Circle Island: Swim with Turtles and Explore Paradise Oahu

If you’re planning a day on Oahu and want to see the island’s best sights without the hassle of driving yourself, the Circle Island tour offered by Hawaii Turtle Tours might just be what you’re looking for. At $97 per person, this full-day adventure packs in a diverse mix of stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and delicious local treats—all from the comfort of a guided vehicle.

We loved how this tour balances picture-perfect viewpoints like Diamond Head and Halona Blowhole with the chance to swim alongside Hawaiian sea turtles at Turtle Town. It’s a good option for those who want a comprehensive taste of Oahu’s natural beauty and cultural charm without having to plan multiple outings or navigate the busy roads themselves.

One thing to consider is the full-day schedule, which can be a long day, especially for very young children or those with limited stamina. But if you enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of sights, you’ll find this tour offers impressive value and memorable experiences.

It’s best suited for families, couples, or anyone eager to combine sightseeing, wildlife, and local flavors in one seamless day. If you’re after unique photo ops, plenty of swimming, and a bit of island history, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters include swimming with Hawaiian sea turtles at Turtle Town, a highlight for many travelers.
• Scenic views from Diamond Head and Halona Blowhole provide perfect photo opportunities and awe-inspiring landscapes.
• Cultural insights at sacred sites and the chance to learn about Hawaiian heritage enrich the experience.
• Local flavors at Tropical Farms, Dole Plantation, and Lummi’s Kahuku Shrimp make this tour a tasty adventure.
• Expert guides like Mike, Nevin, and others enhance the experience with stories, safety, and humor.
• Full-day tour with pickups from Waikiki hotels offers convenience but requires stamina and good footwear.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Oahu Circle Island Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

This tour takes you around Oahu’s north, east, and north east shores, a route that covers some of the island’s most iconic sights and lesser-known gems. The journey begins with a pickup from various Waikiki hotels starting early in the morning, with most pickups around 7:20-8:00 am. This early start allows you to beat some of the crowds and make the most of your day.

First stop: Diamond Head Lookout. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the famous crater. It’s an ideal spot for photos, with the landscape providing an unmistakable Hawaiian backdrop. Travelers often mention the “amazing views” and the opportunity to “capture the natural beauty of Oahu.”

Next, the tour heads towards Halona Blowhole, where waves crash against volcanic rocks, shooting water high into the air. It’s a wild, natural spectacle that reminds us of the raw power of the ocean. Several reviews mention this as a favorite stop, with one noting, “Watching the blowhole erupt was truly stunning and a bit humbling.”

From there, the tour ventures inland to Tropical Farms. Here, you can sample local Hawaiian macadamia nuts and other tropical treats, learning about how these delicacies are cultivated and enjoyed in Hawaii. It’s a tasty way to understand the island’s agricultural roots.

The Wildlife and Snorkeling Experience

One of the main attractions is Turtle Town, located along the North Shore beaches. This is where you get to swim with Hawaiian sea turtles—a highlight for many travelers. Several reviews describe how exciting and memorable it is to see these gentle creatures glide effortlessly through clear waters. One reviewer even shared, “My grandson saw a huge turtle swim near him. It was an exciting experience.”

The snorkeling equipment is provided (without fins), so you can relax and focus on the marine life. While sightings are not guaranteed, the likelihood is high, and the guides are vigilant to ensure safety and respect for the wildlife. One reviewer appreciated having a “lifeguard for the turtles”, which added a layer of reassurance.

Cultural & Natural Highlights

Throughout the day, the guide will point out sacred sites and landmarks, offering insights into Hawaiian culture and history. Stops at Chinaman’s Hat in Kualoa Regional Park and Waimanalo give travelers a chance to admire scenic landscapes and learn their significance.

Waimea Bay and Makapu’u Point offer dramatic coastal views, often described as awe-inspiring. You’ll get to see filming locations from movies like Jumanji and Pirates of the Caribbean, adding a touch of Hollywood to your island adventure.

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Tasting the Flavors of Hawaii

No visit to Hawaii is complete without sampling some local cuisine. The tour includes stops at Dole Plantation, where you can explore pineapple gardens and indulge in their signature pineapple ice cream—a treat that’s hard to find elsewhere. Many reviews mention enjoying the fresh pineapple flavor and fun atmosphere.

At Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp, you can indulge in local seafood, notably the famous Hawaiian shrimp, seasoned with island spices. These stops showcase the island’s agricultural and culinary heritage, giving you a true taste of local life.

The Long but Rewarding Day

The entire tour lasts about 10 hours, with plenty of stops and sightseeing. While some may find this a long day, most reviews praise the value for money and the variety of experiences packed into it. The group size tends to be small, with guides like Justin, Nevin, and others praised for their knowledge, humor, and attentiveness.

The Practicalities

The tour includes snorkeling gear (without fins), hotel pickups and drop-offs, and a professional guide. However, meals, beverages, and snacks are not included, so bringing some cash and a water bottle is advisable.

Weather-wise, the tour runs rain or shine—Hawaii’s weather is unpredictable, but the guarantee is an unforgettable, sun-drenched or rain-kissed adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Circle Island adventure offers a well-rounded experience of Oahu’s scenery, wildlife, and culture. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comfortable, guided day that covers a wide array of highlights without the stress of self-driving or planning every stop.

The expert guides and numerous photo opportunities make this a favorite among families, couples, and even solo travelers seeking a comprehensive taste of the island. The value for the price is high, given the variety of experiences packed into one day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have limited mobility, keep in mind this is a full-day commitment. For those with young children or very limited stamina, the lengthy schedule might be a consideration.

Overall, if you’re eager to see iconic views, swim with turtles, and taste authentic Hawaiian flavors—and don’t mind a busy day—this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes a full-day guided route, hotel pickup and drop-off, and snorkeling equipment (without fins).

How much does it cost?
It costs $97 per person, which many find to be a good value considering the variety of sights and experiences.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, meals, beverages, and snacks are not included, so you should plan to bring cash and your own water for the day.

What sights will I see?
You’ll visit Diamond Head, Halona Blowhole, Turtle Town, Tropical Farms, Chinaman’s Hat, and Dole Plantation, among others.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, although fins are not. It’s a good idea to bring your own fins if you prefer.

What if I don’t see a turtle?
While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the guides are experienced in spotting them, and most travelers do get to see and swim with these gentle animals.

What age is this tour suitable for?
The tour is family-friendly and suitable for most ages, but keep in mind it’s a full-day activity.

How long does the tour last?
About 10 hours, including travel and stops.

What should I bring?
Bring a change of clothes, towel, camera, water, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a comprehensive, fun, and educational day on Oahu, this Circle Island tour really delivers. It showcases the best scenic viewpoints, offers the thrill of swimming with Hawaiian sea turtles, and provides a taste of local culinary delights. The guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience smooth and enjoyable.

This tour is best for active travelers who want to absorb a broad swath of what Oahu has to offer in one day—without the stress of planning. It’s particularly good if you love wildlife, scenic vistas, and local food. Keep in mind it’s a full day, so pack your energy and a sense of adventure.

For anyone eager to see the island’s iconic spots, meet its marine life, and sample local flavors, this tour offers genuine value and memorable moments that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

You can check availability for your dates here: