Oahu Circle Island Tour: Dole Plantation, North Shore & Temple

Summary

Circle the island with locals, taste pineapple ice cream and watch waves roll at Banzai Pipeline

You’ll circle Oahu with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story—from pineapple ice cream at Dole Plantation to silent moments at Byodo-In Temple. Watch world-class surfers on North Shore beaches and snack on fresh fruit straight from roadside stands. You’ll leave with sandy shoes—and probably a new favorite Hawaiian word.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if you can really see all of Oahu in one day? I did too, honestly. But then we found ourselves winding out of Honolulu before 8am — our guide Kimo already joking about coffee (he was right, Green World Coffee Farm’s brew is strong enough to wake up your toes). The van was cool and quiet except for the little bursts of laughter when someone tried to pronounce “Kohelepelepe.” We stopped at Amelia Earhart Lookout first — the water looked almost fake, so blue it hurt my eyes a bit. There were surfers just dots from up there.

I didn’t expect to care much about a pineapple plantation but the smell at Dole hit me before I even got out. Sweet and grassy and somehow sticky in the air. Kimo insisted we try Dole Whip — I’m not sure if it’s actually famous or just his thing, but it tasted like summer. Somewhere between Banzai Pipeline (where we watched a kid maybe half my age tackle waves I’d never go near) and cracking macadamias at Tropical Farms, I realized how much these stops are stitched together by stories. At Byodo-In Temple, it was quieter than I thought possible — just wind chimes and that deep bell echoing off the mountains. Even Li from our group went silent for once.

Lunch was on the North Shore — Kahuku Farms — where they handed me something called banana lumpia and coconut water in a bag (I spilled half down my shirt). Everything felt warm: the sun, the food, even people’s smiles. The last stretch along Kahala Avenue made me wonder who lives behind those gates; Kimo said presidents sometimes do. He waved at an old man walking his dog anyway.

I still think about that view from Halona Blowhole — spray catching sunlight like glass shards. The whole Oahu Circle Island Tour felt less like checking boxes and more like letting the island show off its quirks. It’s a long day but somehow you want it to last longer, you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Full day Oahu Circle Island tour

• Visit Amelia Earhart Lookout
• Pass by Kahala Avenue
• Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
• See Hālona Blowhole lookout
• Pass by Sandy Beach
• Visit Byodo-In Temple
• Stop at Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut
• Explore Kualoa Ranch nature reserve
• Shop at Kahuku Fruit stands
• Lunch at Kahuku farms North Shore
• Pass by Banzai Pipeline surf spot
• Pass by Sharks Cove snorkeling beach
• Visit Dole Plantation
• Visit Green World Coffee Farm

Top questions

How long does the Oahu Circle Island Tour take?

The tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours including travel time.

Is hotel pickup included in this Oahu day trip?

Yes, pickup is included for most Waikiki hotels—check when booking.

What are some main stops on this circle island tour?

You’ll visit Dole Plantation, Byodo-In Temple, Banzai Pipeline beach, Halona Blowhole, Hanauma Bay (if open), Tropical Farms Macadamia Nut Farm, and Kahuku Fruit Stands.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

A lunch stop is included at Kahuku Farms; vegan or vegetarian options are available if you let your driver know.

Can infants or small children join this tour?

Yes—infants can ride in prams or strollers; specialized infant seats are available upon request.

Are mobility devices like wheelchairs accommodated?

Some vehicles can accommodate wheelchairs or scooters; contact after booking to arrange this specifically.

What should I bring on this Oahu day trip?

Bring cash or credit card for food and souvenirs; sunscreen is always smart too.

Will we have time for swimming or snorkeling?

You may have time to explore beaches but swimming/snorkeling depends on conditions and timing—ask your guide during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly local guide leading you through every stop—from Dole Plantation entry to fresh fruit tastings and a relaxed lunch on the North Shore—before returning comfortably in the evening.