Are you planning a trip to Oahu and want to know which Honolulu activities are worth checking out? Keep scrolling to find out the best tours in Honolulu, Hawaii!
This list of the best tours in Honolulu, Hawaii was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Traveling to Honolulu, Oahu soon? You’re in luck because this city offers some of the best tours and activities! If you have a family, we’ve even included some things that are perfect for kids.
Let’s get started on your trip planning with all the fun facts about our top picks. These include surfing lessons, snorkeling excursions, and more!
Just make sure to book early because many of these popular attractions book up quickly.
So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now for these Oahu tours so you don’t miss out on anything amazing while visiting Hawaii’s capital city.
These are some of the best Honolulu excursions I’ve found!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting Oahu.
Popular Oahu Tours/Activities
- Kualoa Ranch UTV Tour (this is a fun adventure with the prettiest views)
- Full Pearl Harbor Tour (this is the BEST way to do everything at Pearl Harbor)
- Hawaii Bucket List Tour (you get to pick where you stop on this custom Oahu Circle Island tour)
- Toa Luau (this is my all-time favorite Oahu luau)
- CLIMB Works Ziplining (this is the longest zipline on Oahu)
- Book a Photo Shoot (this is a Hawaii souvenir you’ll treasure forever)
Favorite Oahu Resorts/Hotels
- Hilton Hawaiian Village (this is our favorite Waikiki resort because of the amazing pool area and nearby restaurants)
- Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa (this is a splurge that is totally worth it)
- Royal Hawaiian Hotel (this is a luxury resort in Waikiki that is pink and gorgeous)
Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?
One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Oahu Itinerary complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
Best Honolulu Tours to Book
Honolulu Helicopter Tours
Scenic Oahu Helicopter Tour (45 minutes)
Get a bird’s eye view of Oahu with this 45-minute scenic helicopter ride! Experience beautiful landmarks like Sacred Falls, Diamond Head, Maunalua Bay, and more from above.
Choose between ‘doors on’ or ‘doors off,’ and choose whether to get an up-close look at Pearl Harbor too. This Honolulu helicopter tour is available for kids of all ages and offers spectacular views you won’t find anywhere else. Check latest rates and more information.
This is definitely one of the best helicopter rides Honolulu offers!
Oahu Eco Helicopter Tour (45 minutes)
For another Waikiki helicopter tour, take flight and discover Oahu while soaring over the beautiful landscape. See Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, and more!
Buckle up as you’re whisked away in a state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopter for an aerial tour of sights that many visitors never see. Fly by hidden rain forests with their waterfalls or valleys to experience all there is about this historical island paradise from above on your very own breathtaking adventure through EcoStar’s first-class seats complete with viewing windows (and recorded commentary)!
This Oahu helicopter tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Oahu Eco Helicopter Tour (45 minutes)
Take flight and discover Oahu while soaring over the beautiful landscape. See Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, Honolulu, Waikiki Beach and more!
Buckle up as you’re whisked away in a state-of-the art Eco Star helicopter for an aerial tour of sights that many visitors never see. Fly by hidden rain forests with their waterfalls or valleys to experience all there is about this historical island paradise from above on your very own breathtaking adventure through EcoStar’s first class seats complete with viewing windows (and recorded commentary)!
This Oahu helicopter tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Waikiki Tours and Activities
Oahu Atlantis Submarine Adventure
For an unforgettable aquatic experience, jump aboard the Atlantis Submarine. This submarine-style glass-bottom boat ride takes you on a journey through Oahu’s waters with your guide providing informative commentary about what lies beneath the surface 100 feet (30 meters) below sea level.
You’ll get to see a sunken airplane, a shipwreck, and even an underwater Japanese seaweed farm. This Honolulu submarine tour is open to kids who are at least 35 inches tall. Check latest rates and more information.
Waikiki Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Board the Haleiwa Queen, a 50-foot power catamaran that departs conveniently from Honolulu’s harbor. This boat takes you on an afternoon cruise into the open Pacific Ocean to look for dolphins, sea turtles, and migrating humpback whales, among other things!
You’ll also be able to take in views of fish or coral reefs through unique magnifying view portals while staying comfortable beneath shaded canopies if you choose. This Waikiki boat tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
It is one of the only glass-bottom boat Honolulu tours to enjoy!
Waikiki Parasailing
Get up close and personal with the beautiful coastline of Oahu from 500 feet (152 meters) high on this one-hour Hawaiian parasailing in Waikiki. This activity is suitable for all experience levels, so it’s perfect whether you’re a first-timer or an old pro!
Photos and GoPro footage are available for purchase to make your memories last forever. This tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Waikiki Trolley Tours
Discover Honolulu, Pearl Harbor, and Waikiki on a 1-, 4- or 7-day Waikiki hop-on hop-off tour. You’ll have the opportunity to see all of your favorite top attractions at your own pace.
Choose from multiple routes that pass by Diamond Head as well as Hanauma Bay! Upgrade with this flexible ticket for an even better trip experience where you can create your own itinerary easily. That’s why these are our favorite Honolulu city tours for families. Read our full Waikiki Trolley review HERE.
This Honolulu bus tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Oahu Zipline Tour
While there is currently no zipline in Honolulu, Hawaii, this Oahu zipline tour offers transportation to and fro Waikiki, making it the perfect tour for you! The Coral Crater Adventure Park is located in Kapolei and offers you a few hours filled with fun times.
This zipline Waikiki tour includes riding on up to 6 different zip lines. Ziplining through Oahu is one of the top attractions to enjoy during your vacation and is something you will definitely want to explore.
Children six years and older can participate too. Check latest rates and more information.
Coral Crater ATV & Zipline Combo Tour
Do you want to go on a Waikiki zipline but also have a fun ATV adventure? Then try this combo tour! With Waikiki transportation, you can easily enjoy these Oahu tours during your stay on the Hawaiian islands.
During this ATV tour in Honolulu, you can enjoy 3 different zip lines and then drive in some ATVs on some rugged terrain. You will have a blast! It is another family-friendly tour for kids 6 years and older. Check latest rates and more information.
Shark Cage Dive Tour Adventure
If you want to enjoy some more time in the Pacific Ocean, try out one of the only shark cages diving Honolulu tours available. The tour takes place on the North Shore, but it also provides you with round-trip transportation from Waikiki.
Shark sightings are guaranteed, or else you get this tour for free! While you might see some tropical fish, seeing the sharks is definitely the highlight of this tour.
The entire family can come along too! It is available for children 3 years and older. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Haunts and Hauntings Ghost Tour
If you are fascinated by ghosts and all things haunted, you will love these Honolulu ghost tours. During this tour, you will get to walk around Honolulu and see some of the most haunted places in Oahu.
Your guide will talk to you about all the eerie sights along the way to each of your stops. You will see at least 6 places and hear stories about how they are haunted. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Boat Tours
Waikiki Sunset Cocktail Cruise
Sunsets are always a beautiful sight to see. Take this 1.5-hour cruise with appetizers, two complimentary alcoholic drinks, and unlimited nonalcoholic beverages.
You’ll sail the waves of Waikiki while you get lost in the colors that engulf your surroundings as the sun sets over Oahu’s coastline on one side, and Diamond Head takes its final bow before disappearing for another night.
This is guaranteed to be an experience like no other! These Waikiki boat tours are open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Deluxe Sunset Dinner & Show
A trip to Honolulu wouldn’t be complete without a sunset dinner cruise!
Experience the Hawaiian sunset with an evening cruise off the coast of Oahu. Watch its vibrant colors reflected on Diamond Head and enjoy a welcome “champagne” toast plus two additional premium beverages of choice, all while dining on seafood and steak followed by live entertainment, including jazz music.
Dine in style with this 5-course romantic dinner show during this unforgettable experience – you’ll never want to leave! This Honolulu boat tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
Waikiki Sailing Adventure
From Kewalo Harbor in Honolulu, head down to Ala Moana Beach Park and Waikiki. Along the way, you will see Hawaii’s famous green sea turtles as you travel through a marine wildlife sanctuary on this 90-minute guided tour of Oahu’s south shore!
This tour includes two drinks for free, with snacks provided during the sail that takes you up close to Diamond Head from the water. This Oahu boat tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Whale Watching Tour
You will want to experience a whale-watching Honolulu tour at least once, especially if you visit during the winter months. If you don’t see any whales during this whale-watching Waikiki tour, you get to go again for free!
Unlimited drinks are included while you sail around looking at these majestic creatures. The entire family can hop aboard and enjoy this sail; no age limit at all. Check latest rates and more information.
Pearl Harbor Tours
Half-Day Salute to Pearl Harbor Tour
If you plan on getting Pearl Harbor Honolulu tickets to these historic sites, why not just go on a Pearl Harbor National Memorial tour!
Visit Pearl Harbor, where you can take a half-day tour of the history and exhibits that are located there. You will be able to learn about how World War II impacted Hawaiian history, including looking at some of the sites like the USS Arizona Memorial, which is out in the water offshore from Honolulu.
This half-day Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
USS Arizona Memorial & USS Missouri Battleship Tour from Waikiki
Book these for more Pearl Harbor tours from Waikiki to see the Japanese attack site.
Spend a day on Oahu learning all about Pearl Harbor! This round-trip tour from Waikiki includes visits to both the USS Arizona Memorial and the USS Missouri battleship before heading back to Waikiki.
Along your way, you’ll have opportunities for Q&As with guides, explore a powerful documentary of what happened at Pearl Harbor, and learn more from historical photos in the museum. This Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Full-Day Pearl Harbor Tour
Explore the history of Pearl Harbor and World War II in Oahu with a full-day tour that features a comprehensive overview.
See highlights, including USS Arizona Memorial, USS Battleship Missouri, and WWII Valor in Pacific National Monument, while your guide shares informative commentary about Hawaii’s role during this time period.
With this tour, you can also enjoy the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum along with the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center.
Plus, you’ll get to learn about the Hawaiian monarchy with a tour through historic downtown Honolulu. This Pearl Harbor tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Want a VIP experience? Find out the best Pearl Harbor private tours worth booking.
Oahu Circle Island Tours
Private Hawaii Bucket List Tour
One of the best ways to experience Oahu is with a circle island tour. Read our full Hawaii Bucket List Tour review.
It’s an easy way to hit a bunch of top Oahu attractions, see the different sides of the island, and check out some amazing scenery along the way. It is one of the top Honolulu tours to go sightseeing and explore all the island has to offer.
This is a private Oahu Circle Island tour with a local guide, so you’ll be able to spend as long (or as little) time at each spot as you like. Plus, it’s open to kids of all ages. Check the latest rates and more information.
Ultimate Circle Island Adventure with Waimea Waterfall
Tourists will enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes of Diamond Head Crater, Halona Blowhole, and the “From Here to Eternity” beach.
Along your journey, stop at Makapu’u Point for an amazing view overlooking Chinaman’s Hat and Malaekahana Bay before taking a scenic drive along North Shore with delicious lunch by Fumi’s Shrimp Stand, where you’ll be served nine different sautéed shrimp plates from which to choose.
You will also get to enjoy the Waimea waterfall among the lush rainforests too!
This tour is open to kids ages 3 years old and up. Check latest rates and more information.
Oahu Grand Circle Tour with Snorkeling with the Turtles
Take a full-day minibus tour of Oahu’s highlights with this small group and local guide. See the Dole Plantation, Halona Blowhole, Diamond Head, and Makapu’u Beach during your daylong outing to make plenty of stops at the island’s highlights while on board!
Roundtrip transportation from Waikiki hotels is included for 20 people or less in each small bus. Visit Kualoa Point, where you can see Mokoliʻi Island up close before visiting the Macadamia Nut Farm and pineapple plantation too!
Snorkel amongst Hawaiian green sea turtles as they swim beneath tropical waters off North Shore beaches. This tour is open to kids of all ages and perfect for warm weather. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Bike Tours
Diamond Head Biking Tour
In this Honolulu volcano tour, lose yourself in the beauty of Hawaii’s history and experience it firsthand on a half-day bike tour from Waikiki. Ride to Diamond Head Crater, and hike up its dormant volcano for amazing views from the top. You’ll also see Doris Duke’s mansion and hidden beaches you’ll pass along your way.
Not only will you get lunch, but you’ll also get Hawaiian snacks and drinks along the way. This Honolulu bike tour is open to kids ages 12 and up. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Downhill Bike Adventure
With this biking adventure, you’ll get the chance to experience all of Oahu’s natural beauty and rich history.
On your journey through Puu Ohia rainforest, a professional nature guide will tell you about Hawaii life and its surroundings, as well as what plants or animals might be seen along the way. Once at Tantalus by car, you’ll hop on your bike for an exhilarating downhill ride back into Honolulu with panoramic views over Manoa Valley, Diamond Head, and more!
This Oahu biking tour is open to kids at least 5 years old. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Bike, Hike & Snorkel Adventure
With three different eco-adventure combinations to choose from, there’s something for everyone on these fun tours in Waikiki!
For a full-day tour, you can go on a guided 1.5-mile hike through the tropical rainforest with breathtaking views of Diamond Head and Waikiki.
Then, you’ll take in an unforgettable snorkeling experience off the picturesque shoreline near Waikiki Beach, where schools of colorful fish roam alongside turtles and dolphins as they swim among coral reefs teeming with marine life.
This Honolulu tour is open to kids at least 5 years old. Check latest rates and more information.
Hawaiian Food Tour by Bike in Oahu
Enjoy a Honolulu food tour as you bike around, tasting delicious food from the Hawaiian culture. You will stop at a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants to enjoy all the incredible local food.
Many of these spots are not too well known and will offer you complimentary tastings! The bikes, helmets, food, and round-trip transportation are all included in this tour. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Snorkeling Tours
Turtle Canyon Catamaran Snorkel Cruise
Snorkel with green sea turtles in Oahu’s Turtle Canyon and enjoy lunch on this 2- to 3-hour tour departing from Waikiki.
Board a power catamaran and sail along the shore of Oahu towards the island’s best place to spot resident turtles, which will be guaranteed (or you’ll get a free second cruise).
After exploring by water, relax for an extended time enjoying two drinks provided while keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins or migrating whales passing through. This Honolulu snorkel tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Snorkel with Dolphins and Turtles in the Wild
Jump on a boat and snorkel with spinner dolphins, sea turtles, and tropical fish. This Oahu snorkeling tour provides snorkel gear, kayaks, and even paddle boards so you can explore on your own.
When you’re ready for lunch, you’ll head back in time so that you can enjoy your complimentary snack bag and drinks. They even have hula lessons on board!
This tour is open to kids at least 2 years old and is one of the most popular Honolulu snorkel tours. Check latest rates and more information.
Waikiki Guided Beach Snorkeling Tour
What’s better than a relaxing day at the shore? Snorkeling, that’s what!
Ala Moana Beach is home to snorkelers of all levels. The calm and protected ocean lagoon provides an environment for beginners while also providing plenty of reefs and fish for more adventurous divers to see.
Last but not least, each diver gets free GoPro video taken by their professional guides- just download the app on your smartphone so you can receive it once you’re done!
This Waikiki snorkeling tour is open to kids ages 10 years old and up. Check latest rates and more information.
Honolulu Private Tours
Instagram Photo Tour of Oahu
Set out on a private photo shoot adventure and capture epic pictures perfect for sharing with friends and family. This tour is all about getting to explore locations made famous by top Hawaii Instagram influencers, as well as places that few know about.
AA few of the stops include Tantalus Lookout, Leonard’s Bakery, Makapuu Point, North Shore Food Trucks, and the murals in Kakaako. This Oahu photo tour is open to kids of all ages. Check latest rates and more information.
Visiting Honolulu Oahu FAQs
Honolulu is the name of a city, and Oahu is the name of the island on which Honolulu is located. The airport is located in Honolulu, so all flights to Oahu land in Honolulu. You’ll find most Oahu excursions in Honolulu, Hawaii.
The best time to see whales in Hawaii is from December to May or during the winter months. That’s when the whale migration passes through the islands. You’ll definitely want to book your Oahu whale-watching tour ahead of time, as they tend to sell out quickly.
Honolulu is pretty fun year-round; however, there are usually fewer crowds (and better travel deals) if you go from mid-April to June or September to mid-December. Even though this is the shoulder season, there are still tons of things to do in Honolulu for all types of travelers. That’s why I think it’s the best time to go to Honolulu.
It is best to spend at least 3 to 5 days in Oahu in total. You can take one or two day trips from Honolulu to experience the North Shore and other areas of the island that you want. Otherwise, you can enjoy all the Honolulu sightseeing and Hawaii excursions Honolulu offers!
Yes, you can find a hop-on, hop-off Honolulu tour. These Honolulu hop-on, hop-off bus tours take you all over the island and are a fantastic experience if you want to explore all the hidden gems in Oahu!
While you can walk around in Honolulu to explore and go sightseeing at the top sights in the area, you will probably want to go on either the Honolulu or Waikiki excursions conveniently located and offered right in town.
Tours in Honolulu Wrap Up
Honolulu is a bustling city full of adventure and culture. If you’re planning to visit Oahu, make sure to take advantage of the many different things there are to do in Honolulu.
Whether it’s for work or pleasure, this guide should help you plan your time on Oahu so that you can see all the amazing sights before heading home again.
Best Places to stay in Honolulu
Now that you know some of the best Honolulu Hawaii tours to book before your trip, let’s talk about some of my favorite places to stay in Honolulu.
If you’re looking for a Waikiki hotel with a party vibe, you’ll want to book the Alohilani Hotel. It’s right across from Waikiki Beach, and it has an awesome infinity pool where you can get the ultimate Instagram shot! Read my full Alohilani Resort review HERE.
For families heading to Honolulu with kids, it doesn’t get much better than the Hilton Hawaiian Village. There are tons of shops, restaurants, and activities on the premises, and you won’t even need to rent a car. Read my full Hilton Hawaiian Village review HERE.
And for people who don’t want to be in the heart of Waikiki, try the Ala Moana Hotel. It’s right next to Ala Moana Center (the largest outdoor shopping mall in the world).