Oahu Circle Island Tour: Small Group, Byodo-In & Macadamia Farm

Summary

Circle Oahu in a day with temple visits, shrimp lunch, and ocean views

You’ll circle Oahu with a small group, stopping at places like Diamond Head lookout and Byodo-In Temple while hearing stories from your local guide. Taste fresh macadamia nuts and shrimp lunch on the North Shore, then cool off with a swim or just relax by Waimea Bay before heading back with new friends and maybe a little sand still stuck between your toes.

What’s the experience like?

“That’s where Amelia Earhart took off — right there,” our guide said, pointing past the windshield as we rolled up to Diamond Head lookout. I squinted into the morning sun and tried to picture it: her plane on this same stretch of road, decades ago. The air smelled faintly salty, with a hint of sunscreen from someone nearby. Our group was only about ten people — easy to remember names, which I liked. We could actually hear each other’s questions without shouting over a busload.

Kahala’s mansions slid by next, all quiet lawns and bougainvillea. I caught myself daydreaming about moving in (not happening), then snapped back when we stopped at Halona Blowhole. The sound — a deep whoosh and spray — startled me more than I’d admit. Li, our guide, explained how “Halona” means happy fortune in Hawaiian. She laughed when I tried to say it back; probably butchered it but she was too polite to say so.

I didn’t expect to feel so calm at Byodo-In Temple. The koi pond shimmered under gray clouds and black swans glided around like they owned the place. Incense drifted near the bell tower; it stuck in my hair for hours after but I kind of liked it. Lunch was Fumi’s shrimp truck up on the North Shore — messy fingers, buttery garlic everywhere (don’t wear white). If you don’t eat shrimp, there’s veggie noodles that even my picky friend finished.

We had time for a swim at Waimea Bay — water colder than I thought but worth it for that feeling when you first dive under. Someone from our group read on the sand instead; nobody rushed us either way. The last stop was Dole Plantation for pineapple soft serve (ask your guide how to get one free). Oh — and free macadamia nuts at the farm earlier? Still thinking about those roasted ones with coffee dusting.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Oahu Circle Island Tour Highlights

• Visit Diamond Head lookout
• Pass by Kahala neighborhood
• See Halona Blowhole
• Pass Sandy Beach Park
• View The Dragon cliffs
• Visit Byodo-In Temple
• Lunch at North Shore shrimp truck
• Swim or relax at North Shore beach
• Cliff walk at Makapu’u Lookout
• Pass Waimea Bay
• Pass Sunset Beach
• Explore Historic Haleiwa Town
• Visit Dole Plantation
• Sample at North Shore Macadamia Nut Farm

Top questions

How long is the Oahu circle island tour?

The tour covers a full day with multiple stops around Oahu starting from Waikiki and returning in the evening.

Is hotel pickup included for this Oahu tour?

Yes, Waikiki hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Are food or drinks provided during the tour?

You’ll get water onboard plus stops for lunch (like Fumi’s shrimp truck) and free samples of macadamia nuts and coffee.

Can vegetarians join this Oahu day trip?

Yes, vegetarian options are available at lunch stops such as noodle plates on the North Shore.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?

Yes, snorkel gear is free to rent if you want to swim during beach stops.

What is the maximum group size?

The tour is limited to 14 guests per group for a more personal experience.

Are entrance fees covered for attractions like Byodo-In Temple?

Your entry fee for Byodo-In Temple is included in the tour price.

Do we visit Dole Plantation on this tour?

Yes, Dole Plantation is one of the final stops where you can try their famous pineapple soft serve.

Is this tour suitable for families or older travelers?

The route is designed for all fitness levels; infants sit on an adult's lap if joining.

What’s included

Your day includes Waikiki hotel pickup and drop-off, entry to Byodo-In Temple, water throughout the ride, use of snorkel gear if you want to swim at North Shore beaches, a whole Dole pineapple per party, plus plenty of chances to sample local macadamia nuts and coffee before heading back in an air-conditioned vehicle with live commentary from your guide.