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
(1093 Ratings)
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X2361vdgregoryb
Jul 19, 2024
Our Anniversary Vacation - Cousin Guy is amazing. He's very friendly and knowledgeable. We felt safe. We will Do a tour with this company again in the near future ✨️
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Leejx3738dx
Jul 18, 2024
Papa P is the best! Amazing trip around Oahu - Papa P is really friendly and he’s a professional guider. All the way he drove to beautiful photo spots, he told us lots of interesting stories about Hawaii. I also got to know about lovely Hawaiian musics thanks to his play lists. Above all, he prepared everything we need in the bus, such as snacks, pineapple jelly, band-aid, wet tissue, and delicious macaroni salad! The best part of this trip was he made us cute headbands with palm tree leaves! I took thousands of pictures, and can’t wait to upload it to my sns. Thank you for unforgettable memory. I would love to join this amazing trip again!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
684kellyeg
Jul 17, 2024
Wonderful and fun day with Papa P - Fun, upbeat never a dull moment. Papa P gave us a great day. Took excellent care and attention to all of us. Personable felt like I’ve known him longer than a day he knew each of us by name. The tour was great and how he described the different sites of interest as well as sharing so much wonderful and meaningful Hawaii history and culture. Took so much care of all of us. Ended our day with him singing and playing guitar, which was a great and unexpected way of ending our fun day! My son and I had so much fun! Thanks Papa P for a fantastic day! Mahalo cousin!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karina_l
Jul 16, 2024
Awesome Tour - Nice guided tour, learned a lot about history, culture, and food. Loved our bus driver/guide. Enjoyed fresh pineapples and coconut.
Review provided by Viator
Go02015700366
Jul 14, 2024
OUR FULL NORTH SHORE EXPERIENCE WAS FANTASTIC THANX TO PAPA P - “PAPA DA PUSHA P IS THE MAN” ON A FULL DAY TOUR BEGINNING SHY OF 8am WHICH RAN THROUGH 5:30-6pm WITHOUT A DULL MOMENT THANX TO PAPA P. HIS ENLIGHTENING TOUR WILL BOTH CAPTIVATE & ENLIGHTEN YOU. KNOWLEDGE IS POWER AND I’D LIKE TO THANK OUR GUY PAPA P FOR POURING INTO US THE POWERFUL GIFT OF KNOWLEDGE. THANK YOU MY GUY FOR THE WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE. “WAKIKI BABYYYYYYY”
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Escape43084327554
Jul 13, 2024
Great time on the Aloha Tour - Awesome time. The trip was very good. Learning the history of the island with Papa P was fun and entertaining. I would recommend this to anyone wanting to learn about the island and to have fun doing so.
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Escape490692
Jul 13, 2024
Great Trip for the Family - Visited so many great spots and Papa P was super friendly and knowledgeable! Lots of fun activities and interesting things to see.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
T4617ucjeanl
Jul 12, 2024
Cousin Guy was awesome - Aloha sunshine tours - Cousin Guy was entertaining and a great guide for our Grand Circle Isle tour. We were picked up near our hotel. The driver knew about the island history and current events. Great experience. Saw turtles on the beach where we were to snorkel (just bring a camera, and sone water socks) the water is too murky to see.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Neered
Jul 12, 2024
Cousin Guy is my Guy!! - Cousin guy you made our experience very memorable with your knowledge of the history and your experience in the culture has been an adventure and will definitely comeback.. Mahalo! And Salamat po!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Carlsv5605aa
Jul 12, 2024
Oahu tour - Cousin Guy is the Best! Great guide very helpful and very friendly! We had a real good time and we made wonderful discoveries ! Mahalo!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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1 Adult
September 2024
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