Private 4-Hour Scenic Driving Tour of Oahu’s South Shore (Waikiki Pickup)
Drive Oahu’s southeast rim in half a day—Diamond Head views, Hanauma Bay’s marine preserve, Makapu'u lookout, and the beaches of Waimanalo, Kailua, and Lanikai. This private tour pairs short, scenic walks with local stories and hotel pickup from Waikiki.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Hanauma Bay is a protected area—use mineral-based sunscreen to protect coral and marine life.
Light shoes for short walks
Paved viewpoints and beach strolls require supportive footwear rather than heavy hiking boots.
Morning departure for fewer crowds
Start early to beat the busiest hours at Hanauma Bay and Lanikai Beach.
Pack a refillable bottle
You’ll have multiple short stops but limited access to shade and services; hydration matters.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kahala’s quiet shoreline for low-key beach watching
- •Small roadside fruit stands near Waimanalo offering fresh local juices
Wildlife
- •Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu) near reef flats
- •Humpback whales offshore in winter (Dec–Apr)
Conservation Note
Hanauma Bay operates as a marine life conservation area with visitor education to protect reefs; use reef-safe products and follow posted rules to minimize impact.
Diamond Head served both as a navigational landmark for ancient Hawaiians and later as a military lookout; the area’s beaches were shaped by centuries of coral growth and wave action.
Photographer's Notes
- • Diamond Head summit viewpoint
- • Hanauma Bay overlook
- • Makapu'u Lighthouse trail head
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the bay’s coral ecosystems during snorkeling viewpoints and beach stops.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Needed for paved trails and beach access at Makapu'u and Diamond Head viewpoints.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated through sun-exposed stops; guides may not provide bottled water.
Telephoto or zoom lens
Useful for photographing whales offshore between December and April.
Common Questions
Is Hanauma Bay admission included?
Admission is not included; the tour stops at the Hanauma Bay viewpoint to learn about the reef—entry to the bay itself requires separate tickets and a mandatory orientation if you plan to snorkel.
Do you pick up from Waikiki hotels?
Yes—hotel pick-up and drop-off from central Waikiki is available; if no pickup is provided, the meeting point is outside Macy’s at 2314 Kalākaua Ave.
Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes—families are welcome; parents should note light walking and stair sections at some viewpoints and supervise children near cliffs and beaches.
Can we stop to swim?
The itinerary focuses on viewpoints and short walks; swimming is possible at select beaches but may require extra time and is subject to guide discretion and local conditions.
Is gratuity included?
No—gratuities for guides are not included and are customary if you enjoyed the tour.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled for safety in poor weather; the cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 hours
Location
Honolulu, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness for short walks and stairs; suitable for most travelers who can manage brief hikes.
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