By Sarah Burchard
SPONSORED ARTICLE
When I booked the Ultimate Circle Island Tour on Oʻahu, I expected a typical sightseeing excursion. What I got instead was an unforgettable journey around the island — a full day of natural beauty, local flavor and the warm aloha spirit that makes Hawaiʻi so special.
As a mom that ends up doing all the planning on vacations, I especially appreciated the fact that I didn’t have to make any decisions. I could relax and go with the flow. All we had to do was get on and off the bus.
Our guide picked us up from our Waikīkī hotel at 7:30 a.m. Each Oʻahu Circle Island Tour has its own driver and guide. Our guide was equal parts historian and entertainer — sharing Hawaiʻi lore, island history and local knowledge with passion and humor. As the day went on, I realized how much I probably missed during my first two days on the island exploring on our own. But, I was thrilled to have him for our biggest sightseeing day.
Just outside of Waikīkī, we made our first stop at Diamond Head State Park. We took in the sunrise view over Maunalua Bay and had some time for photos. As more and more hikers made their way into the park for the hike to the summit, we got into the van to continue the journey along the Windward coast. No sweating required.
One of my favorite stops was Turtle Beach, where I finally saw Hawaiʻi’s most famous locals — the honu, or Hawaiian sea turtles. Watching them rest on the sand, clumsily make their way into the water and glide through the surf was pure magic.
If you plan to snorkel, bring a swimsuit, towel and snorkel gear. You can also rent equipment before the tour starts.
By midday, our group was ready for lunch, and our guide knew exactly where to go — Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp on the North Shore. The smell of garlic butter hit us before we even ordered. Without question, the heaping plate of shrimp was one of the tastiest meals we had on Oʻahu. It was fresh, simple and perfect to enjoy with new friends.
The Ultimate Circle Island Tour passes through about 19 scenic locations. You’ll stop at some, such as the world-famous Dole Plantation and Waimanolo. Others, you’ll see from the bus or a quick stop to capture some photos, stretch your legs and use the bathroom.
Nine hours isn’t nearly enough time to really explore every stop but it gives you a great taste for the variety of adventures on the island and helped me prioritize where I wanted to return when we come back next year.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple or with your family, this is one of the best Oʻahu sightseeing tours for discovering the island’s diverse landscapes in air-conditioned comfort and style.
Here’s what I recommend packing for the day:
Swimsuit and snorkel (optional, but worth it!)
Change of clothes
$20 cash per person for lunch at Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp
Comfortable sandals or walking shoes
Towel
Camera or smartphone for photos
As we returned to Waikīkī nine hours later, the sun was setting. It felt like the perfect close to a perfect day — filled with laughter, great food and the feeling of truly connecting with the island.
If you’re looking for the best Circle Island Tour on Oʻahu, this one checks every box. You’ll see the highlights, learn the stories behind them and meet the turtles that symbolize Hawaiʻi’s peaceful spirit.
Bring your curiosity, your appetite and your aloha — this is one Oʻahu experience you’ll never forget.
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