Private Circle Island Tour we build your dream Itinerary

The Private Circle Island Tour offered by True Hawaii Tours stands out with a $300 per person price and a flexible 10 to 12-hour duration. This tour is designed for those who want to explore Oahu at their own pace, with a fully customizable itinerary that can include a wide range of activities—from hiking and beach visits to cultural stops and scenic overlooks.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its private nature; only your group participates, and pickup is included, making logistics straightforward. With an average booking time of 49 days in advance, it’s clear that travelers value the opportunity for a personalized experience. While the tour covers many highlights and hidden spots, it’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a tailored day out rather than a fixed schedule.

Key Points

• Price & Duration: $300 per person for a 10-12-hour, private tour exploring Oahu’s top sights and hidden spots
• Fully Customizable: Guides tailor the itinerary based on your interests, whether that’s beaches, hikes, or cultural sites
• All Transportation Included: Pickup and drop-off at your location simplifies the day
• Highlight Stops: From Hanauma Bay and Makapu’u Lighthouse to Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach, with optional activities like snorkeling and hiking
• Flexible Stops & Activities: Choose to visit Dole Plantation, Pearl Harbor, or local food trucks—your guide adjusts to your preferences
• Positive Reviews: Guides like Jacob, Giovanna, and Luca are praised for their knowledgeability and friendly approach

Starting Point and End of the Tour in Honolulu

The tour begins in Waikiki Beach, Honolulu, where your guide will pick you up, making the start of the day effortless. The tour ends back at the same meeting point, so it’s convenient and keeps logistics simple for travelers staying nearby.

This private tour offers the flexibility to set your preferred departure time, allowing you to plan your day easily. Whether you want an early start or a later morning, the schedule adapts to your needs.

Customizable Itinerary: From Waterfalls to Cultural Landmarks

The core strength of this circle island tour lies in its customizability. The guide discusses your interests beforehand and builds an itinerary that features your preferred stops. You can exclude or include any of the following options:

• Hanauma Bay Trail for snorkeling or relaxing on the beach
• Makapu’u Point Lighthouse for scenic ocean views and lighthouse photos
• Halona Blowhole, a famous natural geyser next to a beautiful beach
• Lanikai Beach, often considered one of the most stunning beaches globally
• Lulumahu Waterfall, an optional hike through the jungle ending at serene waterfalls
• Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens, for scenic drives and plant viewing
• Byodo-in Temple, a stunning Japanese temple backdrop with mountain views
• Laniakea Beach, known for turtle sightings if you’re lucky
• Diamond Head State Monument, an optional stop for a quick hike or sightseeing
• Mokolii Island (Chinaman’s Hat), great for drone photography and snacks
• Crouching Lion Trail, an optional hiking adventure with scenic overlooks
• North Shore towns like Haleiwa and Kahuku, famous for food trucks and local flavor
• Dole Plantation and Macadamia Nut Company for sweet treats and samples
• Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, one of Oahu’s best spots for reef and turtle viewing
• Sunset at Sunset Beach, to witness a classic Hawaiian sunset
• Optional visits to Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, Waimea Bay, Ko’olina Beach Park, and Green World Coffee Farms

This approach ensures each day feels unique and tailored, whether you want a full day of sightseeing or a more relaxed experience with fewer stops.

Highlights of Oahu’s Best Scenic and Cultural Spots

Hanauma Bay Trail offers opportunities for snorkeling or simply relaxing on the beach, with admission included and a 30-minute visit. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail provides stunning views of the ocean and lighthouse, also with an included admission.

Halona Blowhole is a natural spectacle where ocean water shoots into the air, and it’s right next to a beautiful beach. Visitors can explore, dip in the water, or simply enjoy the views. Nearby, Lanikai Beach is renowned for its soft sand and clear waters, perfect for a family stop.

Lulumahu Waterfall involves an optional jungle trek that lasts about an hour, ending at a peaceful waterfall. The guide recommends allowing time for a swim to cool off and connect with nature. Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens provide lush scenery, while Byodo-in Temple offers a peaceful cultural experience framed by the Ko’olau mountains.

Laniakea Beach is famous for turtle sightings. If lucky, you’ll watch resting turtles on the shore during your 20-minute stop. For a quick history and scenic view, the Diamond Head State Monument makes a great optional addition.

North Shore Adventures and Food Spots

The tour includes visits to Haleiwa, the iconic North Shore town known for its surf culture and charming shops, where 45 minutes allow for exploring or shopping. Nearby, Kahuku hosts numerous famous food trucks, with the guide giving personalized recommendations for lunch.

Dole Plantation is an optional stop for insight into Hawaii’s pineapple industry, plus sampling Dole Whip. A visit to the North Shore Macadamia Nut Company offers tastings of local nuts and coffee.

Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove is optional but highly recommended for reef and reef fish encounters. Advanced snorkelers can explore underwater caves, making this stop a highlight for water lovers.

Sunset Beach provides a picturesque spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, often accompanied by the sounds of crashing waves and the vibrant colors of sunset.

Iconic Landmarks and Scenic Overlooks

The tour offers optional visits to Waikiki Beach, a quick drive-by showcasing Honolulu’s most famous stretch of sand. The Nu’uanu Pali Lookout on the windward side provides breathtaking views of the island’s lush east coast.

For coffee aficionados, the Green World Coffee Farms offers a brief but tasty stop with free samples. The Pearl Harbor National Memorial can be included for a short, meaningful cultural visit, as can the historic Iolani Palace.

Physical Activity and Accessibility Considerations

Many stops involve walking or light hikes, such as the Crouching Lion Trail, Lanikai Pillbox Hike, and Manoa Falls. These are optional and can be customized to match your physical ability.

The vehicles used are private and can accommodate most guests, with service animals allowed. The tour is suitable for most travelers on most days, with the flexibility to tailor the pace and stops.

The Value of a Fully Private, Custom Tour

At $300 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day exploring Oahu’s best and lesser-known sights. The private setting ensures personalized attention, and the custom itinerary means you can prioritize your interests.

Most reviews highlight guides like Jacob, Giovanna, and Luca for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to skip tourist traps and visit authentic local spots, offering a more genuine experience.

While some reviews mention inconsistent vehicle quality or guide experience, overall, the positive feedback and high ratings suggest this tour remains a dependable choice for those wanting control over their island adventure.

The Sum Up: The Tailored Oahu Experience

The Private Circle Island Tour provides a personalized and flexible way to see Oahu. Its strength lies in the customizable stops, private transportation, and the expert guidance of local guides who know the island inside out.

This tour is best suited for families, adventure seekers, or cultural enthusiasts who want a tailored day that balances iconic sights with hidden treasures. The $300 price point reflects a full day of private exploration, making it a solid value for a curated experience.

While the tour offers many optional stops, travelers should be aware that physical activity levels vary, and some stops may involve walking or hiking. Yet, with the ability to customize the day, most guests find it easy to craft an itinerary that matches their energy and interests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your location in Waikiki are included, making it convenient to start and end the day.

Can I choose the departure time?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to set a departure time that fits your schedule.

What stops are most recommended?
Top highlights include Hanauma Bay, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Lanikai Beach, Waimea Bay, and Sunset Beach, with optional snorkeling and hiking.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary is fully customizable based on your preferences, with guides like Jacob, Giovanna, and Luca adjusting stops accordingly.

Are meals included?
Meals are not included, but guides often recommend local food trucks and restaurants at stops like Kahuku.

What if weather cancels the tour?
The tour includes a full refund or rescheduling if canceled due to poor weather.

This Private Circle Island Tour truly offers a bespoke way to experience Oahu, combining iconic sights, secret spots, and cultural highlights—all tailored to your interests.