Honolulu Polo Game with Stables Tour and VIP Seats plus Private Island Tour

Honolulu Polo Game with Stables Tour and VIP Seats plus Private Island Tour offers a rare glimpse into Oahu beyond its famous beaches. Priced at $281.70 per person for about 5 hours, this experience combines the thrill of watching a live polo match with an intimate tour of the island’s southern highlights, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation and VIP seating.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to see Hawaiian equestrian culture up close, including a behind-the-scenes look at the players’ stables and their horses—something you don’t typically get on standard island excursions. The VIP lounge at the polo field offers a relaxed space to enjoy light refreshments while soaking in the picturesque backdrop of the Koolau mountains. On the other hand, a possible drawback is the additional fee of $140 for pickups outside Honolulu’s metro area, which might increase the overall cost if you’re staying farther from Waikiki.

This tour appeals most to travelers seeking a more authentic, less touristy side of Oahu, especially those interested in Hawaiian culture, equestrian traditions, and scenic drives. If you’re someone who appreciates a mix of activity, culture, and comfort, this experience is likely to hit the right notes.

Key Points

• Exclusive access: Reserved VIP seating for the polo game ensures a comfortable and unobstructed view.
• Behind-the-scenes look: Tour of the players’ stables provides insight into the equestrian side of Hawaiian life.
• Scenic drive: The private tour passes iconic spots like Eternity Beach, Kokohead Lookout, and Makapu’u Lookout, offering stunning ocean and mountain views.
• Flexible logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off within Honolulu make for a hassle-free experience, with an optional charge for outside areas.
• Expert guidance: A driver and guide are on hand to answer questions about Hawaiian history, culture, and polo.
• Time-efficient: The 5-hour experience packs in sightseeing, entertainment, and cultural insights without feeling rushed.

Experiencing the Best of Oahu’s Southern Coast

Imagine starting your afternoon with a luxurious private transfer from your Waikiki or Honolulu hotel. The drive to Waimanalo is scenic, offering glimpses of local neighborhoods and the lush landscape that surrounds the island’s east coast. Once you arrive at the polo field, the environment is surprisingly relaxed compared to the high-energy sports venues you might be used to.

The polo match begins at 3pm against the stunning backdrop of the Koolaus—a mountain range that provides a dramatic setting for equestrian sport. The reserved VIP lounge is a real treat, offering a comfortable spot to settle in with light refreshments, lunch, and drinks for purchase. This dedicated seating area guarantees a clear view of the game and a more intimate experience than general admission.

The game itself is lively, with the teams darting across the field in a blur of motion—an unexpected highlight for those unfamiliar with polo. As we observed, “the atmosphere was surprisingly approachable, and the staff was friendly and helpful,” making it easy to relax and focus on the action.

Following the match, the tour shifts gears from sports to scenery. Your guide takes you along the southern coastline, stopping at Eternity Beach, a peaceful stretch known for its beauty, and the Kokohead Lookout, where panoramic views of the ocean and coast are impossible to ignore. The Makapu’u Lookout offers another spectacular vantage point, with views stretching to tide pools and rugged coastline.

Throughout the drive and visits, your guide shares stories about Hawaiian history, culture, and local legends, enriching each stop. This makes the tour both educational and engaging. The small group setting (via private minivan) ensures a personal experience, and the comfortable transportation allows you to relax while taking in the scenery.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the scenic stops, the stables tour allows a rare peek behind the scenes of Hawaiian polo—an activity not often accessible to visitors. Seeing the horses, learning about their care, and understanding the sport’s place in local culture gives this experience depth.

The VIP seating also adds a layer of comfort, letting you enjoy the game without crowding or noise, which is especially valuable during busy events. The light refreshments available for purchase, while not included in the price, provide options to nibble and sip while watching the action.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the additional charge of $140 for pickup outside Honolulu’s metro area, which can bump the overall price if you’re staying farther out. This might make the tour less practical for some travelers, especially those on a tight budget, but it’s understandable given the logistics involved.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who appreciates cultural insights, scenic drives, and exclusive access, this experience is a winner. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a more personalized day and enjoy a mix of sports, nature, and local history. It’s also a good fit if you want to get off the typical tourist path and see a different side of Oahu’s southern coast.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

12:00pm – Hotel Pickup:
The tour begins with a private pickup from your Waikiki or Honolulu hotel in a luxury minivan. The driver, who also acts as your guide, provides a quick overview of the day ahead, setting the tone for a relaxed yet informative experience. If you’re located outside the metro area, there’s a $140 surcharge—worth considering if you want the convenience of door-to-door service.

Scenic Drive to Waimanalo:
The drive takes approximately an hour, passing through local neighborhoods and lush Hawaiian scenery. It’s a good chance to get familiarized with the island’s landscape and ask your guide questions about local life.

Visit to the Polo Field & Stables:
Arriving at the Waimanalo polo field, you’re welcomed with a view of mountains and ocean framing the field. The highlight here is the behind-the-scenes tour of the players’ stables, which is a rare treat. You’ll see the effort that goes into caring for the horses and learn about the sport’s history in Hawaii.

VIP Lounge & Polo Match:
At 3pm, the polo game kicks off. You’ll be seated in the reserved VIP lounge, where you can relax comfortably, enjoy light refreshments (sold separately), and take in the action. The vantage point offers a clear view of the galloping horses and skilled players, making for a memorable sporting experience.

Post-Game Scenic Drives & Lookouts:
After the game, your guide takes you along the southern coast, making stops at several lookout points.
– Eternity Beach: a tranquil spot for photos and a quick stretch.
– Kokohead Lookout: offers panoramic views of the coast, ideal for photos and soaking in the scenery.
– Makapu’u Lookout: provides vistas over tide pools and rugged shoreline, perfect for nature lovers.

Return to Honolulu:
Around 6pm, your private driver drops you back at your original pickup location, concluding a well-rounded day of sport, scenery, and local insights.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers craving something different from the usual beach day. If you’re interested in Hawaiian horses, outdoor sports, and scenic overlooks, you’ll find plenty to love here. The combination of VIP comfort, intimate stables tour, and private transportation makes for a relaxed, personalized day that balances entertainment and education.

It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples who want a bit of exclusivity, or anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Hawaiian culture through a unique lens. While the cost might seem high, the access to behind-the-scenes aspects and stunning vistas justifies the price for those wanting a meaningful, well-rounded experience.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, starting at 12pm and ending around 6pm.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off within the Waikiki or Honolulu metro area are included. There is an additional fee of $140 for pickups outside this area.

What is the dress code?
Casual attire is recommended. Dress comfortably, especially since you’ll be outdoors and on the scenic lookout stops.

Are refreshments included?
Light refreshments are available for purchase at the VIP lounge but are not included in the price.

Can I see the polo match without a reservation?
No, your reserved VIP seats are part of this package. General admission isn’t mentioned, so having the reservation guarantees a good view.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations made within this window are fully refundable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, the tour doesn’t specify age restrictions. It’s best for those comfortable with short scenic drives and outdoor viewing.

How many people are in the group?
Since this is a private tour, only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience.

In all, this tour offers a thoughtful blend of sport, scenery, and local culture—perfect for those eager to see a different side of Oahu while indulging in a touch of luxury. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast, nature lover, or simply curious about Hawaiian life beyond the beach, this experience delivers a well-rounded, memorable day.