Oahu Grand Circle Island Tour from Kauai
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Experience the best of Oahu with our Grand Circle Island Tour from Kauai. This full-day adventure takes you along the legendary North Shore, where world-class surfers compete at Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach during the winter months. You’ll explore charming Haleiwa Town, known for its galleries, shops, and cafes, and visit the famous Dole Plantation to learn about Hawaii’s iconic pineapple crop.
As you journey through lush valleys and dramatic cliffs of the Koolau Mountains, you'll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from spots like Nuuanu Pali Lookout, Makapu'u Point, and Hanauma Bay. A special lunch at a secret oceanfront location adds to the experience, all while traveling comfortably in our well-maintained mini bus with a small group for a more personalized feel.
This tour combines scenic beauty, local history, and fun stops, making it a perfect way to see Oahu’s highlights in one day. After a full day of exploring, we’ll return you to Honolulu Airport in plenty of time for your flight back to Maui or onward journey.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, giving you plenty of time to see the sights and enjoy each stop.
Is this tour suitable for children and all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels and is designed to be enjoyable for infants, children, and adults alike.
What’s included in the tour?
Your package includes engaging narration from a local guide, snorkeling equipment, round-trip transportation between Lihue Airport and Honolulu International Airport, and air-conditioned vehicle transportation.
Are meals included?
Lunch and breakfast are not included, but there will be stops at places like Tanaka's Shrimp Stand for delicious local food, and a secret oceanfront lunch spot for a memorable meal.
What should I bring?
Bring towels, sunscreen, sunglasses, and any personal items you might need for beach stops or sightseeing. Some stops involve walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 10 hours – 11 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Engaging narration from a local guide, sharing stories and insights throughout your tour
- Use of snorkeling equipment
- Round-trip airfare from Lihue Airport on Kauai to Honolulu International Airport
- Air-conditioned vehicle transportation
Not included
- Gratuities
- Parking fees
- Transportation to Lihue Airport on Kauai
- Breakfast and lunch
- Towels (guests should bring their own)
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Amelia Earhart's Marker offers views of Diamond Head Light House, built in 1899, which lights nearly 18 miles into the Pacific. The site provides beautiful views over Kuilei Cliffs Beach Park and along the coast toward Kahala. The marker commemorates her 1935 solo flight from Hawaii to California. Note: The tour does not drive into Diamond Head Crater.
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Stop 2
Leonard’s Bakery, famous for Hawaii’s only Portuguese donuts, offers a quick taste of malasadas—crispy on the outside, chewy inside—an iconic Hawaiian treat. Time permitting, guests can enjoy a quick stop here.
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Stop 3
The Hālona Blowhole, formed from ancient volcanic lava tubes, occasionally shoots seawater up to 30 feet in the air. The nearby Halona Cove is a stunning beach featured in movies and music videos. Winter may bring whale sightings in the surrounding waters.
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Stop 4
Sandy Beach, also called 'Broke Neck Beach,' is known for its powerful shore break, perfect for bodyboarding and bodysurfing. It’s a quick drive-by or restroom stop.
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Stop 5
Makapu'u Beach, located below Makapu'u Point, is famous for large waves suitable for bodysurfing. Overlooking Rabbit Island and the Makapu'u Lighthouse, it’s a scenic spot featured in movies like '50 First Dates.'
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Stop 6
Hawaii’s Hidden Treasures at Jamie’s includes a restroom break, light shopping for Hawaiian memorabilia, and tasting fresh local fruits and pineapples.
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Stop 7
Chinaman's Hat at Kualoa Regional Park offers iconic views of Mokolii Island, known for swimming, picnicking, and camping. Guests can take photos and use the restrooms.
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Stop 8
Tanaka's Shrimp Stand, a famous local shrimp truck, offers a variety of shrimp dishes—garlic, coconut, spicy, lemon, or plain—served with chicken, fried noodles, rice, and a green salad. Lunch includes a soft drink and lasts about an hour.
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Stop 9
Turtle Bay Fruit Stand offers fresh, locally grown fruits, desserts, and shave ice for purchase, perfect for a quick refreshment.
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Stop 10
Sunset Beach, renowned for its powerful surf, challenges even expert surfers and offers stunning ocean views.
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Stop 11
Banzai Pipeline, one of the world's most famous surf spots, features massive winter swells and shallow reef breaks. It’s a top viewing spot for watching elite surfers tackle huge waves.
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Stop 12
Shark's Cove, part of Pupukea Beach Park, is known for its underwater rock formations and vibrant marine life. It’s a popular snorkeling site with shallow depths up to 20 feet.
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Stop 13
Waimea Bay is famous for its 30-foot winter waves, attracting top surfers. During summer, it’s calm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
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Stop 14
Laniakea Beach, or Turtle Beach, is a favorite for spotting Hawaiian sea turtles and enjoying scenic views. It’s also popular for surfing and swimming.
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Stop 15
Optional snorkeling at Pua'ena Point Beach Park, a shallow, beginner-friendly spot in North Shore known for its surf and clear waters. Duration is about 1 hour.
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Stop 16
Macadamia Nut Store offers free samples of season’s nuts, fresh coffee, and other local products. Enjoy live music and shopping.
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Stop 17
Dole Plantation provides pineapple-themed souvenirs, local crafts, and treats like Dole Whip. Walk among Rainbow Eucalyptus trees and enjoy about 45 minutes here.
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Stop 18
Taste a variety of Hawaii-made coffee flavors, ice cream, and shave ice at a local stand, with about 15 minutes to enjoy the flavors.
Meeting point & pickup
Hotel pickup included for all travelers
If you flew Southwest Airlines into Honolulu Airport, we will pick you up at Terminal 2, baggage claim 31, area 5. If you flew Hawaiian Airlines, pickup is at Terminal 1, area 1.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
Cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure for a full refund.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day prior
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours of departure
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low enrollment
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $459.99 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
