Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall

This Circle Island Tour with Waimea Waterfall offers a comprehensive way to explore Oahu in a single day. Priced at $154 per person, the 8-hour guided experience departs daily from Waikiki, with pickup included. Recognized for its high rating of 5.0 from over 3,400 reviews, the tour has a 94% recommendation rate, highlighting its popularity and consistent quality.

The tour is ideal for travelers seeking a full-day adventure that combines iconic sights, cultural insights, and opportunities to sample local foods like Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and North Shore garlic shrimp. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly approach, making this a well-rounded experience for those wanting to see the best of Oahu with minimal planning.

A key strength of this tour is its well-organized itinerary, which covers famous landmarks, natural wonders, and scenic viewpoints. While the tour runs approximately 11 hours total, slightly longer than the advertised 8 hours, many reviews emphasize the value of the diverse stops and engaging guides. However, visitors should be prepared for some busy spots and keep in mind that some locations, like Pearl Harbor, are only viewed from the bus without stops.

Key Points

• All-inclusive full-day tour covering Oahu’s top sights with pickup and drop-off in Waikiki
• Price of $154 per person for an 8-hour experience, praised for excellent value
• Visit scenic spots like Diamond Head, Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, and Waimea Waterfall
• Enjoy local tastings such as Kona coffee, macadamia nuts, and North Shore garlic shrimp
• Guides praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling
• Some stops are busy or only viewed from the bus, so plan accordingly

Starting in Waikiki with Historic and Natural Highlights

The tour begins at 7 am with a convenient pickup from Waikiki hotels. A semi-private shuttle transports guests across the island, with the first stops at Kapiolani Park and Waikiki Aquarium. These spots are perfect for a quick look at Honolulu’s oldest public park, gifted in 1877, and a historic marine research center established in 1904. Guests get a brief glimpse of the lush greenery, banyan trees, and oceanfront views, setting the tone for a day filled with scenic beauty.

Visiting the Iconic Diamond Head and Surrounding Volcanoes

The first major lookout is at Diamond Head State Monument, offering a panoramic view of the southeastern coastline. This lookout, also called Amelia Earhart Lookout, provides a stunning perspective of Hanauma Bay and, on clear days, even Maui. As you drive past the rugged Koko Head and Hanauma Bay, the scenery illustrates Oahu’s volcanic origins.

Witnessing the Halona Blowhole and Secluded Beaches

The tour then visits Halona Blowhole, where volcanic lava tubes created a natural geyser with each surf wave. Nearby, Eternity Beach or Halona Cove features golden sands and turquoise waters, famously seen in film scenes like “From Here to Eternity.” Sandy Beach follows, known for its powerful shoreline and surf, favored by experienced bodysurfers. These stops showcase Oahu’s dramatic volcanic coastline and hidden spots for photos and short walks.

Exploring Windward Coast and North Shore Landmarks

Next, the guide takes you into Waimnalo Bay, with its soft white sands and lush mountain backdrop. Turning toward Oahu’s windward side, the tour highlights Makapuu Point and Rabbit Island (Manana Island), offering scenic vistas over the blue waters. The Nuuanu Pali Lookout provides breathtaking views of the windward coast and is historically significant as a battle site for King Kamehameha I.

Tasting Local Flavors at Tropical Farms and Kualoa

The Tropical Farms stop offers complimentary Kona coffee and macadamia nuts, along with Hawaiian chocolates—perfect for indulging in local treats. Afterwards, Kualoa Regional Park and Mokolii Island (Chinamans Hat) present film-famous landscapes, with Jurassic Park scenes and lush valleys. These locations are well-loved for their scenic beauty and Hollywood connections.

North Shore’s Famous Beaches and Snorkeling Hotspots

On the North Shore, the tour visits Sunset Beach, renowned for its long stretches of sand and surf. During summer, the beaches are peaceful, but in winter, waves of 30-40 feet attract big-wave surfers. Nearby, Sharks Cove offers vibrant marine life and tide pools, great for those interested in quick snorkeling views.

Waimea Valley and Waterfall Experience

One of the highest-rated stops is Waimea Botanical Gardens and Waterfall, where guests explore rare and endangered plants from around the Pacific. The 1.5-mile roundtrip walk leads to the beautiful Waimea Waterfall, which many reviews mention as a highlight. Swimming is permitted with lifeguards on duty, and it’s a peaceful spot amid lush greenery.

Visiting the North Shore Fruit Stands and Dole Plantation

On the return journey, the tour stops at Kahuku Farms and a North Shore fruit stand, offering mango, dragonfruit, pineapple, and fresh coconuts. These stops are perfect for sampling tropical flavors and relaxing before the final destination at Dole Plantation. Here, guests can enjoy famous pineapple ice cream and pick up souvenirs like pineapple-themed gifts.

Final Stops in Honolulu and Historic Sites

The tour concludes with a drive past Pearl Harbor, visible from a distance, respecting the schedule that does not include an actual stop. The last stops include Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha Statue in downtown Honolulu, providing a quick dose of Hawaii’s royal and political history.

Logistical Details and Tour Flexibility

The tour operates 7 days a week with daily pickups in Waikiki, making it accessible for most travelers. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and a professional guide accompanies guests throughout the day. The tour includes admission to Waimea Botanical Garden and Waterfall but does not cover food—though there are multiple opportunities to buy local snacks and lunch. The group size is limited to 24, ensuring a comfortable experience.

Genuine Strengths and Considerations

Many reviews highlight the expertise and friendliness of guides like Rocky, Charlie, and Kanamu, who bring fun and educational energy. The stops at Waimea Waterfall and Botanical Gardens are consistently praised as breathtaking and relaxing. Guests especially appreciate the local tastings, such as Kona coffee and garlic shrimp, which add flavor to the trip.

However, some concerns include longer-than-expected hours, with some passengers noting the tour lasts around 11 hours, exceeding the advertised 8 hours. Plus, not all stops are visited in full detail, and some locations, like Pearl Harbor, are only viewed from the bus. The bus can be busy at certain stops, and physical activity involves walking or a short tram ride to the waterfall.

Suitable Audience for the Circle Island Tour

This tour suits families, first-time visitors, and those eager to see a broad range of Oahu’s sights in one day. It’s especially good for those interested in cultural landmarks, natural scenery, and local foods. Visitors who prefer a guided experience with expert narration and convenient logistics will find this tour appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, guests should bring cash for food and drinks, although there are stops for local tastings and meals.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour recommends a moderate physical fitness level. Walking is involved at the Waimea Waterfall, which has a 1.5-mile roundtrip walk, with a tram available for a fee.

Can I swim at Waimea Waterfall?
Yes, swimming is permitted, and lifeguards are on duty. Bring a bathing suit and towel.

What should I bring on the day of the tour?
Guests should bring cash for lunch and gratuities, sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes.

Does this tour visit Pearl Harbor?
No, the tour passes by Pearl Harbor but does not make a stop, as it’s not part of this itinerary.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, providing a more intimate experience.

Is pickup offered from my hotel?
Yes, daily pickups are available in Waikiki and are automatically assigned based on the guest’s hotel.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour begins, with a full refund.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs about 11 hours, including all stops and activities, from 7 am to around 6 pm.

What makes this tour stand out?
The inclusion of Waimea Waterfall and Botanical Gardens, local tastings, and the knowledgeable guides make this a well-rounded way to see Oahu’s diverse highlights.