Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour: Explore Breathtaking Views and Unique Landscapes from Waikiki

Embark on the Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour and discover breathtaking views, unique landscapes, and the natural beauty of Hawaii. Swim, snorkel, and paddleboard, see turtles, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy a delicious lunch. Book your sightseeing experience today!

Duration: 10 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Diamond Head Crater - Amelia Earhart’s Marker - From this parking area, you can view the Diamond Head Lighthouse, a significant symbol of Hawaiian history for both residents and visitors. Originally built in 1899, it casts light nearly 18 miles into the Pacific Ocean. The parking area offers splendid views over Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park and up the coast toward Kahala. On the east side of the parking area, you’ll find the Amelia Earhart Marker, commemorating her 1935 solo flight from Hawaii to California. Please note, this tour does not drive into Diamond Head Crater!
  • Koko Marina Center - Leonard’s Bakery is a Portuguese bakery, famous for Hawaii’s only Portuguese donuts! Known for popularizing the malasada, this fried pastry is slightly crispier and chewier than a doughnut and has no hole, making it a beloved Hawaiian treat. - optional and time permitting
  • Halona Blowhole - The Hālona Blowhole is one of Hawaii’s natural wonders, formed thousands of years ago from volcanic eruptions that created molten lava tubes. The blowhole occasionally shoots seawater up to 30 feet in the air due to waves coursing through the underwater lava tubes. The viewing point offers a breathtaking view of Halona Cove, a beautiful beach featured in many movies and music videos. During winter, you might even spot whales in the nearby waters.
  • Sandy Beach Park - Sandy Beach, also known as “Broke Neck Beach,” is a drive-by or restroom stop. Referred to as “Sandy’s” and known to Hawaiians as Wāwāmalu, this beach on Oʻahu’s southeastern shore is famous for its excellent bodyboarding and bodysurfing opportunities due to its peaky shore break and consistent barrels.
  • Makapu’u Beach - Makapu’u Body Surfing Beach - Makapuu means “Bulging Eyes.” Located just below Makapu’u Point, which marks Hawaii’s easternmost tip, Makapu’u Beach is very picturesque with Rabbit Island just offshore. This popular beach is ideal for bodysurfing and bodyboarding large waves. In the early days of the sport, this stretch of coast was home to bodyboarding’s first hardcore crew, including Jack The Ripper, who was a familiar sight catching all the set waves out the back. Like Sandy’s grinding barrels, Makapuu has a ferocious shore break perfect for bodyboarding. Overlooking Rabbit Island and Makapu’u Lighthouse, this beach was featured in a famous movie scene from “50 First Dates.”
  • Waimanalo - Hawaii’s Hidden Treasures - Jamie’s. Restroom stop and light shopping for Hawaii memorabilia, with freshly made delicious fruits and pineapples available for purchase.
  • Kualoa Regional Park - Chinaman’s Hat - Kualoa Regional Park, located on the east and north side of Oahu, is famous for its view of Mokolii Island (Chinaman’s Hat) and is known for swimming, picnicking, barbecues, and camping. Guests can take pictures and use the restroom.
  • Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp - We stop for lunch at Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp, a beacon for shrimp enthusiasts. Situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Kahuku, this charming eatery offers a quintessential Hawaiian dining experience. The tantalizing aroma of freshly cooked shrimp sizzling on the grill greets you as you step inside. Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp prides itself on serving only the freshest catch, sourced directly from local shrimp farms. From classic garlic shrimp plates to spicy garlic shrimp, every dish showcases the unparalleled quality of Kahuku Shrimp.
  • Turtle Bay Beach - Turtle Bay Fruit Stand - Enjoy a variety of locally grown fruits, desserts, and shave ice available for purchase.
  • Sunset Beach - Sunset Beach is a renowned surf spot known for its powerful waves that challenge even the best surfers in the world.
  • Banzai Pipeline - Banzai Pipeline, also known as Pipeline, is one of the world’s most famous surf spots, known for its barreling waves. During winter, massive swells break on shallow reefs, making it a dangerous beach for only the best and bravest surfers, and a great place to watch some of the world’s top surfing.
  • Shark’s Cove - Shark’s Cove is part of Pupukea Beach Park and is known for its spectacular underwater rock formations and diverse marine life. Located near the northern end of the Marine Life Conservation District (MLCD), it is a popular snorkeling site with shallow depths up to 20 feet.
  • Waimea Bay - Waimea is famous for its 30-foot waves in the winter and is a top spot to watch some of the world’s best and bravest surfers. During summer, the water calms considerably, making it a great destination for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
  • Laniakea Beach - Laniakea Beach, or Turtle Beach, is located on Oahu’s North Shore and is well known for being a popular feeding and sunbathing area for Hawaiian Sea Turtles (honu). Many circle island tours stop here for photo opportunities, but the beach is also a favorite surfing and recreational swimming spot for locals.
  • Puaʻena Point Beach Park - This is the tour’s swimming and snorkeling opportunity (optional). Pua’ena Point Beach Park is a hidden gem on Oahu’s North Shore but is quite popular among surfers. The location is nice and shallow, making it ideal for beginners learning how to swim, paddleboard, or surf.
  • Haleiwa - Haleiwa is a charming town on Oahu’s North Shore, offering a blend of stunning natural beauty and rich surf culture. Visitors can enjoy world-famous beaches, watch expert surfers tackle massive waves, and explore the town’s historic charm with its quaint wooden storefronts and local boutiques. The town is also a hub for outdoor activities like paddleboarding, snorkeling, and hiking, all set against a backdrop of lush landscapes and ocean views.

The local food scene in Haleiwa is a highlight, featuring iconic shrimp trucks, refreshing shave ice, and fresh seafood. The town’s laid-back vibe is perfect for those looking to experience authentic Hawaiian culture, with opportunities to visit art galleries, farmers’ markets, and enjoy traditional Polynesian influences. Haleiwa offers a relaxed escape from the busier areas of Oahu, making it an ideal destination for a serene and culturally rich experience.

  • Dole Plantation - At the Dole Plantation, you can visit the Dole Plantation Store, a gift shop where you can purchase a variety of pineapple-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and specialty food products like pineapple candy, jams, and dried fruit.

Or purchase a Dole Whip, a must-try treat at the plantation. Dole Whip is a soft-serve pineapple-flavored dessert that has become iconic in Hawaii.

You can also visit the gardens to view the striking Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, a stunning and unique natural attraction. These trees are known for their vibrant, multi-colored bark, which gives the appearance of a “rainbow” on the tree trunks.

  • Green World Coffee Farms - Taste free samples of multiple coffee flavors, choose from 8 flavors of Hawaii-made Dave’s ice cream, shave ice, and Hawaii coffee gifts to purchase and enjoy.
What's Included
  • Pick-up and drop-off service in Waikiki Area
  • Use of snorkeling equipment
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • Engaging narration from a local guide
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Embark on the comprehensive Grand Circle Island tour and revel in the stunning vistas from the Amelia Earhart Lookout on Diamond Head, appreciate the unique shape of Chinaman’s Hat against the backdrop of Kualoa mountains, tour the famous Dole Plantation, and relax on some of Oahu’s most exquisite white sand beaches. Marvel at the scenic beauty of Makapu’u Point and seize the chance for spectacular photo ops. Accompanied by knowledgeable tour guides, experience Hawaii’s renowned beaches, verdant valleys, historic Hawaiian sites, and the globally recognized Dole Plantation.

Experience Oahu from a new perspective and uncover the ecological wonders and awe-inspiring natural terrains of Hawaii along the way. Make your reservation today for an educational and exciting sightseeing adventure!

Highlighted Points of Interest:
_ Take a dip and snorkel

_ Try Stand Up Paddle Boarding OR Kayaking

  • Spot Turtles on the Beach

  • Diamond Head

  • Halona Blowhole

  • Drive along Sandy Beach; restroom available for breaks

  • Visit Makapu’u Lookout

  • Stop at Pali Lookout

  • Photo stop at Macnut Farm / Chinamans Hat

  • Break for Lunch for an hour, options including Shrimp Truck or The Farm

  • Drive through the charming Haleiwa Town

  • End the tour at Dole Plantation

  • Remaining time from the itinerary will be allotted for pick up and travel time in between the attractions
  • Meals are at your own expense
  • Bring cash for roadside stands, food trucks, and local shops—many are cash-only
  • If you enjoy your tour tipping your guide in cash is always appreciated
  • Bring your own towels
Location
Diamond Head Crater
Diamond Head Road
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(1101 Ratings)
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1 star
747mariah
Sep 25, 2024
Fun packed busy day filled with snacks, food and fun. - Papa P was our tour guide and he was fantastic. He went out of his way to give us personal stories about the island/stops, had snacks and water on the bus (provided by him) and he provided Macaroni salad to our lunches at the shrimp shack (homemade by his wife). A lot to see and we even managed to see a turtle sighting in the water. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
526bridgetb
Sep 24, 2024
He must not only for first timers, but for repeat tourists as well. - Cousin Guy was so accommodating,, full of information, funny, and all around best tour guide ever. Having such an intelligent history buff made the entire trip well worth it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Relax646519
Sep 23, 2024
Tour Grand circle island tour - Guy was GREAT! I strongly recommend this tour. I learned a lot about Hawaii and Pearl Harbor. We saw many beautiful sights and got a lot of photos.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wander38556644811
Sep 23, 2024
Amazing guide and tour - Brother Guy is an absolutely amazing guide and awesome Kane we felt very welcome and he made the the tour more like driving around with family Thank you Brother Guy you the man
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Gertr509
Sep 23, 2024
An unique experience - Excellent service, a great experience where you learn a lot about Hawaiian culture. I hope to live this experience again soon.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Journey463673
Sep 23, 2024
The Best Tour Guide in Oahu! - Our tour guide Papa was one in a million. Very informative about Oahu and added lots of personal stories which were interesting. He prepped us before each stop with what to expect and time to be back on the bus. He stressed being respectful to the Hawaiian locals and environment. He got to know each of us and brought us together as a whole or as he said “a family”. What a terrific tour guide and one I hope you realize a treasure he is to your company.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
83dorothyd
Sep 22, 2024
Grand island tour - Did the grand island tour with Papa P. he was great very knowledgeable and went the extra mile to make the trip enjoyable. Lots of extras chips, water and pineapple candies
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Hmelius
Sep 21, 2024
Papa P is amazing - I had an amazing experience with Aloha Sunshine Tour, and the highlight was our guide, Papa P! His passion for Hawaii and deep knowledge of its culture made the tour truly unforgettable. Papa P kept us entertained with fascinating stories, and his warm personality made the entire group feel welcome. The tour was well-organized, covering the entire island. If you're visiting Hawaii, I highly recommend booking with Aloha Sunshine Tour and requesting Papa P for an incredible adventure!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R6147nfrichardf
Sep 19, 2024
Would do it again - Weather was perfect scenery was breathtaking and tour guide was knowledgeable and inviting. Made the experience worthwhile.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Caroline_g
Sep 25, 2024
Horrible Hot Drive - We were picked up in an old passenger van and within 1 hour there was No Air-conditioning..the driver acted like nothing. ALL the passengers were fanning themselves with paper,fan whatever they could find The driver said. Old bettise is acting up once again.We pulled over and he said he would start again and then again it was hot. We got out of the van and waited two hours for a mechanic to fix it Then once it was fixed we only spent few minutes at each site.It was very disappointed and will make sure we tell every one about that company sending a old vehicle.
Review provided by Viator
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up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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