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The 10 Best Tours in Oahu
Oahu isn’t just about stunning beaches and crashing surf—it's also a place where you can get up close to marine wildlife, explore historic sites, or enjoy scenic cruises. Whether you want to swim with dolphins, see the USS Arizona, or soar above the island while parasailing, the diversity of tours here keeps everyone busy. We’ve done the legwork to find the most outstanding options, like the Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast or the Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour, so you can pick what fits your style. Some tours are perfect for families, while others suit thrill-seekers or history buffs. Expect high ratings, good reviews, and great value—plus, a few insider tips to help you plan your trip.
Oahu’s real charm is in its marine life, rich history, and stunning landscapes. For example, the Swim with Sharks Cage-Free tour offers an adrenaline rush with safe encounters, and the Full Day Oahu North Shore Circle Island & Snorkeling covers the entire island in one go. With so many options, you might find yourself planning more than one adventure.
Quick Overview of Oahu Tours
Oahu’s best tours range from marine wildlife encounters like swimming with dolphins (#1) and shark cage dives (#2), to historic visits at Pearl Harbor (#4), and scenic sailing trips like catamaran snorkel tours (#3). Others focus on adventurous diving (#9), whale watching (seasonal), and Sunset BYOB cruises (#13). Read on to see what each offers and why they made our list.
1. Swim with Dolphins on the West Coast of Oahu
This half-day boat tour is a favorite for its up-close dolphin encounters and snorkeling opportunities. Depart from your hotel, hop aboard a catamaran, and cruise the coast, keeping an eye out for pods of dolphins, sea turtles, and colorful fish. The tour runs about four hours, blending scenic water views with marine wildlife.
What makes this tour stand out? The educational commentary from crew members, along with the chance to snorkel in natural habitats, makes it both fun and informative. Families love how kid-friendly it is, and reviews highlight the smooth logistics and the unforgettable blue water moments.
Bottom line: For a relaxed, wildlife-packed morning, this tour offers high-quality snorkeling and dolphin viewing, rated 5 stars with nearly 1,000 reviews. Perfect for nature lovers and families alike.
2. Swim with Sharks Cage-Free from Oahu
This is an eye-opening experience to swim with sharks without a cage, departing from Haleiwa on Oahu’s North Shore. The roughly two-hour tour includes a half-hour in the water, swimming alongside reef sharks with a guide and a safety diver nearby. No cage needed—just a respect for these magnificent animals.
What’s special? The small-group setting and the all-inclusive snorkel gear make it easy and intimate. Reviewers mention how knowledgeable crew support even nervous swimmers, and the chance to see multiple shark species plus dolphins makes this a memorable trip.
Bottom line: At $150, it offers a thrilling yet safe way to face your fears and get close to Hawaii’s apex predators—ideal for adventurous travelers who want something different.
3. Oahu Catamaran Snorkel Tour: See Turtles 100% Guaranteed
Hop aboard a spacious catamaran for a two-hour cruise along Oahu’s scenic coastline. The highlight? Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon, where green sea turtles are guaranteed to appear. The boat is limited to 50% capacity, so you’ll enjoy a comfortable, less crowded experience with quality snorkel gear and onboard refreshments.
What makes this tour special? The guaranteed turtle sightings means no disappointment, and the friendly crew help you spot marine life. Tourists praise the smooth ride and the ease of snorkeling even for beginners. It’s a fantastic value at just under $45.
Bottom line: This is a great choice for families and first-time snorkelers who want a reliable, fun, half-day adventure with plenty of marine life.
4. Pearl Harbor History Remembered Tour from Ko Olina
This comprehensive 7-hour tour visits the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri, and downtown Honolulu. It’s a fully narrated experience that includes all entrance fees, making it a hassle-free way to honor Pearl Harbor’s history.
What makes this tour notable? The memorial visits are deeply moving, and the experienced guide shares insightful stories. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers a balanced mix of history and scenic views, making it suitable for most travelers. Many reviewers appreciate the professionalism and timely pickup.
Bottom line: For those interested in U.S. history and iconic naval sites, this tour offers a rich, educational experience without the hassle of planning.
5. Oahu: Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore
This 1.5-hour tour provides the chance to watch sharks from the boat deck or in the cage. Departing from the North Shore, it combines a scenic boat ride with the thrill of seeing these predators up close.
Why pick this? The option to enter the cage for those seeking adventure, plus the potential to also see dolphins and whale sharks, makes it versatile. The reviews highlight the friendly crew and the safe environment that encourages even first-timers to enjoy the experience.
Bottom line: At $99, it offers a thrilling, high-adrenaline experience suited for both casual observers and those craving a little more excitement.
6. Oahu Fun Circle Island Tour With Pickup
This full-day tour covers more of Oahu than you could see on your own. With a seasoned guide, you’ll visit Diamond Head, Eternity Beach, Halona Blowhole, the Dole Plantation, and more. Plus, you’ll stop at a local lunch spot for shave ice and pineapple ice cream.
What sets this apart? The expert guide sharing stories about the island’s history, film locations, and natural sights. Travelers love how it’s a stress-free way to see many highlights in one day, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Reviewers mention the great stops and the friendly atmosphere.
Bottom line: Ideal for those with limited time wanting a rundown of Oahu’s main attractions.
7. Wild Dolphin Watching and Snorkel Safari Off West Coast of Oahu
This 3-hour adventure takes you along Oahu’s Waianae Coast to spot spinner dolphins, humpback whales (seasonally), and other marine life. Led by marine biologists and naturalists, the 32-foot vessel keeps groups small—just 15 people—for an intimate experience.
The tour includes snorkeling gear and the chance to swim with sea turtles and tropical fish. Reviewers rave about the friendly crew, the chance to see dolphins and whales, and the beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, this trip balances education and fun in a relaxed, small-group setting at around $194 per person.
8. Turtle Canyon Snorkel from Waikiki: Turtles Guaranteed
This tour offers a chance to snorkel with green sea turtles and see Waikiki’s vibrant marine life in just under two hours. The guaranteed turtle sightings make it a popular choice for families and first-timers.
What makes this tour stand out? The helpful guides and quality equipment ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience. Many reviewers praise the scenic scenery and the fact that the tour keeps its promise of turtle sightings.
Bottom line: A short, reliable, and fun option for those staying near Waikiki, seeking an effortless way to see Hawaii’s famous sea turtles.
9. Beginner Scuba Experience with Video Package in Honolulu
This introductory scuba tour is perfect for first-timers. Held in a protected lagoon near Waikiki, it includes 20-30 minutes of diving with a small group of four, plus a video package to remember your first underwater experience.
Why choose this? The personal attention from instructors, and the easy, shallow site make it suitable even for nervous or non-swimmers. Reviewers mention the professional guidance and how Kyle, the instructor, makes it easy and fun.
Bottom line: For a safe, beginner-friendly introduction to scuba, this tour offers excellent value at $80, especially for those wanting to try something new.
10. Turtle Canyon Snorkel: Semi Private Boat Tour
This semi-private tour takes only six people out to Turtle Canyon on a high-speed zodiac boat. It provides a personalized experience with top-tier snorkel gear and an opportunity to swim with sea turtles, with the added bonus of potentially seeing dolphins and monk seals.
What makes it stand out? The small group size and expert guides mean more attention and a better chance to see marine life. The 10-minute boat ride sets the tone for an exciting, intimate adventure.
Bottom line: For those who want a more exclusive experience and personalized attention, at $109 per person, it’s a top choice.
How to Choose Your Perfect Oahu Tour
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you have. If marine wildlife is your priority, the Swim with Dolphins (#1) or Sea Turtle Snorkel (#8) are excellent options. For history lovers, the Pearl Harbor tour (#4) offers a profound experience, while the full island circle (#6) suits those seeking a broad overview.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate tours like the Turtle Canyon snorkel or Sunset BYOB cruise (#13), which offer great value. Adventurers looking for a thrill should consider the Shark Cage Dive (#5) or the Beginner Scuba (#9).
Booking early, especially during peak seasons, ensures availability. Consider your fitness level—some tours involve swimming or walking—and whether you prefer a full-day experience or a shorter outing.
Final Thoughts
Oahu offers a broad spectrum of tours that cater to every taste and interest. If you’re into marine life, the Swim with Dolphins and Sea Turtle snorkels are fantastic choices. For a history fix, the Pearl Harbor tour delivers depth, while the scenic cruises like the Sunset BYOB or Waikiki Catamaran make for memorable, relaxed evenings.
No matter what you choose, booking ahead is wise—these popular outings fill up fast. With options ranging from adventurous shark dives to family-friendly boat trips, you’re sure to find an Oahu tour that makes your trip unforgettable. Dive in early, plan smart, and get ready for some incredible island experiences.