Viator Rating : 5 (177 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.7/10 (Solid Experience)
Honolulu
Oahu Circle Island Tour from Kauai: Fly & Explore!
Overview
The Oahu Grand Circle Island Experience departing from Kauai shows off Oahu’s best sights! This bus tour takes you around the whole island to see amazing places. First, fly from Kauai to Honolulu. Then, get ready to explore!
What can you expect? The tour stops at famous spots like the Dole Plantation, where you can learn about pineapples. See the big waves at the North Shore's Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay, where surfing champions play. You'll also see pretty towns like Haleiwa. The tour also stops at the Amelia Earhart Marker & Diamond Head Views. You will also visit Leonard's Bakery and Macadamia Nut Store, You will be amazed by the views from Nuuanu Pali Lookout, Makapu'u Point, and Hālona Blowhole.
This tour includes round-trip airfare from Kauai, a guide who tells fun stories, and air-conditioned transportation. It does not include meals, transportation to the Kauai airport, towels or tips. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (7 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Oahu's Best Spots: Visit famous beaches, scenic lookouts, and the Dole Plantation all in one day.
Fly from Kauai: Enjoy round-trip airfare from Lihue Airport to Honolulu Airport.
Learn from a Local Guide: Hear stories and facts about Oahu from an expert guide.
Ride in Comfort: Travel around the island in an air-conditioned vehicle.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers enjoyed seeing many Oahu attractions in one day.
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They appreciated the convenience of round-trip air transportation from Kauai.
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The tour guides were knowledgeable and engaging.
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Customers were happy that Dole Plantation and North Shore Beaches were included.
Some felt that the time at each location was too short.
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Others wished for more control over the itinerary.
The Journey
Amelia Earhart Marker & Diamond Head Views
Visit the Amelia Earhart Marker, commemorating her historic 1935 solo flight from Hawaii to California, while enjoying stunning panoramic views of Diamond Head Lighthouse, a beacon since 1899 that shines nearly 18 miles across the Pacific. Take in the beauty of Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park and the coastline towards Kahala from this scenic vantage point.
Leonard's Bakery
Indulge in Hawaii's beloved malasadas at Leonard's Bakery, a Portuguese bakery that has popularized these delectable, hole-less doughnuts. Experience a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine with these slightly crispy and chewy fried pastries. (Optional stop, time permitting).
Hālona Blowhole
Witness the power of nature at the Hālona Blowhole, formed thousands of years ago by volcanic lava tubes. Marvel as seawater shoots up to 30 feet in the air. Enjoy the breathtaking view of Halona Cove, a stunning beach featured in numerous movies, and keep an eye out for whales during winter months.
Sandy Beach (Wāwāmalu)
Experience the thrill of Sandy Beach, known to locals as Wāwāmalu and nicknamed 'Broke Neck Beach' for its powerful shore break. Famous for bodyboarding and bodysurfing, this beach offers consistent barrels for experienced wave riders. (Drive-by or restroom stop).
Makapu'u Beach
Discover Makapu'u Beach, a picturesque eastside beach beneath Makapu'u Point, Hawaii's easternmost tip. Overlook Rabbit Island and the Makapu'u Lighthouse. Renowned for its bodysurfing and bodyboarding waves, this beach was once the haunt of legendary wave riders. Relive the magic of '50 First Dates', filmed here.
Jamie's: Hawaii's Hidden Treasures
Take a break at Jamie's, your gateway to Hawaii's Hidden Treasures. Enjoy a restroom stop, browse Hawaii memorabilia, and savor the taste of freshly prepared tropical fruits and pineapples. It’s the perfect spot to gather souvenirs and recharge with island flavors.
Kualoa Regional Park (Chinaman's Hat)
Capture the iconic view of Mokolii Island (Chinaman's Hat) at Kualoa Regional Park. This scenic park offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, barbeques, and camping. Enjoy the picturesque setting, take memorable photos, and utilize the restroom facilities.
Tanaka's Shrimp Stand
Embark on a culinary adventure at Tanaka's Shrimp Stand. Savor a lunch plate featuring a variety of fresh shrimp options, including garlic, coconut, spicy, or lemon. Enjoy your meal with chicken, fried noodles, white rice, or fried rice, complemented by a fresh salad and a soft drink.
Turtle Bay Fruit Stand
Indulge in the flavors of the islands at the Turtle Bay Fruit Stand. Sample a selection of mixed local fruits, tempting desserts, and refreshing shave ice. Purchase these delightful treats and savor the authentic taste of Hawaii.
Sunset Beach
Witness the raw power of Sunset Beach, a world-renowned surf spot that challenges the most skilled surfers with its formidable waves. Experience the exhilaration of watching these athletes conquer the ocean's fury.
Banzai Pipeline (Pipeline)
Marvel at the legendary Banzai Pipeline, one of surfing's most iconic locations. During winter, witness massive swells break on the shallow reef, creating dangerous yet awe-inspiring barreling waves. Observe the world's best surfers as they test their limits.
Shark's Cove
Explore the underwater wonders of Shark's Cove, part of Pupukea Beach Park. Discover spectacular rock formations and vibrant marine life. This popular snorkeling site within the Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD) offers shallow depths perfect for observing the aquatic ecosystem.
Waimea Bay
Experience the awe-inspiring spectacle of Waimea Bay, where surfers brave towering 30-foot waves during winter. In the summer, the bay transforms into a serene destination perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, offering something for every adventurer.
Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)
Visit Laniakea Beach, affectionately known as Turtle Beach, a favorite spot for Hawaiian Sea Turtles (honu) to feed and bask in the sun. Capture memorable photos of these gentle creatures and enjoy the beach as a favorite surfing and swimming location for locals.
Pua'ena Point Beach Park
Enjoy an optional swimming and snorkeling opportunity at Pua'ena Point Beach Park, a hidden gem on Oahu's North Shore beloved by surfers. Its shallow waters make it an ideal spot for beginners to learn swimming, paddleboarding, or surfing.
Macadamia Nut Store
Savor the flavors of Hawaii at the Macadamia Nut Store. Indulge in complimentary samples of seasoned macadamia nuts and black coffee. Explore a variety of local treats, including ASAHI fruit stand offerings, shave ice, and enjoy live music as you shop.
Dole Plantation
Immerse yourself in the pineapple paradise of Dole Plantation. Explore the Dole Plantation Store, filled with pineapple-themed souvenirs and local treats. Don't miss the iconic Dole Whip and a stroll to admire the vibrant Rainbow Eucalyptus trees.
Coffee & Ice Cream Tasting
Delight your senses with free samples of Hawaiian coffee in multiple flavors and Dave's ice cream. Enjoy shave ice and browse Hawaii coffee gifts. A perfect way to experience the unique tastes of the islands.
Know Before You Go
This Oahu Grand Circle Island Experience includes round trip airfare to Honolulu International Airport from Lihue Airport on Kauai, engaging narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout the tour, and travel in an air-conditioned vehicle. It excludes gratuities, transportation to Lihue Airport on Kauai, towels (guests should bring their own), and meals, which are at your own expense.
Hot Tip
Some reviewers of the experience said to bring snacks because lunch is long after you take off. Also, be sure to pack a bathing suit and sunscreen!
Review Summary
Customers generally say that Oahu Grand Circle Island tours provide an excellent full-day overview of the island's most iconic attractions, with knowledgeable and engaging local guides who share fascinating stories about Hawaiian history and culture.[1][7] Travelers consistently praise the scenic variety—from dramatic coastal cliffs and volcanic formations to lush tropical valleys and world-famous North Shore beaches—and appreciate the convenience of hotel pickup and air-conditioned transportation. Common positive highlights include stops at unique landmarks like the Byodo-In Temple, Halona Blowhole, and Dole Plantation, with many visitors noting the tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting to see Oahu comprehensively. However, some travelers mention that the pace can feel rushed due to the many stops, meals are not included and must be purchased separately, and the tour spends relatively limited time at each location. A few guests note that towels are not provided for water activities, so bringing your own is advisable for swimming opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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