All Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Tour, Waimea Falls & Lunch

A Detailed Look at the All Inclusive Ultimate Circle Island Tour, Waimea Falls & Lunch

If you’re visiting Oahu and want to see the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning every detail, this all-inclusive circle island tour might just be your best bet. Promising a full day of exploration with round-trip transportation, guided commentary, and a convenient lunch stop, it’s designed to give you a comprehensive glimpse of what makes this Hawaiian island so special.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its well-rounded itinerary—covering everything from famous landmarks to lesser-known gems—plus the fact that everything is taken care of upfront, so you can relax and soak in the views. Another highlight? The knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging and educational. The downside? The day is quite packed, so if you’re someone who prefers a slow pace, you might find it a bit rushed.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full-day adventure that offers maximum variety and value for money. It’s a good fit if you’re visiting with family, friends, or even solo—anyone eager to get an authentic taste of Oahu without the stress of logistics. Just keep in mind that it’s a long day, so packing comfortable shoes and being ready for a busy schedule is key.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Coverage: See Oahu’s major highlights—including Diamond Head, Waimea Bay, and Haleiwa—without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Lunch, entry fees, and transportation are covered, making this a hassle-free way to experience the island.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Expect engaging commentary that adds context and stories behind each stop.
• Varied Stops: From natural wonders to cultural sites, you’ll get a rounded perspective of what makes Oahu unique.
• Long But Rewarding Day: The full 10-hour schedule involves many stops, so be prepared for a full day.
• Great Value for Money: For around $156, you get a lot of sights, a tasty lunch, and guided insight—hard to beat.

A Full Breakdown of the Experience

Starting with Waikiki and the Coastline

The day kicks off with a drive through Waikiki Beach and its famous surroundings like Queen’s Beach and Kahanamoku Beach. You’ll likely appreciate the lively scenery and palm-lined views, especially with a guide providing tidbits about each spot. The drive-by of Diamond Head doesn’t include an interior visit but offers a glimpse of the iconic crater from the outside, perfect for those who want to photo it without the hike.

A common theme in reviews is how much travelers enjoy the commentary, with many saying guides shared a wealth of information about the island’s history, geology, and culture. One guest mentioned, “The guide taught us so many things about Oahu. The island is beautiful! It was very interesting!” This kind of insight helps put the sights into context, making the experience richer.

Nature and Scenic Stops

The tour hits Kapiolani Park next, giving you a chance to see one of the largest public parks on Oahu, home to the Honolulu Zoo and other attractions, though most travelers just soak in the scenery. From there, it’s a quick drive-by of Diamond Head—no hikes here, just a quick look at the crater’s outer slopes, which is ideal for those who prefer sightseeing over strenuous activity.

The coast along Ka’iwi is a highlight, especially for nature lovers. You’ll see Halona Blowhole, where the ocean’s power creates a natural spectacle—though swimming isn’t allowed due to dangerous currents, the views are stunning. Many reviews mention that this spot is perfect for photos, with the “From Here to Eternity Cove” adding a romantic, cinematic feel.

Next, you’ll visit Sandy Beach Park, renowned for its powerful shore breaks. This is not a swimming spot—dangerous rip currents and shore breaks make it unsafe—but it’s the perfect place to watch surfers and take in the wild beauty of the shoreline. It’s worth noting that many travelers find these stops brief but worthwhile for their scenery and photo ops.

Cultural and Historical Highlights

Moving inland, you’ll stop at Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. The views here are sweeping, and it’s a place with historical weight, being the site of a pivotal battle. Many guests comment on the strong tradewinds—it’s like standing in a natural wind tunnel—so dress accordingly.

The Byodo-in Temple offers a peaceful break, with lush gardens and koi ponds. It’s a spot many describe as serene and beautiful, with some noting its appearance in TV series like “Hawaii Five-O” and “Lost” as bonus trivia. For those interested in cultural experiences, this stop is a peaceful contrast to the scenic drives.

Mokoli’i Island, aka Chinaman’s Hat, provides a stunning photo backdrop—a small, iconic offshore island that looks like a hat. The views of offshore islands and the coastline here are postcard-perfect, often cited as a favorite photo stop.

Tropical and Coastal Experiences

Continuing east, you’ll visit Kahana Bay, a lovely spot with clear waters and white sand, where Polynesian canoes first landed. Many find this a quiet, almost untouched part of the island, perfect for appreciating Oahu’s natural charm.

Lunch and Local Flavor

A real highlight is the lunch stop at Tanaka Kahuku Shrimp, where you’ll indulge in garlic shrimp, fish, or chicken—vegetarian options are available. The included lunch, valued at around $20.50, is a popular part of the tour, offering a taste of local flavors. Guests have praised the food quality, calling it delicious and satisfying after hours of sightseeing.

The West and North Shore Wonders

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Waimea Bay and the Waterfall in Waimea Valley. With over 5,000 plant species and a scenic waterfall, this stop combines nature and history. Many guests find the walk inside the valley easy and the waterfall a refreshing sight.

Haleiwa, the surf capital of the world, is next. You’ll get about an hour to stroll through the colorful streets, browse shops, and savor a famous shave ice—something many reviewers say is a must-try. The town’s relaxed vibe is contagious, and it’s a favorite for many on the tour.

Finally, a brief stop at Dole Plantation rounds out the day, where you can sample pineapple ice cream and shop for souvenirs. It’s a casual way to end a busy day, and many guests find it adds a fun, light-hearted note.

The Value and Who It’s Best For

At around $156, this tour offers excellent value when you consider the number of stops, included lunch, and guided commentary. It’s a full day of variety—covering natural wonders, cultural sites, and scenic viewpoints—that would be tough to organize independently.

If you’re a person who enjoys a structured, information-rich day with many highlights, you’ll love how much this tour packs in. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, make the experience engaging rather than just a bus ride. The included lunch is a nice perk and provides a break in the busy schedule.

That said, the day is long—approximately 10 hours—and some reviews mention that time at each stop can be brief. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with kids who might tire easily, it’s worth considering how much you want to pack into one day. Still, most guests agree the experience is rewarding and well worth the effort.

FAQs

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Honolulu is included, making it easy to start and end your day without worrying about logistics.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, so be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.

Are there vegetarian options for lunch?
Yes, vegetarian options are available at the lunch stop, which features garlic shrimp, fish, chicken, and other local dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children must be at least 3 years old to participate, and those between 3 and 18 need to be accompanied by a guardian over 21. The tour is generally family-friendly, but keep in mind the long day and many stops.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
Yes, it runs in all weather conditions. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are entry fees included?
Most stops include entry fees—Waimea Valley, Byodo-in Temple, and the water falls—so you don’t need extra cash for those.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, stress-free day that covers a wide array of Oahu’s most famous spots, this tour is a strong choice. The mix of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and local flavor makes it a well-rounded introduction to the island. The guides’ ability to blend education with entertainment helps make the long day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to maximize their time and see a lot without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple tours. The included lunch and transportation add to the value, making this a convenient pick for those wanting a detailed overview of Oahu in one go.

While the pace might be a bit brisk for some, most guests walk away feeling they saw the island’s essence and appreciated the thoughtful, guided approach. If you’re okay with a full schedule and want everything taken care of, this tour could be your ideal Oahu adventure.

Happy exploring!