Experience the best of Oahu with a private, customizable circle island tour. For $385 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring iconic sites like the Byodo-In Temple, Dole Plantation, and Kualoa Ranch, all in the comfort of your own group. Your guide, a local expert, will pick you up from your Honolulu accommodation — hassle-free and tailored to your interests.
What we love about this tour: First, the personalized experience — it’s just your party and a guide, so you can prioritize what interests you most, without the rush or crowded groups. Second, the flexibility to choose your stops makes it ideal for travelers who want a more genuine and tailored visit, rather than a cookie-cutter bus tour.
One thing to consider: since lunch isn’t included, you’ll want to plan for that during your day. Also, entrance fees are extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit additional sites or attractions.
This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local insights, want to see a mix of cultural and cinematic highlights, and prefer a private, flexible itinerary. It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time but craving a full, personalized island experience.
Key Points

- Private & customizable: Your group alone, with the ability to tailor the stops.
- All-inclusive convenience: Pickup service and guided commentary, with bottled water provided.
- Flexible itinerary: Choose from highlights like Byodo-In Temple, Dole Plantation, and Kualoa Ranch.
- Cost reflects value: For $385, you get a full day with a knowledgeable guide, skipping the crowds.
- Short but comprehensive: About 8 hours, capturing Oahu’s major sights in one go.
- Ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups seeking personalized attention.
A Complete Look at the Private Green and Blue Circle Island Oahu Tour

When deciding how to see Oahu, one of the most appealing options is a private circle island tour. This particular offering, priced at $385 per person, is designed to give you a comprehensive, tailored experience of the island’s most engaging sights in just one day. With a flexible schedule, personalized attention, and the ability to choose your stops, it offers a level of intimacy and customization most large tour buses can’t match.
The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, which might seem long but is packed with enough highlights to keep even the most energetic travelers engaged. Your guide offers pickup directly from your hotel in Honolulu, making start-up simple and stress-free. The mobile ticket approach means you can go directly from your room to the road without fuss.
Prefer personalized experiences? Here are other private options we've covered in Honolulu
Why We Love This Tour
Two aspects stand out for us. First, the private setting ensures that your group isn’t mixed with strangers, giving you the chance to ask questions and explore at your own pace. Second, the ability to customize your itinerary — whether you want to focus on cultural sites, Hollywood movie history, or scenic views — makes it perfect for travelers with specific interests or limited time.
A potential consideration: since lunch isn’t included, you might want to bring snacks or plan a stop for food during the day. Also, entrance fees are on you, so budget accordingly if you plan to visit attractions like the Byodo-In Temple or Dole Plantation.
Who is This Tour Best For?
If you’re someone who values personalized service, local insights, and a flexible schedule, this tour is a match. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a deeper, more meaningful experience of Oahu, rather than a hurried sightseeing dash. Small groups or couples will appreciate the personalized attention, and those new to Hawaii will benefit from your guide’s knowledge.
The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Byodo-In Temple
Our first stop is the Byodo-In Temple, a stunning replica of a 900-year-old Japanese Buddhist temple. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for some reflection or photos, and the admission fee is included. The temple’s striking architecture, surrounded by lush gardens, offers a taste of authentic Japanese serenity right in Hawaii. The sacred bell and meditation pavilion are highlights, and you’ll have about 15 minutes to soak in the atmosphere.
Reviewers consistently mention the beauty and tranquility of this stop. One said, “Very nice tour with such a genuine guide who provided a lot of history,” emphasizing how the guided narrative adds depth to the experience.
Stop 2: Dole Plantation
Next, we head to the Dole Plantation, a must-see for pineapple lovers and garden enthusiasts. Here, you can learn about the history of Hawaii’s pineapple industry — a fascinating story of agricultural ingenuity. The admission is included, so you can enjoy walking through the lush gardens and browsing the pineapple-themed souvenirs.
Of course, you’ll want to try the famous pineapple ice cream, which many reviews rave about. Spend about 30 minutes exploring; it’s a lively spot with a lot of photo opportunities and local flavor.
Stop 3: Kualoa Regional Park
Our final highlight is Kualoa Regional Park, renowned for its jaw-dropping mountain views and Hollywood fame. Films like Jurassic World, Kong, and Pearl Harbor filmed scenes here, making it a favorite for movie buffs.
This stop isn’t just about movies; the scenery is breathtaking, and you can walk along the coast, taking in the lush valleys. It’s free to visit, and most groups spend around 15 minutes here. One reviewer loved the “magnificent mountains of Koolau,” noting that it’s a place that truly captures the essence of Oahu’s natural beauty.
What’s Included & What’s Not

Included:
– Bottled water, so you stay refreshed
– Professional guiding services with local insights
– Private transportation ensuring comfort and flexibility
Not Included:
– Lunch — plan to bring snacks or eat during a stop
– Entrance fees — additional costs for sites like the temples or gardens
This setup means you’re paying for a well-organized, private experience, with the ability to customize and avoid crowded group tours.
Why This Tour Delivers Value
At $385, this tour might seem pricey at first glance. But when you consider the personalized service, flexibility, and convenience, it offers excellent value — especially if you’re eager for a tailored experience and want to maximize your limited time on Oahu.
The fact that most travelers book 73 days in advance shows its popularity, and reviews confirm it’s worth the investment. Guests emphasize guide Yolanda’s professionalism and local knowledge, which makes the journey more enriching.
Final Thoughts

If you’re in Honolulu for a short visit or just want to see as much of Oahu as possible with the least hassle, this private circle island tour fits the bill. It’s perfect for those craving a personalized, intimate experience that covers the island’s highlights at a comfortable pace. The flexibility to choose stops means it can be tailored to your interests, whether that’s stunning scenery, cultural sites, or Hollywood movie history.
Travelers who appreciate expert insights and want to avoid the crowds will find this tour a worthwhile investment. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup and a private guide means you can relax and enjoy your day without logistical worries.
Overall, it’s a smart choice for anyone seeking authentic, flexible, and well-organized island exploration — a step above the usual group tour, yet still manageable within a single day.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate; it’s ideal for those who want a private, customizable experience. Check with your guide if you have specific mobility concerns.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, enough to see major sights without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
Your guide, bottled water, private transportation, and admission to stops like the Byodo-In Temple and Dole Plantation are included. Lunch and additional entrance fees are extra.
Can I choose my stops?
Yes, the tour offers flexibility to select from options such as Pali Lookout, Byodo-In Temple, and Kualoa Ranch — tailor your day to your interests.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, private transportation ensures a smooth, relaxed ride with room for luggage or extra comfort.
When should I book?
Since most travelers book about 73 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early to secure your preferred date.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
This private circle island tour offers a well-balanced mix of iconic sights, personalized service, and flexible planning, making it a fantastic choice for travelers wanting a deeper, more authentic connection to Oahu. It’s a memorable way to experience the island’s highlights without the hassle or crowds of larger tours.
More Private Tours in Honolulu
- Luau Oahu Private Round-Trip Transportation from Honolulu
- Private: Byodo-in Temple with Discounted Waimea Botanical Garden
- Private Island Tour Up to 24 people
- Honolulu Private Transfer: Airport, Port, Hotel (1-12 Passengers)
- Private Pearl Harbor USS Arizona and USS Missouri
- Private Minibus Round Trip Honolulu Airport HNL to/from Honolulu
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- Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona and Hawaiian Kingdom History Tour
- One-Day Tour Hawaii Movie Tour: Island Hopping from Oahu to Kauai
- North Shore Dole Pineapple Farm Tour
- Private Island Tour Up to 24 people
- Deluxe Arizona Memorial and USS Missouri Battleship Tour
- Complete Pearl Harbor Experience Tour from Kauai
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More Honolulu experiences we've covered
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- Pearl Harbor & Mini Circle Island Departing from Maui
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- Luau Oahu Private Round-Trip Transportation from Honolulu
- Hike Trail to Waterfall & Nature Walk
- Pearl Harbor with USS Arizona and Hawaiian Kingdom History Tour
- Private: Byodo-in Temple with Discounted Waimea Botanical Garden
- One-Day Tour Hawaii Movie Tour: Island Hopping from Oahu to Kauai
- North Shore Dole Pineapple Farm Tour
- Private Island Tour Up to 24 people
- Waikiki Friday Fireworks Cruise Including Transportation
