Honolulu’s guided tours cut through the tourist traps to deliver authentic Hawaiian experiences. The standout Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour packs genuine local insights into 7 efficient hours – perfect for travelers who want the real deal. Culture buffs will appreciate the Oahu Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour, which adapts to your interests while showcasing Hawaiian heritage. For active travelers, the Full-Day Private Tour hits all the sweet spots with paddle boarding and snorkeling at the best local spots.
I’m especially fond of the tours visiting Byodo Temple and Waimea Waterfalls – they’re well-organized and avoid the usual tourist crowds. These operators provide thoughtful touches like hotel pickup and guides who really know their stuff.
Let’s explore these top-rated Honolulu tours in detail.
Key Points
- The Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour is a popular 7-hour option that visits iconic landmarks like Diamond Head and Banzai Pipeline for $189 per person.
- The Oahu Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour offers a 2.5-hour customizable experience focusing on cultural heritage and natural beauty for SEK 1,946 per person.
- The Full-Day Guided Private Tour includes activities like paddle boarding, snorkeling, and hiking, and is highly rated at $1,299 per group.
- The Waikiki: Guided Byodo Temple and Waimea Waterfalls Day Trip is an 8-hour tour priced at €179.94 per person with round-trip transportation and optional lunch.
- The Oahu Highlights Private Guided Tour covers key sites like Diamond Head and Koʻolau Range for $225 per person with flexible pickup.
Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour With A Local Guide
This guided adventure around Oahu allows visitors to explore the island’s rich history and captivating natural beauty with a local expert.
Priced from $189 per person, the Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour takes travelers to iconic landmarks like Diamond Head, Pali Lookout, and the Banzai Pipeline. Guests will also have the chance to spot sea turtles and monk seals at secret spots along the way.
Included in the tour are a knowledgeable local guide, bottled water, snacks, and soda, with gratuities covered. Lunch isn’t included, allowing visitors to dine at the island’s delicious food trucks featuring Hawaiian shrimp and other local delicacies.
With a maximum of 9 travelers per tour, the experience is personalized and intimate. Pickup from Waikiki hotels is provided, and the tour lasts approximately 7 hours, offering a rundown of Oahu.
Highly rated by past travelers, this tour is an excellent way to discover the island’s hidden gems with the guidance of a local expert.
Read our full review: Secret Oahu Full Circle Island Tour With A Local Guide Review
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Oahu : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide
Featuring a personalized and intimate walking tour, the Oahu : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover the island’s rich cultural heritage and captivating natural beauty.
Rated a new activity, this tour allows guests to explore Honolulu’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems at their own pace. Guided by a knowledgeable local, the tour can be customized to align with each traveler’s interests, whether it’s delving into the history of Pearl Harbor, admiring the stunning Manoa Falls, or immersing oneself in the vibrant Waikiki Beach atmosphere.
With a duration of 2.5 hours, this comprehensive walking experience provides an in-depth, immersive understanding of Oahu’s diverse attractions.
Priced at SEK 1,946 per person, the Oahu : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the island’s rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural wonders.
Read our full review: Oahu : Sightseeing Walking Custom Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Full-Day Guided Private Tour
For those seeking a comprehensive and customized exploration of Oahu, the Full-Day Guided Private Tour provides an unparalleled opportunity. Highly recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour boasts a Badge of Excellence and 177 glowing reviews.
Operated by Hi5 Tours Hawaii, the tour offers a full-day of personalized attention, with activities like paddle boarding, snorkeling, and hiking at popular surf spots. Guests can interact with marine life and savor island-fresh produce from food trucks, all while the tour is tailored to their varied interests.
Transportation, snorkeling equipment, snacks, and lunch are included, and visitors can choose to admire the Waimea Waterfall. With pickup from anywhere on the island, this private tour ensures an exclusive and unforgettable experience.
At $1,299 per group (up to 13 people), it’s a premium offering, but one that delivers exceptional value for the discerning traveler.
Read our full review: Full-Day Guided Private Tour Review
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Waikiki: Guided Byodo Temple and Waimea Waterfalls Day Trip
Travelers seeking a comprehensive day trip from Waikiki can embark on the guided Byodo Temple and Waimea Waterfalls excursion. Priced from €179.94 per person, the 8-hour tour offers a diverse itinerary, including visits to the serene Byodo-In Temple, the cascading Waimea Waterfalls, and photo stops at iconic sites like the Halona Blowhole.
The tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable live guide. While an optional lunch at a local restaurant is available for an additional fee, the core tour activities, including admission to the Byodo-In Temple and Waimea Waterfalls, are included.
With an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 based on 11 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback for the guide’s expertise and the overall experience. However, some guests noted that not all listed destinations were actual stops, suggesting a need for clearer communication in the tour description.
Read our full review: Waikiki: Guided Byodo Temple and Waimea Waterfalls Day Trip Review
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O’ahu Highlights Private Guided Tour: Landmarks & Architecture
Those looking to explore Oahu’s iconic landmarks and architectural highlights can consider the O’ahu Highlights Private Guided Tour.
Recommended by 100% of travelers, this 5-star rated tour covers key sites like Diamond Head State Monument, Koʻolau Range, and Iolani Palace.
The private tour offers an intimate experience, with bottled water provided for hydration. Operated by DTours, the tour includes gratuities and flexible pickup within the Greater Honolulu Area.
Customers praise the tour guide’s knowledge, flexibility, and engagement, highlighting the historical insights and beautiful landscapes.
At $225 per person, the tour provides a personalized and comfortable way to discover Oahu’s landmarks and history.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, it’s an ideal option for first-time visitors seeking to make the most of their time on the island.
Read our full review: O‘ahu Highlights Private Guided Tour: Landmarks & Architecture Review
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Oahu: 16-Point Guided Circle Tour With Snorkeling and Dole
This full-day Oahu 16-Point Guided Circle Tour showcases the island’s diverse highlights, from iconic natural landmarks to cultural attractions. Priced from $118 per person, the 9-hour tour covers key locations like Diamond Head, the Halona Blowhole, and the North Shore for snorkeling with sea turtles.
Knowledgeable guides share insights into Hawaiian history and culture, while air-conditioned transportation with pickup makes for a seamless experience.
Snorkeling equipment, including life jackets, is provided for safety, and snacks and bottled water are included. Participants can also explore the Dole Plantation and Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts.
With a 4.3/5 overall rating based on 60 reviews, the tour earns praise for its knowledgeable guides and culture. However, some noted issues with disrespectful fellow participants.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller-friendly, and children must sit on laps. Travelers should come prepared with a passport/ID, comfortable shoes, and sun protection.
Read our full review: Oahu: 16-Point Guided Circle Tour With Snorkeling and Dole Review
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Oahu in One Day Guided Sightseeing Half Day Tour
Oahu in One Day Guided Sightseeing Half Day Tour provides travelers with a rundown of the island’s top attractions. This full-day tour departs from Honolulu hotels, whisking guests away in an air-conditioned minibus to explore iconic landmarks like Diamond Head Lighthouse, Halona Blowhole, and Waimea Beach.
Guests can even swim or snorkel at Waimea Beach, making the most of their time on the island.
The tour is led by knowledgeable, friendly guides praised for their historical insights and engaging personalities, such as Captain Vince and Justin. Small group sizes allow for personalized interactions and flexibility to avoid crowds.
With a 4.9-star rating from 59 reviews and a 97% traveler recommendation, this tour offers excellent value. Pickup is between 6:45 AM to 7:00 AM, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
While not wheelchair accessible, infants can attend, sitting on laps. Additional charges may apply for pickups outside Waikiki.
Read our full review: Oahu in One Day Guided Sightseeing Half Day Tour Review
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Honolulu: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
For travelers who want a more personalized Honolulu experience, the Honolulu: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide offers a flexible and insightful way to explore the city. Priced from $115.54 per person, the tour can be customized to last 2-8 hours.
Guests can expect a live English-speaking guide, hotel pickup, and a private walking tour tailored to their interests. The tour focuses on iconic places, local history, and dining options, with the guide contacting participants beforehand to personalize the experience.
Wheelchair accessibility is available, and the tour includes assistance with attraction tickets. While local transportation, drinks, and food are excluded, the tour provides the opportunity to discover hidden gems and gain a deeper understanding of Honolulu life.
Based on 2 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.5/5, with positive feedback on guide attentiveness and interesting sites. However, some travelers expressed a desire for more walking and less car travel during the tour.
Read our full review: Honolulu: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Full-Day Circle Island Guided Tour of Oahu
Travelers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Oahu’s natural wonders and cultural attractions will find the Full-Day Circle Island Guided Tour an exceptional choice. This private, full-day tour offers an in-depth look at the island’s highlights, from serene beaches and food trucks to coffee farms and pineapple plantations.
Key attractions on the itinerary include the picturesque Byodo-In Temple, the dramatic Halona Blowhole, and the renowned Kualoa Ranch, a filming location for Jurassic Park.
With a duration of 10.5 hours, the tour provides ample time to explore and experience Oahu’s diverse landscapes. Knowledgeable guides, praised for their friendliness and expertise, offer engaging and educational experiences, sharing local insights and tailoring the tour to meet guests’ interests.
The tour’s exceptional reviews, 4.9 overall rating, and Viator and Tripadvisor badges of excellence further attest to its quality. Inclusive amenities, such as a welcome lei, bottled water, and on-board Wi-Fi, enhance the overall experience, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable day exploring the island’s treasures.
Read our full review: Full-Day Circle Island Guided Tour of Oahu Review
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Hanauma Bay Guided Snorkeling Tour
Situated within the iconic Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, the Hanauma Bay Guided Snorkeling Tour offers visitors a captivating underwater adventure.
With a 4.9/5 star rating from 75 reviews and a 99% recommendation, this tour promises an exceptional experience.
Featuring a small group size of up to 5 travelers, the tour includes snorkel gear, a safety vest, and a locked box for belongings.
While the $25 admission fee is required, the tour’s inclusions, such as bottled water and a photo set, provide excellent value.
For those needing additional gear, wetsuits and prescription masks are available for an additional cost.
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to explore Hanauma Bay’s diverse marine life, including the chance to spot sea turtles.
Led by the knowledgeable guide Fumio, the tour caters to both beginners and experienced snorkelers, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
With convenient morning and afternoon departure options, the Hanauma Bay Guided Snorkeling Tour is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Oahu.
Read our full review: Hanauma Bay Guided Snorkeling Tour Review
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Secret Oahu Hawaii Culture Tour With A Local Guide
Immersing visitors in the rich cultural heritage of Oahu, the Secret Oahu Hawaii Culture Tour with a Local Guide provides an intimate exploration of the island’s most significant historical venues.
Guided by a knowledgeable kama’aina, or native Hawaiian, the tour takes guests to iconic locations like Pele’s Chair, Makapuu Heiau, and the Pali Lookout, where they can learn about the island’s history and traditions.
With a maximum of 5 travelers per tour, the experience offers a personalized and immersive encounter, complete with snacks, beverages, and a local lunch.
Highly recommended by previous participants, the tour boasts an impressive 5-star rating and promises breathtaking sights, authentic cultural insights, and memorable interactions with the guide.
At $176.96 per person, the tour provides excellent value, with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Whether seeking to deepen their understanding of Hawaiian culture or simply enjoy the island’s natural beauty, travelers will find the Secret Oahu Hawaii Culture Tour a truly unique and rewarding experience.
Read our full review: Secret Oahu Hawaii Culture Tour With A Local Guide Review
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Private Full-Day Circle Island Guided Small-Group up to 6 (Se Habla Español)
Explore the scenic wonders of Oahu on a private full-day guided tour around the island. This tour accommodates up to six people and takes you to the top attractions, including the Honolulu Zoo, Diamond Head State Monument, Halona Blowhole, and the Byodo-In Temple.
Along the way, you’ll experience the relaxed vibe of the North Shore. The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, one water bottle per person, and a professional guide. Lunch is provided, and admission to the Byodo-In Temple is included.
You’ll also receive welcome leis, masks, and bags. The price is $899 for the entire group, and you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Pickup is available at a location of your choice, and the tour starts at 8:00 AM. Infant seats are available, and the tour is accessible to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly.
With two 5-star reviews praising the guide’s expertise and personalized service, this tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience of Oahu’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Circle Island Guided Small-Group up to 6 (Se Habla Español) Review
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North Shore of Oahu Private Full-Day Tour With Local Guide
This private full-day tour of the North Shore of Oahu provides an immersive experience with a knowledgeable local guide.
The 6-hour tour in a private vehicle includes pickup and drop-off at your desired location, as well as food, drinks, and gratuities. Guests can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the North Shore, including iconic surf spots and natural wonders.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infant seats are available upon request. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is a private experience for your group only.
Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. The tour starts at 8 am, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.
With a starting price of $677 per person and a savings of $75, this tour offers a comprehensive and personalized way to explore the North Shore of Oahu.
Read our full review: North Shore of Oahu Private Full-Day Tour With Local Guide Review
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The Sum Up
From the article, there are numerous guided tours available in Honolulu, covering a range of experiences like island sightseeing, snorkeling, and cultural tours. Travelers can choose from full-day private tours or smaller group options, with local guides to show them the highlights and hidden gems of Oahu. Whether seeking an immersive cultural experience or a scenic adventure, there’s a guided tour to suit every preference in Honolulu.