Oahu’s top sights and experiences. Customers can’t modify the order or locations visited during the 10-hour tour.

The Sum Up

The Circle Island Tour on Oahu offers a fantastic opportunity to take in the island’s natural beauty. From the lush Waimea Valley to iconic sights like Diamond Head, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Oahu’s most stunning landscapes. With a delightful lunch and the chance to witness the Waimea Waterfall, it’s a well-rounded adventure perfect for travelers of all ages.