Honolulu tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Honolulu: 1) Oahu Full Day Sightseeing Circle Island Tour 2) The USS Arizona Memorial & The USS Missouri 3) World Famous Dole Plantation Experience 4) The Best of East Coast Oahu, Hawaii 5) The Ultimate - Hawaiian Luau Experience

Honolulu, the capital of Hawaii, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Here are some must-do things in Honolulu: Enjoy the iconic Waikiki Beach, known for its golden sand and clear waters. Try surfing or take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront. Hike to the summit of Diamond Head for panoramic views of Honolulu and the coastline. Explore the historic military bunkers along the trail. Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. Learn about the events of December 7, 1941, and pay respects to those who lost their lives. Snorkel in the protected Hanauma Bay to see colorful coral reefs and tropical fish. Take in the breathtaking views of the bay and surrounding landscapes. Explore Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. Learn about Hawaiian history and the monarchy's role in the palace's opulent rooms. Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art to see a diverse collection of Asian, European and American art. Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum. Hike to Manoa Falls to experience the lush Hawaiian rainforest. Enjoy the sight of the 150-foot waterfall at the end of the trail. Take a short drive to the Dole Plantation for pineapple-themed attractions and activities. Try the famous Dole Whip and explore the pineapple garden maze. Explore Honolulu's vibrant Chinatown, known for its markets, restaurants, and cultural diversity. Visit the Maunakea Marketplace for local products and unique finds. Shop at Ala Moana Center, one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world. Enjoy a variety of dining options and entertainment. Hike the challenging Koko Crater Railway Trail for panoramic views of the coast and the surrounding area. Witness a beautiful sunset at Magic Island, a man-made peninsula near Ala Moana Beach Park. Enjoy picnics, beachside walks, and the view of the Honolulu skyline. Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau for a taste of local cuisine, music, and hula dancing. Explore Lyon Arboretum, a tropical botanical garden showcasing Hawaii's diverse plant life. These activities offer a mix of cultural immersion, outdoor adventures, and relaxation, allowing you to experience the beauty and culture of Honolulu.

The cost of a private tour in Honolulu can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Honolulu typically ranges from around $500 - $700. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Honolulu, each highly rated with over 30 reviews! 1) USS Arizona Memorial and Honolulu City Tour 2) Full Day Shore Excursion on the Island of O'ahu 3) North Shore Excursion - O'ahu 4) USS Arizona Memorial and North Shore Full Day Tour 5) Discover Circle Island: Must See Places in Oahu

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Honolulu from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. If you have limited time in Honolulu and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Honolulu. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 15 local guides in Honolulu who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Honolulu's central location on the island of Oahu provides opportunities for exciting day trips to explore more of the island's natural beauty, cultural sites, and outdoor activities. Here are some recommended day trip destinations from Honolulu: North Shore: Highlights: Visit the famous North Shore known for its big waves and surfing culture. Explore towns like Haleiwa, try local food trucks, and relax on iconic beaches like Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach. Kailua and Lanikai Beach: Highlights: Enjoy the scenic beauty of Kailua and Lanikai Beaches. Kayak or paddleboard in Kailua Bay, and hike to the Pillbox Trail for panoramic views. Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial: Highlights: Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to learn about the events of December 7, 1941. Take a boat to the USS Arizona Memorial and explore the museums. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve: Highlights: Snorkel in the protected Hanauma Bay to experience vibrant coral reefs and marine life. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Byodo-In Temple: Highlights: Visit the Byodo-In Temple in the Valley of the Temples. Explore the stunning Japanese temple, koi ponds, and lush surroundings. Polynesian Cultural Center: Highlights: Immerse yourself in the cultures of Polynesia at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Enjoy traditional performances, canoe rides, and a luau. Dole Plantation: Highlights: Experience pineapple-themed attractions at the Dole Plantation. Explore the gardens, take a train tour, and try Dole Whip. Makapu'u Point and Sea Life Park: Highlights: Hike to the Makapu'u Point Lighthouse for stunning coastal views. Visit Sea Life Park to see marine life and attend shows. Waimea Valley: Highlights: Explore the botanical gardens and cultural sites in Waimea Valley. Take a refreshing swim at Waimea Falls. Before embarking on a day trip, check transportation options, operating hours, and any entrance fees for attractions. Oahu's diverse landscapes and attractions make it easy to customize day trips based on your interests.

The ideal duration for touring Honolulu depends on your interests, the pace at which you prefer to travel, and the activities you want to include in your itinerary. Honolulu offers a mix of stunning beaches, historical sites, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Here's a suggested breakdown for a Honolulu itinerary: 3 to 4 Days in Honolulu: Day 1 - Waikiki and Diamond Head: Explore Waikiki Beach and enjoy water activities. Hike to the summit of Diamond Head for panoramic views. Relax on the beach and explore Waikiki's vibrant nightlife. Day 2 - Pearl Harbor and Historic Sites: Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and USS Arizona Memorial. Explore Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the U.S. Discover the history of Hawaii at the Bishop Museum. Day 3 - North Shore and Outdoor Adventure: Take a day trip to the North Shore. Visit Haleiwa town, famous for surf culture. Relax on Sunset Beach and explore Waimea Valley. Day 4 - Kailua and Lanikai: Spend a day in Kailua and Lanikai. Kayak or paddleboard in Kailua Bay. Hike to the Lanikai Pillbox Trail for scenic views. Additional Days (5-7 Days): Day 5 - Hanauma Bay and Southeast Oahu: Snorkel in Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Explore Makapu'u Point and Sea Life Park. Day 6 - Cultural Experiences: Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center. Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau. Day 7 - Relaxation and Leisure: Enjoy a day of leisure at a resort or spa. Visit the Dole Plantation or Ko Olina Resort Area. This itinerary provides a mix of history, outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Adjust the duration based on your preferences and the pace at which you prefer to travel. Honolulu offers diverse experiences, whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, enjoying water activities, or simply soaking in the beauty of the Hawaiian landscapes. The additional days allow for flexibility in customizing your itinerary based on specific interests and preferences.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Honolulu from the US mainland can vary based on several factors, including your departure city, travel preferences, accommodation choices, and spending habits. Here are some general cost considerations to help you plan your budget: Flights: The cost of round-trip flights can vary widely based on your departure city, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. On average, you might expect to spend anywhere from $500 to $1,000 or more for a round-trip ticket. Accommodation: Honolulu offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxury hotels. On average, you might spend $150 to $300 per night for mid-range accommodation. A 7-night stay could cost around $1,050 to $2,100 or more, depending on your preferences. Transportation: Renting a car or using public transportation will impact your overall cost. Rental car prices can vary, and public transportation costs might include buses or shuttles. Budgeting around $20 to $50 per day for transportation is a rough estimate. Food: Dining costs can vary based on your choices, from casual meals to fine dining. On average, you might spend $50 to $100 per day on meals, depending on where you eat. Activities and Attractions: Entrance fees to attractions, tours, and activities will add to your overall cost. Budgeting around $30 to $100 per day for activities is a rough estimate. Keep in mind that these are general estimates, and your actual expenses may vary based on your travel style and preferences. It's advisable to research and plan your trip in advance, considering factors such as seasonal price fluctuations, special events, and any promotions or discounts that may be available. Additionally, check for any travel restrictions and health and safety guidelines before planning your trip.

Choosing the right accommodation in Honolulu depends on your preferences, budget, and the type of experience you're seeking. Here are some popular areas in Honolulu where you might consider staying: Waikiki Beach: Pros: Iconic beachfront location, vibrant atmosphere, shopping, dining, and nightlife. Cons: Can be crowded, especially in peak tourist seasons. Downtown Honolulu: Pros: Convenient location for business travelers, historic sites, and cultural attractions. Cons: Limited beach access compared to Waikiki. Ala Moana: Pros: Close to Ala Moana Center (one of the largest shopping malls), Magic Island, and the Ala Moana Beach Park. Cons: Less crowded than Waikiki but still urban. Kahala: Pros: Upscale residential area, luxurious resorts, and a quieter atmosphere. Cons: Further from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki. Kaimuki: Pros: Trendy neighborhood with local charm, diverse dining options, and access to Diamond Head. Cons: Less touristy, fewer traditional hotel options. East Oahu (Hawaii Kai): Pros: Residential area with marinas, hiking trails, and the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. Cons: Limited hotel options, not as centrally located. West Oahu (Ko Olina): Pros: Resort area with beautiful lagoons, golf courses, and a more relaxed setting. Cons: Far from the city center and some major attractions. When choosing accommodation, consider factors such as proximity to the beach, public transportation, and the specific attractions you plan to visit. Waikiki is a popular choice for its central location, but other neighborhoods offer different atmospheres and experiences. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of Waikiki, the upscale tranquility of Kahala, or the local charm of Kaimuki, Honolulu has diverse options to suit various preferences and travel styles. It's recommended to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The best time to visit Honolulu depends on your preferences and the type of experience you're seeking. Honolulu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year, but there are variations in terms of weather, crowds, and events. Here's a breakdown of the seasons to help you plan your visit: Winter (December to March): Weather: Mild temperatures, occasional rain, and pleasant conditions. Highlights: Winter is considered the peak tourist season, attracting visitors escaping colder climates. It's an ideal time for whale watching (December to April). Considerations: Higher accommodation prices and more crowded attractions. Spring (April to June): Weather: Warm temperatures, occasional trade winds, and lower chances of rain. Highlights: Spring offers pleasant weather with blooming flowers. It's a good time to enjoy outdoor activities and explore without the peak crowds. Considerations: Prices and crowds are generally lower compared to the winter months. Summer (July to September): Weather: Hotter temperatures, trade winds, and occasional rain. Highlights: Summer is a popular time for beachgoers, surfers, and outdoor activities. The North Shore has calmer waves during this season. Considerations: It's a busier time, especially with family vacationers. Prices may be higher. Fall (October to November): Weather: Warm temperatures, pleasant trade winds, and occasional rain. Highlights: Fall is a quieter time with lower visitor numbers. It's a good time for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches. Considerations: Some accommodations may offer lower prices, and crowds are generally more manageable. Other Considerations: Festivals and Events: Check for local festivals and events that may align with your visit, such as the Aloha Festivals in September. Whale Watching: If whale watching is a priority, visiting during the winter months (December to April) is recommended. Surfing Conditions: If you're a surfer or interested in watching big wave surfing on the North Shore, the winter months are optimal. Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Spring and fall provide comfortable temperatures for hiking and exploring the island. Ultimately, the best time to visit Honolulu depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and the specific activities you want to enjoy. Each season offers a unique experience, and Hawaii's year-round tropical climate ensures that there's always something to enjoy in Honolulu.