tours in oahu

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Oahu Tours & Attractions

Also known as the Gathering Place, Oahu is the most populated and developed of the Hawaiian Islands. Explore Oahu’s most beloved tourist attractions, iconic sites, and breathtaking scenery during a wide variety of activities including world-class shopping, fine dining, water sports, and sightseeing.

Our Oahu tours include our award-winning Grand Circle Island Tour, Pearl Harbor tours, and more. Experience an exciting collision of culture and cuisine at an authentic luau, or dive into Hawaii’s past with a historic tour of the palace or Pearl Harbor. Let Roberts Hawaii show you what makes Oahu the heart of Hawaii tourism.

ALL OAHU TOURS & ACTIVITIES

To find the adventure that’s perfect for you, simply use the filter below. For Cruise guests looking for Shore Excursions tours, please click HERE

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• Available Now!
• Our Newest Tour!
• Hour Glass 7 Hours
• Tag Sightseeing
• Map Marker Oahu

North Shore Adventure Tour

Discover Oahu’s North Shore with Roberts Hawaii’s tour. Engage in Camp Erdman’s hiking and reforestation, paddleboard or kayak along Anahulu River at Tsue’s Farm, or opt for shopping and scenic delights in historic Haleiwa Town. A perfect mix of adventure, conservation, and cultural exploration awaits.

North Shore Dole Pineapple Farm Tour

Embark on a thrilling exploration of Oahu’s North Shore, where the Dole Pineapple Farm Tour unveils the secrets of pineapple cultivation, complemented by exotic coffee tastings, local flavors, historic sugar mill visits, and serene beaches, culminating in a captivating Hawaiian cultural experience.

• AVAILABLE NOW!
• Most Popular Transportation!

Waikele Outlets Shopping Shuttle

A hassle-free way to go shopping for bargains in more than 50 legendary brand name stores.

• Most Popular Tour!
• Hour Glass 9 Hours

Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour

See Oahu’s most awe-inspiring landmarks and destinations including the spouting Blowhole, and the sacred Kualoa Ranch.

• Available Now

Stars & Stripes: Pearl Harbor and Battleship Missouri Tour

Explore the legacy of Pearl Harbor and visit the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri Battleship, and more in this emotionally resonating tour.

• Hour Glass 5 Hours

Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, Honolulu City Tour

On this popular narrated tour of Pearl Harbor, the USS Arizona Memorial and other historic Honolulu landmarks, you get to explore firsthand what happened on December 7, 1941.

• Most Popular
• Hour Glass 2 Hours 45 Minutes
• Tag Dining , Shows

Germaine’s Luau

Observe a traditional luau with Royal Procession & Imu Ceremony, plus enjoy a delicious traditional buffet dinner.

• Hour Glass 3 Hours 15 Minutes

Chief’s Luau

You’re invited to the Chief’s backyard! Enjoy Hawaii’s #1 rated luau on TripAdvisor in an intimate and personal setting.

Polynesian Cultural Center

Enjoy Hawaii’s No. 1 paid attraction at a great value without the stress of getting there! Add transportation from Waikiki to your Polynesian Cultural Center Packages, which are customized to your interests.

• Hour Glass 7 - 7.5 Hours

Kualoa Ranch: Jurassic Valley & Adventure Tours

Visit Kualoa, a working cattle ranch and farm, for exciting experiences! Explore the spectacular views of the location where Jurassic Park was filmed.

• Hour Glass 2 Hours

Majestic by Atlantis Cruises Sunset Cocktail Cruise

Escape the crowds with Hawaii’s newest yacht cruise experience as you enjoy a cocktail while soaking up stunning views. The ONLY cocktail lounge on the sea.

• Hour Glass 1.5 Hours
• Tag Water , Sightseeing

Atlantis Submarine

See amazing reef life, turtles, and a sunken airplane up close on this underwater submarine adventure!

• Hour Glass 4 Hours

Captain Bob’s Picnic Sail

Enjoy a catamaran ride in the Pacific Ocean to the picturesque Kaneohe sandbar and nearby coral reefs where you can swim, snorkel with tropical fish, play a game of water volleyball, and enjoy a hearty picnic.

• Hour Glass 8 Hours

The Surf Bus North Shore Activities Tour

The Surf Bus Tour takes riders to Oahu’s famous North Shore to enjoy a variety of active adventures and sightseeing.

Paradise Cove Luau

Enjoy an evening of traditional Hawaiian arts and crafts demonstrations, games, music, pageantry, and dining.

NEED INSPIRATION?

Popular places to visit in Oahu:

• Pearl Harbor
• Diamond Head
• Hanauma Bay
• Downtown Honolulu
• North Shore

From deep cultural explorations into ancient Polynesia at the  Polynesian Cultural Center   to the urban delights of contemporary Honolulu, from famed surf spots on the North Shore to world-renowned  Pearl Harbor  on the Leeward Coast,  Oahu provides infinite opportunities to experience the diverse character and history of Hawaii.

Here, you can try your hand at ancient games played by early Hawaiians, get wet and wild in the ocean via waterslide, dive into Hawaii’s dramatic naval history and relive the Day of Infamy, explore the political intrigue and opulence of Iolani Palace, breathe deeply in the Valley of the Temples, and taste the island’s sweet agricultural heritage.

With so many fascinating things to see and discover, it’s little wonder that Oahu is called the Heart of Hawaii.  The choices are so varied, and the island is at once exhilarating and serene, sobering and hilarious, urban and ancient – truly a place of complexity and delight.

Located at 21°28′N 157°59′W, Oahu has a total land area of 596.7 square miles and a population of over 970,000 people.

E Noa Tours | Oahu's Best Tours | All Admissions Included

We offer the best value pearl harbor tour, oahu's top guided tours.

With 50 years of experience, E Noa has helped generations of visitors see the best of Oahu, learn about the culture, and enjoy a fantastic vacation.

50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE IN HAWAII

For half a century E Noa Tours have helped generations of visitors see the best of Oahu, learn about the culture, and enjoy a fantastic vacation. Nobody knows the island like our master tour guides who will take you on an unforgettable and authentic Hawaiian voyage.

Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour

Elevate your Pearl Harbor experience with our Pearl Harbor Remembered Tour, the premium package that includes an immersive visit to the USS Missouri. Find yourself in history and honor those who served with…  MORE

• USS Arizona Memorial
• USS Missouri
• Downtown Honolulu City
• Duration: About 7h
• All Admissions Included
• Pick-up From Waikiki and Ko Olina

Majestic Circle Island Tour

From breathtaking natural landscapes to hidden gems, we make sure you get the most out of our Circle Island Oahu Tour. Join us to explore the wonders of the island in comfort, knowing you’re receiving top-notch value… MORE

Oahu's BEST VALUE Circle Island Tour!

• The Iconic Island Tour
• Knowledgeable Local Guides
• Duration: About 9h
• Lunch Included

Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour

We take pride in offering the island’s best value Pearl Harbor Tours. Our friendly guides are not just experts in history, but they’re also passionate about creating an unforgettable experience for you. A visit to this historic site… MORE

The BEST VALUE Pearl Harbor Tour in Honolulu!

• Duration: About 5h
• Pick-up From Waikiki & Ko Olina

Pearl Harbor City Tour

Embark on the Pearl Harbor City Tour, a captivating adventure that includes a narrated exploration of downtown Honolulu. Dive into the rich history of the city as you discover the profound significance of Pearl Harbor. Join us for a tour that… MORE

• Pick-up From Waikiki

E Noa Tours

– serving up aloha since 1974 –.

With almost 50 years of experience , E Noa Tours is your trusted partner for Oahu adventures that leave an enduring mark on your memory.

Our flagship experience, the Circle Island Tour , is an ode to Oahu’s beauty, from its stunning landscapes to its rich culture. Explore the island’s diverse terrain, from lush forests to pristine beaches, and immerse yourself in its unique heritage.

Join us and let E Noa Tours open the door to Oahu’s extraordinary world of wonder and discovery. Your adventure starts here!

Best Value Island Tours

Our tours offer the best value on Oahu by providing top-notch customer service, memorable tours, and carefully planned, well-organized tour itineraries.

Hawaii's Best Tour Guides

Ask around, our staff is the best! Our guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and experienced in making unforgettable island adventures.

Easy Booking

Historic pearl harbor tours.

Experience Pearl Harbor’s history with our guided tours. Our visits include monuments and exhibits honoring the USS Arizona, the Pacific Aviation Museum, and more. Our knowledgeable guides will help you understand the events before and after the attack, as well as the sacrifices made to protect the nation. Book your tour today for a meaningful experience.

Book your Oahu Adventure Today

Our local guides will show you the best of the island, from must-see destinations to hidden gems. Our tours offer unbeatable value, so you can see and do more without breaking the bank. Experience the beauty and diversity of Oahu like never before.

Private Tours & Charters​

Book our private charters for any occasion and create unforgettable memories! From tours to weddings, our experienced crew will make sure you and your guests receive the best service for a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Contact us now to learn more.

Hawaii Tours FAQ

The ideal stay on Oahu can vary, but a common recommendation is about 5 to 7 days. This allows you to explore the island’s major attractions, enjoy some beach time, and get a taste of its unique culture. Of course, the more time you have, the more you can discover!

Oahu is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit for great weather and fewer crowds is typically from mid-April to early June and September to mid-December. These are the shoulder seasons, providing a more relaxed and pleasant experience.

It takes roughly 1.5 to 2 hours to drive around the entire island if you’re taking the scenic route without many stops. However, exploring the island thoroughly with stops at various attractions will take a full day or more. For reference, our Circle Island Tour lasts around 9 hours.

Guided tours offer you the expertise of local guides who can provide insights, take you to the best spots, and ensure you make the most of your visit. Whether it’s a historical tour, a hiking adventure, or a cultural exploration, guided tours can make your Oahu experience truly memorable.

Among the multitude of tours available on Oahu, the two most iconic and highly sought-after experiences are the Circle Island Tours and Pearl Harbor Tours. These tours have consistently garnered immense popularity among visitors, offering distinct and compelling attractions that captivate the hearts of tourists from around the world.

While several transportation options are available, guided bus tours stand out as the most comfortable and economical means of experiencing all that Hawaii has to offer. Guided bus tours provide an unbeatable combination of comfort, convenience, and affordability. They offer travelers a stress-free and leisurely way to explore Hawaii’s most famous attractions and hidden gems.

For your first visit to Hawaii, Oahu is an ideal choice due to its well-developed infrastructure, making it easy to explore the island. Oahu offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly choices, and is equipped with modern amenities. You can enjoy diverse activities, from relaxing on famous beaches like Waikiki to exploring cultural sites like Pearl Harbor. The island’s culinary scene and cultural experiences are rich and varied, providing a well-rounded introduction to Hawaii’s offerings. Whether you’re interested in relaxation, adventure, or cultural immersion, Oahu has something to offer every traveler.

Hawaii’s weather is characterized by a tropical climate, offering warm temperatures year-round. Coastal areas typically experience temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius) during the day, with relatively mild fluctuations between seasons. Trade winds provide a pleasant breeze, especially in the summer. While Hawaii does have wet and dry seasons, rain showers are common but brief, with the wetter season occurring from November to March. The leeward (west) sides of the islands tend to be drier, while the windward (east) sides receive more rainfall. Overall, Hawaii offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities and beach visits throughout the year.

Choosing the best Hawaiian island to visit depends on your preferences. Oahu is great for first-timers, offering a mix of culture, activities, and infrastructure. Maui is known for its natural beauty, including the Road to Hana and Haleakalā. The Big Island (Hawaii) is perfect for adventure seekers with its volcanoes and diverse landscapes. Kauai is a haven for nature lovers, famous for its lush, pristine scenery. Molokai and Lanai are quieter and less touristy, ideal for a more relaxed experience.

Like what you see? Book your trip today!

Have a question contact us.

Sharing the Aloha Spirit is an important part of what we do at E Noa, and that’s reflected in how we communicate with our guests and friends. If you have a question about our tours, drop us a note or give us a call! We’re happy to answer your questions.

• (800) 824-8804​
•         Toll-free within the United States
• +1 (808) 591-2561
•         International RSVP & tour inquiries
• [email protected]
•         Drop us a note and say Aloha!
• (808) 591-2561
• 3015 Koapaka St, Honolulu, HI 96819
• Open Daily, 6:30 AM - 6PM HST

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The 21 Best Tours On Oahu, Hawaii

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: August 6, 2023

Categories HAWAII , TOURS

Oahu, Hawaii is a special island with so much to offer. The beauty of Oahu is that it is so diverse that there is a tour activity for everyone. Some adventurous tourists might be into shark cage diving or zip-lining while others might enjoy a historic tour of Pearl Harbor. In the evening sunset catamaran cruise from Waikiki is a favorite among every type of tourist. In this blog post, I’ve gathered the 20 most popular tours on Oahu and reviewed each of them to help you choose a tour you will enjoy.

My personal favorites are Oahu Helicopter Tour for its amazing full-island tour and Waikiki Sunset Cruise as the best way to end your day.

Table of Contents

QUICK PICKS: TOP 4 TOURS ON OAHU

Don’t have time to read my entire article about the best tours on Oahu? No worries! I’ve shortlisted my four favorite Oahu tours here to make things easy for you.

Oahu Helicopter Tour

• Amazing full-island tour
• Doors on or off
• Best way to see Oahu

North Shark Shark Cage Dive Adventure

• Most exciting tour
• Friendly crew

Pearl Harbor Tour

• A MUST-DO excursion
• Pick-up included
• Guided Historic Tour

Waikiki Sunset Cruise

• Best way to end the day
• Cocktails on board
• Amazing view of Waikiki

21 BEST TOURS ON OAHU COMPARISON TABLE

Here is a helpful table listing all of the best tours on Oahu, Hawaii.

BEST RENTAL CAR COMPANY IN HAWAII

When you book your Hawaii Rental Car online, I personally recommend and always use  Discover Cars . They search for both local and international companies, so you get the best deal!

20 BEST-VALUE TOURS ON OAHU, HAWAII

I hope you find an Oahu tour on this list that gets you excited for your vacation!

TURTLE CANYON SNORKEL CRUISE BY CATAMARAN

The best snorkeling tour on Oahu is the Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran . Not only do you get the chance to swim with these friendly giants and tons of tropical fish, but you’ll also get a catamaran cruise from Waikiki. You are picked up from your Waikiki hotel and taken to the harbor for a short boat ride to a few secret snorkeling spots. Lunch is included and the food is really good too, you’ll love the kalua pork! Something that people love about this tour is the staff! They really make sure you are entertained and you will have the best trip to Oahu.

B ook your tour: Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran

Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran

• Best snorkeling tour
• Friendly giants

TOP 3 PLACES TO STAY ON OAHU

• Ultimate Luxury: Lotus Honolulu – Diamond Head View, Great Waikiki Location
• My Favorite: Aston Waikiki Beach – Best value in Waikiki & Great location
• Value Hotel Waikiki: Surfjack Hotel is easily the best value (luxury) hotel in Waikiki

WAIKIKI: OAHU 120-MILE FULL-DAY TOUR WITH DOLE PLANTATION

Waikiki: Oahu 120-Mile Full-Day Tour with Dole Plantation (Best-selling tour) : The popular Circle Island tour takes you on a scenic 120-mile trip around the beautiful island of Oahu.

• Enjoy a scenic drive along the slopes of Diamond Head
• Visit Hanauma Bay, a Hawaiian Marine Preserve
• Halona Blowhole, Sandy Beach, and Makapu’u Point
• Visit Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples in Kaneohe (admission included)
• A scenic drive into the Ko’olau mountains
• See the world-famous North Shore beaches of Sunset, Banzai Pipeline
• Stop at the Dole Plantation to try their pineapple soft-serve whip!

Book your tour: Waikiki: Oahu 120-mile Full-day Tour With Dole Plantation

Waikiki: Oahu 120-mile Full-day Tour With Dole Plantation

• Beautiful island
• Scenic drive
• Stunning views

NORTH SHARK SHARK CAGE DIVE ADVENTURE

North Shark Shark Cage Dive Adventure : Hopefully, you’re ready for this because this may be the most exciting tour you have ever gone on! Oahu Shark Dive is one of the best value tours to choose from for your first shark dive experience. You will travel approximately 3 miles off the coast to an area that is inhabited by a large shark population and you will be jumping in a shark cage behind the vessel to face-to-face these amazing 5′ to 15′ long sharks.

For 20 minutes under the water, you’ll be surrounded by around a dozen sharks or even more. Pickup and drop-off service and equipment are included. The crew is laid-back, funny, and does a great job of making you feel safe and comfortable as they brief you properly before jumping in the water. I definitely recommend this Oahu tour to anyone as it will be a highlight of your Hawaiian vacation.

Book your tour: North Shark Shark Cage Dive Adventure

Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki (Top Seller)

Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki : All aboard the Haleiwa Queen, enjoy the clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor as you cruise over live tropical reefs and one of Hawaii’s shipwrecks. This is by far the cheapest boat tour on Oahu but also one of the most interesting. The glass-bottom floor of the boat allows you to see sea life as it swims by and also gets a great view of one of the many shipwrecks on the coast of Oahu. A great afternoon adventure for the whole family and a very unique experience.

Book your tour: Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki

Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki

• Pacific Ocean floor
• Cheapest boat tour

PEARL HARBOR: ARIZONA MEMORIAL, & PUNCHBOWL NATIONAL CEMETERY

Tour: Pearl Harbor: Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery : This budget-friendly tour is quite popular in Oahu for all types of travelers. Round-trip transportation, extra charges, and a narrative by the guide are provided. This 5-hour historic tour is a combination tour in which you will be enlightened with Pearl Harbor’s comprehensive history –see the sunken USS Arizona, get a chance to visit the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific at Punchbowl, and stop by the landmarks of Honolulu metropolitan and enjoy the scenic views around.

Everyone hates waiting in a long queue but on this tour, you’ll be able to skip lines for a hassle-free excursion. If there is something you are curious about, there’s a live tour guide so feel free to ask all you want! This is one of the tours on Oahu that you simply cannot miss.!

Book your tour: Pearl Harbor: Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery

Pearl Harbor: Arizona Memorial, & Punchbowl National Cemetery

• Budget-friendly
• Round-trip transportation
• 5-hour historic

SWIMMING WITH SHARKS (WITHOUT A CAGE)

Two-hour shark dive on Oahu : Have you ever thought about swimming with sharks? This tour company takes people out and lets them swim with sharks without a cage! It might seem extreme but it is very controlled and quite safe. For example, they haven’t had any injuries or incidents in 20 years of operation. Sandbar sharks circle around you as you snorkel out in the open ocean. This is something your friends back home won’t believe and it is one of the unique activities in Oahu .

Book your tour: Two-hour shark dive on Oahu  

Two-hour shark dive on Oahu  

• Swimming with sharks
• Without cage

ECO-FRIENDLY DOLPHIN AND SNORKEL HALF-DAY CRUISE

Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise : Set sail along the turquoise waters of Hawaii’s coast heading towards Ko Olina coast. Keep your eyes peeled for the playful Spinner Dolphins who live in these waters. During the snorkeling session, jump in for a snorkel adventure of a lifetime! I did this tour with my family when they came for vacation and it was an incredible experience you’ll never forget.

Book your tour: Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise

Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Half-Day Cruise

• Turquoise waters
• Playful Spinner Dolphins

OAHU GRAND CIRCLE ISLAND DAY TOUR

Oahu Grand Circle Island Day Tour : Discover the beautiful island of Oahu in a day! This 8.5-hour trip includes stops at Oahu’s most famous landmarks, such as Diamond Head, Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay, and Nu’uanu Pali. You’ll cruise around the island on an air-conditioned bus, so it’s relaxing and comfortable.

Get a dose of Japanese history, as you visit the ancient Byodo-In Temple. What I love about this trip is that it also includes quick stops to the amazing beaches of the North Shore like Waimea Bay, which is popular for surfers and divers. This is one of the best Oahu tours for family bonding!

Book your tour: Oahu Grand Circle Island Day Tour

Oahu Grand Circle Island Day Tour

• 8.5-hour trip
• Most famous landmarks

OAHU SCENIC HELICOPTER FLIGHT 

Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour : I think a scenic helicopter flight is my favorite activity to do on Oahu by far! A helicopter tour over this amazing island will be the number one memory you take home with you from your vacation. The circle island Helicopter tour will have you fly above all of the famous locations on Oahu, it’s simply a once-in-a-lifetime experience. I recently sent my parents on this amazing helicopter Oahu tour.

Book your tour: Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour

Book your tour: 25-minute Waikiki Helicopter Tour

Oahu Full-Circle Island 60 minute Helicopter Tour

• Scenic helicopter flight
• Amazing island
• Fly above all of the famous locations

WAIKIKI SUNSET COCKTAIL CRUISE 

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise : Dying to take your loved one on a romantic cruise whilst in Oahu? Or do you just want to experience a fun and relaxing evening with absolutely no itinerary? Onboard a sailing Catamaran drinking tropical Hawaiian cocktails and relaxing while enjoying the legendary sunset and the magnificent Hawaiian coast.

This is perfect for travelers who just want to chill with sunsets and cocktails! 

Book your tour: Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise

Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Catamaran Cruise

• Romantic cruise
• Relaxing evening
• Legendary sunset

KA MOANA LUAU AT SEA LIFE PARK

Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park : This 4.5-hour evening show can give you everything you can ever fancy! From the moment you set foot, you’ll be treated like royals as you will be greeted with Luau- a traditional Hawaiian party or feast that is accompanied by entertainment, Mai Tai cocktails, and a beautiful lei (garland).

You’ll experience a delectable Hawaiian feast including fresh seafood and tropical fruits by the sea with a beautiful view of the sunset. You’ll love the locals showcasing their talents in dancing and fire twirling. You can choose from three dining packages to suit your preference.

Book your tour: Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park

Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park

• 5.5-hour evening show
• Beautiful view

KAYAKING TOUR OF KAILUA BAY WITH LUNCH

Kayaking Tour of Kailua Bay with Lunch : This small-group kayak tour lasts for 5 hours with round-trip transportation and lunch. From Waikiki, you will ride a van to Kailua Bay for half an hour. Once you arrive there, you will be provided with complete gear before the briefing. You can either choose a self-guided tour in which you will be briefed on the safety measures before you begin on your own or select a guided tour with a small group tour with a professional guide.

You’ll be paddling from Kailua Beach to Mokulua Islands, Flat Island, and Lanikai Beach where you will have your picnic lunch. You can opt to kayak-surf, snorkel around, or simply just go for a swim. The best thing about this tour is that they provide you with dry bags, shower amenities, and lockers for your stuff. One of the top-rated tours on Oahu!

Book your tour: K ayaking Tour of Kailua Bay with Lunch

K ayaking Tour of Kailua Bay with Lunch

• Sea turtles

GYROPLANE FLIGHT OVER OAHU’S NORTH SHORE

Imagine soaring above the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean, feeling the warm Hawaiian sun on your face and the wind rushing through your hair. From high above, you can see the lush green mountains and rugged coastline of Oahu’s North Shore, as well as some of the world-famous surf breaks like Pipeline and Sunset Beach. This is the exhilarating experience of gyroplane flight, a unique and thrilling way to explore the beauty of Hawaii’s third-largest island. I did this flight and it was one of the coolest, and most unique things to do on Oahu.

Book your flight by visiting their site: Skyland Air

OAHU WHALE WATCHING EXCURSION

Oahu Whale Watching Excursion : See whales, guaranteed, or come again for free! Every December through April, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. Come along and see these beautiful mammals at their best on our exciting eco-friendly whale watching excursion.

The 2-hour experience of seeing whales will for sure take your breath away. Definitely a must-do excursion on Oahu!

Book your tour: Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

Oahu Whale Watching Excursion

• Beautiful mammals
• Eco-friendly

SCUBA-DIVE TO SEA TIGER WRECK

Scuba Dive to Sea Tiger Wreck : 100 feet below the surface lies The Sea Tiger, which is a former Chinese trading vessel originally named Yun Fong Seong No. 303. The ship was confiscated in the 1990s for carrying more than 90 illegal immigrants to Hawaii. It was purchased by Voyager Submarines, cleaned up, and sunk in 1999.

Interested in learning how to scuba dive while on Oahu: Waikiki Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners

Already certified to scuba dive and want to book a scuba tour to a wreck or a reef: Scuba diving full-day tour on Oahu

Book your tour: Scuba Dive to Sea Tiger Wreck

Scuba Dive to Sea Tiger Wreck

• Multiple shipwrecks
• Turtles and Sharks
• Unique diving sites

SUNSET DINNER CRUISE WITH LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment : If world-class entertainment and food weren’t enough on the beautiful beaches of Oahu, then why not take to the waters with the Oahu Sunset Dinner Cruise. This cruise will let you see the beauty of the colorful sunset in Oahu with a view of the island at night as the artificial lights glow and cover the place. 

While onboard, you will enjoy the delicious buffet and some chitchats with other passengers. What the passengers will love is the round trip transportation they arrange for each and every one.

Book your tour: Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment

Sunset Dinner Cruise with Live Hawaiian Entertainment

• Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Colorful sunset
• Artificial lights glow

WAIMEA WATERFALL & CIRCLE ISLAND ADVENTURE TOUR

Waimea Waterfall & Circle Island Adventure Tour : A tight-packed schedule, this 11-hour guided tour offers to anyone who wants to fill one’s appetite for the beauty of the island. The ultimate Circle Island Adventure covers many places and personally if you are interested to join this just make sure you have enough energy as you’ll be visiting 12 popular attractions but you can totally enjoy the scenic views of the places.

You don’t have to worry if the places are unfamiliar to you because this tour includes a guide book “Pocket Guide to Nature on Oahu”. Since this is a twelve-hour tour which includes almost all the necessities you need like lunch and some refreshments, it would also be nice to bring snacks. Be sure to get your camera ready as there are plenty of picturesque attractions along the way. A highly recommended tour on the island!

Book your tour: Waimea Waterfall & Circle Island Adventure Tour

Waimea Waterfall & Circle Island Adventure Tour

• The beauty of the island
• Scenic views
• Popular attractions

BEST OF HAWAII PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR FROM WAIKIKI

Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki : If you are a traveler looking for photography and cultural experiences, you will be very happy if you book the best Hawaii photography tour from Waikiki. This five-and-a-half photography tour will take you to the best scenic spots on Oahu island from Waikiki to the Kailua or Waimanalo for lunch.

It is perfect for anyone who wants to spend more time capturing stunning sites with a camera. Not to mention they also have a professional photographer to guide and help you during the excursion.

Book your tour: Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki

Best of Hawaii Photography Tour from Waikiki

• Photography tour
• Best scenic spots
• Perfect for anyone

OAHU SIGHTS AND BITES ISLAND TOUR

Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour : Experience the beauty of Oahu while sampling the local food and feel the aloha vibe as you join this five-hour tour in Oahu. In this tour, you’ll explore Oahu’s most beloved tourist attractions, iconic sites, and breathtaking scenery. There is a complimentary pick-up and drop-off from selected hotels in Waikiki and bottled water for each guest.

It is advisable to bring cash as you might want to spend your own money for your delicious lunch at a shrimp truck. The first destination is the Diamond Head Lookout where you’ll admire sweeping views and continue along the coast of Hanauma Bay Viewpoint and end your tour at Dole Pineapple Plantation.

Book your tour: Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour

Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour

• Experience the beauty
• Five-hour tour

GROUP SURFING LESSON ON WAIKIKI BEACH 

Group Surfing Lesson on Waikiki Beach : Do you or your mates want to try surfing in Waikiki? Surfer Girl Academy got your back. For $99, you can enjoy surfing with your mates for two-and-a-half hours. The instructors are super nice, patient, and very professional – they even take pictures for you. This surfing lesson limits up to four participants which are fantastic as you can really learn from your surfing instructor. It’s a great way to enjoy a day out on the water and this is also suitable for kids 12+ up and adults.

Round-trip transportation for guests staying in Waikiki and surfing equipment are included in the price. Guests will also be given a gift which is a bonus. If you are looking for an activity that doesn’t disappoint, look no further and book your surfing lesson with Surfer Girl Academy.

Book your tour: Group Surfing Lesson in Waikiki Beach

Group Surfing Lesson in Waikiki Beach

• Two-and-a-half hours
• Super nice instructors

NORTH SHORE & WATERFALL SWIM ADVENTURE

North Shore & Waterfall Swim Adventure : Can’t get enough of Oahu? This tour is perfect to get to know and falling deeply in love with this wonderful island.  For me, this place is ideal for those who simply love everything about nature. A scenic shore view, a glimpse of Mokuauia Islet, a lunch plate with Hawaiian shave ice, and the sight of green sea turtles are among the few things that you will experience in this tour.

The highlight for sure is the opportunity to bathe under a pristine waterfall in the forest after a short walk. Everything is included on this Oahu tour from pick-up from Waikiki and the drop-off, fees, and lunch were so convenient.

Book your tour: North Shore & Waterfall Swim Adventure

North Shore & Waterfall Swim Adventure

• Wonderful island
• Everything about nature
• Scenic shore view

MORNING SNORKEL & SAIL ALONG WAIKIKI BEACH

Morning Snorkel & Sail along Waikiki Beach : If you want to snorkel for a couple of hours before doing other activities whilst in Waikiki, this morning snorkeling excursion is just right for you! This snorkeling and sailing tour lasts for two hours only with a limit of five joiners. You will sail and snorkel along Waikiki beach in the morning. Pickup is included from all hotels in Waikiki.

During this water excursion, participants will be able to see Hawaiian Green Sea turtles and beautiful marine life but if you don’t see turtles you can do it again free of charge. The boat excursion departs at Kewalo Basin Harbor. Bar snacks, unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, and two swimming equipment (fins and life vest) are included. 

Book your tour: Morning Snorkel & Sail along Waikiki Beach

Morning Snorkel & Sail along Waikiki Beach

• Beautiful marine life
• Swimming equipment
• Amazing location

OAHU: HONOLULU LIKE A LOCAL – CUSTOMIZED CITY WALKING TOUR

Honolulu Like a Local – Customized City Walking Tour : There’s nothing great than exploring the island like a local and this customizable, private tour in Oahu is just what you need. You will get a lot from what you paid here with a tour guide who knows the place like the back of their hand.

Since it’s customizable, you can traverse at your own pace and get to spend as much time as you want at all the different places. Discover all of the hidden gems within Honolulu and be surprised at what you find when you are with a local. You can be sure you will eat at the best local joint aswell!

Book your tour: Oahu: Honolulu Like A Local – Customized City Walking Tour

Oahu: Honolulu Like A Local – Customized City Walking Tour

• Customizable
• Private tour
• Hidden gems

ZIPLINE TOUR ON OAHU’S NORTH SHORE

Tour: Zipline Tour On Oahu’s North Shore

Zipline Tour on Oahu’s North Shore gives you a jungle experience that you can’t imagine. Safety gear like helmets , gloves, and harnesses are provided. This is another must-do activity in Oahu. I loved this adventure and have attached my GoPro video of my Zipline experience on Oahu below. This is sure fun and exciting as you will be ziplining seven times plus you will get to ride an ATV.

Book your tour: Zipline Tour On Oahu’s North Shore

Zipline Tour On Oahu’s North Shore

• Must-do activity
• Fun and exciting
• Amazing view

I hope one of those epic Oahu tours seemed like a good fit for you and your family and it is one of the highlights of your vacation to Oahu!

WHERE TO STAY ON OAHU

• Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort  (Overall Favorite) : In the heart of Waikiki, this high-end resort is right on the beach with a private lagoon.
• Sheraton Waikiki   (Luxury) : A luxury resort with the most amazing infinity pool on the island, which overlooks the beach.
• Ewa Hotel Waikiki : (Value):  Ewa Hotel is just one block back from the beach and is just over $150 USD.
• Waikiki Beachside Hostel   (Budget Choice) : A budget alternative, which is still in an amazing location.
• Disney Aulani Resort (Family Choice):  This is a resort your kids will never forget. It honestly feels like you are living in a theme park.

MORE OAHU BLOG POSTS

I lived on Oahu for two years and loved adventuring from the beaches to the mountains to the waterfalls! These are my most popular blog post and guides from the beautiful island of Oahu to help you plan your trip!

• What to pack for Hawaii:  THE HAWAII PACKING LIST: WHAT TO PACK
• A helpful guide to choosing accommodation:   WHERE TO STAY ON OAHU
• Most epic hike on Oahu: THE STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN OAHU, HAWAII
• The best Waterfalls: AMAZING WATERFALLS ON OAHU, HAWAII
• Ultimate Cliff Jumping Guide: 11 BEST CLIFF JUMPING SPOTS ON OAHU
• Guide to Swimming with Sea Turtles: WHERE TO SEE TURTLES ON OAHU
• The best Waterfall Hikes: TOP WATERFALL HIKES ON OAHU
• Best Tours: 20 BEST TOURS ON OAHU
• The Ultimate Guide to Oahu:  80 AWESOME THINGS TO DO ON OAHU

BEST INSURANCE FOR TRAVELERS

Don’t wait for an accident to happen… get insured! My travel insurance is HeyMondo which offers low-cost travel & medical insurance. That’s me on the left with three teeth knocked out after a motorbike crash in Bali!

You can click to read my Full Review of the Best Travel Insurance .

I’ve made several successful claims with HeyMondo and find their customer service very quick and helpful. Click the button below to get a 5% DISCOUNT

THE FOUR MOST POPULAR OAHU TOURS

• Doors-Off Oahu Helicopter Flight Tour : My number one recommendation is to do a heli-flight (doors off) and be blown away when you see Oahu from the air.
• North Shore Shark Cage Tour : The biggest adrenaline rush you can have in Hawaii is beneath the surface with sharks!
• Eco-Friendly Dolphin and Snorkel Tour : One of the best experiences I had on Oahu was swimming with the beautiful spinner dolphins on this exact tour.
• Turtle Canyon Snorkel Cruise by Catamaran : The number 1 MOST POPULAR snorkel tour on Oahu. GUARANTEED Turtles!

What are my favorite pieces of travel gear?

There are four pieces of gear that I simply never travel without. These are four items that I using right now and this list gets updated every year! Here are my travel essentials.

• Packing Cube Set : Once you cube you’ll never go back. Organize your clothes within your luggage with these smart mesh containers. It will revolutionize your packing.
• Quick-Dry Towel : A quick-dry towel is a must for travelers. It hardly takes up any room and dries in seconds.
• Travel Wallet : Keep your passport, wallet, and vaccine card safe as well as any forms and important documents you need to store.
• Grayl GeoPress Water Filter Bottle : I’ve used this for three years. It filters your water with one press and you can drink directly from it. Never buy a plastic water bottle again!

THE 10 BEST Oahu Sightseeing Tours

Sightseeing tours in oahu.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Moana’s Sunset Cocktail Sail along Oahu's Waikiki Coast

2. 2-Hour Whale Watching from Oahu

3. Swim with Dolphins in the West Coast line of Oahu

4. Complete Pearl Harbor Experience Tour Departing from Waikiki Area

5. Open-Door Helicopter Tour over Oahu

6. Oahu Circle Island - North Shore Snorkeling Tour (Dole & Temple)

7. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling

8. Byodo Temple and Waimea Botanical Garden Tour

9. 2 Hour Waikiki Whale Watching in Honolulu

10. Diamond Head Sailing and Turtle Snorkeling tour in Waikiki

11. Circle Island North Shore Adventure Tour + Snorkeling

12. Oahu Beachfront ATV Adventure and Farm Tour

13. Pearl Harbor: USS Arizona Memorial & USS Missouri Battleship Tour from Waikiki

14. Half Day Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona Memorial and City Tour

15. Jungle Expedition Tour at Kualoa Ranch

16. Oahu Dolphin Watch with Turtle Snorkel & Water Slide

17. Private Oʻahu Experience: ALL WINDOW SEATS

18. 45 Minute Isle Sights Unseen Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

19. Royal Crown of Oahu - 60 Min Helicopter Tour - Doors Off or On

20. Whale Watching & Late Breakfast Cruise in Honolulu

21. Mokulua Islands Self-Guided Kayak Adventure

22. OAHU CATAMARANS Sunset Tour on a 40 Foot Catamaran FOOD & BYOB!!!

23. Pearl Harbor Dole Plantation and Polynesian Center from Waikiki

24. Oahu Catamaran Cruise: Wildlife, Snorkeling and a Hawaiian Meal

25. North Shore Circle Island Adventure Including Snorkeling with the Turtles

26. Jurassic Adventure Tour at Kualoa Ranch

27. Stunning views of Oahu! Half-day scenic tour, lookouts + photos

28. Whale Watch Cruise aboard the Majestic by Atlantis Cruises

29. Roundtrip Shuttle From Waikiki to Dole Plantation & Haleiwa Town

30. Oahu Unveiled: Tailored Luxury Private Island Tour

What travelers are saying.

• Laura B 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun day on the water Find professional staff made us feel comfortable and see. They pointed out where to see turtles, dolphins, and one even picked up an octopus for us to see. Great way to spend two hours with family and friends. Read more Review of: Diamond Head Sailing and Turtle Snorkeling tour in Waikiki Written April 3, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Go City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions and Tours
• Best of Kualoa Experience Package
• Oahu Island Photography Tour
• Hawaii Turtle Tours
• The Surf Bus - North Shore Activities Tour
• E Noa Tours
• Escape Waikiki Tours
• Polynesian Adventure
• Tours By Locals
• Aloha Trikke
• Oahu Private Tours
• Oahu Diving
• Halia Tours and Transportation

TO YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

HAWAII'S BEST GUIDED TOURS

With stops at major destinations and hidden secrets, our variety of tours offers something for everyone.

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HAWAII VACATION

Our friendly drivers and top-rated tour guides work hard to provide a relaxing and memorable experience, keeping you informed and entertained throughout your journey.

MOST POPULAR

SIGHTS & BITES CIRCLE ISLAND TOUR

A Taste of Adventure! Some of the best sights & scenic viewpoints of Oahu and the chance to try local flavors and favorite dishes.

Dedicated Guides

We are proud to provide Hawaii's top-rated drivers & guides on our tours to ensure the safest & most in-depth experience for our guests.

Memories in the Making

Bring your cameras! From history tours that show you Hawaii's past, to our most adventurous excursions, get ready for unforgettable moments.

'Slippahs Only

Relaxed tours, great for the whole 'Ohana! On our comfortable air-conditioned buses you can sit back, relax and enjoy the Aloha.

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22 Best Tours on Oahu You Need Book Right Now

So you finally bought a ticket and managed to get to “the Heart of Hawaii,” aka Oahu. Now what? If you’re like some of the young travelers we know, you barely had time to pack your bags and make your flight and had absolutely no time to plan any part of your trip. You’ve got anywhere from 2 to 7 days to enjoy this beautiful isolated island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, but you don’t know where to start. 

Good news: you’ve come to the right place. Whether you are on Oahu for your birthday, a romantic anniversary trip, with friends on spring break, or just traveling solo, you definitely want to make the most of your time here. And the best way to do that is via guided tours .

In this post, we have rounded up some of the most popular as well as lesser-known guided tours on Oahu to help you explore this piece of paradise. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by the sheer amount of options, we’d highly recommend sticking to our personal favorites:

1. Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off 

Duration:  1 hour

Several locally owned adventure tour companies offer numerous helicopter tour options, many of which are pretty unique. These tours are designed to give you a bird’s eye view of scenic Oahu from a helicopter. You can choose to fly with the doors on or off for unobstructed views of the island. Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Rainbow Helicopters, and Mauna Loa Helicopters are the most popular companies. Our personal favorite is Rainbow Helicopters.

Why We Love This Tour: If there is one thing you just HAVE to do before you leave Oahu, it’s this (unless you really hate flying!). A helicopter tour will give you the opportunity to see the whole island and all of its beauty; you’ll get up close to the spectacular mountain ranges, waterfalls in hidden places inaccessible by foot, Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and even a rainbow or two. The tour guides are very accommodating and will ensure you have an unforgettable experience.

What’s Included: Taxes, gratuities, phone straps, and headsets (some packages may also include bottled water too)

2. Zipline Adventure Tour North Shore

Operated By : Climb Works – Keana Farms

Go ziplining over Oahu’s North Shore to see the lush mountains, farms, and beaches from 500-2400 feet above. The tour kicks off with an ATV ride to the top of the mountain, where you’ll pass the jungle and several farms on your way up to the mountain.

Why We Love This Tour: Soaring from the top of the island’s longest ziplines is an incredibly thrilling experience for rush-chasers. Along the way, enjoy a series of boardwalks, sky bridges, rappels, and a couple of other surprises.

What’s Included: Professional guide, all necessary equipment, free parking, bottled water, and all fees, taxes, and handling charges

3. Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour

Duration:  5 hours

Operated By:   Roberts Hawaii Tours & Activities

The Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour starts with an excursion of Pearl Harbor, where you get to learn about the events that unfolded on that fateful day in 1941 when it came under attack by Japan, launching the US into World War II. Next is a visit to the USS Arizona Memorial by boat to reflect on the monumental battle that took place, costing the lives of over 1,000 of the ship’s crewmen.

The tour is concluded at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, where the brave soldiers who lost their lives are buried. You will also get to visit other historical landmarks, including the Hawaii State Capitol, Kawaiahao Church, Iolani Palace, and Honolulu City Hall.

Why We Love This Tour: This is a historic place for Americans, and the excursion makes for a very emotional and surreal day. You’ll leave Pearl Harbor with a newfound knowledge and an incredible understanding of exactly what happened and what the soldiers went through during the war here.

What’s Included: Driver and guide, Arizona admission fee, gratuities, transport by coach/minivan, and hotel pick-up and drop-off (select Kahala and Waikiki hotels )

What Customers are Saying:

4. Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore

Duration:  2 hours

Operated By : North Shore Shark Adventures

As you can imagine, this Shark Cage Dive adventure is not for the faint-hearted! But if you can bring yourself to do it, swimming with sharks inside of a safety cage will be something you’ll remember for the rest of your life. A certified guide will provide you with the safety gear and a briefing before the tour begins to ensure your safety at all times. Depending on the season, you’ll also get a chance to say hello to humpback whales, dolphins, and Hawaiian green sea turtles, but don’t try to feed them any chocolate! That would be ridiculous.

Why We Love This Tour: Being only inches away from some of the most majestic – and dangerous – marine creatures has a way of filling your body with an adrenaline rush. If you’re looking to infuse some excitement into your life, get up close and personal with these curious sharks.

What’s Included: Snorkel equipment, shark cruise, and a certified guide

5. Twin Islands Guided Kailua Kayak Tour

Operated By:  Kailua Beach Adventures

Take a kayak tour of Kailua and Mokulua Islands and spend the morning walking in tide pools, snorkeling above live coral reefs, spotting colorful marine life, and learning how to interact with the local fauna in a positive way.

Why We Love This Tour: If you love water sports, this tour has got everything for you – kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, and more. The tour guides are very knowledgeable about the island and will ensure that everyone has a good time.

What’s Included: Lunch, all kayaking gear (Life jackets, paddles, island landing permits, and drybags), snorkeling gear, a secure locker, and free beach parking

6. Turtle Canyon Snorkel Excursion

Operated By : Living Ocean Scuba

Cruise to the Turtle Canyon snorkeling site through the Honolulu coastline and watch the cute hawaiian green sea turtles having a jam above a reef. You will be equipped with snorkeling equipment, receive a brief lesson on safety and the marine life you’re about to encounter, and go on a guided snorkeling tour from the boat.

Why We Love This Tour: If you want to see more than 500 species of South Pacific and Hawaiian marine life, including endangered sharks and monk seals, this is the place to be. Sip on complimentary refreshments while swimming around the blue water of Waikiki or just soaking up the tropical sun. Make sure you put on some reef-safe sunscreen!

What’s Included: Use of snorkeling equipment, professional guide, and light refreshments

7. Private Romantic Flight

Operated By : Rainbow Helicopters

There’s a helicopter ride, and then there’s the helicopter ride. You can book a private, super romantic ride to take you and your love over Oahu’s South Shore and catch a bird’s eye view of Diamond Head and the Waikiki skyline. The pilot will then continue on to Hanauma Bay, Makapu’u Point, and Dole Pineapple Plantation, allowing you to see volcanic outcroppings and white sand beaches on the way. Leis , champagne toasts, and chocolates will add an intimate touch.

Why We Love This Tour: Nothing screams romance quite like a one-of-a-kind Hawaiian experience without other tourists crowding you and your loved one. Whether you’re on your honeymoon or want to surprise your significant other for a birthday or anniversary, this expensive but so-worth-it tour will help you score points for life.

What’s Included: Helicopter landing in a private valley, private sightseeing excursion, a tour guide, leis, champagne toast, and Wailua chocolates

8. Waikiki Sunset Cruise with Live DJ

Operated By : And You Creations

Ever wanted to ride off into the sunset? Well, you can sail off into a beautiful sunset from a boat at the Kewalo Basin Boat Harbor. After a group toast and a safety briefing, guests can explore the boat’s Titanic-style front bow and two decks. The view from the boat is spectacular: surfers gliding along the coastal waves, the Diamond Head State Monument, and sightings of humpback whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. Once the sun dips below the horizon, a live DJ and a neon light show will entertain you with dance-worthy beats.

Why We Love This Tour: Diamond Head, dancing, and drinks – this is one of the best party cruise experiences on Oahu

What’s Included: A local guide and a professional DJ

9. North Shore Snorkeling Tour from Haleiwa

Operated By : Ocean Outfitters Hawaii

This North Shore Snorkeling Tour only operates in summer and fall months, from May to October, making it a perfect opportunity to encounter the sea creatures you won’t otherwise, such as whales, turtles, rays, and dolphins. Some of the reef fish you’ll see on this tour can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

Why We Love This Tour: This is one of the smoothest and fastest rides on the North Shore to see marine wildlife from a stone’s throw away.

What’s Included: Masks and fins (while food and beverages are not included, you can bring your own)

10. Diamond Head Crater Hike and North Shore Experience

Duration:  10 hours

Operated By : Fun Group Inc

The hike begins from Diamond Head Crater overlooking the views of Honolulu and Waikiki. The sightseeing adventure starts at the Halona Blowhole on the east side of the island, then heads to the North Shore. You’ll get to visit Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts and taste a wide variety of locally-grown macadamia nuts. On your way, you’ll also find some amazing food trucks at the Kahuku Sugar Mill; we highly recommend getting garlic shrimp plates. This is where you will find the best food trucks on the North Shore of Oahu . The pineapple garden at Dole Plantation and Haleiwa Beach Park are also on the itinerary.

Why We Love This Tour: Okay, so yes, this one involves a lot of walking – it’s a hiking tour, after all – but it’s the best way to get the taste of Hawaii in one day.

What’s Included: Diamond Head admission fee, guide, transportation by AC van, and hotel pickup and drop-off

11. Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour

Duration:  8.5 hours

Operated By : Aloha Hawaii Tours

The Oahu Sights and Bites Island Tour is one of the top-rated sightseeing tours in Hawaii for foodies. Enjoy the local flavors and breathtaking views, beginning with a charming drive to the Diamond Head Lookout and a poi donut from the famous Kamehameha Bakery. You’ll be visiting the Halona Blowhole, Ko’olau Mountains, Tropical Macadamia Nut Farm, and the Dole Pineapple Plantation. After lunch at the North Shore Shrimp Trucks, you can go shopping in town of Haleiwa and try other bites.

Why We Love This Tour: Macadamia nuts, chocolate, and coffee at the Tropical Macadamia Nut Farm; Dole Whip (a dairy-free dessert made from pineapples) at the Dole Plantation; and handmade ice cream in Haleiwa, we can’t decide which one we love more!

What’s Included: A guide, lunch at a shrimp food truck, samples of macadamia nuts, chocolate, coffee, poi donuts, locally-grown fruit samples, AC transportation, pickup and drop-off at selected hotels, and bottled water

12. Eco-Friendly West Oahu Snorkel Sail with Dolphins

Duration:  3 hours

Operated By : Hawaii Nautical

You know what’s better than snorkeling in the pristine waters of Oahu? Snorkeling with Hawaiian spinner dolphins! The cruise sets sail for the Ko Olina Coast, which is considered a favorite spot for dolphins. On your way to your snorkeling tour, you’ll be served a fresh continental breakfast complete with a selection of beverages. The sailboat is equipped with all the modern amenities, including a freshwater shower and two large restrooms. After you’re done uncovering the hidden world of corals and fish, enjoy the complimentary lunch.

Why We Love This Tour: This is like a fun picnic but inside the water. If you or your kids have always wanted to snorkel, you couldn’t pick a better tour.

What’s Included: Round-trip sailing cruise, breakfast, lunch, two bar beverages, unlimited juices and sodas, a crew, and a captain

13. Group Surfing Lesson in Waikiki Beach

Operated By : Surfer Girl Academy, LLC

Want to learn surfing from the best lifeguard-certified instructors in Hawaii? Join the Surfer Girl Academy’s lessons and learn to ride the waves like a pro in no time. Each group only has 3 or 4 people, so you’ll get a lot of one-on-one time with your instructor. In addition to actual surfing, you’ll also learn the general ocean safety guidelines, directions, and how to stand up on the surfboard.

Why We Love This Tour: These group surfing lessons are amazing for two reasons: the Surfer Girl Academy has a stellar reputation when it comes to helping total beginners learn surfing FAST, and they attract students from all across the world, which means you’ll get to mingle with truly global citizens.

What’s Included: Wetsuits, reef shoes, rash guard, leash, surfboard, Surfer Girl Academy sticker, and local expert knowledge

14. Ka Moana Luau at Sea Life Park with Dinner & Show

Duration:  2.5 hours

Operated By : Ka Moana Luau

Ka Moana Luau is one of the most popular luaus in Hawaii, and this show is your ticket to enjoy the oceanfront dinner theater along with a tropical-themed buffet and live entertainment. The Celebrity package includes complimentary mai tais, access to Sea Life Park Hawaii, and hotel transfers from Waikiki. After check-in, guests can participate in a number of cultural activities, such as ukulele lessons, coconut headband weaving, hula lessons, temporary tattoos, and lei-making.  

Following a lip-smacking dinner that includes kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon, poi samples, and much more, you’ll be treated to a major production made up of fire dance, storytelling, and more.

Why We Love This Tour: This is the only luau on the eastern side of Oahu, and their shows have won multiple awards in the past for their creativity. The delicious buffet dinner deserves a mention of its own.

What’s Included: A welcome lei, complimentary beverages, and gourmet dinner; the Celebrity Package includes a lot more activities compared to Classic and Splash packages.

15. Waikiki Undersea Adventure Submarine Tour

Duration:  1 hour 45 minutes

Operated By : Atlantis Adventures

Raise your hand if you’ve ever wanted to see the ocean from a submarine! The Atlantis XIV is the most advanced passenger submarine in the world, with a capacity of 64 explorers. It has a spacious AC interior, comfortable seating, and large viewports.

The vessel takes you 100 feet below the ocean’s surface so you can see marine flora and fauna up close. It’s a pretty immersive experience that takes you beyond the classroom as you learn about sunken airplanes and shipwrecks, reef life, corals, and even artificial reefs.

Why We Love This Tour: This dive site is near Diamond Head, which is frequented by eels, yellow tangs, sharks, green sea turtles, and many other underwater species.

What’s Included: Narrations throughout the tour in multiple languages (English, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, and Japanese)

16. Full-Day Island Sightseeing Day Trip by Bus

Duration:  7 hours

Operated By : E NOA Corporation

If you are only on Oahu for a couple of days with a limited budget, this full-day sightseeing trip is the best way to make the most of your time here. And before you balk at the idea of being cooped in a bus, this one is air-conditioned with plenty of space. The bus takes you through every corner of the island and the history behind it. You’ll get to visit the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout, Koʻolau Mountains, Byodo-In Temple, Waimea Valley and its waterfalls, the Dole Plantation, and some of the most beautiful beaches.

Why We Love This Tour: This is one of the cheapest ways to travel around Oahu’s cultural sites, natural wonders, shopping centers, and surfing spots with other adventure-seekers.

What’s Included: Admission fee to Waimea Falls and Byodo-In Temple, pickup and drop-off (at select hotels in Ala Moana, Kahala, and Waikiki), transportation via AC minibus, stops at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout and Dole Plantation, local guides, bottled water, and lunch

17. Oahu Discovery Scuba Diving for Beginners

Operated By : Dive Oahu Inc

The Oahu Discovery Scuba Diving For Beginners is led by a certified instructor, so you can rest assured you’ll be in capable hands. The instructor will guide you to two reef sites in Honolulu, each teeming with mesmerizing sea life. Your tour begins by climbing aboard a fully-equipped boat with restrooms, two decks, and snacks and refreshments. You’ll be fitted with scuba equipment and learn basic diving skills before getting into the water.

Why We Love This Tour: A) you’ll get to tick off scuba diving from your bucket list, B) you’ll have the opportunity to see dolphins, crabs, starfish, octopus, rays, eels, turtles, sharks, we could go on and on, and C) the instructors pick the best tropical reef sites to give you the most magical diving experience.

What’s Included : Diving gear, transportation for activity duration, instructor, access to Waikiki Beach, and snacks

18. Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki

Duration:  1 Hour

Operated By : Hawaii Glass Bottom Boat

Description: You don’t need to spend a lot of money to have boatloads of fun, and this tour proves that. Enjoy the beauty of the South Shore as you head out on a lovely boat from the Kewalo Basin Harbor towards Lē’ahi. The glass-bottom boat allows you to get a clear view of the Pacific Ocean floor while staying dry. As you cruise over ancient shipwrecks and live tropical reefs, keep an eye out for marine life.

Why We Love This Tour: This is a unique tour to observe multiple species of marine creatures all from the deck of a glass-bottom boat. Plus, you’re free to bring your own beverages, including alcohol.

What’s Included: Guide, boat tour , and bottled water.

19. Manoa Falls Rainforest Tour with Healthy Lunch

Duration:  4 hours

A local guide will take you on a nature walk in the Manoa Valley Rainforest towards Manoa Falls. You’ll follow the guide on a 1.5-mile long trail through the tropical rainforest, which – wait for it – was where the movie Jurassic Park was filmed! As you stroll through the bamboo forest and lush scenery of the island, feel free to take as many pictures as you want. The tour also takes you to the Tantalus Lookout , from where you can watch the Waikiki skyline and Diamond Head volcano.

Why We Love This Tour: Trekking through a rainforest to a stunning 150-foot waterfall is not only good for your health but also your soul. Plus, when you’ve worked an appetite from all the hiking, you’ll be treated to a scrumptious lunch at the world-famous Andy’s Sandwich Shoppe. We have hiked to Manoa Falls numerous times, and this is one of our favorite hikes on the island. It’s easy and perfect for all fitness levels. The Tantalus Lookout is even more spectacular.

What’s Included: Lunch, local guide, bottled water, poncho and walking stick, pickup and drop-off from your hotel.

20. 3-Hour Dolphin Watching and Snorkel Excursion in Waianae

Operated By : Dolphin Excursions Hawaii

We have talked about quite a few boating tours in this list, but if you want to sail in style, this luxury 34-foot boat is the way to do it. The state-of-the-art vessel will depart from the west side of Oahu and take you to see whales, spinner dolphins, and other colorful creatures in the Pacific Ocean. An experienced crew will ensure you have the time of your life, with marine biologists and naturalists guiding your snorkeling excursion.

Why We Love This Tour: This is one of the few snorkeling tours on Oahu that actually guarantees dolphin sightings! You’ll also get to swim with fish and turtles from the comfort of a USCG-approved vessel.

What’s Included: Whale watching (during the season), two snorkel sites, snorkeling gear, and guaranteed sightings of dolphins (your money will be refunded if there are no dolphins around).

21. Honolulu Airport Traditional Lei Greeting

Duration:  20 minutes

Operated By : Hawaii Flower Lei

Being welcomed with a beautiful, handmade lei as soon as you step off the plane is how to experience true Hawaiian hospitality. This is not a tour, but more of an experience, where a local expert will greet you at your arrival gate with a fresh- flower lei and escort you through the airport. They will also give you a map of the most popular spots on Oahu and answer any questions you may have.

Why We Love This Experience: Lei is a quintessential Hawaiian tradition that sets the tone for your entire vacation. The friendly guide who greets you will also help you get the lei…I mean lay of the land, so you can make the most out of your stay.

What’s Included: Lei greeting by local expert and a map of the local sightseeing spots

22. Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Cruise

Duration:  1 hour 30 minutes

This is pretty much exactly like the previous tour, except that it sets sail as the sun dips below the horizon. The boat, Haleiwa Queen, is a 50-foot catamaran with a shaded deck and onboard restroom. You can bring your own food and drinks and make it into a nice picnic out on the water. As the sun reflects off the city skyline, the Diamond Head peak looks particularly majestic.

Why We Love This Tour: This is a golden opportunity to watch a breathtaking sunset over the ocean and learn about the local marine life from knowledgeable guides.

What’s Included: Bottled water

What are some cheap Oahu excursions?

Oahu is a rather expensive destination in Hawaii, but it is possible to have a good time here without breaking the bank. As clear from some of the tours and experiences listed in this post, you can enjoy many of the historic and cultural sites like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head Crater, and others at minimal costs.

The Afternoon Glass Bottom Boat Tour in Waikiki, Pearl Harbor, USS Arizona, and City Tour, and Royal Hawaiian Center in Waikiki (not mentioned above) cost less than $50. The Royal Hawaiian Center is a famous shopping center where they also organize free cultural shows and classes every day.

What are the best tour companies in Oahu?

If you want to get the most bang for your buck, look into excursions offered by G Adventures, Exodus Travels, Polynesian Adventure Tours, Discover Hawaii Tours, Hawaii Nautical, Tradewind Charters, Kailua Beach Adventures, Aaron’s Dive Shop, Surf ‘N’ Sea, Wild Side Specialty Tours, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters, Paradise Helicopters, Makani Kai Helicopters, and Oahu Nature Tours.

Final Thoughts

There you have it: our top recommendations for what to do and see when you stay on the island of Oahu. We hope this guide helps make your trip a little bit more fun and adventurous!

Hi, I'm Trysta B, a travel expert passionate about exploring Hawaii. Having visited Hawaii multiple times, I've developed a deep understanding and appreciation for the local culture, food, and hidden gems that make this place unique. As co-founder of This Travel Dream, I'm dedicated to sharing my knowledge and love for Hawaii with fellow travelers, helping them create unforgettable experiences in paradise. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Hawaii veteran, I'm here to help you make the most of your trip!

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• Oahu Guided Island Sightseeing Tour (22)
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Oahu Guided Island Sightseeing Tour

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Latest reviews of Oahu Guided Island Sightseeing Tour

Excellent full day tour.

The Oahu Island tour was perfect for seeing a lot of the island. I appreciated that the group was smaller than some of the other tour companies we saw riding around- it allowed us to have a more personal experience. Our ... more tour guide, John, was a wealth of knowledge about the island, its history, and its residents, and I enjoyed spending the day with him! John’s trained eye also helped us find turtles during our stop, which was a huge help! This tour was a good mix of everything - from local food to breathtaking views. I would recommend this tour be one of your first stops on your visit to Oahu, as there are many things you see along your drive that you may want to revisit during your trip (and your guide can help you determine which ones are worth your money!)

A Fabulous Day

A fabulous way to travel the whole island and learn about the history and culture. Our guide was local and so knowledgeable and friendly! The views were spectacular!! Communication from the company was easy to follow and ... more navigate. I would highly recommend this company and tour :-)

Turtle Sighted and Lots of Delicious Food

Our tour guide “D” was so friendly, kind, informative, and very considerate. We had many stops for different tastes of Hawaii. The tasting started with Malasadas from the Leonard’s food truck. We also stopped at a macada ... more mia nut farm that also had this sweet little pearl shop where I bought gifts for my daughters and myself. The best part for me was when we stopped at a beach to try and see turtles and my family did spot some playful ones! We stopped and had garlic shrimp for lunch which was delicious and filling and we ended the day shopping in Haleiwa Town. I think we stopped at like 3 beaches and the Blowhole. It was a whirlwind and a little taste of everything!

Amazing tour

We booked this tour for the day before we left for home . The trip and the wealth of knowledge Brandon imparted was so good we really did wish we had booked it at the very start of our trip so we could take advantage of ... more all the tips and suggestions he made to maximise our experience whilst visiting the island . Every stop we made added to our fabulous experience of the island . My only wish having now taken the tour was to have the bus stop on the north shore for 15 mins maybe to fully experience the fabulous waves we only saw from the bus window .. Brandon was a wealth of knowledge and kept the bus engaged at all times .

Best circle island tour

This was the best circle island tour I could’ve had. Our bus driver, Lola, was fabulous. There were six of us on this tour, grandparents, adult children and grandchildren. We all very much enjoyed the tour and all of the ... more Hawaiian history that Lola presented. We saw the best of the island (Oahu), and she got us in and out of places before they were overcrowded. We had plenty of time at all stops and never felt rushed. I could not have asked for a better experience for my family on their first trip to Oahu. I’m highly recommend this tour to anyone considering a full day’s tour. Sure, you can drive it yourself, but you’ll never get the full experience of hearing the history and stories from someone who actually lives on the island. Do yourself a favor and take this tour.

Great tour guide

We were picked up by Dan. He is a very informative guide. After picking up everyone we preceeded to do our tour. At our first stop he served us a purple dount and water. We visited 12 places and stopped at 6 places. Just ... more before we hit each place he gave us a lot of information plus we got to watch a video. The bus was air conditioned and had a bathroom on board. It was worth the 9 hours. We got to see some amazing sites and got to see most of Oahu.

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The 5 Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

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Ditch the need for a rental car by going on one of the best Oahu circle island tours! Take in the best stops on the island with a local guide who does the driving, talks story, and is your private photographer.

While we enjoy making Hawaii island itineraries and sharing them with you, we would be doing you wrong by not recommending an Oahu circle island tour.

Here are our reasons for doing an Oahu circle island tour during your visit:

• Pick the Oahu circle island tour right for you! Large group, private, adventure, small group, Pearl Harbor included, etc.
• They are a great way to see the whole island in one day and then go back to your favorite part of the island.
• Let a local guide share their island knowledge, history, and stories. Plus, they will know the best stops based on the weather.
• Skip a rental car on Oahu and those $50-a-night parking fees by exploring the island with a circle island tour.
• Do the tour on your first day. You will have a better understanding of the island’s geography, where to go back, and the history of the island.
• A photographer is included! Your guide is also your photographer to help capture those Hawaii memories

When it comes to guided tours, Oahu circle island tours are your one-stop shop for the North Shore and sights like Diamond Head and Makapu’u Lighthouse! You’ll get to see some of the best of the Gathering Place without the hassle of planning and driving, which is also great if you’re short on time. 

Ready to explore the best of Oahu? Join one of these Oahu circle island tours and get to adventuring!  Our quick list is below!

Here are the best Oahu circle island tours (in our opinion): – Are you looking for an adventure tour ? Take a private tour that you can customize with hiking, waterfall swims, snorkeling, and more! – A private tour of Oahu with two 1.5-hour activities and multiple photo spots. – Best large group tour (45 passengers) at a good price. – Are you staying in Ko Olina in West Oahu? This tour will pick you up at your Ko Olina resort (Disney’s Aulani, Four Seasons, Marriott, etc) – Small group tour (13 people) without the private tour price

When you book an Oahu circle island tour on our website, you are getting the best price and you are booking directly with the local tour company.

By booking here, you are helping us provide more quality reviews . Mahalo!

The Best Oahu Circle Island Tours

Full disclosure, we have been on some of these circle island tours but not all of them. But, we have thoroughly researched all of these tour companies and gotten feedback from our newsletter community.

We are confident you will enjoy these Oahu circle island tours as we looked at the following characteristics:

• Value: a quality tour at a good price
• The best online reviews and comments
• They have the best Oahu stops and activities
• Their local guides are knowledgeable, fun, and professional
• They have quality and comfortable vehicles

Watch our experience on our favorite Oahu circle island tour below to help you better understand what to expect on your day around the island.

Best Large Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Hop on this 10-hour Oahu adventure that’s perfect for big families and groups. Oahu Nature Tours Ultimate Circle Island Tour accommodates up to 45 people and is a jam-packed day of sightseeing!

The tour includes lunch and access to Waimea Valley . Some of the notable stops include Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, sea turtles at Halona Beach, Makapu’u Lighthouse, Mokoli’i Island, North Shore shrimp farms, and the Dole Plantation. 

One of the coolest things about this Circle Island tour is that they bring along an expert nature guide to point out Hawaii’s unique flora and fauna, alongside information on Oahu’s rich history, geology, and heritage. 

This tour includes roundtrip transportation – they’ll pick you up from your hotel in Honolulu – and lunch from Fumi’s Shrimp Stand, with delicious options like lemon pepper shrimp and chicken katsu. You’ll also walk away with a 152-page, pocket nature guide as a souvenir!

Don’t forget your rain ponchos! Hawaii’s variable weather won’t stop you as this tour operates rain or shine. You’ll also want to wear comfortable shoes ( we like Tevas ) although you’ll only clock about 1.5 miles throughout the day. Guests must be 3 years and older. 

Best Oahu Private Tours

A private tour of Oahu is a special treat! We love customizing our itinerary and having the flexibility of a private guide for the day. This is one of those times when splurging is well worth it!

Some of the best parts of a private tour is that you get to pick exactly what you want to see and do (or they’ll choose for you), you’ll be picked up right at your accommodation, and you have your tour guide all to yourself for any burning questions. 

Here are two of our favorite companies for private tours of Oahu.

Mahina Hawaii

Mahina Hawaii runs completely private, 8-hour tours of Oahu, whether you want to do a full Circle Island Tour or focus on one specific area. The entire tour is tailored to what your group wants to see and they choose locations based on both your preferences and current weather conditions. 

Although the itinerary is fully customizable, some options include snorkeling, hiking to waterfalls, cliff jumping, local food tastings, and traditional sightseeing at destinations like the Byodo-in Temple. Because this tour is just for you and your group, you can stop anywhere along the way, whether it is planned or spur of the moment.

Your private guide, transportation, snacks, water, snorkel equipment, and GoPro photos and videos are all included. Although lunch isn’t provided they have many delicious recommendations to choose from along the way.

If you have more than 7 in your group, you’ll need to let them know when you book the tour. They can get more van and local guides to fit your group size. 

We went out with them on one of our Oahu trips and had a blast!

Halia Tours

Halia Tours operates a 9-hour circle island tour that can accommodate groups of up to 10. Each tour aims to include two 1.5-hour activities and 3 to 5 photo stops with plenty of time to grab snacks and a bite to eat along the way.

Because this is a private tour, your itinerary is fully customizable to circumnavigate Oahu’s Koolau Range. Just some of the activity options include Oahu’s world-famous beaches, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking to Diamond Head or the Waimea Valley waterfall, scenic lookouts, and downtown Honolulu stops like the Bishop’s Museum. You can even “theme” your tour around foodie hot spots and shopping. 

Although they are a private tour group and guests can “go anywhere” they emphasized not entering local neighborhoods or heading to unsafe areas. Food, drinks, rentals, and any additional entrance fees are a la carte. 

If you’re looking for a half-day option, they can also do a “ mini tour ” that will have you back at your hotel, sipping Mai Tais by the early afternoon. They have flat rate pricing for groups of 1-5 or 5-10, which might affect your decision if you’re a smaller group.

Best Oahu Circle Island Tour from Ko Olina

Most group tours on Oahu leave from Waikiki. If you’re staying in Ko Olina Resort (Disney’s Aulani, Marriott, Four Seasons) , E Noa is your best option! Offering a 9-hour, group circle island tour for up to 25 guests, this group size feels a little less “big box” than the large tours and allows for plenty of time to truly experience all of the wonderful Oahu highlights along the way. 

You’ll avoid Honolulu traffic, stopping at sights like Nu’uanu Pali Lookout, Byodo-In Temple, Tropical Farms for macadamia nut cultivation, Waimea Valley, and end at the Dole Plantation.

Lunch and all of your admission fees are included in the price which makes this a great value. You’ll also be riding in style in a mini-bus with A/C and pick up and drop off from your hotel. Don’t forget to bring along your bathing suit and comfortable walking shoes.

Reminder, this tour departs from Ko Olina on the west side of Oahu.

Undecided about where to stay? Which Part of Oahu Should You Stay: Waikiki or Ko Olina or North Shore Where to Stay on Oahu: the Best Locations and Hotels Hawaii Hotel vs Airbnb: How to Decide What’s Best For Your Hawaii Vacation

Best Small Group Oahu Circle Island Tour

Pineapple Exp ’ small group circle island tour is the perfect option for those who want a more intimate experience without the private tour sticker shock.

Not only will you have plenty of time to stop and truly experience each place but your guide will be more readily available for questions and to drop some knowledge.

You’ll travel around Oahu with up to just 13 other vacationers on this 9-hour journey. Just some of your stops along the way are popular sights like Diamond Head State Monument, Byodo-In Temple, Makapu’u Point, Haleiwa Town Center, Dole Plantation, and North Shore Macadamia Nut Company. You’ll also stop at a few places that some of the other tours don’t such as Secret Turtle Beach and the Halona Blowhole.

Transportation to and from your hotel, water, snorkeling equipment, and Dole Whip are all included and all ages are welcome. You’re also gifted a Hawaiian pineapple at the end! How awesome is that? 

Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit, comfy walking shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Thinking of staying on the North Shore? The Best North Shore Oahu Hotels and Vacation Rentals 21 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu’s North Shore A Local Resident’s 10 Free Things To Do on North Shore Oahu

What to Expect on an Oahu Circle Island Tour

Oahu circle island tour itinerary (sample).

Wondering what you’ll see on an Oahu Circle Island Tour? Here’s an idea of what you can expect… 

• Tours typically start in Honolulu and head east in a counter-clockwise direction around the island. 
• First stops are often Diamond Head Crater and Makapu’u Point, continuing north to Byodo-In Temple and one of the macadamia nut farms (yum!). 
• You’ll then explore the North Shore including the town of Haleiwa and Waimea Valley. 
• Most tours finish up at the Dole Plantation for a sweet treat on your way back to Honolulu.

We highly recommend saving Pearl Harbor for a day of its own. Circle island tours that include a stop at Pearl Harbor are exceptionally long and it takes up a good chunk of the day that could be spent seeing other sights on Oahu.

We have a separate list of Pearl Harbor Tours if you’re interested in a guided option or you can easily visit on your own .

How long is an Oahu circle island tour?

Plan to be gone for an entire day on one of Oahu’s circle island tours. Most options range anywhere from 8 to 10 hours in total, with the majority of tours taking around 9 hours on average. Tours typically pick you up from (or near) your hotel early in the morning and drop you off just in time for dinner.

What is the best way to tour Oahu?

Hopping on a circle island guided tour is one of the best ways to see Oahu. These tours include most of the famous sites on the island, so you can tick off a bunch of different activities in one go. You’ll also have the added benefit of a professional guide, who can give you background on local history and culture, and you won’t have to worry about any planning.  

If you’re thinking about DIYing the same route with a rental car, we highly recommend following our Oahu itinerary ! Keep in mind that renting a car can be a little bit of a hassle and comes with some “hidden” fees like overnight parking at your hotel.

What is the most scenic part of Oahu?

We couldn’t give the award for the most scenic part of Oahu to just one place. The whole island is very beautiful! 

Our two favorites for scenery on the island are the North Shore and Windward Oahu. 

The North Shore is a must for its more down-to-earth, local vibes and lush scenery. Winter brings big waves and surfing competitions that are exciting to see. A visit in summer means you can enjoy the stunning beaches from both the sand and the water. 

Windward Oahu has a truly stunning stretch of coastline between Kualoa and Kailua. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden also makes for an incredible stop and is one of the most scenic spots we’ve found on Oahu. Picture 400 acres of gardens to explore with plants from around the world, all with the backdrop of Oahu’s jagged, Ko’olau Range.

Keep exploring: Is There a Best Time to Visit Oahu? The 4 Best Months 40 Things to Do on Oahu, Hawaii (we will surprise you!) 10 Best Beaches on Oahu: Secluded, White Sand, Find It All 34 Great Things to Do in Honolulu (that are actually IN Honolulu)

If you love the idea of a circle island tour so you don’t have to worry about planning, then you are going to love our itineraries . The best beaches, restaurants, hotels, vacation rentals, tours, and fully planned excursion days are at your fingertips. Skip the countless hours of research and planning, leave it to us, and go have an amazing vacation!

we are very very pleased with the itinerary you have put together. Well worth the money as I think this would have taken days and days to research ourselves .  You two do a great job putting this together and it’s much appreciated. Robert K.

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the oahu itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Oahu.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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Ultimate Circle Island Tour Special With Lunch AND Waimea Waterfall included!

Founded in 1995 ,  Oahu Nature Tours  is  the original nature adventure company on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. We offer the finest circle island tour at the best price available, with  professionally trained, knowledgeable and friendly local guides to narrate and assist you at each location visited, while exploring our beautiful island. Our tour is designed to show you the fascinating natural diversity and beauty of our island. Spectacular scenery , excellent photographic opportunities, and information about the Geology, Archaeology, Mythology and History of Hawaii await you on our fun and educational adventure.

Whether you are interested in a tropical rainforest jungle , a waterfall walk , visiting volcanic craters, enjoying colorful tropical birds and flowers, or simply would like to learn fun and interesting facts about the fascinating natural history of Hawaii, Oahu Nature Tours has always been the adventure travelers’ choice for quality eco-tours.

By selecting Oahu Nature Tours as your eco-tour provider, you are helping Hawaii’s environment as we donate a portion of our proceeds to the Hawaii Audubon Society, San Diego Zoo Global Wildlife Conservancy, American Bird Conservancy, the Nature Conservancy, Bishop Museum , and the Conservation Council of Hawaii .

Let us show you the REAL Hawaii

7 Reasons to choose Oahu Nature Tours:

1. CONSISTENTLY EXCELLENT, 5-STAR RATINGS ON TRIPADVISOR YEAR AFTER YEAR

  2.  BEST HOURLY RATE ON THE ISLAND AND MOST LOCATIONS VISITED

  3.   BEST PROFESSIONAL NARRATOR S ON OAHU, PLUS SEPARATE EXPERT DRIVER

4.  DELICIOUS SHRIMP LUNCH INCLUDED , PLUS ALL ADMISSION FEES

5.  NEW VEHICLES WITH AIR-CONDITIONING AND PANORAMIC WINDOW VIEWS

 6. NO COMMERCIAL SHOPPING STOPS

7. WE ARE THE ORIGINAL ECO-TOUR COMPANY ON OAHU, OPERATING OUR TOURS FOR 25 YEARS

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Best Tours in Honolulu: 28 Incredible Tours Worth Your Money

Are you planning a trip to oahu and want to know which honolulu activities are worth checking out keep scrolling to find out the best tours in honolulu, hawaii, this list of the best tours in honolulu, hawaii was written by hawaii travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Traveling to Honolulu, Oahu soon? You’re in luck because this city offers some of the best tours and activities! If you have a family, we’ve even included some things that are perfect for kids. 

Let’s get started on your trip planning with all the fun facts about our top picks.  These include surfing lessons, snorkeling excursions, and more!

Just make sure to book early because many of these popular attractions book up quickly.

So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now for these Oahu tours so you don’t miss out on anything amazing while visiting Hawaii’s capital city.

These are some of the best Honolulu excursions I’ve found!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.

Popular Oahu Tours/Activities

• Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
• Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
• Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
• Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
• CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
• Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)

Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels

• Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
• Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
• Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)

Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii? One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.

Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.

Best Honolulu Tours to Book

Honolulu helicopter tours, scenic oahu helicopter tour (45 minutes).

Get a bird’s eye view of Oahu with this 45-minute scenic helicopter ride! Experience beautiful landmarks like Sacred Falls, Diamond Head, Maunalua Bay, and more from above.

Choose between ‘doors on’ or ‘doors off,’ and choose whether to get an up-close look at Pearl Harbor too. This Honolulu helicopter tour is available for kids of all ages and offers spectacular views you won’t find anywhere else.  Check latest rates and more information .

This is definitely one of the best helicopter rides Honolulu offers!

Oahu Eco Helicopter Tour (45 minutes)

For another Waikiki helicopter tour, take flight and discover Oahu while soaring over the beautiful landscape. See Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and more!

Buckle up as you’re whisked away in a state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopter for an aerial tour of sights that many visitors never see. Fly by hidden rain forests with their waterfalls or valleys to experience all there is about this historical island paradise from above on your very own breathtaking adventure through EcoStar’s first-class seats complete with viewing windows (and recorded commentary)!

This Oahu helicopter tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Take flight and discover Oahu while soaring over the beautiful landscape. See Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and more!

Buckle up as you’re whisked away in a state-of-the art Eco Star helicopter for an aerial tour of sights that many visitors never see. Fly by hidden rain forests with their waterfalls or valleys to experience all there is about this historical island paradise from above on your very own breathtaking adventure through EcoStar’s first class seats complete with viewing windows (and recorded commentary)!

This Oahu helicopter tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information .

Waikiki Tours and Activities

Oahu atlantis submarine adventure.

For an unforgettable aquatic experience, jump aboard the Atlantis Submarine. This submarine-style glass-bottom boat ride takes you on a journey through Oahu’s waters with your guide providing informative commentary about what lies beneath the surface 100 feet (30 meters) below sea level.

You’ll get to see a sunken airplane, a shipwreck, and even an underwater Japanese seaweed farm. This Honolulu submarine tour is open to kids who are at least 35 inches tall.  Check latest rates and more information .

Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Tour

Board the Haleiwa Queen, a 50-foot power catamaran that departs conveniently from Honolulu’s harbor. This boat takes you on an afternoon cruise into the open Pacific Ocean to look for dolphins, sea turtles, and migrating humpback whales, among other things!

You’ll also be able to take in views of fish or coral reefs through unique magnifying view portals while staying comfortable beneath shaded canopies if you choose. This Waikiki boat tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information .

It is one of the only glass-bottom boat Honolulu tours to enjoy!

Waikiki Parasailing

Get up close and personal with the beautiful coastline of Oahu from 500 feet (152 meters) high on this one-hour Hawaiian parasailing in Waikiki. This activity is suitable for all experience levels, so it’s perfect whether you’re a first-timer or an old pro!

Photos and GoPro footage are available for purchase to make your memories last forever. This tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Waikiki Trolley Tours

Discover Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki on a 1-, 4- or 7-day Waikiki hop-on hop-off tour. You’ll have the opportunity to see all of your favorite top attractions at your own pace.

Choose from multiple routes that pass by  Diamond Head  as well as Hanauma Bay! Upgrade with this flexible ticket for an even better trip experience where you can create your own itinerary easily. That’s why these are our favorite Honolulu city tours for families.  Read our full Waikiki Trolley review  HERE .

This Honolulu bus tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Oahu Zipline Tour

While there is currently no zipline in Honolulu, Hawaii, this Oahu zipline tour offers transportation to and fro Waikiki, making it the perfect tour for you! The Coral Crater Adventure Park is located in Kapolei and offers you a few hours filled with fun times.

This zipline Waikiki tour includes riding on up to 6 different zip lines. Ziplining through Oahu is one of the top attractions to enjoy during your vacation and is something you will definitely want to explore.

Children six years and older can participate too. Check latest rates and more information .

Coral Crater ATV & Zipline Combo Tour

Do you want to go on a Waikiki zipline but also have a fun ATV adventure? Then try this combo tour! With Waikiki transportation, you can easily enjoy these Oahu tours during your stay on the Hawaiian islands.

During this ATV tour in Honolulu, you can enjoy 3 different zip lines and then drive in some ATVs on some rugged terrain. You will have a blast! It is another family-friendly tour for kids 6 years and older. Check latest rates and more information .

Shark Cage Dive Tour Adventure

If you want to enjoy some more time in the Pacific Ocean, try out one of the only shark cages diving Honolulu tours available. The tour takes place on the North Shore, but it also provides you with round-trip transportation from Waikiki.

Shark sightings are guaranteed, or else you get this tour for free! While you might see some tropical fish, seeing the sharks is definitely the highlight of this tour.

The entire family can come along too! It is available for children 3 years and older. Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Haunts and Hauntings Ghost Tour

If you are fascinated by ghosts and all things haunted, you will love these Honolulu ghost tours. During this tour, you will get to walk around Honolulu and see some of the most haunted places in Oahu.

Your guide will talk to you about all the eerie sights along the way to each of your stops. You will see at least 6 places and hear stories about how they are haunted. Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Boat Tours

Waikiki sunset cocktail cruise.

Sunsets are always a beautiful sight to see. Take this 1.5-hour cruise with appetizers, two complimentary alcoholic drinks, and unlimited nonalcoholic beverages.

You’ll sail the waves of Waikiki while you get lost in the colors that engulf your surroundings as the sun sets over Oahu’s coastline on one side, and Diamond Head takes its final bow before disappearing for another night.

This is guaranteed to be an experience like no other! These Waikiki boat tours are open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Deluxe Sunset Dinner & Show

A trip to Honolulu wouldn’t be complete without a sunset dinner cruise!

Experience the Hawaiian sunset with an evening cruise off the coast of Oahu. Watch its vibrant colors reflected on Diamond Head and enjoy a welcome “champagne” toast plus two additional premium beverages of choice, all while dining on seafood and steak followed by live entertainment, including jazz music.

Dine in style with this 5-course romantic dinner show during this unforgettable experience – you’ll never want to leave! This Honolulu boat tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Waikiki Sailing Adventure

From Kewalo Harbor in Honolulu, head down to Ala Moana Beach Park and Waikiki. Along the way, you will see Hawaii’s famous green sea turtles as you travel through a marine wildlife sanctuary on this 90-minute guided tour of Oahu’s south shore!

This tour includes two drinks for free, with snacks provided during the sail that takes you up close to Diamond Head from the water.  This Oahu boat tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Whale Watching Tour

You will want to experience a whale-watching Honolulu tour at least once, especially if you visit during the winter months. If you don’t see any whales during this whale-watching Waikiki tour, you get to go again for free!

Unlimited drinks are included while you sail around looking at these majestic creatures. The entire family can hop aboard and enjoy this sail; no age limit at all. Check latest rates and more information .

Pearl Harbor Tours

Half-day salute to pearl harbor tour.

If you plan on getting Pearl Harbor Honolulu tickets to these historic sites, why not just go on a Pearl Harbor National Memorial tour!

Visit Pearl Harbor, where you can take a half-day tour of the history and exhibits that are located there. You will be able to learn about how World War II impacted Hawaiian history, including looking at some of the sites like the USS Arizona Memorial, which is out in the water offshore from Honolulu.

This half-day Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages .   Check latest rates and more information .

USS Arizona Memorial & USS Missouri Battleship Tour from Waikiki

Book these for more Pearl Harbor tours from Waikiki to see the Japanese attack site.

Spend a day on Oahu learning all about Pearl Harbor! This round-trip tour from Waikiki includes visits to both the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri battleship before heading back to Waikiki.

Along your way, you’ll have opportunities for Q&As with guides, explore a powerful documentary of what happened at Pearl Harbor, and learn more from historical photos in the museum. This Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Full-Day Pearl Harbor Tour

Explore the history of Pearl Harbor and World War II in Oahu with a full-day tour that features a comprehensive overview.

See highlights, including USS Arizona Memorial, USS Battleship Missouri, and WWII Valor in Pacific National Monument, while your guide shares informative commentary about Hawaii’s role during this time period.

With this tour, you can also enjoy the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum along with the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.

Plus, you’ll get to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy with a tour through historic downtown Honolulu. This Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Want a VIP experience? Find out the best Pearl Harbor private tours worth booking.

Oahu Circle Island Tours

Private hawaii bucket list tour.

One of the best ways to experience Oahu is with a circle island tour.  Read our full Hawaii Bucket List Tour review .

It’s an easy way to hit a bunch of top Oahu attractions, see the different sides of the island, and check out some amazing scenery along the way. It is one of the top Honolulu tours to go sightseeing and explore all the island has to offer.

This is a private Oahu Circle Island tour with a local guide, so you’ll be able to spend as long (or as little) time at each spot as you like. Plus, it’s open to kids of all ages.  Check the latest rates and more information .

Ultimate Circle Island Adventure with Waimea Waterfall

Tourists will enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes of Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, and the “From Here to Eternity” beach.

Along your journey, stop at Makapu’u Point for an amazing view overlooking Chinaman’s Hat and Malaekahana Bay before taking a scenic drive along North Shore with delicious lunch by Fumi’s Shrimp Stand, where you’ll be served nine different sautéed shrimp plates from which to choose.

You will also get to enjoy the Waimea waterfall among the lush rainforests too!

This tour is open to kids ages 3 years old and up.  Check latest rates and more information .

Oahu Grand Circle Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles

Take a full-day minibus tour of Oahu’s highlights with this small group and local guide. See the  Dole Plantation,  Halona Blowhole, Diamond Head, and Makapu’u Beach during your daylong outing to make plenty of stops at the island’s highlights while on board!

Roundtrip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included for 20 people or less in each small bus. Visit Kualoa Point, where you can see Mokoliʻi Island up close before visiting the Macadamia Nut Farm and pineapple plantation too!

Snorkel amongst Hawaiian green sea turtles as they swim beneath tropical waters off North Shore beaches. This tour is open to kids of all ages and perfect for warm weather. Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Bike Tours

Diamond head biking tour.

In this Honolulu volcano tour, lose yourself in the beauty of Hawaii’s history and experience it firsthand on a half-day bike tour from Waikiki. Ride to Diamond Head Crater, and hike up its dormant volcano for amazing views from the top. You’ll also see Doris Duke’s mansion and hidden beaches you’ll pass along your way.

Not only will you get lunch, but you’ll also get Hawaiian snacks and drinks along the way. This Honolulu bike tour is open to kids ages 12 and up.  Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Downhill Bike Adventure

With this biking adventure, you’ll get the chance to experience all of Oahu’s natural beauty and rich history.

On your journey through Puu Ohia rainforest, a professional nature guide will tell you about Hawaii life and its surroundings, as well as what plants or animals might be seen along the way. Once at Tantalus by car, you’ll hop on your bike for an exhilarating downhill ride back into Honolulu with panoramic views over Manoa Valley, Diamond Head, and more!

This Oahu biking tour is open to kids at least 5 years old.  Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Bike, Hike & Snorkel Adventure

With three different eco-adventure combinations to choose from, there’s something for everyone on these fun tours in Waikiki!

For a full-day tour, you can go on a guided 1.5-mile hike through the tropical rainforest with breathtaking views of Diamond Head and Waikiki.

Then, you’ll take in an unforgettable snorkeling experience off the picturesque shoreline near Waikiki Beach, where schools of colorful fish roam alongside turtles and dolphins as they swim among coral reefs teeming with marine life.

This Honolulu tour is open to kids at least 5 years old.  Check latest rates and more information .

Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu

Enjoy a Honolulu food tour as you bike around, tasting delicious food from the Hawaiian culture. You will stop at a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants to enjoy all the incredible local food.

Many of these spots are not too well known and will offer you complimentary tastings! The bikes, helmets, food, and round-trip transportation are all included in this tour. Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Snorkeling Tours

Turtle canyon catamaran snorkel cruise.

Snorkel with green sea turtles in Oahu’s Turtle Canyon and enjoy lunch on this 2- to 3-hour tour departing from Waikiki.

Board a power catamaran and sail along the shore of Oahu towards the island’s best place to spot resident turtles, which will be guaranteed (or you’ll get a free second cruise).

After exploring by water, relax for an extended time enjoying two drinks provided while keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins or migrating whales passing through. This Honolulu snorkel tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Snorkel with Dolphins and Turtles in the Wild

Jump on a boat and snorkel with spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish. This Oahu snorkeling tour provides snorkel gear, kayaks, and even paddle boards so you can explore on your own.

When you’re ready for lunch, you’ll head back in time so that you can enjoy your complimentary snack bag and drinks. They even have hula lessons on board!

This tour is open to kids at least 2 years old and is one of the most popular Honolulu snorkel tours.  Check latest rates and more information .

Waikiki Guided Beach Snorkeling Tour

What’s better than a relaxing day at the shore? Snorkeling, that’s what!

Ala Moana Beach is home to snorkelers of all levels. The calm and protected ocean lagoon provides an environment for beginners while also providing plenty of reefs and fish for more adventurous divers to see.

Last but not least, each diver gets free GoPro video taken by their professional guides- just download the app on your smartphone so you can receive it once you’re done!

This Waikiki snorkeling tour is open to kids ages 10 years old and up.  Check latest rates and more information .

Honolulu Private Tours

Instagram photo tour of oahu.

Set out on a private photo shoot adventure and capture epic pictures perfect for sharing with friends and family. This tour is all about getting to explore locations made famous by top Hawaii Instagram influencers, as well as places that few know about.  

AA few of the stops include Tantalus Lookout, Leonard’s Bakery, Makapuu Point, North Shore Food Trucks, and the murals in Kakaako. This Oahu photo tour is open to kids of all ages.  Check latest rates and more information .

Visiting Honolulu Oahu FAQs

Honolulu is the name of a city, and Oahu is the name of the island on which Honolulu is located. The  airport  is located in Honolulu, so all flights to Oahu land in Honolulu. You’ll find most Oahu excursions in Honolulu, Hawaii.

The best time to see whales in Hawaii is from  December  to  May or during the winter months. That’s when the whale migration passes through the islands. You’ll definitely want to book your Oahu whale-watching tour ahead of time, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Honolulu is pretty fun year-round; however, there are usually fewer crowds (and better travel deals) if you go from mid-April  to  June  or  September  to mid-December. Even though this is the shoulder season, there are still tons of things to do in Honolulu for all types of travelers. That’s why I think it’s the best time to go to Honolulu.

It is best to spend at least 3 to 5 days in Oahu in total. You can take one or two day trips from Honolulu to experience the North Shore and other areas of the island that you want. Otherwise, you can enjoy all the Honolulu sightseeing and Hawaii excursions Honolulu offers!

Yes, you can find a hop-on, hop-off Honolulu tour . These Honolulu hop-on, hop-off bus tours take you all over the island and are a fantastic experience if you want to explore all the hidden gems in Oahu!

While you can walk around in Honolulu to explore and go sightseeing at the top sights in the area, you will probably want to go on either the Honolulu or Waikiki excursions conveniently located and offered right in town.

Tours in Honolulu Wrap Up

Honolulu is a bustling city full of adventure and culture. If you’re planning to visit Oahu, make sure to take advantage of the many different things there are to do in Honolulu.

Whether it’s for work or pleasure, this guide should help you plan your time on Oahu so that you can see all the amazing sights before heading home again.

Best Places to stay in Honolulu

Now that you know some of the best Honolulu Hawaii tours to book before your trip, let’s talk about some of my favorite places to stay in Honolulu.

If you’re looking for a Waikiki hotel with a party vibe, you’ll want to book the  Alohilani Hotel . It’s right across from Waikiki Beach, and it has an awesome infinity pool where you can get the ultimate Instagram shot!  Read my full Alohilani Resort review  HERE .

For families heading to Honolulu with kids, it doesn’t get much better than the  Hilton Hawaiian Village . There are tons of shops, restaurants, and activities on the premises, and you won’t even need to rent a car.  Read my full Hilton Hawaiian Village review  HERE .

And for people who don’t want to be in the heart of Waikiki, try the  Ala Moana Hotel . It’s right next to Ala Moana Center (the largest outdoor shopping mall in the world).

Looking for more fun things to do in Honolulu? Check out the best  Waikiki attractions for families , a guide to   Secret Island Oahu ,  Experience Nutridge luau review , and the  best things to do in North Shore Oahu !

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Oahu Private Tours

With real hawaii tours, experience the best of hawaii with our oahu private tours.

Ever wondered what it feels like to Oahu private tours? Feel the salty sea breeze rustle your hair as you cruise down a sun-kissed highway, surrounded by emerald mountains, cascading waterfalls and North Shore beaches with surfers conquering waves. Palm trees sway in rhythm with Hawaiian melodies floating from your radio. You pass by emerald mountains, cascading waterfalls, and world-famous North Shore beaches where surfers conquer towering waves. Now imagine getting all these personalized for you! This is not just another vacation; it's an immersive journey through paradise tailored to fit your dreams! But how can such a tour be possible? Stay tuned as we unravel Hawaii’s best-kept secrets on our exclusive island adventure! Trust me when I say that the ride ahead promises unmatched beauty and thrilling surprises at every turn!

Oahu Private Tours : Exploring the Island's Hidden Gems

Imagine embarking on a private tour in Oahu, tailored just for you. The adventure starts as soon as your expert guide picks you up from your Waikiki hotel. You get to experience Oahu like never before, uncovering its most beautiful and hidden gems. Check out what makes Real Hawaii Tours' the go-to Hawaii Travel Agency for Private O'ahu  Tours and Activities.

What makes Real Hawaii Tours the premier provider of Private Tours & Activities?

• 1 Personalized Itineraries Discover the perfect Oahu adventure tailored just for you! Our expert team crafts personalized itineraries that capture your interests, preferences, and schedules down to the finest detail. Get ready for an unparalleled experience that will make your time in Oahu truly one of a kind.
• 2 Luxury Transportation Discover the awe-inspiring beauty of Oahu with our exceptional array of transportation choices. Experience the safety, comfort, and style you deserve as you embark on your journey.
• 3 Unparalleled Service We prioritize your satisfaction above all else. Our dedicated crew takes immense pride in delivering exceptional service, guaranteeing a seamless and unforgettable experience on our beautiful island.
• 4 Authentic experiences Experience the authentic Hawaii with us. Discover hidden gems, savor local cuisine, and immerse yourself in cultural events while exploring popular attractions. Join us for a truly unforgettable journey!

Customizing Your Private Tour Experience

A personalized journey allows you to choose specific spots that pique your interest. Perhaps it's the breathtaking North Shore beaches or maybe it’s Haleiwa town with its rich cultural heritage? The beauty of a private island tour is how flexible and customizable they are. Your group size doesn't exceed 14 people which lets us focus more on creating memories while maintaining an intimate feel throughout the trip. The unique thing about our custom private tours is that they're designed not just for sightseeing but also for diving deep into Hawaiian culture. You can explore beyond famous landmarks like Diamond Head or Kamehameha Statue, visit places less traveled yet equally captivating such as Ala Moana and Laniakea Beach.

Taking Your Taste Buds on an Adventure Too

No exploration would be complete without some gastronomic delight involved. How about tasting macadamia nut delicacies at a local farm or trying out food trucks known only by locals? The Real Hawaii Tours aims to provide visitors with an immersive experience so authentic; it leaves them feeling almost like kama’aina (locals) by the end of their private Oahu island tour. From the world-famous surf on North Shore beaches to a visit at Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona, every step is an adventure that promises new discoveries. So whether you’re here for an adrenaline rush or just want to unwind with nature's splendor, our expert guides are ready to help craft your perfect Hawaiian getaway.

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6 Beautiful Places On Oahu You Can Only See On This Unique ATV Tour

O ahu is a Hawaiian Island separated by mountains. There is an abundance of scenery you cannot easily access. That is why experiencing Oahu from the seat of an off-road vehicle is one of the best ways to see some amazing scenery away from the beach. 

If you enjoy a tour with some adventure, an ATV tour is a great choice. If you pick the right tour, you’ll get a sense of the real Oahu, the land, and the culture of the island and its people. It’s also far away from the crowds and the commercialization of Waikiki and Honolulu.

An ATV tour on Oahu was a must-do for me for two reasons: One, I love ATVing, and two, I wanted to see a scenic part of Oahu that most don’t have access to while coming away with a bit of knowledge of Hawaiian culture. I got that and so much more with the Pua Pua’a Piglet ATV Adventure with North Shore Eco Tours . 

Here are six beautiful things you can see on an Oahu ATV tour.

1. Oahu’s North Shore

Once you set off from Haleiwa, the North Shore town you depart from, you ride for a bit. This stop overlooked the town and coast below. While the persistent rain clouded our view, it was pretty cool to see Haleiwa, this North Shore surfing town and popular tourist destination, from a long distance.

2. Private Agricultural Land

The North Shore Eco Tours ATV tour takes you across private land owned by Kamehameha Schools.

Upon her death in 1887, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop — the last descendant of King Kamehameha — endowed 365,000 acres of ancestral land across Hawaii to a trust that would become Kamehameha Schools. Today, Kamehameha Schools’ mission is education for the well-being of Native Hawaiians. It is a deeply seeded idea in Hawaiian culture that well-being is directly related to the health of the land ( ‘āina ). They accomplish this through programs to support agriculture, conservation, and clean energy to name a few.

The school has about 50,000 acres of land on Oahu, the majority divided into agricultural land and conservation land. Local agri-businesses lease land from the school to grow a variety of crops like sugar cane and fruit.

Fruit Trees

We also saw row after row of fruit trees during the first part of your ride; banana, papaya, mango, avocado, and guava. You will be able to sample some in-season fruit.

Pro Tip: Study up on your knowledge of fruit because your guide will test that knowledge during the tour. Which is all for fun.

We saw acres of heirloom sugar cane grown for nearby Kō Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum Distillery . Did you know that Kō Hana uses the fresh juice of over 30 varieties of sugar cane to make their rum?

Pro Tip: You can visit Kō Hana Distillery for a fun tour, or just stop in for a tasting. I did a tour during my last visit to Oahu and it was insightful (not to mention the rum is fabulous).

3. Historic WWII Sites

We spotted a couple of pill boxes that dot the mountainsides all over the island. These pill boxes served as lookout points and defensive stations for the military during the war. Today, some around the island are destination points for hikes, but many just sit abandoned. 

4. Lush Forests

After riding through the rows of fruit trees, you enter the conservation land area owned by the school. Riding through thick forest, the trail is uneven and muddy. If you’re lucky, you may just see a wild boar, although they usually come out at night.

You’ll see trees, like the eucalyptus tree maybe getting a whiff of its familiar scent, or the Koa tree, with its sparse flat foliage among tall grass and tropical ferns.

5. ‘Opae’ula Reservoir

We stopped at one point, looking down at the ‘Opae’ula Reservoir, and Ryan (our guide) introduced us to the oldest tree species on the island, the ʻōhiʻa. The beautiful lehua flower is one of those blooms that you envision when you think of Hawaii. It’s the first tree you will see growing from hardened lava after a volcano erupts.

Hawaiian folklore suggests that if you pick the lehua, rain will come on that day.

6. Waianae Mountains

The pinnacle of our tour was the expansive views of the Waianae Mountains. If you want to feel on top of the world and far away from everyone, this is the spot.

Not only is this the highest point on the tour, but the halfway mark too. From here, you descend back down taking a different trail.

There were a couple of yurts set up near the edge, an idea for a camping experience that is set to be staffed and ready to go through North Shore Eco Tours by summer 2023. I can only imagine waking up to this spectacular view while enjoying my morning coffee.

Things To Know Before Your ATV Tour

Type of tour.

There are quite a few different ATV tours in Oahu, each with its own focus. The Pua Pua’a Piglet ATV Adventure with North Shore Eco Tours was the one I chose. This tour takes about 2.5 hours. There is a max of three vehicles (not including the guide), so it is a great small tour.

Age And Physical Requirements

The minimum age requirement is 5 years old. All drivers must be at least 21 and have a valid driver’s license. 

They recommend that if you have physical restraints such as back and neck problems, or are pregnant, to not do the tour. This is for a good reason. The trails are rough and uneven in most places and you get jostled around a lot.

What Kind Of Vehicle Is Used On The Tour

North Shore Eco Tours uses a six-passenger Kawasaki Mule ATV for this tour. The Mule is equipped with seat belts and a walkie-talkie intercom radio. There is no windshield, so you will get wet if the trail is muddy. There is plenty of space to bring along a backpack with water.

Arriving For Your Tour

This tour begins in Haleiwa and when you sign up, you get specific instructions on how to get there. The instructions also state to arrive a half-hour before your tour time.

Once you arrive and park, you will be greeted and asked to sign a waiver. At this time, you will get your helmet and eye-protective gear. They will supply a returnable rain poncho. 

Then, your guide will go through some basic instructions on how to operate the Mule and other safety information.

What To Wear

Closed-toe shoes are required and you cannot ride without them. Also, keep your favorite Hawaiian shirt back at the hotel. Wear comfortable clothes that you will be okay with getting dirty… extremely dirty.

Pro Tip: I strongly advise against wearing white or anything light-colored. The red dirt on the island is very hard to get out of clothes. If you’d like, bring an extra change of clothes along.

Things To Bring

There are a few extras you should bring along. The tour provides bug spray, but you’ll want to bring sunscreen. You should bring a rain jacket and/or a sweatshirt just in case. I would also suggest having a large plastic bag along for your backpack. It rained throughout our whole tour and our bags were soaked. Bring sunglasses and extra water. The tour provides snacks and beverages halfway through, but if it’s a hot day, you’ll want extra water.

Don’t forget your phone or camera. Ryan was more than happy to take photos of us during the tour. 

Despite the rain, we all agreed that this was our favorite thing we’d done in Oahu. The remote scenery, the wet and muddy trails, and the educational aspect gave us an authentic Oahu experience. This adventure may not be for everyone, but if you have a thirst for a fun escapade, I highly recommend an ATV tour in Oahu, or any of the Hawaiian Islands.

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits

Carrie Underwood Just Announced A Brand New Tour Destination

"It's gonna be a party in paradise."

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Underwood just announced that she'll be performing in Hawaii for the first time ever this July! The eight-time Grammy Award-winning singer has made her rounds over the year in the continental United States, but now she's finally giving fans in the Aloha State a chance to see her live in concert. The "Before He Cheats" songstress will perform in Honolulu at the Blaisdell Arena on Friday, July 19 and Saturday, July 20.

It's clear fans in Hawaii have been waiting to see Carrie in concert long enough, because tickets for both shows are selling out. Underwood announced the news of her new tour location on her Instagram. "I’m so excited to be playing my first concerts in Hawai’i EVER on July 19 & 20 at Blaisdell Arena! Can’t wait to see you there! Tickets are on sale now at Ticketmaster.com !,” she wrote.

"It's about time and it's gonna be a party in paradise," Underwood exclaimed in her video message.

Lucky ticket holders and fans jumped in the comments to share their excitement. "See you in July!!! 🔥🔥🔥❤️," "Aloha from Maui! Have my tickets Hawaii loves you! I’ve been a fan since Idol! Hawaii No-Ka-Oi!!" and "She is going to rock out Hawaii the queen 👸," fans wrote. Other fans from the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Latin America, California and elsewhere used the opportunity to beg Carrie to consider performing in other new areas . "Every time there’s a new announcement about a concert/tour I always hope it’s gonna be for the UK but it never is. 😢 Hope you’re able to come back to the UK soon, we’ll be ready and waiting. 🙏 ❤" and "Australia please next," they pleaded.

If you've seen Carrie Underwood in concert in your area, consider yourself lucky, and if not now there's hope that she will expand her reach even further on her next tour!

Catch Up on Country Music News

Reba McEntire Is Starring in a New NBC Show

What Is Dolly Parton's Net Worth?

Lainey Wilson Had the Best Reaction to Winning Her First Grammy

Kelly Clarkson Brings Jelly Roll to Tears with "Save Me" Cover

Carrie Underwood Surprises Fans with Major Career News

Dan + Shay Have the Most Romantic Love Stories

Maggie Horton is the Associate News Editor at Country Living. She covers all things entertainment from celebrity news to TV shows and movies. When she's not posting to social media, researching the latest celebrity gossip or binging the hottest new TV series, you can find her at a local concert or outside enjoying nature. 

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Beyoncé Honored Mickey Guyton with Flowers

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