Private Custom Oahu Island Tour | Flexible Day Options (Up to 10)

Kapiʻolani Regional Park sits at the base of Diamond Head and offers open green space with clear, ground-level views of the crater. This stop allows guests to walk through the park, take photos of Diamond Head from below, and enjoy a relaxed setting near Waikīkī without the crowds or elevation of the lookout. It’s a convenient photo and stretch stop and a good alternative for guests who prefer not to visit higher viewpoints.

China Walls is a scenic coastal cliff area in the Koko Kai neighborhood, known for its ocean views, lava rock formations, and powerful waves crashing along the shoreline. Guests can walk along the cliff edge, take photos of the coastline, and enjoy views toward Diamond Head and the open Pacific. This stop is popular for photos and sightseeing and offers a look at a local hangout away from busy tourist areas.This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to make it a stop if your group prefers. Beach access may be available if coordinated before your tour date, as entry requires timed reservations and admission. Swimming or cliff jumping is not included and is not permitted during the tour due to ocean conditions and safety concerns.

A natural ocean geyser formed by ancient lava tubes on Oahu’s southeastern coast. When waves crash at high tide, the Halona Blowhole can shoot sea spray up to 30 feet in the air. It’s a dramatic scenic stop overlooking the Pacific and the small Halona Beach Cove (seen in Hollywood films). This Honolulu tour highlight offers a safe lookout to witness one of Hawaiʻi’s natural wonders and snap photos of the rugged coastline.

A scenic roadside stop at Oahu’s southeastern tip, offering panoramic views of the turquoise ocean, soaring sea cliffs, and offshore islets like Rabbit Island. Part of Makapu’u Point State Wayside Park, this lookout is a popular photo opportunity – you can gaze down at Makapu’u Beach and across to the windward coast. In winter it’s also a whale-watching spot, as humpbacks spout and breach offshore. This stop showcases Oahu’s natural beauty and is a must for any customizable island itinerary.

A historic lookout point perched over 1,000 feet above Oahu’s Windward Coast. The Pali Lookout provides sweeping views of the sheer Ko’olau cliffs, lush Nuʻuanu Valley, and the towns of Kane’ohe and Kailua spread out below. This very spot is where King Kamehameha I won the Battle of Nuʻuanu in 1795, uniting Oahu under his rule – many warriors were forced off these cliffs in that decisive conflict. Expect strong trade winds up here (hold onto your hats!), but also one of the most breathtaking panoramas on the island. It’s a quick, fascinating stop blending scenery and history.

A serene Buddhist temple tucked in the Valley of the Temples, at the foot of the Ko’olau Mountains. Byodo-In is a half-size replica of a 900-year-old temple in Uji, Japan, built in 1968 to commemorate 100 years of Japanese immigration to Hawaii. The temple sits among koi ponds and Japanese gardens, with peacocks roaming the grounds and a towering Ko’olau cliff backdrop. Visitors can ring the three-ton brass peace bell for good luck and admire the 18-foot golden Buddha inside. This peaceful stop offers a cultural experience and beautiful scenery.

A fun little stop known as the Macadamia Nut Farm Outlet – a rustic farm stand where you can taste all things macadamia! As soon as you arrive, you’re greeted by the smell of roasting macadamia and free samples of flavored nuts and local coffee. You can try your hand at cracking open a raw macadamia nut with a rock (they provide the tools) and sample varieties ranging from garlic-flavored to honey-roasted nuts. The country store also offers Hawaiian chocolates, spices, and souvenirs. This stop gives you a delicious taste of Oahu and a chance to pick up unique gifts.

A small cone-shaped basalt island sitting about a third of a mile offshore from Kualoa Point in Kane’ohe Bay. Officially named Mokoli’i (meaning “little lizard” in Hawaiian), this islet earned the nickname “Chinaman’s Hat” for its resemblance to an old-style Asian straw hat. It’s one of Oahu’s most photographed landmarks – a favorite backdrop for group photos with the verdant Kualoa mountains behind it. We usually view Chinaman’s Hat from Kualoa Regional Park or along the coast highway, where you can appreciate its unique shape and the legend behind it (local lore says it’s the remains of a dragon’s tail). This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to make it a stop if your group prefers.

A legendary 4,000-acre private nature reserve and cattle ranch, set against the dramatic Koʻolau Mountains on Oʻahu’s east side. Kualoa Ranch is often called “Jurassic Valley” – over 200 movies and TV shows have been filmed on its jungle valleys, including Jurassic Park and Jumanji. While our standard tour does not include the paid ranch activities, we will drive by this scenic landmark so you can admire the view of Kaʻaʻawa Valley’s lush cliffs. You’ll also spot the offshore islet Mokoliʻi (Chinaman’s Hat) just off Kualoa Point. It’s a majestic landscape and a recognizable highlight of Oahu (Note: No inside ranch tour is included on this itinerary.) This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to make it a stop for photos if your group prefers.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is a well-known cultural attraction on Oʻahu’s North Shore that highlights Polynesian cultures from across the Pacific. During this experience, guests will pass by the property while learning about its cultural significance and location along the North Shore route. This listing does not include entry into the center or participation in shows or activities , but we’re happy to make it a quick stop for photos if your group prefers.

Kahuku Sugar Mill is a casual lunch stop on Oʻahu’s North Shore featuring multiple local food vendors in one convenient location. Guests can choose from a variety of island-style lunch options, including shrimp plates, poke bowls, plate lunches, tacos, and shave ice. Well-known nearby food trucks such as Ry’s Poke Shack and Da Bald Guy may also be available depending on the day and timing. This stop allows guests to order food individually, relax, and enjoy lunch at their own pace. Food and drinks are not included in the tour price.

Oahu’s world-famous North Shore coastline, often called the “Seven Mile Miracle” of surf. We’ll cruise by legendary surf breaks including Waimea Bay (known for big-wave surfing in winter), Banzai Pipeline at ‘Ehukai Beach (renowned for its perfect barreling waves), and Sunset Beach (home to long, rideable waves and brilliant sunsets). In the winter months (roughly October–March), these beaches host international surfing competitions and awe-inspiring waves that can top 20–30 feet. During summer, the waters calm down, turning these spots into gentle swimming beaches. Even if you’re not a surfer, the North Shore’s beauty and the chance to watch surfers in action make this drive a highlight. This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to stop at a viewpoint if your group prefers (conditions permitting).

Waimea Bay is a well-known North Shore beach recognized for its wide shoreline and seasonal surf. This stop is a short photo opportunity where guests can step out, take photos of the bay, and enjoy views of the coastline. Swimming is not included during this stop; it’s intended for sightseeing and photos only. Timing may vary based on traffic and ocean conditions. (This is a planned photo stop; timing may be adjusted based on your group’s pace.)

A famous roadside beach on the North Shore where wild Hawaiian green sea turtles are frequently seen basking on the sand. Laniakea Beach – nicknamed “Turtle Beach” – is one of the best places on the island to observe these protected turtles in their natural habitat. On a sunny day, you might find several turtles napping on shore or grazing on seaweed in the shallow waters. Our guide will point out any turtles and share guidelines for respectful viewing (no touching and keep a few yards back). This stop is a wonderful wildlife photo opportunity if we’re lucky with turtle sightings. This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to make it a stop if your group prefers.

A charming historic surf town and the cultural hub of Oahu’s North Shore. Hale’iwa is filled with plantation-era wooden buildings housing art galleries, surf shops, and laid-back eateries. This is the perfect lunch stop on our tour – you’ll find the famous shrimp truck stands, local plate lunch spots, and Matsumoto’s Shave Ice (a must-try Hawaiian shaved ice shop). Rich in local style and far removed from the hustle of Honolulu, Hale’iwa lets you experience the “country” side of Oʻahu. Stroll the town, pick up unique souvenirs, and soak up the surf culture history.

A family-friendly stop at Oahu’s famous pineapple plantation in Wahiawa. Originally a pineapple farm and fruit stand in the mid-1900s, Dole Plantation opened to visitors in 1989 and has since become one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions. Here you can sample the iconic Dole Whip soft-serve pineapple ice cream, learn about Hawaiʻi’s pineapple history, or wander through the Pineapple Garden Maze – once declared the world’s largest plant maze. The plantation has beautiful gardens, a country store for pineapple goodies, and a mini train tour (not included in our stop). It’s a sweet treat and a fun rest break on the tour.

Located inside an extinct volcanic crater above Honolulu, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific—commonly known as Punchbowl—is a solemn site honoring U.S. service members. During this experience, guests will pass through the Punchbowl area and view the memorial grounds and surrounding cityscape from the roadway. If traffic and timing allow, a brief photo stop may be made at designated viewpoints. This visit is intended for quiet sightseeing and reflection.

A National Historic Landmark in downtown Honolulu and the only official royal palace in the United States. ‘Iolani Palace was the residence of Hawaii’s monarchs, King Kalākaua and his sister Queen Liliʻuokalani, in the late 1800s. The elegant American Florentine-style building sits proudly in manicured grounds. On our tour we typically view the palace from the outside, noting its historic significance and beautiful architecture – a symbol of the Hawaiian Kingdom. (Interior tours are available to the public but not part of this driving tour.) We can stop briefly for photos of the palace and the surrounding buildings if desired.

An iconic 18-foot bronze statue of King Kamehameha I, Hawaii’s first king, located directly across from ‘Iolani Palace. Draped in gold leaf attire, the statue stands in front of Ali’iolani Hale (Hawaii’s Supreme Court building) and is one of Oahu’s most photographed landmarks. Each year on King Kamehameha Day (June 11), the statue is ceremoniously draped with floral lei – a sight that honors the chief who united the islands. Fans of the TV show “Hawaii Five-0” will recognize this statue from the opening credits. We usually point it out during the city drive; a quick photo stop can be arranged if you’d like a closer look with this important piece of Hawaiian history. This is typically a pass-by, but we’re happy to make it a stop if your group prefers.

A panoramic lookout atop a mountain ridge behind Honolulu – a bit of a hidden gem for sweeping city views. After a winding drive up Tantalus, you arrive at Pu’u ‘Ualaka’a State Park, where an overlook offers dazzling 360° views of Honolulu and beyond. From this viewpoint (elevation ~1,048 ft), you can see the downtown skyline, Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head crater, and even Pearl Harbor on a clear day. It’s one of the best photo ops for capturing all of Honolulu in one frame, especially beautiful at sunset or dusk when city lights emerge. This stop really showcases the customizable itinerary aspect – we love bringing travelers here for a grand finale view of the island.