Full day Oahu´s North Shore Circle Island & Snorkeling w/ Turtles

If you’re planning a trip to Oahu and want to see as much of the island as possible in a single day, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It offers a comprehensive look at some of the most iconic sights, plus a chance to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles, which is often a highlight for visitors.

What we genuinely appreciate about this experience is its mix of scenic viewpoints like Diamond Head and Mokolii Island, alongside cultural touches like stops at local farms and the Dole Plantation. And of course, the included hotel pickup and drop-off make it super convenient, especially if you’re staying in Waikiki.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite packed and long — around 8 hours — which might be a lot for travelers with very young children or those who prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, while the tour promises turtle sightings at the North Shore, these are wild animals, so there’s no guarantee you’ll see turtles every time.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a big-picture glimpse of Oahu, enjoy a mix of nature, culture, and fun facts, and don’t mind a busy day on the road. If you’re after a deeper, more leisurely experience, you might want to consider splitting things up, but if you’re pressed for time and want variety, it’s a solid choice.

Key Points

• All-in-One Experience: Cover major sights like Diamond Head, Halona Blowhole, and the Dole Plantation in one trip.
• Snorkeling with Turtles: Unique opportunity to swim alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles in their natural habitat.
• Hassle-Free: Included hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple and stress-free.
• Guided Knowledge: The guides are praised for their friendliness and local expertise.
• Long, Full-Day Tour: Expect an 8-hour adventure—perfect for seeing a lot but not ideal for very young kids or those wanting a slow-paced day.
• Value for Money: At around $111, the tour offers a lot, but keep in mind the whole day is quite busy.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting with Convenience: Waikiki Pickup

Your day begins early, around 7:20 am, with hotel pickup in Waikiki. The shuttle takes you comfortably in an air-conditioned minibus, which is a plus after a warm morning. With a small group size (maximum of 28 people), you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the guides can give more personalized attention.

Diamond Head State Monument

Your first stop is one of Oahu’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but the view from the lookout is well worth it. You’ll get a sweeping photo opportunity of the southeastern coast—an iconic Hawaii shot, without the effort of hiking the crater itself.

Halona Blowhole & Makapu’u Beach

Next, you’ll visit the Halona Blowhole. This volcanic feature is fascinating — a natural spray of water shoots up through a narrow lava tube, especially on windy days. The guide will point out the dramatic coastline, and you might enjoy hearing about the island’s volcanic past.

On the way to the North Shore, you’ll pass Makapu’u Beach and see the rugged, dramatic sea cliffs of Waimanalo. While you’ll only pass by, these views are impressive and tell you a lot about the island’s varied coastline.

Local Flavor & Wildlife Encounters

A highlight for many is the stop at Tropical Farms, where you can sample local Kona coffee and macadamia nuts. It’s a relaxed break under shady trees, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed tasting and taking a moment to breathe.

Mokolii Island (Chinaman’s Hat) is a tiny, picturesque landform in the bay, famous for its unique shape and Hollywood appearances. It’s a quick stop, but a favorite for photos.

North Shore & Local Agriculture

Farming stops at Kahuku Farms and the surrounding tropical fruit stands give a taste of real island life. You’ll walk through a taro patch, and the market offers fresh coconuts, mangos, and other tropical treats. Many reviewers rave about the friendly guides who share insights into traditional Hawaiian agriculture.

The Iconic North Shore

Here’s where the tour truly shines. You’ll have time to stroll through the legendary surf beaches, like Sunset Beach, known for their perfect waves in winter. While the guide will point out the beaches, it’s the snorkeling stop that often steals the show.

Snorkeling & Turtle Spotting

This part is often the most talked-about. The waters off North Shore are known for Hawaiian green sea turtles — called “Honu.” If the weather cooperates, you’ll snorkel in waters teeming with these gentle creatures. As one review notes: “The highlight was swimming with the turtles,” and many appreciate how guides carefully point out turtles and ensure everyone’s safety.

A few reviews mention that sometimes due to sea conditions, turtles may not be visible, but the experience of trying and the chance to see them in their natural environment is memorable anyway.

Dole Plantation & Sweet Ending

The tour wraps up with a stop at the Dole Plantation, famous for its pineapple-themed souvenirs and, of course, the Dole Whip. It’s a fun, cooling treat after a busy day. You’ll have about 30 minutes here — enough for a quick snack and some shopping.

Final Stops & Return

Though the tour includes passes by Sandy Beach, Waimanalo, and some more scenic spots, the main focus remains on the highlights. The tour ends back in Waikiki, which means no worries about transportation or getting lost.

What Travelers Are Saying

Guides are consistently praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the day both educational and fun. As one reviewer said, “Justin did a great job — very informative and fun to interact with,” which many echoed. The small group size makes for a more personal experience and easier opportunities to ask questions.

Several reviews mention how the tour is a great value — you get to see so much for the price, especially considering the included hotel pickup, snorkeling gear, and the variety of stops.

However, some mention that the day is quite long and busy, with a packed itinerary, so if you’re someone who prefers relaxing mornings or less structured days, this might feel a bit overwhelming.

Practical Tips for Your Day

• Dress comfortably and wear sunscreen; the sun is strong, especially on the boat and at stops.
• Bring a swimsuit, towel, and some dry clothes for snorkeling.
• A small day bag with water, snacks, and a camera is ideal.
• The tour operates in all weather conditions — just dress accordingly.
• Keep in mind that turtle sightings are dependent on weather and sea conditions, so while guides will do their best, nature can be unpredictable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but want to experience a broad slice of Oahu — from scenic vistas and cultural stops to wildlife encounters — this tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy a full schedule and want the convenience of guided transport.

It’s also suitable if you’re interested in seeing green sea turtles in their natural environment, without the hassle of organizing separate excursions.

That said, if you’re after a very relaxed, leisurely day or traveling with very young children who might get tired, you might prefer splitting this into shorter, more focused trips.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included for select hotels, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 8 hours, covering all the stops and activities.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?
No, snorkeling equipment is provided as part of the tour.

Can I see sea turtles?
While many find turtle sightings at the snorkeling spot, they are wild animals, so sightings depend on weather and sea conditions.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops for snacks and a chance to try local treats like Dole Whip.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 28 travelers, which helps keep things personal.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically labeled as a family tour, it’s suitable for most ages, especially those who enjoy a full day of sightseeing and snorkeling.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended.

How much does it cost?
The tour is about $111.20 per person, offering good value given the extensive itinerary.

Are all attractions guaranteed to be visited?
Most stops are included, but some may be skipped due to weather, sea conditions, or availability.

Final thoughts

If you’re eager to see a broad swath of Oahu in just one day, this tour offers a well-rounded option. From stunning viewpoints and cultural spots to the chance to snorkel with green sea turtles, it provides a memorable snapshot of the island’s highlights.

Guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, and the small group setting makes for a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Just be ready for a long, busy day — it’s all about packing in as much as possible, which some travelers find invigorating and others might find tiring.

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure, education, and fun, making it a solid pick for travelers wanting a comprehensive, hassle-free experience of Oahu’s best bits.