Ultimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island

Discover the Best of Oahu in One Day with the Ultimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island Tour

The Ultimate Pearl Harbor Circle Island tour offers an efficient way to see many of Honolulu’s most iconic sights in a single 10-hour day. Priced at $145.55 per person, this guided experience is designed for those wanting a rundown of Oahu’s highlights without the hassle of driving or planning multiple stops. With a high rating of 5.0 from 245 reviews and 94% recommendation rate, this tour combines cultural history, stunning scenery, and island flavors. It departs early from Waikiki, with hotel pickup included at 6:30 am, making it perfect for visitors short on time or first-timers eager to cover the essentials.

While the tour’s fast pace ensures you see many sights, it’s worth noting that certain stops, like Pearl Harbor, may be partially self-guided or affected by security restrictions. Still, the comprehensive itinerary, including lunch, entrance fees, and transport, offers excellent value, especially for those wanting an all-in-one trip that covers both historical landmarks and natural beauty.

Key Points

• Full-day guided tour covering Pearl Harbor, North Shore beaches, Dole Plantation, and scenic viewpoints
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki, with lunch at Hukilau Marketplace
• All entrance fees and boat rides to the USS Arizona Memorial are covered
• Tour departs at 6:30 am for a 10-hour experience
• Highly praised guides, especially Lisa and Rocky, who are noted for their knowledge and friendliness
• Tours are limited to 25 participants, ensuring a comfortable group size and personalized attention

Start Your Day at Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial

The tour kicks off early, with hotel pickup from Waikiki at 6:30 am. From there, it’s a short transfer to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, where pre-paid tickets allow you swift entry into the site. The visit includes free time to explore WWII memorials and museums, with the highlight being the boat tour to the USS Arizona Memorial. This boat ride takes you to the memorial built over the sunken battleship, where you can learn about the events of December 7, 1941, through a documentary and exhibits.

The security restrictions at Pearl Harbor mean travelers should avoid bringing large bags or concealed items. Storage options are available for an additional fee. While the boat ride offers fantastic views and history, access to the Arizona itself may be limited during construction, meaning visitors see the memorial from the outside and learn about its significance through exhibits.

Scenic Drive and North Shore Beaches

Following the Pearl Harbor visit, the Circle Island Drive begins, leading past historic sites such as Wheeler Airfield, one of the first Japanese attack targets. The journey then takes in the beautiful North Shore where famous surf spots like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach await. Visitors have a chance to see surfers riding the waves and enjoy vistas of Waimea Bay, renowned for its large swells.

This drive along the coast offers unique photo opportunities and a chance to experience Oahu’s famous surf culture. The stops here are generally brief but enough to appreciate the scenery and snap memorable photos. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, highlighting local history and famous surf breaks that attract surfers globally.

Dole Plantation and Pineapple Adventures

One of the scheduled stops is at the Dole Plantation, a highlight for many visitors. Here, travelers can stroll through the pineapple plantation maze and sample the DoleWhip®, a frozen pineapple treat. While tasting is optional and at your own expense, the plantation itself offers a glimpse into Hawaii’s pineapple industry and its history.

The 30-minute stop is relatively quick, but enough time to browse the gift shop or take photos. It’s a popular photo stop and a favorite for those who enjoy tropical flavors and learning about Hawaii’s agriculture.

Exploring North Shore Towns and Waimanalo

Next, the tour includes photo stops at Haleiwa Beach Park, Kawela Bay, and Kualoa Regional Park. These sites provide picturesque views of the coast and lush landscapes. The Kualoa Park stop, in particular, offers a chance to capture the rugged beauty of the valley known for movies like Jurassic Park.

The drive along the east coast continues with a visit to Waimanalo, a peaceful beach area known for its crystal-clear waters and white sand. This part of the tour emphasizes natural beauty over long stops, keeping the pace brisk yet scenic.

Macadamia Nut Farm and Pali Lookout

The Tropical Farms stop features the Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet, where visitors can browse local products and snacks. The 30-minute visit is a relaxed chance to sample and purchase nuts and souvenirs. It’s a favorite for food lovers and those looking for authentic Hawaiian snacks.

Later, the Nu’uanu Pali Lookout offers panoramic views of the windward coast. This 15-minute stop allows for photo opportunities and an appreciation of Hawaii’s volcanic landscapes. The guide’s commentary here enhances understanding of the island’s geological features.

Highlights of the Eastern Shore and Volcanoes

Continuing along the coastline, the tour makes stops at the Halona Blowhole, a natural lava tube that erupts with seawater during high tide. This 10-minute stop provides a dramatic display of geological activity and ocean spray.

You’ll also enjoy a lookout over Hanauma Bay, a protected coral reef famous for snorkeling. Although the tour doesn’t include a swim here, the view of this natural wonder is breathtaking. The tour then rounds out with a visit to the sight of Diamond Head, Hawaii’s iconic volcanic crater.

Scenic Return to Waikiki

As the day winds down, the tour takes a drive along the Nuuanu Pali cliffs, offering spectacular ocean vistas. The last stops include Makapuu Point and Sandy Beach, both known for their beauty and surf.

Finally, the group heads back to Waikiki, arriving at approximately 4:30 pm, where a drop-off at your hotel concludes this comprehensive day of sightseeing. The group size of 25 people ensures a comfortable experience, with ample opportunity for questions and photo stops along the way.

The Value and Practicalities of the Tour

This guided full-day experience, packed with historical visits, scenic drives, and cultural stops, offers great value for the price. The tour includes lunch at Hukilau Marketplace, all entrance fees, and hotel pickup and drop-off. The guide’s expertise, especially praised for being knowledgeable and friendly, enhances the overall experience.

However, some reviews note that Pearl Harbor can feel rushed, and self-guided elements may limit in-depth exploration. The early start and fast pace suit those eager to see many sights but might be less ideal for travelers seeking a more leisurely experience. Weather can impact stops like the Arizona Memorial boat ride, so flexibility is helpful.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is best suited for visitors who want a rundown of Oahu’s highlights in a single day. It’s especially beneficial for first-time visitors or those with limited time, who value guided commentary, convenience, and packed itineraries. People interested in Hawaiian history, scenic vistas, and local flavor will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Travelers who prefer to explore at their own pace or enjoy longer, more detailed visits might find this tour a bit quick and may prefer renting a car or choosing smaller, more specialized excursions.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Waikiki are included, starting at 6:30 am.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, ending around 4:30 pm.

What are the main stops?
Stops include Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona Memorial, Dole Plantation, Haleiwa Beach Park, Kawela Bay, Kualoa Park, Tropical Farms, Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay lookout, and Diamond Head.

Is food included?
Yes, a buffet lunch at Hukilau Marketplace is included. Additional food and drinks are at your own expense.

Are entrance fees covered?
All entrance fees and boat rides to the USS Arizona Memorial are included in the price.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, as the tour involves outdoor stops and walking. Shirts and shoes are required on the USS Arizona Memorial; swimsuits not permitted.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What if the USS Arizona boat ride is canceled?
If shuttle operations are suspended, you can still visit the Arizona Memorial exhibits and park monuments without boat access.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but security restrictions at Pearl Harbor should be considered, and young children should be prepared for a long day.

Are guides experienced?
Yes, guides like Lisa and Rocky are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding a lot to the overall experience.

Is the tour good value for the price?
With all transportation, entrance fees, and lunch included, many consider this a cost-effective way to see Oahu’s highlights efficiently.