Oahu: Hawaii Five-0 Filming Locations Guided Tour

If you’re a fan of Hawaii Five-0 or just love exploring the real-life settings of your favorite shows, this Oahu filming locations tour hits the sweet spot. For about four hours, you’ll visit some of the most recognizable sites from the series, including the legendary McGarrett’s House, the bustling Hawaii Film Studio, and the dramatic Pali Lookout. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Matt, who many reviews praise for his humor and insight—you’ll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the show’s filming magic.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its well-curated stops that blend filming locations with local sights—like Waimnalo Beach and Koko Head Stairs—and the engaging commentary from guides who clearly know their stuff. It’s also a tour that offers great value given the range of iconic sites you’ll see in just four hours. A potential drawback? Since some locations are just drive-bys, you might not get ample time to wander each site closely, but that’s a small trade-off for the breadth of sights covered.

This tour best suits fans of Hawaii Five-0, especially those eager to see the show’s key landmarks. It’s also ideal for travelers who want an efficient overview of Oahu’s filming locations without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions. If you’re looking for a fun, engaging way to connect with Hawaii’s TV history while taking in some scenic spots, this guided experience fits the bill.

Key Points

• Iconic Locations – Visit McGarrett’s Oceanfront House and the Five-0 Headquarters
• Behind-the-Scenes Access – Tour the Hawaii Film Studio, the show’s production hub
• Scenic Stops – Explore Pali Lookout, Waimnalo Beach, and Koko Head Stairs
• Expert Guides – Guides like Matt receive high praise for their knowledge and humor
• Drive-by Only – Some sites are seen from the vehicle, not explored on foot
• Ideal for Fans – Best suited for those who love the TV series and want to connect with its filming locations

You can check availability for your dates here:

A detailed look at the Oahu: Hawaii Five-0 Filming Locations Guided Tour

An Overview of What You Can Expect

This four-hour adventure offers a balanced mix of iconic filming locations and scenic Oahu sights. You’ll find yourself cruising past some of the most photographed sites from the show, like McGarrett’s Bayer Estate, which has become a symbol of the series, and visiting key spots like Rachel’s House and Kono’s Surf Lesson at Magic Island. The tour takes place on the island itself, meaning you’re immersed in the real-world backdrop of Hawaii’s stunning coastlines and lush landscapes.

The Locations and Their Significance

McGarrett’s House (Bayer Estate): This ocean-front mansion is instantly recognizable, having appeared in countless episodes. While you can’t go inside, seeing it from the road is enough to make fans’ hearts race. The view of the Pacific from here makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in the series.

Hawaii Film Studio: As the production home of Hawaii Five-0, this studio is where most of the sets, soundstages, and behind-the-scenes work happened. Visitors get a taste of what it takes to produce a long-running TV show, making it more than just a scenic stop.

Rachel’s House: Located on Summer Street, this home is a recurring location that’s closely tied to Danny Williams’ family storylines. Fans especially appreciate seeing where major family scenes were shot—adding a personal touch to their visit.

Munlualua Bay and Waimnalo Beach: These scenic coastal spots are integral to many episodes—whether it’s a kidnapping plot or a diplomatic standoff. Here, the natural beauty of Hawaii meets the show’s suspenseful moments, making for memorable photo opportunities.

Koko Head Stairs: Known locally as Hawaii’s StairMaster, this steep climb was used as a training spot for Alex O’Loughlin (McGarrett). Many visitors find walking up these stairs a rewarding challenge—plus, the panoramic view from the top is breathtaking.

Hawaii Institute of Marine Biology Research Pier: This pier in Kneohe Bay doubled as both a research facility and a crime scene, giving the show an authentic investigative vibe.

Waimnalo Sherwood Forest: A lush, green park that has appeared in action scenes, perfect for fans wanting to see a more natural, tranquil setting.

Pali Lookout: The dramatic cliffs here have hosted Halloween murders and tense investigations, offering a spectacular backdrop to your tour.

Hawaii’s Supreme Court Exterior: Recognizable by the statue of King Kamehameha, this building stood in for the Five-0 headquarters—an iconic visual for fans.

Chinatown: This lively neighborhood, with neon lights and historic architecture, doubles as the show’s urban battleground for car chases and undercover operations.

Kamekona’s Shrimp Truck: The beloved food truck where Kamekona first appeared, offering a tasty connection to the series’ recurring characters.

Additional highlights include the surf lesson scene at Magic Island and the scenic Pali Highway, which featured in episodes involving high-stakes investigations.

How the Tour Is Conducted

Most locations are seen from the vehicle, with some stops allowing brief periods for photo-taking or quick exploration. Some sites, like McGarrett’s house, are drive-bys only, which may disappoint those hoping to step out and explore each site. The tour is led by a live, English-speaking guide, such as Matt, whose knowledge and humor elevate the experience—something multiple reviews consistently praise.

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The Value of the Experience

At roughly four hours, the price offers solid value, especially considering the variety of sites covered. The tour emphasizes authenticity and storytelling, giving you context about the show’s production while exploring Oahu’s diverse scenery. It’s a great way to combine TV nostalgia with local sights—not just a list of filming locations but a narrative about the show’s connection to Hawaii.

What Travelers Say

The reviews highlight the quality of the guides—”Matt was simply super”—and express enthusiasm for how well the guide brought the locations alive. One reviewer described the tour as “INCREDIBLE,” emphasizing the guide’s informative, funny, and laid-back style. The only consideration is that some stops are only seen from the bus, so if you’re eager to walk around each site, this might feel limited.

Practicalities and Tips

• The tour is suitable for fans of Hawaii Five-0 and those curious about filming locations.
• It’s not recommended for children under 7 or babies under 1. Elderly travelers over 95 might want to check accessibility.
• The tour includes multiple locations with some being drive-by only, so plan your expectations accordingly.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.
• Reserve now and pay later to keep your options open.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour offers a fun, well-rounded look at Hawaii’s connection to the hit series Hawaii Five-0. It isn’t a full-blown behind-the-scenes production tour, but it strikes a good balance between scenic sights and TV landmarks. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable guides—especially those like Matt—travellers can expect a lively, engaging experience that deepens their appreciation for both the series and the island.

For anyone who loves Hawaii’s scenic beauty and the stories behind popular shows, this tour provides a solid dose of both in just a few hours. It’s perfect for fans wanting a personal connection to the series or travelers seeking a lively, informative way to see some of Oahu’s most photogenic spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I see McGarrett’s house from the inside?
No, the tour only passes by the house from the road. You’ll see the exterior but won’t go inside.

How long is the tour?
It lasts around four hours, including the drive and stops.

Are there any opportunities to explore locations on foot?
Most locations are viewed from the vehicle; some stops are just drive-bys.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for kids over 7 years old; younger children and babies may find the ride long or unengaging.

What kind of guide will I have?
You’ll have a live, English-speaking guide—many reviews praise guides like Matt for their knowledge and humor.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, transportation is included, and the stops are made in a comfortable vehicle.

Is this tour good for someone who isn’t a big fan of the show?
While designed for fans, non-fans can still enjoy the scenic sites and learn about Hawaii’s film industry.

Are the filming locations wheelchair accessible?
The data doesn’t specify, so it’s best to check directly if accessibility is a concern.

How much walking is involved?
Minimal walking; most locations are viewed from the vehicle with brief stops.

If you’re eager to see the real-world backdrop of Hawaii Five-0 while enjoying some of Oahu’s scenic beauty, this guided tour offers a fun, informative experience. Whether you’re a dedicated fan or a curious traveler, it’s a lively way to connect with Hawaii’s TV history and its stunning landscape—all in just four hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby