Afternoon at McGarret – Hawaii 5-0 TV Tour

Experience the Best of Honolulu’s Hawaii Five-0 Landmarks in Just Four Hours

If you’re a fan of Hawaii Five-0, this tour offers a delightful peek behind the scenes of your favorite TV series. Priced at $239 per person, it lasts about 4 hours and includes visits to iconic filming locations such as Diamond Head, McGarrett’s House, and the Hawaii Film and Sound Stage. Our guides are praised for their knowledge and stories, making each stop more than just a photo opportunity. They add context, humor, and local flavor that really bring the show and the island to life.

Two elements stand out: the personalized meet-and-greet with cast member Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa) and the lunch at McGarrett’s House, where you can sit on the porch and imagine what it’s like to be part of the Five-0 team. These touches make the experience more memorable and authentic. A single possible drawback is that some reviews mention the tour’s pacing can feel a bit uneven, particularly if you’re not a die-hard fan or if the guides lean heavily on show trivia without enough background about the locations.

This tour is perfect for Hawaii Five-0 enthusiasts, TV history buffs, and travelers who love scenic drives with interesting stories. It’s a small group experience (max 10), so you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions or take photos without feeling rushed. If you enjoy guided storytelling and local insights, this tour will suit you well.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations like McGarrett’s House and the Honolulu set.
• Personal interaction with cast member Shawn Mokuahi Garnett adds a unique touch.
• Scenic stops such as Diamond Head, offering great photo ops and views.
• Informative guides share behind-the-scenes stories and local lore.
• Comfortable transportation in a small, friendly group.
• Delicious lunch options at McGarrett’s House, with options for different tastes.

A Closer Look at the Hawaii Five-0 TV Tour Experience

When we first looked into this tour, we were struck by how highly it’s rated — a perfect 5.0 based on 216 reviews. The fact that 94% of participants recommend it tells you something about its consistency and appeal. At its core, this tour is a small-group adventure that combines scenery, TV history, and local storytelling, making it a well-rounded way to spend a few hours exploring Honolulu.

Location and Duration

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, making logistics straightforward. It lasts roughly 4 hours, providing ample time to visit key filming sites without feeling rushed. The small group size (up to 10 travelers) creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for asking questions and getting personalized attention. The tour includes bottled water, snacks, and a choice of lunch at McGarrett’s House, which many reviewers find to be a highlight.

Itinerary Breakdown

Diamond Head State Monument

The first stop is the famous Diamond Head lookout. This iconic volcanic crater offers sweeping views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean, making it an ideal first photo stop. Reviewers like Angela and William appreciate the opportunity to enjoy spectacular scenery and stretch their legs after the drive. Expect about 15 minutes here, enough to snap some photos and take in the scenery.

McGarrett’s House and Lunch

Next, the tour proceeds to the McGarrett House estate, the legendary residence from the series. Walking into the house or sitting on the porch feels like stepping into a TV set — a surreal experience for fans. Shawn Mokuahi Garnett, who plays Cousin Flippa, often joins and offers fun, behind-the-scenes stories. Many guests describe the lunch as a relaxing, enjoyable experience with good food, with options like The Beefy McGarrett, the Chicken, or Veggie.

The lunch at McGarrett’s House isn’t just a meal; it’s an immersive moment where you can sit where the characters relax, enjoy the backyard views, and chat with Shawn. According to reviews, Shawn is friendly, engaging, and generous with photos, making it a true highlight.

Hawaii Film and Sound Stage

Another key stop is the Hawaii Film and Sound Stage, where many of the show’s scenes were shot. While details are limited in reviews, the inclusion of this location hints at behind-the-scenes access that fans find fascinating.

Additional Locations and Stories

Beyond the main stops, guides like Suze and Shawn are praised for sharing little-known facts and anecdotes that you won’t find in guides or online. Reviewers mention how the guides weave in stories about the filming process, local culture, and Honolulu’s history, enriching the experience.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour uses a comfortable van, which reviewers find clean and spacious enough for the small group. The logistics of pickup and drop-off at your hotel are seamless, allowing you to relax and enjoy the ride. The vehicle’s interior is well-maintained, and the driver’s commentary adds to the experience, blending local lore and show trivia.

The Guides and Cast Interaction

One of the most praised aspects is the personal interaction with Shawn Mokuahi Garnett. Many reviews highlight how generous and approachable he is, taking photos and sharing funny stories. Meeting a cast member is a unique plus that elevates this tour from a simple sightseeing trip to a personal connection with the Hawaiian TV scene.

Price and Value

At $239 per person, the tour may seem pricey, but considering the special access, personalized stories, lunch, and small group size, many guests feel it’s worth the cost. Angela, for example, notes that she found the experience “amazing,” especially the inside visits and cast meet-and-greet. Others mention how the scenic drives and storytelling make it a worthwhile investment for fans.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews suggest that the tour could be more polished or immersive, with a few noting that the narration sometimes leans heavily on show trivia without enough background on the locations themselves. A couple of guests felt the experience was overpriced in relation to what they received, especially if they are not avid fans of the series. Nonetheless, most agree that the guides’ enthusiasm and local insights make up for this.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for Hawaii Five-0 fans or TV buffs who want to visually connect with the show’s settings. If you enjoy guided storytelling, meeting cast members, and exploring film locations in a relaxed setting, you’ll find this tour engaging. Travelers interested in scenic views and local culture will also appreciate the stops, especially Diamond Head and the house’s backyard.

If you’re not a huge fan of the series or prefer a more general island tour emphasizing history and landscapes, this might not be your top choice. However, even casual fans will enjoy the personal touches and beautiful scenery.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those who adore Hawaii Five-0, this tour offers a rare chance to step into the world of the show while enjoying the sights of Oahu. The personal interaction with Shawn and the lunch experience at McGarrett’s House combine to create a memorable, authentic adventure. The small group size ensures a friendly, intimate atmosphere where questions are welcome.

For the price, you’re paying for expert guides, exclusive locations, and that special TV connection. Most guests leave feeling they’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the show and the island. It’s a fun, engaging, and well-loved experience that balances pop culture with scenic beauty.

If you’re a dedicated fan or simply love discovering film and TV locations, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to Honolulu. If you’re after a more traditional sightseeing experience or a tighter budget, you might prefer other tours, but for pure entertainment and fan fulfillment, it’s a firm recommendation.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, providing a relaxed pace to visit all the key locations.

Are there meal options?
Yes, a lunch is included at McGarrett’s House, with choices like Beefy McGarrett, Chicken, or Veggie. Snack options are also available.

Can I meet cast members?
You will have a meet-and-greet with Shawn Mokuahi Garnett (Cousin Flippa), who is known for being friendly and engaging.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience and enough time for questions.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera or smartphone for photos, some comfortable walking shoes, and a sense of fun for the stories and scenery.

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic peek into the world of Hawaii Five-0, set against the stunning backdrop of Oahu’s most memorable spots. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love Hawaii’s film scene, it promises a memorable slice of island life with a dash of Hollywood sparkle.