First Day Must: Oahu Sunrise & Circle Island Adventure
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Beat the crowds and seize the day — this is the ultimate first-day tour of Oahu.
Our Sunrise Circle Island Tour isn’t just for photographers — it’s for anyone who wants to experience Oahu before the traffic and tour buses roll in. Whether you’re using a phone or a camera, you’ll capture epic views and explore sacred sites, scenic lookouts, and local gems.
Start with a breathtaking sunrise on the Windward coast, then circle the island with stops at dramatic cliffs, Buddhist temples, surf towns, and peaceful beaches. You’ll end the day searching for turtles or watching surfers tackle monster waves at Banzai Pipeline.
This tour isn’t just sightseeing — it’s a deep, unforgettable connection with the island.
Available options
Departure
Pickup included
What's included
Pali lookout and Byodo-In Temple
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Photographer guide
Live commentary on board
Transport by air-conditioned minivan
Detailed itinerary
1
Watch the Sunrise from Sandy Beach. A great vantage point for the Halona Blow and the sun lighting up the morning sky.
2
Stop 2
Capture photo of this landscape on the high cliffs overlooking the bay. Ask your guide to point out turtles and whales when here.
3
Stop 3
Photograph majestic mountains not seen by many travelers. We found a great spot to stand in awe while viewing the cliffs of the Ko'olaus.
4
Sit down and enjoy a local spot for coffee and the best breakfast burrito in town at this 85-year-old market.
5
Our treat to you. A delicious Malasada from Leonards.
6
Stop 6
A wonderful place that you should not miss while on Oahu. Built to commemorate the first Japanese immigrates to Hawaii, you will be able to photograph this template with its amazing backdrop.
7
Check out Chinamans Hat. This island has been used in countless films. Ask your guide to snap a photo of you wearing the hat. It's hilarious!
8
Grab a locally grown snack. Pineapples, Mango, Coconut and of course the Banana Lupia are must try at this side road stop on the North Shore.
9
A secret bay with the largest Banyan tree on Oahu. Play Tarzan on the vines of this magnificent tree.
10
Stop 10
Watch the most dangerous wave in the world and photograph the surfers risking their lives trying to tame this beast.
11
We will drive by this location to admire the cove.
12
We will stop in this historic town and allow you to explore the art shops, food trucks, and surf shops.
13
Stop 13
Let's find some turtles!!! This is where we will have the greatest chance to find turtles without the big crowds.
What's not included
Lunch
You guides will accept
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
59 reviews
5★
59
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
154 reviews
5★
154
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Dress code is tropical
Meeting point
Please meet your guide at the entrance of the parking lot across the street from the Queen Kapiolani Hotel.
Important notes
*We do not monitor the messaging platform on Vaitor. Viator is a 3rd party agent. They are not the tour provider. Please contact us directly with questions.
*You must contact us by email or phone to confirm your exact pickup location and time. Failure to do so may result in a no-call-no-show and no refund.
Email: info@oahuphotographytours.com
Phone: 808-679-1938
• If you are not staying in Waikiki, your pick-up will be at the Honolulu Zoo
About Oahu
Oahu, known as 'The Gathering Place,' is the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the state capital, Honolulu. It offers a unique blend of urban attractions, historical sites, and stunning natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a diverse Hawaiian experience.
Top Attractions
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world, known for its golden sand, clear waters, and vibrant atmosphere. It's perfect for swimming, surfing, and people-watching.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a historic site that commemorates the attack on Pearl Harbor during World War II. Visitors can tour the USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and the Pacific Aviation Museum.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to $2.00 for the USS Arizona Memorial program
Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is an iconic volcanic crater offering stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. The hike to the summit is moderate and rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views.
Nature
2-3 hours
$5 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian
Must-Try Local Dishes
Poke
A Hawaiian raw fish salad typically made with ahi tuna or salmon, soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made with cooked fish or tofu for a vegetarian/vegan option.
Loco Moco
A hearty dish consisting of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy.
Dinner
Can be made with a vegetarian patty or tofu.
Shave Ice
Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Surfing
ATV tours
Zip-lining
Beach lounging
Spas
Sunset cruises
Luaus
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the peak tourist season due to the winter whale-watching season and the Christmas holidays. The weather is pleasant, with occasional rain showers.
20-30°C
68-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-10:00 (Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Oahu is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
- • Avoid leaving valuables unattended on the beach
- • Be aware of strong currents and rip tides when swimming
Getting there
By air
- Daniel K. Inouye International Airport • 5 km from Honolulu
By bus
Honolulu, Waikiki
Getting around
Public transport
The Bus system is affordable and covers most of Oahu, including major attractions and neighborhoods. Fares are $3 per ride, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Waikiki
Honolulu
North Shore
Day trips
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
10 miles from Honolulu • Half day
Hanauma Bay is a marine life conservation district offering excellent snorkeling opportunities in a protected, pristine environment. The bay is home to a diverse range of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and dolphins.
Kualoa Ranch
30 miles from Honolulu • Full day
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre nature reserve and working cattle ranch offering a variety of outdoor activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, and movie site tours.
Festivals
Honolulu Festival • March
Merrie Monarch Festival • April
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
- Rent a car for at least a few days to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
- Try local dishes like poke, loco moco, and shave ice for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience
- Pack light, breathable clothing and reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and the environment
- Learn a few basic Hawaiian phrases to show respect for the local culture and enhance your travel experience
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
