Oahu Allstar Circle Island Tour: Dole, Turtles. Blowhole, Fun

The Oahu Allstar Circle Island Tour from Oahu Best Tours offers an engaging full-day exploration of this Hawaiian island for $98.58 per person. Spanning approximately 9 to 10 hours, this tour covers more than a dozen stops, including iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and local food experiences. The tour departs from Waikiki at 7:30 am, with pickup starting early to maximize sightseeing time. It features a professional local guide and includes all fees and taxes, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to see Oahu.

While the tour is packed with incredible stops, it’s worth noting that some visitors mention the bus condition can vary, and turtle sightings are unpredictable since they are wild animals. Despite that, this experience suits travelers eager to cover a wide range of sights in one day, with opportunities for photo ops, cultural insights, and delicious bites. The flexible cancelation policy adds peace of mind, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Key Points

• Full-day tour lasting about 9 to 10 hours on Oahu
• Includes 11 stops, from natural wonders to food markets and beaches
• Highlights: Halona Blowhole, Turtle Beach, Macadamia Nut Farms, Chinaman’s Hat, and Dole Plantation
• Price of $98.58 includes all taxes and fees, with optional snorkeling equipment not included
• Professional local guides provide narrations on Hawaii’s culture, history, and geography
• Group size up to 75 travelers, with air-conditioned transportation

Oahu Allstar Circle Island Tour Starts Early at Waikiki

The tour begins with a 7:30 am pickup from Waikiki, setting the stage for a full day of exploration. Early departure helps travelers beat traffic and enjoy the sights in the morning light. A mobile ticket allows for easy check-in, and the air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort throughout the day’s travels.

The first stop is Waikiki Beach, where the tour quickly gets into the spirit of Hawaii’s coastal charm. From here, the tour heads to notable landmarks such as Diamond Head State Monument and the Halona Blowhole, both offering stunning vistas and natural displays. The Halona Blowhole is especially impressive with water spouts reaching up to 30 feet, making it a must-see for wildlife and nature lovers.

Exploring the Southeastern Coast: Makapu’u Point and Sandy Beach

After experiencing the blowhole, the tour visits Makapu’u Point, a scenic lookout that offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands. This spot is perfect for photography and soaking in Hawaii’s rugged coastline.

Next, the group makes a brief stop at Sandy Beach Park, renowned for its powerful waves and beautiful golden sands. While popular among surfers and bodyboarders, visitors should exercise caution due to steep shorebreaks and rip currents. The tour then proceeds to Waimanalo, where a short break allows for shave ice, ice cream, and scenic views of soft white sands and lush rainforests.

Visiting the Macadamia Nut Farm and Kualoa Ranch

One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at Tropical Farms, the Macadamia Nut Tropical Farm, where visitors can sample macadamia nuts, nut butter, and chocolate-covered treats. The farm also offers complimentary Kona coffee and provides insight into Hawaiian agriculture amidst lush orchards.

Following this, travelers visit Kualoa Regional Park for iconic photo opportunities at Chinaman’s Hat, a distinctive cone-shaped island. Adjacent to this, the Kualoa Ranch spans 4,000 acres of remarkable landscapes and has served as a filming location for movies like Jurassic Park and shows like Lost. The ranch’s lush valleys and ocean vistas showcase Hawaii’s natural beauty and its cinematic history.

Sampling North Shore’s Fresh Flavors

The tour continues to the North Shore, famous for its surfing waves and tropical produce. Visitors stop at North Shore Fruit Stands to taste pineapples, papayas, mangoes, and exotic fruits like lilikoi and rambutan. These fruit stands are a favorite for their freshly picked and flavorful offerings.

A casual lunch at the North Shore Shrimp Stands provides garlic shrimp prepared with spicy, lemon-butter, or teriyaki flavors. The stands foster a laid-back vibe and are popular among surfers and locals alike, offering delicious, local seafood in a simple setting.

Big Waves and Turtle Encounters on the North Shore

The tour’s most iconic sights include Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay, both famous for their massive winter waves reaching up to 30 feet. During summer, these beaches calm down, offering relaxing spots for swimming and sunbathing.

The highlight for wildlife enthusiasts is Turtle Beach, where the calm waters and lush surroundings create ideal habitat for sea turtles. Visitors have a good chance of seeing turtles basking or swimming just offshore, though sightings depend on the turtles’ wild behavior. The beach features amenities like restrooms and picnic areas for comfort.

Wrapping Up at Dole Plantation and Waikiki

The tour concludes with a visit to Dole Plantation, known for its pineapple history and the famous Dole Whip. This stop lasts around 45 minutes, giving travelers time to explore the plantation, learn about pineapple cultivation, and purchase souvenirs.

Finally, the return to Waikiki offers a relaxed end to a busy day, with the drop-off point in the late afternoon. The entire experience combines scenic views, cultural insights, and delicious local food, making it a comprehensive day of discovering Oahu’s natural and cultural treasures.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This full-day circle island tour suits travelers who want an overview of Oahu’s top sights without the hassle of planning individual stops. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a broad experience in one day, especially with family or groups. The tour’s multiple stops and narrated guides provide educational insights and photo opportunities at every turn.

While some reviews mention bus condition and the unpredictability of turtle sightings, the value for money and variety of attractions keep this tour popular. Travelers should be prepared for busy pacing and cash payments at some stops, but overall, it delivers a rich snapshot of what Oahu has to offer.

The Sum Up

The Oahu Allstar Circle Island Tour from Oahu Best Tours offers an affordable and well-organized way to experience many of Oahu’s highlights in a single day. It combines natural wonders, cultural insights, and food experiences, making it a convenient choice for visitors wanting to maximize their time.

While the bus quality and wild animal sightings can vary, guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. The tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager for a rundown of the island, with plenty of photo ops and local flavors to enjoy along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though stroller use is not permitted and collapsible wheelchairs are required for accessibility.

Does the tour include snorkeling equipment?
No, snorkeling gear is not included, but guests are allowed to bring snacks and beverages on the bus.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time, with full refunds available.

How long is each stop?
Stops range from 15 to 45 minutes, depending on the location, allowing for sightseeing, photos, and brief rest breaks.

Are lunch and food included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, but visits to shrimp stands and fruit stands offer delicious local eats.

What are some highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include Halona Blowhole, Turtle Beach, Chinaman’s Hat, Dole Plantation, and Macadamia Nut Farm.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Hawaii’s culture and history?
Yes, guides provide cultural, historical, and geographical narrations to enrich the experience.

Is the tour suitable for travelers interested in wildlife?
Yes, especially for sea turtles and natural scenery, though sightings of turtles depend on wild behavior.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, snacks, beverages, and camera are recommended.

Can I cancel if the weather turns bad?
Yes, the tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.