★★★★★5.072 ReviewsRecommended by 100% of travelersOahu, HawaiiPrivate experienceOperated by Aina Explorer Private Tours
8 hours (approx.)
Pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
Overview
This is a fully private tour of Oahu’s Circle Island route. The listed 8-hour itinerary is a carefully curated mix of the island’s highlights, designed for guests who prefer an easy, relaxed day and don’t want to customize. Because the tour is private, your day can also be fully built around your interests, pace, and priorities. Your guide will review options at pickup, make recommendations, and adjust throughout the day as needed. If you want to plan your tour ahead of time, just reach out, we’re happy to design the itinerary together with you.
- Personalization: Every tour is designed around you.
- Connection: We share the stories behind the places we visit.
- Respect: For the land, the culture, and your experience.
Private tour
What's Included
Private Tour - Only Your Group
Comfortable, Clean, and Air-Conditioned Minivan
Honolulu & Waikiki Pick-Up/Drop-Off
Guide with a camera to help capture special moments (not a professional photoshoot)
Cruise Ship Terminals Pick-Up/Drop-Off (Traveling with luggage? Maximum of 3 passengers)
Ko Olina Resorts Pick-Up (Aulani, Marriott's Beach Club, Four Season, Beach Villas)
For Ko Olina Resort Pick-up, copy and paste 433870P5 in Viator's search
Customized Stop Admissions (locations not part of the standard itinerary; admission not included)
Cost of Lunch
Gratuity Tip
Airport Pick-Up is Not Available, but Airport Drop-Off is Permitted
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup offered
At pick-up, look for a white Honda Odyssey minivan.
Traveling with Luggage? Due to luggage space and vehicle weight capacity limitations, we can accommodate a maximum of 3 passengers with luggage.
Your guide will contact you the afternoon before your tour to confirm all the details, including pick-up and drop-off locations.
After pickup, once everyone is in the van, your tour guide will pull out a map to review itinerary options, offer recommendations, and build the day’s itinerary with you. Adjustments can also be made throughout the day as needed.
NOT INCLUDED: Pick-up at Ko Olina Resorts (Aulani, Marriott's Beach Club, Four Seasons, Beach Villas). For Ko Olina Resort pick-up and drop-off, please type 433870P5 in Viator's search. The tour name is "Private Tour Oahu Customizable Ko Olina Resorts Pick-Up Included." By selecting tour 433870P5, pick-up and drop-off at Ko Olina Resorts is included.
You can ask for a pickup from another address when you book.
106 pickup points
'Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
'Ilima Hotel
Ala Moana by Luxury Suites Int'l
Ala Moana Condo by Zelloo
Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra
Ala Moana Hotel _ Ocean view with balcony
Ala Moana Hotel, Honolulu
Aloha Punawai
Aqua Aloha Surf
Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki
Aqua Oasis Hotel
Aqua Palms Waikiki
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel
Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
Bamboo Waikiki Hotel
Castle at Ala Moana Hotel
Castle Waikiki Shore
Central YMCA Residences
Coconut Waikiki Hotel
Courtyard by Marriott Waikiki Beach
DoubleTree by Hilton Alana - Waikiki Beach
Edmund's Hotel Apartments
Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
Espacio The Jewel Of Waikiki
What To Expect
Waikiki (Pass by)
Our tour begins with a drive through the vibrant heart of Oahu—Waikiki. We’ll cruise along bustling Kalakaua Avenue, renowned for its high-end boutiques and local shops.
Next, we’ll pass through Kapiolani Park, home to the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium. Hear fascinating stories and history about Waikiki, including details about the Natatorium and famous statues.
1
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head Beach Lookout offers panoramic views of Oahu's southeastern coastline.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kahala (Pass by)
Kahala, a prestigious neighborhood on the south shore of Oahu known for its luxury real estate and elegant homes.
2
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
(Park is closed Monday-Tuesday)
Gaze upon the stunning crescent-shaped bay nestled within an ancient volcanic crater. With its clear waters full of colorful marine life, this scenic lookout offers a breathtaking view of one of Hawaii's most iconic natural wonders. (Unfortunately, snorkeling is not available on this tour. For snorkeling inside Hanauma Bay, please search for a Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Tour. Mahalo!)
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
3
Halona Blowhole
Halona Blowhole is a captivating natural wonder. Formed by ancient volcanic activity, it creates a mesmerizing spectacle as ocean waves rush into an underwater lava tube and erupt through a hole in the rocky coastline, sending water soaring into the air.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
4
Sandy Beach Park
Sandy Beach is famous for its powerful shore break. The presence of volcanic rocks adds to the coastline, shaped by the island's most recent volcanic activity.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
5
Makapu‘U Point
Makapu'u Lookout offers a scenic overlook with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, nearby islets such as Rabbit Island, and the rugged coastline. It's a popular spot for sightseeing, photography, and whale watching during the winter months when humpback whales migrate through the area.
Additional Info
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Service animals allowed
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This is a private experience. Only your group will participate
1–5 travelers per booking
Mobile or paper ticket accepted, one per booking
Operated by Aina Explorer Private Tours
Reviews
5.0★★★★★based on 72 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
5 stars
71
4 stars
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3 stars
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2 stars
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1 star
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Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head
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Marbella Lane Waikiki Grand Hotel Studio
Marina Tower Waikiki
Marriott Vacation Club, Waikiki
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Oahu Royal Garden At Waikiki 2010 Condo
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Ohia Waikiki Studio Suites
OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
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Paniolo at the Equus
Park Shore Waikiki Hotel
Podtel
Prince Edward Apartment
Prince Waikiki
Queen Kapiolani Hotel
Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki
Real Select Vacations at The Ritz-Carlton Waikiki
Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa
Romer House Waikiki
Royal Grove Waikiki
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
Shoreline Hotel Waikiki
Skyline Island Colony Hotel
Soothing Hawaii Condo - 18F
Stay Hotel Waikiki
The Ambassador Hotel of Waikiki, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
The Breakers Hotel
The Equus
The Imperial Hawaii Resort
The Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Laylow Waikiki, Autograph Collection
The Polynesian Residences Hotel Waikiki
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
The Twin Fin Hotel
Trump International Hotel Waikiki
Vive Hotel Waikiki
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Waikiki Central Hotel
Waikiki Circle Hotel
Waikiki Grand Hotel
Waikiki Malia
Waikiki Monarch Hotel
Waikiki Resort Hotel
Waikiki Resort Penthouse Condominium
Wayfinder Waikiki
White Sands Hotel
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
6
North Shore
We’ll make a stop at Haleiwa Beach Park, where you can soak in the scenic surroundings with a picture-perfect backdrop of the Waianae Mountains and perhaps spot a Hawaiian green sea turtle. As we continue along Kamehameha Highway on the North Shore, you'll enjoy coastal views and renowned beaches, and, if the season is right, some of the world's most spectacular surf action.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
7
North Shore
Enjoy a lunch stop at a place that calls to you most, whether it’s local favorites, Hawaiian cuisine, garlic shrimp, fresh poke, vegan, Chinese, Thai, or something simple like a burger or salad. Your guide will share options and help you choose the perfect spot.
1 hour • Admission Ticket Free
Oahu's Windward Coast (Pass by)
Enjoy a journey along the Windward coastline, where rugged beauty meets coastal charm. As we traverse Kamehameha Highway, the scenery transforms into the picturesque coastline, revealing dramatic cliffs and breathtaking views of crystal-clear waters crashing against rocky shores. Keep a keen eye out for Hawaiian monk seal along the coastline. Oahu's Windward Coast also offers glimpses of local life amidst this scenic paradise. Take in iconic landmarks like the Laie Hawaii Temple.
8
Mokoli’i Island
Chinaman's Hat- Nestled along Oahu's stunning northeastern coastline, Kualoa Beach Park offers a mesmerizing backdrop of the majestic Koʻolau Mountains, famously featured in the movie Jurassic Park. Adding to the park's allure is the iconic silhouette of Chinaman's Hat (Mokoli'i Island) rising just offshore.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
9
Nu’uanu Pali
The Pali Lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the northern Windward Coast and Pali Cliffs from above. This vantage point is historically significant as the site of the Battle of Nu'uanu, where King Kamehameha I secured his rule over Oahu in 1795. At the summit, you can experience strong trade winds and marvel at the stunning natural beauty while learning about the island's rich history.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Included
10
Dole Plantation
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary, it’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. Stopping at Dole Plantation can take between 30-60 minutes and will require some adjustments to the standard itinerary)
The Dole Plantation is a popular tourist spot known for its pineapple history. You can explore pineapple gardens and enjoy pineapple themed treats like Dole Whip.
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
11
Waimea Valley
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary, it’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. Exploring the valley typically takes 1.5–3 hours and will require adjustments to the overall flow of your itinerary. Admission is not included and can be purchased at the entrance.)
Nestled on Oahu's North Shore, Waimea Valley is a sanctuary of natural beauty and cultural heritage. For over 700 years, this sacred land has been a vibrant center of Hawaiian history, with ancient archaeological sites, lush botanical gardens, and an enchanting waterfall. Explore the paved trails, where each step uncovers the island's traditions. Swim under the majestic waterfall, surrounded by cliffs and vibrant flora, creating an unforgettable experience of tranquility and connection to nature. Waimea Valley is a journey into the heart of Hawaii’s past and present. Join us and feel the mana of the aina.
1 minute • Admission Ticket Not Included
12
Manoa Falls
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary, it’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. The average time to drive to the trailhead and hike to the falls is approximately 2–2.5 hours. Commercial activity hikes at Manoa require a reservation and cost $5 per person. Please contact your tour guide so they can make the reservation. Available Monday–Friday only.)
Embark on a journey through the lush rainforest of the Manoa Falls Trail. This 1.7-mile round-trip hike, with an 800 ft. elevation gain, takes you along a well-maintained graveled path, surrounded by towering bamboo, vibrant tropical plants, and the soothing sounds of nature. The trail ends at the stunning 150-foot Manoa Falls, where you can marvel at the cascading waters
(Please wear shoes that could potentially get muddy. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against mosquitoes. Your guide will have bug repellent available.)
1 minute • Admission Ticket Not Included
13
Pu'u 'Ualaka'a State Park
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary. It’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. Tantalus is located outside the standard route and will require adjustments to your itinerary. The average time needed to drive to and enjoy the lookout is approximately 45 minutes.)
Perched high above Honolulu, Tantalus Lookout offers panoramic views of the Oahu's southern coastline. Embrace the beauty of Honolulu, Diamond Head, and the distant Pacific Ocean from the summit.
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
14
Stop 14
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary. It’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. A stop at Leonard’s Bakery is outside the standard route and will require an adjustment of approximately 30 minutes to your itinerary.)
Indulge in a sweet local favorite at Leonard's Bakery, known for its iconic malasadas. These Portuguese-style doughnuts are crisp on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and coated in sugar, with optional fillings like creamy custard or rich chocolate. Serving the community since 1952, this beloved spot offers a delicious taste of Hawaiʻi’s local flavors and traditions.
1 minute • Admission Ticket Free
15
Stop 15
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary. It’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. A visit to ʻIolani Palace is outside the standard itinerary and will require adjustments. The average additional time needed is approximately 90 minutes. Please note that visiting the palace requires advance reservations and is subject to availability.)
ʻIolani Palace is the only official royal palace in the United States. Located in downtown Honolulu, it once served as the residence of Hawaiʻi’s last reigning monarchs, King Kalākaua and Queen Liliʻuokalani. Completed in 1882, the palace blends American Florentine architecture with remarkable modern innovations of its time—including electricity and telephones before they were installed in the White House. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Hawaiʻi’s royal heritage, offering visitors a meaningful glimpse into the history of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
1 minute • Admission Ticket Not Included
16
Byodo-in Temple
(CUSTOMIZED STOP OPTION: This is a fully customizable tour, and this stop is not part of the standard itinerary. It’s shared as one of many possible options to inspire your day. A visit to the Byodo-In Temple typically requires an additional 30–60 minutes and will require adjustments to the standard itinerary. Admission is not included and can be paid directly at the entrance.)
Tucked beneath the lush Koʻolau Mountains, the Byodo-In Temple is a breathtaking replica of a 900-year-old Japanese temple. This peaceful sanctuary features the iconic Phoenix Hall, a towering bronze Buddha, and tranquil koi ponds. Surrounded by vibrant gardens and dramatic cliffs, it offers a serene escape—perfect for slowing down, reflecting, and experiencing a deeper sense of harmony in Hawaiʻi.
