Hidden Gems of Oahu with Waimea Botanical Garden

Available Daily

Duration: Appox 8-9 Hours

Oahu is known for being a sightseeing paradise, full of spectacular lookout points, incredible white sandy beaches, colorful culture, outstanding surf and unique wildlife. Our local guide will spend the day with you on our semi-private shuttle escorting you and your family to some of Oahu's Hidden Gems on our Oahu circle island tour with special stop at Waimea Botanical Garden/Waterfall.

The exceptional botanical collections at Waimea Valley feature dozens of distinct gardens representing flora from different parts of the world. Examples include the Ogasawara Islands, Central and South America, Fiji, Guam, and the Mascarene Islands. Stroll through the Hawaiian collection and enjoy an assortment of plants found only in Hawaii, many of which are rare and endangered. Many were brought here as seed or cutting from the places where they evolved. There is a waterfall in the garden as well. Swimming is allowed and lifeguards are present. Guests must wear life jackets which are provided.

Inclusions

• Guided sightseeing tour
• Admission fees

Exclusions

• Food and Beverage - We break for lunch at a local restaurant where you can have your pick of either a famous North Shore Garlic Shrimp plate or other local delicacies. Non Shellfish and Vegetarian options are available. Please bring cash for lunch
• Waimea Valley Tram $10 is not included.

Itinerary:

Waikiki Pickup (7:00 am – 7:30 am)
Our semi-private shuttle will arrive at 7 am for pick up in Waikiki, with a local guide to help you prepare for a day of exploring the island of Oahu. Pick-up times vary by hotel and will be automatically assigned when you input your information into our online booking platform.

Diamond Head- Amelia Earhart Lookout
The first lookout we visit is an elevated view perched on the eastern side of Waikiki’s famous Diamond Head Volcano, This lookout grants us a great opportunity for pictures of the southeastern coastline of Oahu, with notable sights as far as Hanauma Bay and Maui on a clear day. The location is more formally known as Amelia Earhart Lookout, known for where bystanders gathered to watch Earhart make her first solo aviation journey from Hawaii to North America.

Halona Blowhole
Molten lava tubes from volcanic eruptions that occurred from Oahu’s Koko Head crater formed the natural occurrence known as the Halona Blowhole. This lava tube extends into the ocean with a very narrow opening at the top, and when the surf is just right, water pressure builds up within the lava tube and erupts through the narrow opening creating a special Hawaiian Geyser for your viewing pleasure.

Makapu’u Point
Witness Waimanalo’s dramatic sea cliffs as we turn into Oahu’s windward side as we begin our journey to the North Shore of Oahu. Look off into the azure blue waters of the bay and you will see Oahu’s famous Manana Island also known as Rabbit island due to its Rabbit-like shape.

Hawaiian Coffee and Macadamia Nut Tastings
After a beautiful drive along Oahu’s eastern coastline, our next stop is a local shop that finds itself tucked away under-aged Banyan Trees with macadamia nut and delicious Kona coffee tastings, along with very tempting Hawaiian chocolates amongst other treats.

Chinaman’s Hat and Kualoa Valley Mountain Range
Chinaman’s Hat, also known as Mokoli’i, is nestled right next to the Kualoa Valley Mountain range. This location is known for its dramatic landscape filmed in a number of Hollywood movies; most notably and fan-favorite Jurassic Park. The island has earned the nickname Chinaman’s Hat from its resemblance to the straw hats that the Chinese immigrants wore when working Oahu’s sugar plantations during the early 1900s.

Famous North Shore Shrimp Lunch on Local Hawaiian Restaurant
We break for lunch at a local restaurant where you can have your pick of either a famous North Shore Garlic Shrimp plate or other local delicacies. Non-Shellfish and Vegetarian options are available. Please bring cash for lunch.

Tropical Fruit Stands
After lunch, we make a stop at a North Shore tropical fruit stand which offers ice-cold coconuts to drink from, fresh mangos, and other tropical treats.

North Shore Sunset Beach
A change of pace from the crowded beaches of Waikiki, The infamous Sunset Beach on the North Shore offers tranquility and is the epitome of a beautiful Hawaiian Beach. However don’t let the summer months fool you, during the winter months, swells of 30 to 40 feet can be seen from the safe confines of the shore.

Waimea Botanical Garden
The exceptional botanical collections at Waimea Valley feature dozens of distinct gardens representing flora from different parts of the world. Examples include the Ogasawara Islands, Central and South America, Fiji, Guam, and the Mascarene Islands. Stroll through the Hawaiian collection and enjoy an assortment of plants found only in Hawai’i, many of which are rare and endangered. Many were brought here as seed or cutting from the places where they evolved.

Dole Pineapple plantation
A historic pineapple plantation home to pineapple magnets, pineapple t-shirts, pineapple keychains, and most importantly pineapple ice cream aka Dole Whip!! A great way to end the day and get some pineapple-themed souvenirs for your friends and family back home.

Waikiki Return (3:30-4:00)
After a day of activities and fun, we return to Waikiki, just in time to make plans for the night. Mahalo for joining us! Tour stop destinations and times may vary for maximum customer enjoyment and experience

Notes:

Tour suitable for all ages, however, strollers are not allowed on the bus, and guests must purchase an additional seat if they wish to bring a car seat. Wheelchairs should also be collapsible. Please be advised there will be a variety of terrain visited while on the tour; from sand, gravel, to dirt. Please take this into consideration when planning your attire. Please bring extra cash for lunch, snacks, and souvenirs.