Viator Rating : 5 (38 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 9.1/10 (Verified Excellent)
Honolulu
O'ahu Circle Island Tour: Snorkel & Local Food
Overview
Small Group Circle Island Tour with Snorkeling: See the best of O'ahu like a local on this guided tour. A native Hawaiian family shares their island home with small groups of 13 or fewer, making it feel like a day out with friends.
The adventure begins with easy hotel pickup in Waikiki. Get ready to visit Diamond Head Lookout, Kahala Drive, and Koko Head Crater. The tour stops at Lanai Lookout and Hanauma Bay. See the Halona Blowhole and Makapuʻu Lookout, and try Hawaiian food and local fruit. The tour continues to Kāneʻohe, Byodo-In Temple, and Kualoa Ranch. Sample shrimp at Tanaka Shrimp Truck and relax at Waimea Bay. The experience also includes a stop at Macadamia Nut Farm, a Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle Spot, Dole Plantation, and Pearl Harbor.
This tour is designed for a relaxed and real experience. Guests will discover O'ahu’s hidden gems and hear stories from a local guide. Admission to Byodo-Inn Temple is included. Guests will have access to bottled water, snacks, and snorkeling equipment, as well as air-conditioned transportation and umbrellas. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Crowd Density (9 - Empty / Light) : Very few people, free movement
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (9 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (9 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (10 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (10 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
Highlights
Small Group Experience: Enjoy a personal tour with a maximum of 13 guests.
Authentic Hawaiian Food: Taste local flavors at a family-run café and fruit stand.
Top Island Sights: See Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, and more.
Snorkeling Included: Use snorkeling equipment to explore O'ahu's underwater beauty.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing many beautiful places on the island.
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They enjoyed the small group size, making it feel personal.
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The guide was very knowledgeable and friendly.
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Guests appreciated trying local Hawaiian food.
Some found the tour a bit rushed at certain stops.
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Lunch is not included, which some guests would have preferred.
The Journey
Diamond Head Lookout
Ascend to a breathtaking vantage point offering unparalleled views of the Waikiki coastline and the iconic Diamond Head crater, a symbol of O'ahu's volcanic past. This extinct volcano, known as Lēʻahi in Hawaiian, provides a stunning panorama of the Pacific Ocean and the bustling city below, making it a must-see for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Kahala Drive
Cruise along Kahala Drive, a prestigious residential area showcasing opulent oceanfront estates and swaying palm trees. This scenic stretch offers a glimpse into Honolulu's most exclusive neighborhood, where multi-million dollar homes line the pristine coastline, creating a picturesque blend of luxury and tropical beauty. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing drive or a leisurely stroll to soak in the ambiance of Hawaiian paradise.
Koko Head Crater
Behold the majestic Koko Head Crater, an ancient volcanic tuff cone rising dramatically above Hawaiʻi Kai. For adventurous hikers, the challenging railway trail to the summit offers a rewarding experience with breathtaking panoramic views of the island's southeastern coast. This iconic landmark is a testament to O'ahu's volcanic origins and a popular destination for those seeking both natural beauty and a physical challenge.
Lanai Lookout
Stop at Lanai Lookout, a dramatic vantage point featuring rugged volcanic cliffs and sweeping ocean views. On clear days, distant islands become visible, enhancing the already stunning panorama. This scenic stop is perfect for capturing memorable photos and, during the winter months, offers excellent opportunities for whale watching as humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters.
Hanauma Bay
Overlook Hanauma Bay, a world-renowned marine sanctuary nestled within a volcanic crater. Famous for its curved shoreline and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this protected bay is a snorkeler's paradise, teeming with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. Its natural beauty and abundant underwater treasures make it one of O'ahu's most cherished destinations.
Halona Blowhole
Witness the Halona Blowhole, a natural wonder where the relentless force of ocean waves is channeled through a lava tube, creating dramatic and awe-inspiring sprays of water. This unique geological formation offers a thrilling spectacle as the ocean's power is unleashed, providing a captivating glimpse into nature's raw energy. The adjacent Halona Beach Cove gained fame as the filming location for the iconic beach scene in 'From Here to Eternity'.
Makapuʻu Lookout
Visit Makapuʻu Lookout for sweeping ocean vistas, including views of Rabbit Island (Mānana Island) and Goat Island (Kaohikaipu Island) in the distance. This scenic spot offers incredible photo opportunities and showcases O'ahu's stunning coastline. The area is also known for the Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse, adding to the picturesque beauty of the location.
Hawaiian Food Sample & Local Fruit Stand
Included with the tour, all guests will be served an authentic Hawaiian food sample as a snack to hold you over until lunch at Hawaiian Island Cafe, also have the option to purchase fresh fruit at a local fruit stand right next to the Cafe! This is a great way to try local flavors and support local farmers.
Kāneʻohe
Take in the sweeping views of Kāneʻohe, a lush windward town nestled between the majestic Koʻolau Mountains and the serene Kāneʻohe Bay. Known for its tropical beauty, relaxed local vibe, and abundant marine activities, this area offers a glimpse of everyday life on O'ahu's east side. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the bay, popular for sailing, kayaking, and snorkeling.
Byodo-In Temple
Discover the Byodo-In Temple, a peaceful Japanese-style temple nestled in the serene Valley of the Temples Memorial Park. Surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens, tranquil ponds, and towering mountains, this non-denominational temple offers a serene escape and a glimpse into Japanese Buddhist culture. The temple is a replica of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Uji, Japan, adding to its cultural significance.
Kualoa Ranch
Drive past the legendary Kualoa Ranch, a sprawling 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch renowned for its dramatic mountain scenery and Hollywood fame. This iconic location has served as the backdrop for numerous movies and TV shows, including Jurassic Park and Lost, with its lush green valleys and towering cliffs providing a cinematic landscape that captivates visitors. Kualoa Ranch offers various tours and activities, allowing visitors to explore its natural beauty and cinematic history.
Tanaka Shrimp Truck
Enjoy your choice of lunch at Tanaka shrimp truck, guests will be given time to look the menu over during transit so food is ready when we arrive to avoid long waits (lunch not included with tour). These popular food trucks serve up plate lunches of shrimp, rice, and salad with flavorful marinades such as garlic, lemon butter, and spicy. Tanaka is one of the best.
Waimea Bay
Take in the dramatic beauty of Waimea Bay, a legendary North Shore beach famous for its towering winter waves and calm, swimmable waters during the summer months. This historic spot holds a special place in the world of big-wave surfing and Hawaiian culture, as the location where surfers first conquered waves exceeding 50 feet. In the summer, Waimea Bay transforms into a tranquil haven for swimming and sunbathing.
Macadamia Nut Farm
Visit a local farm to learn about and taste fresh macadamia nuts. (also available to buy to enjoy or take back home to family) These farms provide an inside look at the cultivation and processing of this delicious Hawaiian treat.
Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle Spot
Relax with a swim and the chance to see Hawaiian green sea turtles (Honu) in their natural habitat in the same spot, Hawaiian Circle Island Tours owner learned how to swim as a child. Snorkeling gear is free to use at stop as well. Respecting the turtles' space is important.
Dole Plantation
Make a quick stop at the Dole Plantation to enjoy a refreshing Dole Whip, a sweet and tangy pineapple treat. Explore the plantation's history and browse a wide array of pineapple-themed products, from snacks and souvenirs to clothing and home goods. The Dole Plantation offers a delightful taste of Hawaiian agriculture and a fun-filled experience for visitors of all ages.
Pearl Harbor
On the return drive, pass by Pearl Harbor, the historic site of the 1941 attack that propelled the U.S. into World War II. While there is no stop, you'll get a glimpse of the harbor and learn about its lasting significance in American and Hawaiian history. This solemn site serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the resilience of the human spirit.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes bottled water, snacks, use of snorkeling equipment, and admission to the Byodo-Inn Temple. There are umbrellas available. Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle. Lunch is not included. The tour starts with hotel pickup in Waikiki.
Hot Tip
Some travelers bring extra snacks and drinks, even though some are provided, just to make sure they have enough throughout the day. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must, and don't forget your swimsuit and sunscreen!
Review Summary
Customers find this small-group circle island tour highly valued for its early morning departure that avoids crowds, included Hawaiian breakfast at a local partner café, and the authentic locally-owned experience with adequate time spent at key attractions like Byodo-In Temple (35-40 minutes) and sea turtle snorkeling.[1][4] The tour's 4.5 hours of activity time across 10 stops and early return to Waikiki (2:15-2:30 PM) are frequently praised benefits. Common positive mentions include professional guides sharing Hawaiian culture and history, comprehensive inclusions (equipment, meals, admissions), and direct hotel pickups eliminating confusion. Minor considerations include the tour not being wheelchair accessible and recommendations to verify minimum guest requirements before booking to ensure the tour operates as scheduled.[1][3]
Frequently Asked Questions
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