Tour of North Shore & Waimea Waterfall

Exploring Oahu becomes effortless with the Tour of North Shore & Waimea Waterfall. Priced at $154 per person, this 8-hour full-day experience offers a smooth ride through the island’s most iconic spots in a comfortable mini-bus. With pickup and drop-off included at Waikiki hotels, it’s an ideal choice for visitors seeking a comprehensive yet relaxed view of the North Shore and eastern coast. The tour is especially popular, with bookings exceeding five times last week and a perfect 5.0-star rating based on 3,668 reviews. Notably, 98% of participants recommend this tour, citing the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops as major highlights.

While it covers a wide range of sites, the tour balances 70% activities and 30% sightseeing, making it suitable for those who want both a visual overview and engaging experiences. The tour’s popularity stems from its ability to save time and transportation hassle while delivering a well-rounded glimpse of Oahu’s natural beauty and cultural spots.

Key Points

• Full-day tour covering North Shore, Waimea Waterfall, and key scenic stops
• Transportation included with hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki
• Price of $154 per person offers good value for an 8-hour guided experience
• Expert guides provide entertaining and informative narration
• Stops include Hanauma Bay, Banzai Pipeline, Waimea Bay, and Waimea Botanical Gardens
• Waterfall hike or swimming at Waimea Bay included as part of the experience

Tour Starts with Scenic Views at Diamond Head State Monument

The tour begins with a 15-minute stop at Diamond Head State Monument, offering a panoramic view from the eastern slopes of Diamond Head Volcano. This elevated vantage point provides an excellent photo opportunity of Waikiki and the surrounding coast. The stop is brief but memorable, setting the tone for a day filled with iconic Oahu sights.

Driving Along the Eastern Coast to Hanauma Bay and Halona Blowhole

Next, the tour passes by Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, recognized globally as a top snorkeling spot, though there’s no stop here. Travelers enjoy a quick glimpse of the bay’s stunning natural beauty. The guide shares insights about the protected marine area, though visitors won’t swim during this tour.

The route then takes you to the Halona Blowhole, a volcanic formation where ocean water shoots through lava tubes. This 20-minute stop offers dramatic views and a chance to photograph the powerful water eruptions. The natural curiosity is a highlight, showcasing Oahu’s volcanic past.

Exploring Coastal Landmarks at Makapu’u Point and Tropical Farms

The Makapu’u Point pass-by presents sweeping views of Waimanalo’s sea cliffs, adding to the scenic tapestry of the eastern coast. Although there’s no stop here, the view is often described as breathtaking by those on the tour.

Tucked into the coastline are stops at Tropical Farms, a macadamia nut shop where visitors can enjoy free tastings amid lush surroundings. This 25-minute stop is a favorite for its local flavor and opportunity to sample fresh nuts and tropical treats.

Visiting Mokolii Island and Iconic Film Locations

A short 25-minute stop at Mokolii Island, also called Chinaman’s Hat, showcases a small, cone-shaped island famous for its picturesque setting. Framed by the Kualoa Valley, the site features in many films and is perfect for photos. This stop combines natural beauty with a cinematic touch.

Sampling Local Cuisine at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp and Kahuku Farms

A 40-minute lunch break at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp offers the renowned North Shore Garlic Shrimp plate, along with options for non-shellfish and vegetarians. The casual setting lets visitors enjoy local flavors, with cash recommended for purchases.

Following lunch, the tour visits Kahuku Farms, a tropical fruit stand where guests can enjoy ice-cold coconuts, mangos, and other tropical fruits. The stop lasts 25 minutes and offers a refreshing break amid the lush surroundings.

Experiencing the Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach

The Banzai Pipeline, famous for its powerful winter swells, is viewed from the bus pass-by. While there’s no dedicated stop, the guide highlights its surfing fame and rugged beauty. The nearby Sunset Beach is also noted for its tranquility and scenic vistas, especially during calmer months.

Taking in Nature at Waimea Valley and Botanical Gardens

The highlight of the tour is the visit to Waimea Botanical Gardens, where visitors spend 1 hour and 30 minutes exploring diverse plant collections. The gardens include flora from the Ogasawara Islands, Central and South America, and other regions, showcasing the island’s botanical richness.

The waterfall hike within Waimea Valley offers a short, paved trail of about 25 minutes each way, leading to a breathtaking waterfall where swimming is possible. This activity provides a peaceful nature experience amid lush greenery.

Visiting Dole Plantation and Nuuanu Pali Lookout

A brief 30-minute stop at Dole Plantation allows for souvenir shopping and enjoying the iconic Dole Whip, a pineapple soft serve treat unique to Hawaii. Although the plantation itself is not included, the stop is a sweet conclusion to the scenic drive.

The Nuuanu Pali Lookout crowns the tour, with 15-minute stops offering sweeping views of the windward coast from atop the Koolau Range. The lookout also holds historical significance, adding depth to the sightseeing experience.

Logistics and Group Size

This tour accommodates up to 23 travelers, ensuring a comfortable group size for personalized attention. The pick-up at Waikiki hotels makes joining easy, with an alternative meeting point at Ross Dress for Less on Seaside Avenue if staying outside central Waikiki.

The tour operates with a highly rated guide team, praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendly attitude. The narration enriches the experience, making each stop informative and engaging.

Cost and Booking Flexibility

At $154 per person, this tour provides good value given the extensive list of stops and included transportation. The booking process is straightforward, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for changing plans.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Participants should have moderate physical fitness to enjoy the waterfall hike and walking around botanical gardens. The tour is suitable for children accompanied by adults, with a minimum drinking age of 21.

While the tour covers many highlights, some reviews mention that not all stops allow for extensive exploring—the pace is brisk to ensure coverage of so many locations. The water activities at Waimea Bay are optional but included, and the guide explains the best spots for swimming or hiking.

Final thoughts on the North Shore & Waimea Waterfall Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive journey through Oahu’s most photogenic and culturally rich sites. The expert guides and well-organized itinerary make it a reliable choice for first-time visitors wanting to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of driving.

While the tour’s pace may feel quick—given the number of stops—most find it well worth the cost and time. It’s especially suited for those eager to get a broad overview of Oahu’s natural beauty, iconic beaches, and local flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate when accompanied by an adult, but they should be able to handle the brisk pace and walking involved.

What is included in the tour price?
The full-day transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki, and admission to Waimea Botanical Gardens are included. Lunch at Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp is paid separately.

How long is the waterfall hike?
The waterfall at Waimea Valley involves a short, paved trail of about 25 minutes each way to the waterfall, where swimming is possible.

Can I swim at Waimea Bay?
Yes, swimming at Waimea Bay is part of the experience, with ample time allocated to enjoy the water.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 23, ensuring a comfortable and engaging experience.

Is food included in the tour?
No, lunch is optional and paid separately; however, there are stops for local food and treats.

Are there any hidden costs?
Apart from optional lunch and tips, there are no hidden costs; most stops are included or free.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, cash for lunch, and sunscreen, as the day involves outdoor stops.

How flexible is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start, with full refunds available.

This tour of Oahu’s North Shore and Waimea Waterfall combines scenic drives, engaging stops, and cultural insights, making it a value-packed choice for exploring the island’s highlights comfortably and efficiently.