Afternoon at McGarret – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour

If you’re a fan of Hawaii Five-0 or just love the idea of stepping into some of Oahu’s most memorable TV locations, this tour offers a chance to do exactly that. We haven’t taken it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like a well-thought-out experience that balances scenery, behind-the-scenes stories, and a little bit of island luxury.

What really catches our eye is the chance to visit the actual McGarrett House and possibly meet Shawn Mokuahi Garnett, aka Cousin Flippa—something that adds a personal touch many tours lack. Plus, the seamless transportation and small group size (max 10 travelers) promise an intimate, engaging experience. That said, a few reviews mention the price might feel high for what’s offered, especially if you’re not a huge Hawaii Five-0 fan.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a personalized, well-guided deep dive into the show’s filming locations and enjoy a mixture of sightseeing and celebrity spotting. If you’re looking for a casual, no-frills tour or are budget-conscious, it might be worth comparing options. But for fans eager to see the iconic spots and chat with cast members, it could turn into a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Exclusive Access: Visit filming locations from Hawaii Five-0 and see the famous McGarrett House.
• Personal Touch: Meet Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa) and enjoy a chat or photos.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with a small-group setting.
• Tasty Lunch Option: Dine at McGarrett’s House with a choice of sandwiches.
• Insightful Guides: Knowledgeable guides with great stories and background info.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic stops, filming locations, and behind-the-scenes fun.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Diamond Head State Monument, one of Honolulu’s most recognizable landmarks. While the review mentions only a quick 15-minute stop, this provides a fantastic photo op with stunning views of the coast and the iconic volcanic crater. It’s a great way to start, setting the scene for the day while giving you a taste of the island’s natural beauty.

Next, you’ll head to McGarrett’s House—the real star of the day. The experience here isn’t just a photo in front of the house; many guests get to step inside and enjoy a leisurely visit. The highlight is the lunch on the porch, where you can imagine Danny and the crew hanging out, and maybe even chat with Shawn, who is praised for his friendliness and storytelling. One reviewer describes it as “very tasty, fresh, and enjoyable,” adding a personal touch that elevates the experience beyond a simple sightseeing stop.

Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories and behind-the-scenes insights about the series. Reviewers repeatedly mention how knowledgeable and engaging the guides are, with some sharing that they appreciated the local tips and fun facts, which enrich the experience.

Hidden Gems and Extra Stops

The tour doesn’t just focus on the McGarrett House. Many reviews mention the inclusion of additional filming sites in Honolulu, which add context to the show’s setting. Guests also appreciate the comfortable van and the small group size, which makes for a more personal and relaxed outing.

Meeting Cast Members

The highlight for many seems to be the meet-and-greet with Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa). Guests describe him as “lovely,” “funny,” and very generous with photos and conversation. This is a special opportunity for fans to interact with someone who’s part of the show’s extended family, making it a memorable part of the day.

Food and Beverage

The lunch options are simple but well-reviewed, with choices like The Beefy McGarrett, The McGarrett Chicken, and The Veggie McGarrett. One reviewer pointed out that even with a humble sandwich, the meal was very good, and it provides a nice break during the tour.

Transportation & Group Size

With hotel pickup included, the logistics are straightforward, especially in a busy city like Honolulu. The max 10 travelers ensures that you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $239 per person, this tour isn’t exactly a steal, but many reviewers feel the experience offers good value, especially for hardcore fans. The inclusion of inside visits, a personal meet-and-greet, and lunch at McGarrett’s House justifies the cost for those who want an immersive, behind-the-scenes experience.

Some comments mention that the tour might seem a bit high in price given what’s included, especially if you’re not a Hawaii Five-0 superfan. However, the small group setting, knowledgeable guides, and access to iconic filming locations create a more intimate and memorable experience than larger, generic sightseeing tours.

The Real Experience: What You’ll Love and What to Watch Out For

What Travelers Love

• Knowledgeable Guides: Many describe the guides as “first rate,” sharing fun facts, local history, and personal stories that add depth to the tour.
• Scenic Stops & Iconic Locations: The views from Diamond Head and the chance to walk through the actual McGarrett House are memorable highlights.
• Celebrity Interaction: Meeting Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa) was a favorite for many, with reviews praising his friendliness and willingness to take photos.
• Comfort & Convenience: The pick-up service, small group size, and relaxed pace make the day enjoyable.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Price Point: It’s a bit of an investment, especially if you’re not a die-hard Hawaii Five-0 fan. Consider what you value most—closer access to filming sites and a personal experience versus the cost.
• Tour Length & Focus: The total duration is around 4 hours, making this a manageable half-day outing. However, some reviews mention the tour’s pacing as a bit uneven, especially if expecting more extensive filming site visits.
• Weather Dependency: Like any outdoor activity, the tour requires good weather for the best experience. Cancellations due to weather are fully refundable or rescheduled.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for dedicated Hawaii Five-0 fans or TV series enthusiasts who want an up-close look at the filming locations and a chance to meet cast members. If you enjoy guided storytelling, scenic stops, and a small-group setting, you’ll likely find it highly rewarding.

Travelers interested in local Honolulu sights combined with TV history will also appreciate how the tour blends natural beauty with pop culture. However, those on a tight budget or not particularly interested in the show might want to explore other sightseeing options that cover broader island highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered to make logistics easier, especially in busy Honolulu.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, including stops, visits, and lunch.

Can I meet the cast?
You can meet Shawn Mokuahi Garnett, known as Cousin Flippa, during the tour, often at the McGarrett House.

What is the price of the tour?
It’s $239 per person, which many feel offers good value considering the exclusive access and personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing and walking. Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially if the weather is sunny.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While it’s friendly for most travelers, it’s not specifically marketed as family-oriented, so consider your group’s interests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a Hawaii Five-0 aficionado or love the idea of exploring Honolulu’s unique filming locations, this tour offers a well-rounded, intimate experience. The chance to visit the McGarrett House, enjoy a relaxed lunch with cast interaction, and learn fun behind-the-scenes stories makes it more than just a sightseeing trip—it’s a memorable dive into Hawaii’s pop culture.

For those who value knowledgeable guides, small groups, and authentic access, this could be a highlight of your trip. Just weigh the cost against what you hope to get out of it, especially if you’re new to the show or budget-conscious.

In the end, it’s a chance to see some of the island’s most recognizable spots through the lens of a beloved TV series—definitely worth considering if you want a personalized, memorable piece of Honolulu.